Home Back

Cooling Capacity Converter - kW to HP Calculator

How to Convert Cooling Capacity

The Cooling Capacity Converter calculates the equivalent cooling capacity of air conditioners between kilowatts (kW) and horsepower (HP) using the following conversion factors:

From kW to HP:

\( \text{Cooling Capacity (HP)} = \text{Cooling Capacity (kW)} \times 0.379 \)

From HP to kW:

\( \text{Cooling Capacity (kW)} = \text{Cooling Capacity (HP)} \div 0.379 \)

Where:

  • \( \text{kW} \): Kilowatt, a metric unit of power, used to express the cooling capacity of air conditioners in some regions (1 kW = 3412 BTU).
  • \( \text{HP} \): Horsepower, a unit used in air conditioning to denote cooling capacity (1 HP = 9000 BTU).

Note: The kW here refers to cooling capacity, not power consumption. Enter the cooling capacity value and select the unit to convert between kW and HP.

Using the Cooling Capacity Converter

This converter is designed to assist with converting air conditioner cooling capacity between kW and HP, useful in HVAC systems and air conditioning specifications.

Input the cooling capacity value and select the unit (kW or HP). The calculator will display the converted values in both units.

Example: Convert 5 kW to HP.


  1. Cooling Capacity: \( 5 \, \text{kW} \)
  2. Conversion: \( 5 \times 0.379 = 1.895 \, \text{HP} \)
  3. Result: \( 5 \, \text{kW} = 1.895 \, \text{HP} \)

Use this tool for quick and accurate conversions in HVAC and air conditioning applications.

Common Conversion Table

The following table provides quick reference conversions for common cooling capacity values between kW and HP:

kW HP
1 0.379
2 0.758
5 1.895
10 3.790
20 7.580

Use this table for quick lookups or to verify calculator results.

Common FAQ

Below are frequently asked questions about cooling capacity conversions between kW and HP:

  • Q: What does kW mean in air conditioning?
    A: In air conditioning, kW refers to the cooling capacity, not power consumption. It measures the rate of heat removal (1 kW = 3412 BTU).
  • Q: Why convert between kW and HP?
    A: Conversions are needed in HVAC industries where kW is used in metric systems, and HP is common in regions using imperial units or specific air conditioning standards.
  • Q: How accurate is this converter?
    A: The converter uses the precise conversion factor (1 kW = 0.379 HP) based on 1 kW = 3412 BTU and 1 HP = 9000 BTU, with results rounded to 3 decimal places for accuracy.
  • Q: Can negative values be converted?
    A: Negative values are not typically relevant for cooling capacity, but the converter can handle them for theoretical purposes, maintaining accuracy.
  • Q: How is the conversion factor derived?
    A: The factor 0.379 is derived from the ratio of BTU values: (3412 BTU/kW) ÷ (9000 BTU/HP) ≈ 0.379 HP/kW.
Cooling Capacity Converter© - All Rights Reserved 2025