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Power Converter

Convert between watts, horsepower, and other units of power.

Power Converter

Convert between watts, horsepower, and other units of power.

Understanding the Converter

Power is the rate at which energy is transferred or converted. This tool helps you convert between different units of power, from the watts used in electrical appliances to the horsepower of a car engine.

All conversions use the watt (W), the SI unit of power, as a base reference to ensure accuracy.

Formula Used

Standardized Conversion Process

To ensure accuracy, all conversions use the watt (W) as a common base unit.

  1. Convert to Watts: The input value is converted to watts by multiplying it by its conversion factor.
    Value in Watts = Input Value × Conversion Factor to Watts
  2. Convert to Target Unit: The watt value is then converted to the desired final unit by dividing it by the target unit's conversion factor.
    Final Value = Value in Watts / Target Unit's Conversion Factor

Related Converters

A Guide to Units of Power

Power quantifies the rate of energy transfer. Different units are used in various fields like physics, engineering, and everyday life.

Common Power Units

UnitAbbreviationDefinition & Context
WattWThe SI unit of power, equal to one joule per second. Used for electrical power, light bulbs, etc.
KilowattkW1,000 watts. Used for household appliances, electric motors, and small engines.
MegawattMW1 million watts. Used to measure the output of power plants.
Horsepower (Mechanical)hp~745.7 watts. The traditional unit for the output of engines and motors, particularly in the US.
Horsepower (Metric)PS, cv~735.5 watts. A similar unit to mechanical horsepower, but slightly smaller. Often used in Europe and Asia for engine power.

Common Conversions at a Glance

FromToEquivalent Value
1 Kilowatt (kW)Watts1,000 W
1 Horsepower (mechanical)Watts~745.7 W
1 Kilowatt (kW)Horsepower (mechanical)~1.341 hp
1 Horsepower (metric)Watts~735.5 W

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between mechanical and metric horsepower?

They are two different definitions for horsepower. Mechanical horsepower is based on the work done by a horse as estimated by James Watt and is slightly larger (~745.7W). Metric horsepower (often abbreviated as PS) is defined as 75 kilogram-meters per second and is slightly smaller (~735.5W). Mechanical horsepower is more common in the US and UK.

Is power the same as energy?

No. Power is the rate at which energy is used. Energy is the total amount of work done. For example, a 100-watt light bulb uses 100 joules of energy every second. If you leave it on for an hour, it consumes 100 watt-hours of energy.

What does 'kilowatt' mean?

A kilowatt (kW) is simply 1,000 watts. The prefix "kilo-" is a standard metric prefix denoting a factor of one thousand. It's a more convenient unit for measuring the power of larger items like car engines or home appliances.

How was horsepower originally defined?

James Watt, an 18th-century inventor, determined that a draft horse could lift 550 pounds at a rate of one foot per second. This rate of work became the definition of one horsepower (hp). It was a marketing tool to compare his steam engines to the horses they were replacing.

Summary

The Power Converter is an essential tool for engineers, electricians, auto enthusiasts, and anyone needing to convert between different units of power. It simplifies the relationship between electrical, mechanical, and metric power measurements.

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Power Converter

Convert between watts, horsepower, and other units of power.

How to use Power Converter

Step-by-step guide to using the Power Converter:

  1. Enter your values. Input the required values in the calculator form
  2. Calculate. The calculator will automatically compute and display your results
  3. Review results. Review the calculated results and any additional information provided

Frequently asked questions

How do I use the Power Converter?

Simply enter your values in the input fields and the calculator will automatically compute the results. The Power Converter is designed to be user-friendly and provide instant calculations.

Is the Power Converter free to use?

Yes, the Power Converter is completely free to use. No registration or payment is required.

Can I use this calculator on mobile devices?

Yes, the Power Converter is fully responsive and works perfectly on mobile phones, tablets, and desktop computers.

Are the results from Power Converter accurate?

Yes, our calculators use standard formulas and are regularly tested for accuracy. However, results should be used for informational purposes and not as a substitute for professional advice.