Convert kilowatt [kW] to hectowatt [hW] Online | Free power Converter

Kilowatt (kW)

The kilowatt (symbol: kW) is a unit of power in the International System of Units (SI) equal to 1,000 watts:

Kilowatts are widely used to measure the power consumption or output of household appliances, small engines, and electric tools. For example, a typical microwave oven might use about 1 kW of power.

In electricity billing, power usage is often measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh), which reflects energy consumption over time.

The kilowatt is a practical unit for everyday energy use, bridging the scale from watts (for small devices) to megawatts (for larger power generation). It helps people understand and compare the power ratings of common electrical equipment.

Hectowatt (hW)

The hectowatt (symbol: hW) is a unit of power in the International System of Units (SI) equal to 100 watts:

Although it is a valid SI unit prefix (hecto = 100), the hectowatt is rarely used in practice. Power is more commonly expressed in watts (W), kilowatts (kW), or other more convenient units depending on the scale.

For reference, 100 watts is roughly the power consumption of a standard incandescent light bulb.

Because the hectowatt is uncommon, you’ll rarely see it used outside of very specific or theoretical contexts.