Convert kilowatt [kW] to horsepower [hp, hp (UK)] 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.

Horsepower (hp, hp (UK))

Horsepower is a unit of power commonly used to measure the output power of engines and motors. There are two main types:

1. 
   

   Mechanical (Imperial) Horsepower (hp):
   
   Used primarily in the United States and many other countries.

   
   $$1 \text{ hp} = 745.7 \text{ watts}$$
   
2. 
   

   Metric Horsepower (hp (UK) or PS):
   
   Commonly used in Europe and some other countries.

   
   $$1 \text{ hp (UK)} \approx 735.5 \text{ watts}$$
   

Horsepower was originally defined to compare the power of steam engines with the power of draft horses. It remains popular for describing car engines, lawnmowers, and other machinery.

While watts are the SI unit for power, horsepower is still widely used due to tradition and convenience, especially in automotive and mechanical engineering contexts.