Amp
An amp (ampere) is the unit of electric current, the rate at which electricity flows along a cable. Amps multiplied by volts give watts, so an amp figure on its own tells you only part of the picture.
Where you'll see it
Amps appear on appliance labels, in manuals and sometimes on a campsite's supply details. Some labels give power in watts instead, so check which unit each one uses. Pages about electric hook-up often mention both, which can be confusing if you are not sure how they connect.
What to check
- Whether the label gives the figure in amps (A) or watts (W), and the unit printed beside it.
- Whether the site states its limit in amps or watts, so you compare like with like.
- The voltage the label or site gives, if you need to convert between the two. Don't guess it.
- The maker's instructions for the appliance and the lead, which may set their own limits.
Related terms
- Watt: the unit of power, which equals amps multiplied by volts.
- Load: the total demand you add up before you plug in.
- Hook-up: the campsite connection that supply figures refer to.
Read more: Electric hook-up explained (UK) and the electric hook-up calculator.