How do I convert watts to amps?
Divide watts by volts: A = W ÷ V for DC. For single-phase AC divide by voltage and power factor (A = W ÷ (V × PF)); for three-phase use A = W ÷ (√3 × V × PF).
Electrical power
Watts to Amps
To turn watts into amps you divide by the voltage — a 1,000 W load pulls very different current at 12 V than at 230 V. Set your voltage below (and the power factor if it's AC) to get the actual current draw.
Formula
DC: A = W ÷ V · AC (1-phase): A = W ÷ (V × PF) · AC (3-phase): A = W ÷ (√3 × V × PF)
W
=
Current
8.333333 A
V
Current type
1000 W ÷ (120 V) = 8.333333 A
Reference table
Change the voltage in the calculator aboveWatts to Amps at 120 V (DC / resistive)
| Watts (W) | Amps (A) |
|---|---|
| 100 W | 0.83333333 A |
| 500 W | 4.166667 A |
| 1000 W | 8.333333 A |
| 1500 W | 12.5 A |
| 2000 W | 16.666667 A |
| 3000 W | 25 A |
| 5000 W | 41.666667 A |
Why it matters
Why this conversion needs a voltage
Amps are what your wire gauge, fuse and breaker have to survive, so converting a device's watt rating into amps at your real voltage is the safe way to spec cabling and protection — especially on low-voltage 12 V/24 V battery and solar systems where currents run high.
Real-world use
Where you'll use it
Work out the current a watt-rated appliance draws so you can pick a fuse or breaker.
Size cable gauge for a 12 V or 24 V battery/solar run from a device's wattage.
Check whether several devices' combined watts exceed a circuit's amp limit.
Convert an inverter's continuous watts into DC input amps from the battery.
FAQ
Common questions about watts to amps
How many amps is 1000 watts?
It depends on voltage. 1,000 W is about 8.3 A at 120 V, about 4.3 A at 230 V, and about 83 A at 12 V. Set your voltage above to get the exact figure.
Why is the current so high on 12 V systems?
Because amps = watts ÷ volts, a low voltage means a high current for the same power. That's why 12 V battery and solar setups need thick cables and high-amp fuses.
Does power factor matter here?
For AC loads, yes — a lower power factor raises the current for the same watts. For DC, resistive heaters and incandescent bulbs, use a power factor of 1.0.
Related routes
Keep going
Unitly.fyi · results update live — set your own voltage and power factor above.