What is the definition of a kilowatt?

A kilowatt (kW) is an SI derived unit of power equal to 1,000 watts, measuring the rate of energy transfer or conversion across electrical, mechanical, or thermal contexts.

What does horsepower (hp) represent?

Horsepower (hp) is a non-SI unit expressing power as the rate of doing work, with the common mechanical horsepower defined as 550 foot-pounds per second, approximately 745.7 watts.

Why does the conversion from kilowatts to horsepower vary?

The conversion varies because there are multiple types of horsepower; this tool uses the mechanical/imperial horsepower for its conversion rate.

How to Convert from Kilowatt [kW] to Horsepower [hp, hp (UK)]?

Easily convert power measurements from kilowatts to mechanical horsepower (hp) using this reliable online unit converter. Understand the definitions, use cases, and conversion formula between these units.

Kilowatt [kW]

Horsepower [hp, hp (UK)]

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Kilowatt [kW] to Horsepower [hp, hp (UK)] Conversion Table

Kilowatt [kW]	Horsepower [hp, hp (UK)]

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Start Value

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Kilowatt [kW] to Horsepower [hp, hp (UK)] Conversion Table
Kilowatt [kW]	Horsepower [hp, hp (UK)]

Explore More Power Units Converter

What Is This Tool?

This tool converts power values from kilowatts (kW), a standard SI unit, to mechanical horsepower (hp), a traditional unit often used in automotive and machinery contexts. It helps users translate power ratings between metric and imperial systems.

How to Use This Tool?

Enter the power value in kilowatts you want to convert.
Select the target unit as horsepower (hp or hp (UK)).
Click the convert button to see the result.
Review example conversions and unit definitions as needed.

Key Features

Converts power from kilowatt (kW) to horsepower (hp, hp (UK)) accurately.
Includes definitions and typical use cases for both units.
Shows practical examples for quick reference.
Provides a formula and conversion rate within the tool.
Browser-based, user-friendly interface with no installation required.

Examples

1 kilowatt (kW) equals approximately 1.34 horsepower (hp).
5 kilowatts (kW) convert to about 6.705 horsepower (hp).

Common Use Cases

Assessing electrical appliance power consumption with kilowatts and comparing to horsepower for mechanical equipment.
Checking engine output in vehicle specifications where power ratings use horsepower.
Evaluating power on pumps, motors, and machinery in industrial and mechanical engineering.
Relating renewable energy system capacities expressed in kilowatts to horsepower ratings used in traditional machinery.

Tips & Best Practices

Confirm which horsepower variant applies to your specific context, as values may differ.
Use this conversion mainly for the common mechanical/imperial horsepower (hp, hp (UK)).
Keep in mind kilowatt is a standard SI unit encompassing electrical, mechanical, and thermal power.
Refer to examples within the tool to verify your input and results.

Limitations

Horsepower has multiple definitions; this tool uses the mechanical/imperial horsepower standard.
Exact conversion values can vary depending on the horsepower variant used.
Users should ensure the selected horsepower type matches their application for accurate comparison.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the definition of a kilowatt?: A kilowatt (kW) is an SI derived unit of power equal to 1,000 watts, measuring the rate of energy transfer or conversion across electrical, mechanical, or thermal contexts.
What does horsepower (hp) represent?: Horsepower (hp) is a non-SI unit expressing power as the rate of doing work, with the common mechanical horsepower defined as 550 foot-pounds per second, approximately 745.7 watts.
Why does the conversion from kilowatts to horsepower vary?: The conversion varies because there are multiple types of horsepower; this tool uses the mechanical/imperial horsepower for its conversion rate.

Key Terminology

Kilowatt (kW): An SI derived unit of power, equal to 1000 watts, used to measure rates of energy conversion in electrical, mechanical, and thermal systems.
Horsepower (hp or hp (UK)): A non-SI power unit representing mechanical power, defined as 550 foot-pounds per second or about 745.7 watts for the common mechanical/imperial variant.
Mechanical/Imperial Horsepower: The standard horsepower measure used in this conversion, often utilized in vehicle and machinery power ratings.

Quick Knowledge Check

Which unit is an SI derived unit for power?

Horsepower (hp)

Kilowatt (kW)

Foot-pound per second

What is the approximate horsepower equivalent of 1 kilowatt?

1.0 hp

1.34 hp

0.74 hp

What is a common use for horsepower units?

Electrical appliance rating

Vehicle engine output

Solar panel capacity

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