Power Unit Converter

The Power Unit Converter converts between watts (W), kilowatts (kW), horsepower (HP), metric horsepower (PS), BTU per hour (BTU/h) and other power units. Power conversions are essential for comparing engine ratings between different markets, sizing electrical systems, calculating HVAC capacity, understanding appliance energy consumption and interpreting generator specifications. One horsepower equals exactly 745.7 watts; one kilowatt equals approximately 1.341 horsepower.

The distinction between mechanical horsepower (HP, used in the US) and metric horsepower (PS, Pferdestärke, used in Germany and most of Europe) causes confusion in international vehicle comparisons. One metric PS equals 735.5 watts — slightly less than one mechanical HP. A car rated at 200 PS is approximately 197 HP. BTU per hour is used for heating and cooling systems in the United States: one BTU/h equals approximately 0.293 watts, meaning a 12,000 BTU/h air conditioner has a cooling capacity of approximately 3,516 watts or 3.52 kW.

For electrical installations, always use kilowatts for accurate load calculations. A 10 kW electric heating system running for 8 hours consumes 80 kWh. For vehicle comparisons, note that electric motor peak power and continuous power ratings differ significantly. Use our Unit Converter for additional measurement conversions and our Pressure Converter for engine and tyre pressure comparisons. Free, no registration required.