Power Converter
Instantly convert power with our free converter. See conversion tables, formulas, and step-by-step explanations. Includes formulas and worked examples.
Reviewed by Manoj Kumar, Mathematics Educator
Formula
Converted = Input x (From Unit in Watts) / (To Unit in Watts)
All power units are converted through watts as the base unit. Multiply the input value by its conversion factor to watts, then divide by the target unit factor. For example, 1 horsepower = 745.7 watts, 1 kilowatt = 1000 watts, 1 BTU/h = 0.293 watts.
Worked Examples
Example 1: Engine Power Conversion
Problem:A car engine produces 250 horsepower. Convert to kilowatts and watts.
Solution:Watts = 250 x 745.7 = 186,425 W\nKilowatts = 186,425 / 1000 = 186.425 kW\nMetric HP = 186,425 / 735.5 = 253.47 PS
Result:250 hp = 186.425 kW = 186,425 W = 253.47 PS
Example 2: HVAC Power Rating
Problem:An air conditioner is rated at 12,000 BTU/h. What is its power in watts and kilowatts?
Solution:Watts = 12,000 x 0.29307 = 3,516.85 W\nKilowatts = 3,516.85 / 1000 = 3.517 kW\nHorsepower = 3,516.85 / 745.7 = 4.716 hp
Result:12,000 BTU/h = 3,516.85 W = 3.517 kW = 4.72 hp
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the relationship between power and energy?
Power is the rate at which energy is transferred or converted, measured in watts (joules per second). Energy is the total amount of work done over time, measured in joules or kilowatt-hours. A 100-watt light bulb consumes 100 joules of energy every second. Running that bulb for one hour uses 0.1 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of energy. Understanding this relationship is essential for calculating electricity costs: your utility bill charges for energy consumed (kWh), not instantaneous power (W).
References
Reviewed by Manoj Kumar, Mathematics Educator · Editorial policy