How to convert watt-hours to calories
To convert a measurement in watt-hours to calories, multiply the value by 860.42065. The conversion factor comes from the relationship between both units and the joule.
For example, to convert 5 Wh to calories: 5 × 860.42065 = 4,302.1033 cal.
What is a watt-hour?
A watt-hour is the energy delivered by one watt of power over one hour, equal to 3,600 joules. The watt-hour emerged with the electrical industry as a practical measure of energy use over time. It underpins the kilowatt-hour that appears on electricity bills worldwide.
Common uses of watt-hours include: Battery capacity ratings; Small electronics energy use; Solar panel and storage sizing; Portable power station specifications.
What is a calorie?
A calorie (small calorie) is the energy needed to raise the temperature of one gram of water by one degree Celsius, defined as exactly 4.184 joules. The calorie originated in early-19th-century thermodynamics. The thermochemical calorie, fixed at exactly 4.184 J, is the modern standard, though it is often confused with the larger food Calorie (kilocalorie).
Common uses of calories include: Chemistry and thermodynamics; Heat-of-reaction measurements; Physics heat-transfer problems; Historical energy references.
Watt-hours to calories worked examples
Here are some common values converted:
1 Wh = 860.42065 cal 5 Wh = 4,302.1033 cal 10 Wh = 8,604.2065 cal 50 Wh = 43,021.0325 cal 100 Wh = 86,042.065 cal
Frequently asked questions
How many calories are in one watt-hour?
One watt-hour (Wh) equals 860.42065 calories (cal). Multiply any value in watt-hours by 860.42065 to convert to calories.
How do I convert watt-hours to calories?
Multiply the value in watt-hours by 860.42065. For example, 5 Wh × 860.42065 = 4,302.1033 cal.
How do I convert calories to watt-hours?
Multiply the value in calories by 0.001162222222, or divide by 860.42065. Use the swap button on the converter above to reverse the direction.
Is the watt-hour to calorie conversion exact?
The thermochemical calorie is defined as exactly 4.184 J and the BTU as 1055.056 J. Conversions between SI energy units are exact.
What is the formula for watt-hours to calories?
The formula is: cal = Wh × 860.42065. This comes from the definition of both units relative to the joule.