3kW

3kW, or three kilowatts, is a unit of power equal to 3000 watts. The prefix kilo- denotes a thousand, so kilowatt is a practical unit for expressing the rate at which electrical devices consume or deliver energy. Kilowatts are commonly used to rate motors, heaters, appliances, and small-scale generation or storage systems.

In everyday context, 3 kW represents a moderate rate of energy transfer. Electric space heaters and some heat pumps have ratings near 3 kW; HVAC components, water heaters, and certain pumps may be in this range. In solar or wind installations, system capacity is often quoted in kilowatts of peak power. The energy used over time is measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh); running a 3 kW device for one hour consumes 3 kWh.

Electrical calculations for 3 kW devices follow the basic relation P = V × I for direct current or single-phase alternating current. A 3 kW load at 230 V draws about 13 A (3000/230 ≈ 13). At 120 V, the same load would draw about 25 A. For resistive loads, P can also be expressed as P = V^2 / R or P = I^2 × R. Real power can be affected by efficiency and power factor in AC circuits.

Safety and standards considerations are important for any 3 kW device. The equipment must be connected to an appropriate supply and protective devices, with adequate cooling or ventilation to prevent overheating. Compliance with local electrical codes and manufacturer specifications is essential to minimize hazards and ensure reliable operation.

See also: kilowatt-hour, kilovolt-ampere, horsepower.