Amps to Watts Calculator
Convert amps to watts using the formula: W = A × V
DC for batteries and electronics, AC for household and commercial use
Electric current in amperes
Electrical potential difference
Formula: Watts = Amps × Volts
Calculation Result
Power Type
DC
Amps
10.00
Current
Volts
120.00
Potential
PF
0.95
Power Factor
Total Power
1,200.00 W
1.20 kW
Power Summary
Total Watts
1,200.00
1.20 kilowatts
Input Values
Common Voltages
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Amps, Volts, and Watts?
Amps (amperes) measure electric current flow. Volts measure the electrical pressure or potential difference. Watts measure the power or energy consumption. The relationship is: Watts = Amps × Volts (for DC) or Watts = Amps × Volts × Power Factor (for AC).
What is the formula for converting Amps to Watts?
For DC circuits: Watts = Amps × Volts. For single-phase AC: Watts = Amps × Volts × Power Factor. For three-phase AC: Watts = √3 × Amps × Volts × Power Factor. The power factor accounts for the phase angle between current and voltage in AC systems.
What is power factor in AC circuits?
Power factor (PF) is the ratio of real power (watts) to apparent power (volt-amps). It ranges from 0 to 1. A PF of 1.0 means all power is real (ideal). Most household and industrial equipment has a PF of 0.85-0.95. Lower power factors indicate inefficiency due to reactive power.
What is the difference between DC and AC power?
DC (Direct Current) flows in one direction consistently, like in batteries. AC (Alternating Current) reverses direction 50-60 times per second. Most household appliances use AC. For DC calculations, use the simple formula: Watts = Amps × Volts. For AC, include the power factor.
What is three-phase AC power?
Three-phase AC is a type of electrical power used in industrial and large commercial applications. It uses three AC signals offset by 120 degrees. The formula includes √3 (approximately 1.732) factor: Watts = √3 × Amps × Volts × Power Factor. It's more efficient than single-phase.
How do I know the power factor of my equipment?
Power factor is typically listed on equipment nameplates or in technical specifications. Most residential appliances have a PF of 0.9-1.0. Motors typically range from 0.75-0.95. Lighting loads vary widely. If unknown, assume 0.95 for residential AC equipment and 1.0 for resistive loads.
Pro Tips
- • For DC circuits and resistive loads (heaters, incandescent lights), use power factor of 1.0.
- • Most household appliances use single-phase AC at 120V or 240V depending on the outlet and appliance.
- • Lower power factors mean more current is needed for the same real power, leading to higher electricity costs and heat in wiring.
- • The √3 factor (1.732) in three-phase calculations comes from the 120-degree phase offset between the three phases.
- • Always ensure your circuit breaker and wiring can handle the calculated wattage with a safety margin.
- • Use this calculator for electrical planning, but consult a professional electrician for actual installations.
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