How Many Amps Is 5 kW?
5 kW = 5,000 W. At 120 V DC: 41.6667 A. At 240 V DC: 20.8333 A. For AC circuits, divide by voltage × power factor (e.g. 240 V, PF 0.8: 26.0417 A). Use the calculator below for any voltage or circuit type.
5 kW to Amps — Reference Chart
| Circuit | Voltage | PF | Amps |
|---|---|---|---|
| DC | 120 V | — | 41.6667 A |
| DC | 240 V | — | 20.8333 A |
| DC | 480 V | — | 10.4167 A |
| AC 1Ø | 120 V | 1.0 | 41.6667 A |
| AC 1Ø | 240 V | 1.0 | 20.8333 A |
| AC 1Ø | 240 V | 0.8 | 26.0417 A |
| AC 3Ø (L-L) | 208 V | 0.8 | 17.3466 A |
| AC 3Ø (L-L) | 480 V | 0.8 | 7.5131 A |
Breaker sizing tip: At 240 V single-phase, PF 0.8, 5 kW draws 26.04 A. Per NEC 210.20, continuous loads require breakers sized at 125%: 26.04 × 1.25 = 32.55 A. A 40 A breaker is the correct choice. At PF = 1.0 (20.83 A × 1.25 = 26.04 A), a 30 A breaker is adequate. Always consult a licensed electrician.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many amps is 5 kW at 240V?
5 kW at 240 V DC = (5 × 1,000) ÷ 240 = 20.8333 amps. For AC single-phase with PF 0.8: 5,000 ÷ (240 × 0.8) = 26.0417 amps.
How many amps is 5 kW at 120V?
5 kW at 120 V DC = (5 × 1,000) ÷ 120 = 41.6667 amps. For AC single-phase with PF 0.8: 5,000 ÷ (120 × 0.8) = 52.0833 amps. Note: 120 V circuits with this load typically require a subpanel and dedicated breaker.
What breaker size do I need for 5 kW?
At 240 V single-phase, PF 0.8: 5 kW draws 26.04 A. The NEC requires 125% for continuous loads: 26.04 × 1.25 = 32.55 A. A 40 A breaker is the correct choice. Wire sizing: use 8 AWG copper (rated 40 A). Always consult a licensed electrician.