Joule Heating Calculator

Free Joule Heating Calculator computes heat Q dissipated by a resistor from current, voltage, resistance, and time using Q = I²Rt, VIt, or V²t/R.

821.9K uses Updated · 2026-05-12 Runs locally · zero upload
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How to Use Joule Heating Calculator

  1. Pick the formula — I²Rt, VIt, or V²t/R.
  2. Enter the required variables — Current (A), voltage (V), resistance (Ω), time (s).
  3. Read Q and P — The Joule Heating Calculator reports heat in joules and instantaneous power in watts.

Formula & Theory - Joule Heating Calculator

P = I² · R = V · I = V² / R
Q = P · t

with units P [W], Q [J], I [A], V [V], R [Ω], t [s].
SymbolMeaning
QHeat generated (J)
PElectrical power dissipated (W)
ICurrent (A)
VVoltage across the resistor (V)
RResistance (Ω)
tDuration (s)

Assumptions and Limits

  • The resistance R is constant and dissipates all electrical power as heat.
  • For AC use RMS values; transient inductor/capacitor effects are not included.

Use Cases for Joule Heating Calculator

  • Wire sizing — Estimate temperature rise in a conductor.
  • Heating element design — Compute energy delivered by a kettle, soldering iron, etc.
  • Electronics safety — Predict component heating for a given current.

The Joule Heating Calculator turns three numbers into heat output in seconds.

Frequently asked questions about Joule Heating Calculator

What is Joule heating?

Heat generated when current flows through a conductor due to resistance. The Joule Heating Calculator returns Q in joules and the power P in watts.

Which formula should I pick?

Choose the one matching the variables you already know: I & R, V & I, or V & R.

Does this work for AC?

Yes, if you use RMS current and voltage and an effective DC-equivalent resistance.

Is my data stored?

No. All calculations happen in your browser; nothing is sent to a server.