kW to HP Calculator

Convert power from kilowatts (kW) to horsepower (HP) with selectable HP types and optional efficiency.

Last updated: 2026-01-17

Inputs

Enter the power value you want to convert to horsepower
Select the type of horsepower for your application
Optional: Account for system efficiency losses (default: 100%)
Auto calculate enabled (no Calculate button).

Results

0.00
Horsepower (HP)
0
Effective Power (Watts)
746
Conversion Factor (W/HP)
Electrical HP
HP Type

How to Use the kW to HP Calculator

  1. Enter your power value in kW.
  2. Select the required horsepower type (Electrical, Mechanical, Metric, or Boiler).
  3. If needed, set Efficiency (%) to account for real-world losses.
  4. The results update automatically with calculation steps.

About kW to Horsepower Conversion

kW (kilowatts) is the SI unit of power. Horsepower (HP) is widely used for motors, pumps, compressors, and engines. Since horsepower has multiple definitions, this tool lets you choose the correct HP type for your application.

Formulas Used

Step 1: Convert kW to Watts

W = kW × 1000

Step 2: Apply Efficiency (Optional)

Effective W = W × (Efficiency / 100)

Step 3: Convert Watts to HP

HP = Effective W ÷ (W per HP)

FAQ

Which horsepower type should I select?

Use Electrical HP or Mechanical HP for most motor and electrical work. Use Metric HP when working with PS-based ratings. Use Boiler HP for boiler output ratings.

What does Efficiency (%) do?

Efficiency lets you account for system losses. Example: if efficiency is 90%, effective watts become 90% of kW×1000, which reduces the final horsepower value.

References

  • HP conversion (W/HP): Electrical/Mechanical 746, Metric 735.5, Boiler 9809.5
  • kW to W: W = kW × 1000
  • Efficiency: effective W = W × (Efficiency/100)