Amps and watts are units for measuring the electrical strength. The conversion of electricity units enables the users and stakeholders to understand the energy systems which are necessary for solar power solutions and other electricity applications.
Converting watts to amps is important for accurate matching of power sources for safe use of devices and optimizing the electrical system performance.
In this article, let’s dive into understanding the watts, amps, and the conversion formula for the units. Please keep on reading to stay informed.
What are Watts, Amps, and Volts?
The first step to understanding basic electricity concepts is to know the definition of watts, amps, and volts. Knowledge of these units is necessary especially if you are dealing with household appliances and other electrical applications.
What is Watts?
Watts is the unit for measuring the flow of electricity or the electric current. Watts is a representation of the International System of Units(SI).
Watts measure the amount of electricity a device delivers or consumes per unit within a given time. For instance, if a bulb has a rating of 40 watts, this means it uses 40 joules of energy per second it stays lit up.
When you multiply amps and volts you get Watts. That’s how you determine the amount of energy consumed. The higher the wattage, the more the power and appliance output.
What are Volts?
Volts is a measurement unit used for determining the force strength needed for the flow of an electric current. It measures the voltage or the electric potential. In simpler terms, voltage is the amount of pressure required for pushing the electric current through circuits.
If the voltage is high, the higher the potential power. However, the combination of amps and volts determines the actual power output, which is ultimately the wattage. In simpler terms, imagine electric current as water flowing through a hose pipe. If there is more water flowing through the pipe, then the current is deemed to be strong.
What is Amps?
Amperes (Amps) is the SI for measuring an electric current. Amps indicate the volume and flow rate of the electrons flowing through a circuit per second. For instance, if the hose pipe is large, the higher the amp rating and the more water or current that flows through it.
Watts, Volts, and Amps Calculation Formula
a) Watts= Amps x Volts
For Example:
- 8 Amps x 300 Volts= 2400 Watts
- 10 Amps x 240 Volts= 2400 Watts
b) Amps= Watts/ Volts
For Example:
- 5000 Watts/ 250 Volts= 20 Amps
- 2400 Watts/ 240 Volts= 10 Amps
c) Volts= Watts / Amps
Example:
- 5000 Watts / 20 Amps= 250 Volts
- 2400 Watts / 10 Amps= 240 Volts
Understanding The AC and DC Power Concept
The terms ‘DC’ and ‘AC’ are used to describe the nature of electric current flowing on the circuit. DC stands for direct current and it flows in one direction. AC stands for alternating current and it means the current moves in different directions up to 50 times in one second (50 Hertz(Hz)).
AC is commonly used in commercial premises and homes. DC is mostly used for powering home appliances and devices. DC currents are suitable for solar cells and charging batteries.
For accurate conversion of Watts to Amps, you must understand the difference between the AC and DC.
Methods for Converting Watts to Amps?
Technically, it is not possible to convert watts to amps. However, you can calculate amps based on the relationship between watts, voltage and amps.
Whether you are dealing with DC or AC currents, converting amps to watts is straightforward. Here are a few examples of converting amps to watts.
a) Fixed Voltage
To convert amps to watts with a fixed voltage, consider the formula and example below:
Watts(power)=AmpsxVolts
Example: Convert 20 amps to wattage a fixed voltage of 180V
Therefore:
P= 20A x 180 V= 2400 W
b) DC Voltage
To convert amps to watts on DC voltage, use this formula.
Watts= Amps x Volts
Example: Calculate the DC power needed for charging a device with charger and an output rating of 16.5V and 3.65A.
W=3.65 A x 16.5 V= 60.2 W
c) AC Voltage
The AC has a three phase system. You can convert amps to watts in two ways.
i.Line to Neutral Voltage: Power is equal to current times the square root of 3 times the power factor times the line to neutral RMS voltage.
P (W) = √3 × PF × I (A) × V
- Line to Line Voltage: The power is equal to the current times, square root of 3 then times power factor multiplied to line-to-line RMS Voltage.
P (W) = √3 × PF × I (A) × V
Example: Establish the wattage required in a system to draw a 20A current at a voltage of 15V. The PF is 0.8.
W = √3 × 0.8 × 20 A × 15 V = 415 W
Reasons for Converting Amps to Watts
If you are dealing with a solar system to generate electricity, you must convert amps to watts. Converting enables you to understand how much your appliances and devices consume. Also, it helps you to understand whether the components of the solar system, specifically the inverter can withstand the expected wattage.
BLUETTI Power Stations with High Wattages for Powering Your Home
It is important to identify the amps and watts of a power station. It allows you to confirm the compatibility of the battery with your home appliances and devices. If the power station has a higher wattage, it means it is capable of supplying power to your devices and appliances longer. Here are some of the BLUETTI power stations with varying power capacity.
