What does "wattage" measure?

Wattage measures electrical power, which is defined as the rate at which energy is transferred or converted. Specifically, one watt is equivalent to one joule per second. This means that wattage quantifies how much energy is being used or generated in a circuit over time, making it a key concept in understanding how electrical devices consume power.

In practical terms, wattage helps you determine the energy efficiency of appliances and equipment, as well as the requirements for electrical service in a home or building. For example, a light bulb rated at 60 watts uses 60 joules of energy every second it is on. Understanding wattage allows electricians and engineers to design systems that meet specific power requirements and to ensure that devices operate safely within their designed power levels.