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Power Converter (W, kW, hp)

Convert power between watts, kilowatts, megawatts, mechanical and metric horsepower and BTU per hour.

Runs instantly in your browser — results update as you type.

How many horsepower is 1 kW?

One kilowatt equals about 1.341 mechanical horsepower (hp) or 1.36 metric horsepower (PS). One mechanical horsepower is 745.7 watts.

Common conversions

FromTo
1 kW1.341 hp = 1.36 PS = 3,412 BTU/h
1 hp745.7 W
1 PS735.5 W
12,000 BTU/h (1 ton of cooling)3.517 kW

Car makers in Europe often quote PS or kW, US makers hp. Air conditioners are rated in BTU/h.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between hp and PS?

Mechanical hp is 745.7 W; metric PS is 735.5 W, about 1.4 % smaller.

How many watts is a 1.5 hp air conditioner?

Compressor power of about 1,120 W; check the label for actual consumption.

Is power the same as energy?

No. Power is energy per unit of time; use the Energy Converter for kWh.