1. BLUETTI AC200P Portable Power Station | 2,000W 2,000Wh
Features
- High Power Capacity
With 2000 Wattage, the BLUETTI AC200P has a remarkable 2000wh power capacity with a 2000W inverter. With such high power capacity, the power station is capable of powering over 99% of home appliances.
- 17 Power Outlet Ports
The AC200P has several output ports which includes 6 AC ports, 2 x 15W wireless charging pads, 12V/3A DC Port, USB-A, USB Type-C, a Cigarette lighter port, and a carport. The 12V/25A DC port will help you power your DIY tools and it comes in handy for camping and RV.
- Ultra-durable and Safe
The AC200P utilizes the Lithium Iron Phosphate(LiFePO4) battery which offers 3,500+ life cycles with a lifespan of up to 10 years. It utilizes one cycle per day. The power station features an advanced battery management system (BMS) integrated with AC200P to monitor your devices while ensuring their safety.
- Excellent Charging Rate
The AC200P power station supports up to 5000W AC and 7000W allowing you to recharge in just 2.5 hours using AC + solar and dual AC charging.
- Enough Power for Home Solution
With high power, the BLUETTI AC200P will adequately power all your home appliances such as radios, TV, projectors, blenders, kettle, coffee machines etc.
2. BLUETTI AC200MAX Expandable Power Station
Features
- Expandable Power Station
The BLUETTI A200MAX has a 2200 wattage with 2,048Wh LiFePO4 battery cells plus a 2,200W pure sine wave inverter. With such high power, your needs are met. Some of the devices you can power includes an electric grill, coffee maker machine, Air Conditioner, electric kettles, among others.
- Fast Charging
The AC200MAX dual charging capabilities allows you to fast charge at 900W with solar and 500W AC input. You can fully charge in just five hours using 3 BLUETTI PV200 solar panels. Also, you can charge the power station in 7 methods including solar, AC, generator, car, Dual AC, AC + solar, and lead battery.
- 16 Output Ports
The AC200MAX has 16 output ports allowing you to meet all your charging needs. Some of the ports include AC, carport, 100W PD, 30A NEMA TT-30, 12V/ 30A DC outlet port suitable for DIY and RVs.
- Expandable Power Capacity
The AC200MAX offers both power and flexibility. It has two expansion ports allowing you to connect 2 x B230 with a capacity of 2048Wh each or 2 x B300 each at 3072Wh capacity boosting the power up to 8192Wh.
3. BLUETTI AC300 + B300 | Home Battery Backup
Features
- Expandable Power
The 3000 Wattage power station features a 3000W inverter and LiFePO4 batteries. The AC300 has an expandable capacity of up to 12,288Wh connected to 4×B300.
- 3000W Pure Sine Wave Inverter
The AC300 features a 3000W inverter which allows it to accommodate high power appliances such as air conditioners, laser machines, refrigerators, kettles, mowers among others.
- 5400W Fast Charging
The AC300 has a fast charging rate of up to 5400W. You can dual charge with solar panels and adapter, 3000W AC + 2400W solar.
- 5 Recharging Modes
You can charge this power station in five different methods. You can use a wall outlet, car, lead acid battery, solar panel, or a generator.
- Several Output Ports
The AC300 + B300 has 16 outlet ports including the NEMA TT-30, AC, USB-C, USB-A, carport, a wireless charger, and a 12V/30A DC port.
- 24/7 UPS Home Backup
The BLUETTI Smart Home Panel allows you to tie the AC300 + B300 power system to the home grid. That way you will still have power even when an outage occurs.
FAQ: How to Convert Watts to Amps?
1.How many Watts comprise of One Amp?
The voltage of the system determines the wattage in one Amp. The formula for DC conversion for Amps= Watts x Volts.
For instance, 1 amp equals 120 watts. The voltage directly determines the relationship between amps and watts.
2.Is Power Necessary in Converting Watts to Amps?
Power is necessary in converting watts to amps especially in AC systems. The power factor is a representation of the actual power (watts) and apparent power (volt-amps). Remember to consider the power factor when converting the AC power systems to achieve high accuracy.
3.How Can You Convert Watts to Volts?
Volt is the unit measurement for pressure. It ensures the electric current flows smoothly in the wire. The formula for volts is: Volts = Watts ÷ Amps
You must have the Amp value to enable you convert watts into volts or volts to watts. Most small home appliances such as computers, coffee machines, and bulbs operate at 120V. Larger appliances such as washing machine, refrigerators operate at 240V.
Final Thoughts
Converting watts to amps and vice versa sounds complex and only reserved for experts. However, it is straightforward once you understand the basics and the conversion formula. If you are installing a solar system or intend to purchase a power station, the basic knowledge of watts, amps and volts is important. It will help in management of charging your devices and home appliances.
