Power Converter
Convert between all power units. Select a conversion from the table below.
Watt
The watt (W) is the SI unit of power, equal to one joule per second. It measures the rate of energy transfer in electrical appliances, light bulbs, and electronic devices.
Kilowatt
The kilowatt (kW) equals 1,000 watts. It is used for measuring household electrical systems, electric vehicles, heating systems, and industrial machinery power ratings.
Megawatt
The megawatt (MW) equals 1,000,000 watts. It measures the output of power plants, large solar installations, and major industrial operations.
Horsepower
Horsepower (hp) is a unit of power used for rating engines, motors, and vehicles. One mechanical horsepower equals approximately 745.7 watts. It was defined by James Watt to market his steam engines.
BTU per hour
BTU per hour (BTU/h) measures the thermal power output of heating and cooling systems. It is the standard rating for air conditioners, furnaces, and water heaters in the United States.
What Is Power?
Power is the rate at which energy is transferred, used, or transformed. It measures how quickly work is done. A more powerful engine does the same work in less time, and a higher-wattage appliance consumes more energy per second.
SI Power Units
The watt (W) is the SI unit of power, equal to one joule per second. It is used for electrical appliances, light bulbs, and electronic devices. The kilowatt (kW) equals 1,000 watts and measures household electrical systems, electric vehicles, and industrial machinery. The megawatt (MW) equals 1,000,000 watts and measures power plant output and large-scale energy generation.
Mechanical and Thermal Power
Horsepower (hp) is a traditional unit used for engines, motors, and vehicles. One mechanical horsepower equals approximately 745.7 watts. It was originally defined by James Watt to compare steam engine output to draft horses. BTU per hour (BTU/h) measures thermal power output in heating and cooling systems.