Every Toolkit

Watts to Amps Calculator

Calculate electrical power conversions for DC and AC circuits

Calculation Settings

Select calculation mode and enter values

Common Voltages

Click to use standard voltage values

US Household120V (AC1)
US Dryer/Range240V (AC1)
EU Household230V (AC1)
Car Battery12V (DC)
Truck Battery24V (DC)
USB Power5V (DC)
Industrial 3-Phase480V (AC3)
Commercial 3-Phase208V (AC3)

Common Appliances

Click to calculate for typical devices

LED Bulb10W @ 120V
Incandescent Bulb60W @ 120V
Laptop65W @ 120V
Desktop Computer300W @ 120V
Microwave1000W @ 120V
Hair Dryer1500W @ 120V
Electric Kettle1500W @ 120V
Air Conditioner3500W @ 240V
Electric Dryer5000W @ 240V
Electric Range12000W @ 240V

Calculation Result

1000W at 120V (DC) =
8.3333
Amps

Formulas Used

DC (Direct Current)
P (W) = V (V) × I (A)
I (A) = P (W) ÷ V (V)
AC Single Phase
P (W) = V (V) × I (A) × PF
I (A) = P (W) ÷ (V (V) × PF)
AC Three Phase
P (W) = √3 × V (V) × I (A) × PF
I (A) = P (W) ÷ (√3 × V (V) × PF)
Where: P = Power (Watts), V = Voltage (Volts), I = Current (Amps), PF = Power Factor

Wire Gauge Reference

Maximum safe current for copper wire

18 AWG
Lamp cords, small appliances
7A max
16 AWG
Extension cords, power tools
10A max
14 AWG
Household circuits, lights
15A max
12 AWG
Kitchen outlets, AC units
20A max
10 AWG
Electric dryers, water heaters
30A max
8 AWG
Electric ranges, large AC
40A max
6 AWG
Large appliances, sub-panels
55A max

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About Watts to Amps Conversion

Understanding Electrical Power

Watts (W) measure electrical power, which is the rate of energy consumption. Amps (A) measure electrical current, which is the flow of electrons. Volts (V) measure electrical potential difference. These three values are related through Ohm's Law and power formulas.

DC vs AC Current

DC (Direct Current):
• Flows in one direction
• Used in batteries, electronics
• Simple calculation: P = V × I
• Examples: Car battery, USB power
AC (Alternating Current):
• Reverses direction periodically
• Used in household power
• Requires power factor
• Examples: Wall outlets, appliances

What is Power Factor?

Power factor (PF) is a measure of how effectively electrical power is being used. It ranges from 0 to 1, where 1 represents perfect efficiency. AC circuits with inductive or capacitive loads (like motors) have a power factor less than 1.

  • Resistive loads (heaters, incandescent bulbs): PF ≈ 1.0
  • Motors and compressors: PF ≈ 0.8-0.9
  • Fluorescent lights: PF ≈ 0.5-0.95
  • Computers and electronics: PF ≈ 0.6-0.9

Safety Considerations

  • Always use wire gauge rated for the expected current
  • Add 20-25% safety margin for continuous loads
  • Circuit breakers should match wire capacity
  • Consult a licensed electrician for installations
  • Follow local electrical codes and regulations

Common Voltage Standards

North America:
• 120V single phase (outlets)
• 240V single phase (large appliances)
• 208V three phase (commercial)
• 480V three phase (industrial)
Europe/International:
• 230V single phase (outlets)
• 400V three phase (industrial)
• 12V DC (automotive)
• 5V DC (USB devices)

⚠️ Important Safety Warning

Working with electricity can be dangerous. This calculator is for educational and planning purposes only. Always consult a licensed electrician for actual electrical work. Never exceed the rated capacity of wires, breakers, or outlets. Improper electrical work can cause fires, equipment damage, injury, or death.