Convert motor horsepower (HP) to electric current (Amps) for AC and DC motors.
Motor Specifications
HP
V
%
Electrical Load
Enter motor specs to estimate current draw
About this calculator
Quick Reference
1 HP≈ 746 Watts
η (eta)Efficiency
PFPower Factor
√3≈ 1.732 (Phase multiplier)
Overview
This calculator determines the required current (Amps) for an electric motor based on its rated output power in Horsepower. One mechanical Horsepower is approximately 746 Watts.
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Pro Tips
Select 'Single Phase' for standard home appliances (120V/240V).
Select 'Three Phase' for industrial motors (usually 480V+).
Efficiency (η) accounts for energy lost as heat; high-efficiency motors are usually 85% - 95%.
Power Factor (PF) is the ratio of real power to apparent power in AC circuits; typical values are 0.8 - 0.9.
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Fun Facts
"James Watt originated the term 'horsepower' to compare steam engines with the work of draft horses."
"1 HP is the power required to lift 550 pounds at a rate of 1 foot per second."
"Electrical specifications usually cite 'Full Load Amps' (FLA), which this calculator estimates."
