What formula is used for DC circuits?

For DC circuits: I(A) = P(kW) × 1000 / V(V). Multiply kilowatts by 1000 to get watts, then divide by voltage to get current in amperes.

What formula is used for single-phase AC circuits?

For single-phase AC: I(A) = P(kW) × 1000 / (V(V) × PF). The power factor accounts for the phase difference between voltage and current in AC systems.

What formula is used for three-phase AC circuits?

For three-phase AC: I(A) = P(kW) × 1000 / (√3 × V(V) × PF). The √3 factor (approximately 1.7321) accounts for the three-phase relationship, and the voltage entered should be the line-to-line voltage.

What is the power factor and what value should I use?

The power factor (PF) is a number between 0 and 1 representing the efficiency of AC power usage. Resistive loads (heaters, incandescent bulbs) use PF = 1. Inductive loads such as motors typically have PF between 0.7 and 0.95. When in doubt, 0.8 is a common default for general industrial loads.

Why does DC not require a power factor?

DC circuits have no frequency, so there is no phase difference between voltage and current. Power factor is only relevant for AC systems where reactive components cause voltage and current to be out of phase.

What is the difference between kW and kVA, and which should I use?

kW (kilowatts) is real power — the actual work done. kVA (kilovolt-amperes) is apparent power. They relate as kW = kVA × PF. Use kW when you know the real power consumed. If your source specifies kVA, multiply it by the power factor to obtain kW before entering it here.

Kilowatts to Amps Calculator

Convert power in kilowatts (kW) to current in amperes (A) for DC, single-phase AC, or three-phase AC circuits instantly.

Circuit Parameters

Circuit Type

Power (kW)

Voltage (V)

Power Factor (0 – 1)

Result

Enter values and press Calculate

Formula Reference

DC Circuits

A = kW × 1000 / V

Single-Phase AC

A = kW × 1000 / (V × PF)

Three-Phase AC

A = kW × 1000 / (√3 × V × PF)

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Summary

This calculator converts power measured in kilowatts (kW) to electric current measured in amperes (A). It supports three circuit types: DC circuits, single-phase AC circuits, and three-phase AC circuits, each using the correct electrical formula. Enter the power, voltage, and power factor (for AC circuits) to get the amperage result immediately.

How it works

Select your circuit type: DC, single-phase AC, or three-phase AC.
Enter the power in kilowatts (kW).
Enter the voltage in volts (V).
For AC circuits, enter the power factor (a value between 0 and 1).
The calculator applies the correct formula and displays the result in amperes (A).
Use the Reset button to start a new calculation.

Use cases

Determine wire and breaker sizing from a known load in kilowatts.
Calculate the current draw of motors, heaters, and industrial equipment.
Size generators and UPS units based on load power requirements.
Verify electrical panel capacity against total kilowatt loads.
Plan EV charging stations by converting charger power ratings to current.
Design solar and battery systems by calculating discharge current from power output.
Convert appliance wattage to amps for household circuit planning.
Check nameplate current ratings against measured circuit power.

Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated: 2026-05-23 · Reviewed by Nham Vu