Smartphones and laptops can usually handle between 110V and 240V, but many appliances cannot. On-grid mains’ electricity voltage varies widely by country - something to keep in mind when travelling.

Standard household electricity in Australia is delivered to homes at 230-240V, though some large appliances and systems like HVAC and water heaters may require 415V. If we’re calculating the volts of something with a wattage of 500W and amps of 2A, we can use our formula to determine the appropriate voltage of the appliance. Mathematically, you can use this equation to calculate volts if you know the watts and amps of an appliance: It measures how much energy each charging unit carries when moving between two points in a system. Using our formula, we can plug these figures in:Ī volt measures the electrical potential difference or electromotive force. Let’s say we’re calculating the amps of an appliance, and we know that its wattage is 3000W and voltage is 200V. When using amps mathematically, amps equal the watts divided by the volts of an appliance. HVAC systems may use breakers rated up to 30 amps. If the current exceeds the amperage, the breaker will trip to help protect your home. Circuit breakers for man appliances are rated at 15 – 20 amps. One of the most common places to see amps used in your home circuit panel. It measures the rate at which electrons flow through a conductor.Īmps are calculated by measuring the strength of the electromagnetic force between two electrical conductors carrying electric current. What Is an Amp?Īn amp (short for ampere) is a unit of measure for electrical current. Understanding the difference between them (and how they’re related) can help you better understand how your electrical devices work and make better sense of the specs and requirements for your appliances.

Electricity terms often get confused: volts, amps, watts, and ohms.

Amps x volts watts