Calculate Amps from kWh

Amps Calculation Formula:

\[ I = \frac{kWh \times 1000}{V \times PF \times h} \]

For three-phase systems, multiply denominator by \( \sqrt{3} \).

Kilowatt-hours (kWh):

kWh

Voltage:

Power Factor:

(0 to 1)

Time Duration:

hours

Phase:

Current (Amps):

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What is Amps from kWh Calculation?

This calculation determines the electrical current (in amperes) drawn by a system based on its energy consumption (kWh), voltage, power factor, and operating time. It's essential for electrical system design and load analysis.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ I = \frac{kWh \times 1000}{V \times PF \times h} \]

For three-phase systems, the denominator is multiplied by \( \sqrt{3} \).

Where:

\( I \) — Current in amperes (A)
\( kWh \) — Energy consumption in kilowatt-hours
\( V \) — Voltage in volts
\( PF \) — Power factor (unitless, 0 to 1)
\( h \) — Time duration in hours

Explanation: The formula converts energy (kWh) to power (kW), then to current (A) considering system characteristics.

3. Importance of Current Calculation

Details: Accurate current calculation is crucial for proper wire sizing, circuit breaker selection, and ensuring electrical systems operate within safe parameters.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter kWh consumption, system voltage, power factor (1 for purely resistive loads), time duration, and select phase type. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between single-phase and three-phase?
A: Single-phase has two wires (1 hot, 1 neutral) while three-phase has four wires (3 hot, 1 neutral). Three-phase is more efficient for high-power applications.

Q2: Why is power factor important?
A: Power factor accounts for phase difference between voltage and current in AC systems. Lower PF means more current is needed for the same real power.

Q3: What's a typical power factor value?
A: Resistive loads (heaters, incandescent lights) have PF=1. Motors typically 0.8-0.9. Electronic devices often 0.6-0.7.

Q4: How does voltage affect the calculation?
A: Higher voltage requires less current for the same power, which is why transmission lines use high voltages.

Q5: When would I need this calculation?
A: When sizing wires/breakers for new installations, analyzing existing circuits, or estimating current draw from energy monitoring data.