Amps to kW Calculator
Convert current (Amps) to power (Kilowatts)
Table of Contents
How to Use
- Enter the current in amps (A)
- Enter the voltage in volts (V)
- Click calculate to see the result in kilowatts (kW)
Understanding Electrical Power
Electrical power, measured in kilowatts (kW), represents the rate at which electrical energy is consumed or produced. It's calculated by multiplying current (Amps) by voltage (Volts): Power (W) = Current (A) × Voltage (V). To convert to kilowatts, divide by 1000.
For example, a device drawing 10 amps at 120 volts consumes 1,200 watts or 1.2 kW of power.
Common Voltage Standards
| Region | Residential Voltage | Industrial Voltage |
|---|---|---|
| North America | 120V / 240V | 208V / 480V |
| Europe | 230V | 400V |
| UK | 230V | 400V |
| Australia | 230V | 400V |
Practical Applications
- Calculating electricity costs based on device power consumption
- Sizing electrical panels and circuit breakers
- Determining generator capacity requirements
- Selecting appropriate wire gauge for electrical installations
- Energy audits and efficiency assessments
- Solar panel system design and sizing
Note on Power Factor
This calculator provides real power for resistive loads (power factor = 1). For AC circuits with inductive or capacitive loads (motors, transformers), the actual power consumed may be lower due to power factor. In those cases, multiply the result by the power factor to get the real power consumption.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I convert amps to kilowatts?
- Multiply the current in amps by the voltage in volts, then divide by 1000. Formula: kW = (A × V) / 1000. For example, 5 amps at 240 volts equals 1.2 kW (5A × 240V / 1000 = 1.2kW).
- What voltage should I use for household appliances?
- In North America, most household circuits are 120V or 240V. Small appliances typically use 120V, while large appliances like dryers and electric stoves use 240V. Check your device's nameplate for the correct voltage.
- Why is the voltage important in this conversion?
- Power depends on both current and voltage. The same current at different voltages results in different power consumption. For example, 10A at 120V is 1.2kW, but 10A at 240V is 2.4kW.