How Many Amps Is 1500 Watts?
At 120 V DC, 1500 watts = 12.5000 A. At 240 V DC, 1500 watts = 6.2500 A. For AC circuits, divide by voltage × power factor (e.g. at 120V AC, PF 0.8: 15.6250 A). Use the calculator below for any voltage or circuit type.
1500 Watts to Amps — DC Reference Chart
| Voltage | Current (DC) | Application |
|---|---|---|
| 12 V | 125.0000 A | 12V automotive / RV / solar |
| 24 V | 62.5000 A | 24V solar / industrial DC |
| 48 V | 31.2500 A | 48V telecom / e-bike |
| 120 V | 12.5000 A | US household standard |
| 240 V | 6.2500 A | US/EU 240V circuit |
| 480 V | 3.1250 A | Industrial 3-phase (per phase) |
Breaker sizing: At 120V, 1500W draws 12.5A. Per NEC 210.20, size breakers at 125% of continuous load: 12.5 × 1.25 = 15.63A. This requires a 20A breaker. Note: 1500W space heaters typically require a dedicated 20A circuit at 120V. At 240V (6.25A × 1.25 = 7.81A), a 15A breaker is sufficient. Always consult a licensed electrician.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many amps is 1500 watts at 120V?
1500 watts at 120V DC = 1500 ÷ 120 = 12.5000 amps. For AC single-phase with PF 0.8: 1500 ÷ (120 × 0.8) = 15.6250 amps.
How many amps is 1500 watts at 240V?
1500 watts at 240V DC = 1500 ÷ 240 = 6.2500 amps. For AC single-phase with PF 0.8: 1500 ÷ (240 × 0.8) = 7.8125 amps.
What size breaker do I need for 1500 watts?
At 120V, 1500W draws 12.5A. The NEC requires breakers sized at 125% for continuous loads: 12.5 × 1.25 = 15.63A. A 20A breaker is required. (1500W heaters need a dedicated 20A circuit). At 240V (6.25A), a 15A breaker is adequate.