Microwave power consumption: How much electricity does a microwave use

You probably already know that microwaves use electromagnetic waves powered by electricity to heat food quickly. However, the amount of power microwaves consume depends on factors such as the model, its size, and how long it runs. While microwaves don’t use as much energy as appliances like air conditioners or washing machines, they still contribute to your home’s overall electricity usage, especially if you use them often.

If you are looking to manage energy costs or make smarter choices in the kitchen, it is worth understanding exactly how much electricity your microwave uses. Here is a closer look at its power consumption and what that means for your electricity bill.

How much electricity does a microwave use

Most microwaves use between 600 and 1,000 watts of power and plug into a standard 120-volt outlet, drawing about 10 amps. However, wattage alone does not determine how much electricity your microwave uses. How much time you use your microwave each day also has a bigger impact on your overall energy consumption.

For example, if you have an 800-watt microwave and use it for 10 minutes a day, it will use around 4.1 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per month or about 49 kWh per year. If you increase usage to 15 minutes daily, that number goes up to approximately 6.1 kWh per month or 73 kWh annually.

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Microwaves with higher wattage will use more electricity overall. For instance, a 1,000-watt model used for 15 minutes a day will consume more energy over the year compared to an 800-watt microwave running for the same amount of time.

How to calculate the energy your microwave uses

To calculate how much electricity your microwave roughly uses, start by checking the label or the user manual. You’ll often find an estimated yearly usage listed in kilowatt-hours (kWh). Once you have that number, multiply it by your local electricity rate.

For example, if you pay ₹7 per kWh, this will give you an idea of the annual cost. To find the monthly cost, simply divide that by 12. If you cannot find an estimate, you can calculate it yourself using a quick formula: