When it comes to appliances in the kitchen, the microwave is one of the most common. And for good reason – it’s super convenient for heating up food items quickly. But just like with any other appliance, you need to be mindful of how much power it’s using.
When it comes to household appliances, one of the most important factors to consider is how much electricity they use. That’s why knowing how many amps does a microwave use is essential for making an informed purchase.
Do you ever wonder how much power your appliances are using? And, more specifically, how many amps your microwave is sucking up?
In this blog post, we’ll provide an easy-to-follow guide for calculating the amps your microwave uses. We’ll also offer some tips for conserving energy and hopefully helping you save on your next electric bill!
So whether you’re a homeowner or a renter, keep reading to learn more.
How Many Amps Does A Microwave Use?
The microwave oven typically draws from 9 amps – 15 amps at 120 volts or about 5 amps to 9 amps at 220 volts depending on the input power rating.
You wonder that “How many amps does a microwave use on many different capacities”, you can refer to the information in the table below
Operating Voltage 120V (US)
Here we have taken the Input Power of the microwave (not the output power).
| 1100 W Input | 9.16 Amps |
| 1300 W Input | 10.83 Amps |
| 1500 W Input | 12.50 Amps |
| 1700 W Input | 14.16 Amps |
| 1850 W Input | 15.14 Amps |
Operating Voltage 220 (Europe, Asia)
At 220 volts, the current draw is lower. Why, because the higher the voltage, the lower is the current drawn.
| 1100 W Input | 5 Amps |
| 1300 W Input | 5.9 Amps |
| 1500 W Input | 6.81 Amps |
| 1700 W Input | 7.72 Amps |
| 1850 W Input | 8.4 Amps |
To find out how many amps your microwave uses, simply look at the wattage listed on the appliance.
The average microwave uses around 700 watts of power. Most microwaves have a maximum power output of 1000 watts.
To calculate the amps, simply divide the wattage by the voltage
(1000 watts / 120 volts = 8.3 amps)
This means that if you’re running your microwave on a standard 120-volt household circuit, it will draw 8.3 amps. If you’re running it on a 240-volt circuit (common in many kitchens), it will only draw 4.2 amps.
Of course, these are just averages – your specific microwave may use more or less power depending on its size and features.
For example, larger microwaves tend to use more power than smaller ones. And microwaves with additional features like convection cooking or sensor cooking will also use more power.
Keep in mind that this is just an estimate – the actual amp usage may be slightly higher or lower.
More Technical Microwave Knowledge To Read
How To Calculate The Amps Your Microwave Uses
Now that you know the average amps used by a microwave, let’s talk about how to calculate the amps used by your specific appliance.
Calculating the number of amps being used by a microwave is relatively simple. All you need to know is the wattage of the appliance and the voltage of the circuit.
Once you have this information, you can use the following formula to calculate the number of amps being used:
Amps = Watts / Volts
The first step is to find the wattage of your microwave. This should be listed on the appliance itself, either on the front panel or on a label on the back.
The easiest way to calculate the amps your microwave uses is to look at the wattage listed on the appliance.
Multiply the wattage by the number of hours you use the microwave each day. Then, divide that number by 1000. This will give you the number of kilowatts your microwave uses in a day.
For example, let’s say you have a 700-watt microwave that you use for 1 hour each day. You would multiply 700 watts by 1 hour, which equals 700 watt-hours. Divide that by 1000, and you get 0.7 kilowatts.
To convert kilowatts to amps, simply divide the number of kilowatts by the voltage of your circuit (usually 120 or 240).
For our example, we would divide 0.7 kilowatts by 120 volts, which equals 5.8 amps. This means that our 700-watt microwave would use about 5.8 amps on a standard 120-volt household circuit.
Of course, keep in mind that this is just an estimate – the actual amps used by your microwave may vary depending on the model, features, and size.
If you’re really concerned about saving energy and reducing your carbon footprint, there are some simple steps you can take to reduce the amount of power your microwave uses.
For instance, try microwaving food in smaller portions or using lower-wattage settings whenever possible.
You may also want to consider buying a newer, more energy-efficient model that uses less power overall. And finally, unplug your microwave when it’s not in use to save even more energy.
Tips For Reducing The Number Of Amps Your Microwave Uses
Now that you know how many amps your microwave uses, you might be wondering how you can reduce your energy consumption and save money on your electric bill.
By making a few small changes, you can help conserve energy and save money on your electric bill. Here are a few tips to help you out:
1. Use the microwave only when necessary
If you’re just reheating a cup of coffee or heating up a frozen dinner, consider using a stovetop or conventional oven instead.
These appliances use more energy than a microwave, but they’re also more efficient when used for short periods of time.
2. Make sure the appliance is properly plugged into the outlet
A loose connection can cause the microwave to use more electricity than necessary.
3. Only cook food for as long as it needs to be heated
Some people tend to overcook their food in the microwave, which wastes both time and energy.
4. Unplug the microwave when you’re not using it
Even when your microwave is turned off, it can still use a small amount of power. To save energy (and money), unplug the appliance when you’re not using it.
5. Use the appropriate cooking setting for your food item
For example, if you’re reheating a cup of coffee, there’s no need to use the high power setting – the low or defrost setting will work just fine.
6. Use energy-saving features
If your microwave has energy-saving features like a delay start timer or a quick start setting, be sure to use them. These features can help reduce your overall energy consumption.
7. Avoid using the kitchen appliances at peak times
The “peak hours” for most utilities are between 6 and 9 pm, so try not to use appliances during this period if you can help it.
8. Clean the microwave regularly
A dirty microwave requires more energy to operate, so be sure to keep it clean. Wipe down the interior and exterior of the appliance with a damp cloth on a regular basis.
9. Let food cool before reheating
When reheating food in the microwave, let it sit for a minute or two before cooking. This will help reduce the overall cooking time and save energy.
By following these simple tips, you’ll be able to save energy and lower your monthly expenses. And with any luck, you may even cut down on the number of electrical fires in your home!
What Is An Amp?
An amp, or ampere, is a unit of measurement that tells us how much electrical current is flowing through a circuit.
In order to understand how many amps does a microwave use, we first need to understand what an amp is and why it’s important.
Amps are important because they tell us how much electrical power is being used by an appliance or device.
For example:
A 100-watt light bulb uses about 0.8 amps on a standard 120-volt household circuit. To find the number of amps being used, we simply divide the number of watts by the voltage of the circuit (in this case, 120 volts).
Similarly, a 700-watt microwave would use about 5.8 amps on a standard 120-volt circuit.
So, how many amps does a microwave use? It depends on the wattage of the microwave and the voltage of the circuit.
As you can see, the number of amps used by an appliance can vary greatly depending on the wattage and voltage.
Now that we know how to calculate the number of amps being used, let’s take a closer look at how this information can be useful to us.
Why Is It Important To Know How Many Amps A Microwave Uses?
There are several reasons why it’s important to know how many amps your microwave uses.
First, it can help you determine whether or not your electrical system is capable of handling the load.
If you’re using more amps than your system can handle, you could potentially overload the circuit and cause a fire.
Second, knowing how many amps your microwave uses can help you estimate your monthly energy costs.
Appliances that use more electricity will obviously cost more to operate, so it’s important to know which ones are using the most power.
Third, understanding how much power your appliances use can help you make informed decisions about energy efficiency.
If you’re looking to save money on your monthly energy bill, it’s important to choose appliances that are energy-efficient.
Many newer models of microwaves are designed with energy efficiency in mind, so it’s worth doing some research before making a purchase.
Fourth, some people like to solar power their homes and need to know how many amps their appliances use so they can properly size their solar system.
If you’re planning on going solar, it’s important to know exactly how much power your appliances use so you can generate enough electricity to meet your needs.
Finally, knowing how many amps your microwave uses can simply give you a better understanding of the appliance and how it works.
Understanding how an appliance uses electricity can help you troubleshoot problems and make informed decisions about repairs or replacements.
Making Sure You Have the Right Microwave for the Job
Now that we know how to calculate the number of amps being used by a microwave, let’s take a look at how to make sure you have the right microwave for the job.
If you’re looking to save money on your monthly energy bill, it’s important to choose an energy-efficient model.
Many newer models of microwaves are designed with energy efficiency in mind, so it’s worth doing some research before making a purchase.
Additionally, it’s important to make sure your electrical system is capable of handling the load. If you’re using more amps than your system can handle, you could potentially overload the circuit and cause a fire.
When it comes to choosing a microwave, there are two main things you need to consider:
1. The wattage of the microwave
2. The voltage of the circuit
1️⃣ The wattage of the microwave is important because it tells us how much power the appliance uses.
As we learned earlier, the higher the wattage, the more amps are required to operate the appliance.
For example, a 700-watt microwave will use about 5.8 amps on a standard 120-volt household circuit.
If you’re using a lower-wattage microwave, it will use less power and won’t require as many amps.
2️⃣ The voltage of the circuit is also important because it tells us how much electricity is flowing through the wires.
If you have a higher-voltage circuit, it can handle more amps without overloading.
For example, a 120-volt household circuit can safely handle up to 15 amps before it needs to be replaced or upgraded.
If you’re not sure what wattage or voltage your microwave needs, consult the owner’s manual or ask a professional for help.
When it comes to choosing the right microwave, wattage and voltage are two of the most important things to consider.
Make sure you know the wattage and voltage of the appliance before making a purchase to avoid any problems.
Electrical Circuit Requirements For A Microwave
As we learned earlier, it’s important to make sure your electrical system is capable of handling the load.
If you’re using more amps than your system can handle, you could potentially overload the circuit and cause a fire.
So, what do you need to know about your electrical system in order to safely operate a microwave?
First, let’s take a look at the different types of circuits that are found in most homes.
There are two main types of circuits in most homes: 120-volt circuits and 240-volt circuits.
🔸 120-volt circuits are the most common type of circuit and are typically used for appliances that use less power, such as lights and small electronics.
🔸 240-volt circuits are typically used for appliances that use more power, such as stoves and dryers.
Most microwaves require a 120-volt circuit, but some models may require a 240-volt circuit.
Microwave Operating Cost
Now that we know how many amps does a microwave use, let’s take a look at the cost of operating the appliance.
The cost of operating a microwave will vary depending on the wattage of the unit and the price of electricity in your area.
For example, if you’re using a 700-watt microwave on a standard 120-volt household circuit, it will cost about $0.12 to run for one hour.
If you live in an area with higher electricity rates, the cost of running the microwave will be higher.
To calculate the cost of running your microwave, simply multiply the wattage of the unit by the price of electricity in your area.
For example, if you’re using a 700-watt microwave and the price of electricity is $0.12 per kilowatt-hour, it will cost $0.84 to run the appliance for one hour.
To calculate the cost of running your microwave for a specific amount of time, simply multiply the wattage of the unit by the price of electricity in your area and then multiply that number by the number of hours you’ll be using the appliance.
For example, if you’re using a 700-watt microwave and the price of electricity is $0.12 per kilowatt-hour, it will cost $1.68 to run the appliance for two hours.
The bottom line is that the cost of running a microwave is relatively low, especially when compared to other appliances such as stoves and dryers.
If you’re concerned about the cost of running your microwave, consider investing in a more energy-efficient model.
Most microwaves today are designed to be energy-efficient, so you shouldn’t have any trouble finding a model that meets your needs.
As we learned earlier, it’s important to make sure your electrical system is capable of handling the load.
If you’re using more amps than your system can handle, you could potentially overload the circuit and cause a fire.
What Size Breaker Do You Need for Your Microwave?
Now that we know how many amps a microwave uses, let’s take a look at the size of breaker you’ll need to safely operate the appliance.
As we mentioned earlier, most microwaves require a 120-volt circuit.
If you’re not sure what type of circuit your microwave needs, consult the owner’s manual or ask a professional for help.
It’s also important to know the amp rating of the circuit breaker. The amp rating tells us how much current the breaker can handle before it trips and shuts off the flow of electricity.
For example, a 15-amp breaker can safely handle up to 1,800 watts of power before it needs to be replaced or upgraded.
If you’re not sure what the amp rating of your breaker is, consult the owner’s manual or ask a professional for help.
When it comes to choosing the right size breaker for your microwave, it’s always better to err on the side of caution.
If you’re not sure what size breaker you need, consult the owner’s manual or ask a professional for help.
FAQs
Can a microwave be on a 15 amp circuit?
Yes, most microwaves can be plugged into a standard 15-amp circuit. However, some models may require a 20-amp circuit. Consult the owner’s manual for your specific model to be sure.
Does a microwave need a 20 amp circuit?
Some microwaves may require a 20-amp circuit, but most models will work with a standard 15-amp circuit. Consult the owner’s manual for your specific model to be sure.
How many amps does a 1000 watt microwave use?
A 1000-watt microwave will use about 8.3 amps on a standard 120-volt household circuit. If you’re using a 240-volt circuit, the amp usage will be about 4.2 amps.
What is the difference between a 120-volt and 240-volt circuit?
A 120-volt circuit is typically used for appliances that use less power, such as lights and small electronics. A 240-volt circuit is typically used for appliances that use more power, such as stoves and dryers.
How many amps is a microwave outlet?
A standard microwave outlet is 15 amps. However, some models may require a 20-amp outlet. Consult the owner’s manual for your specific model to be sure.
How many watts can a 15-amp circuit handle?
A 15-amp circuit can safely handle up to 1,800 watts of power before it needs to be replaced or upgraded.
If you’re not sure what the amp rating of your breaker is, consult the owner’s manual or ask a professional for help.
What size breaker do I need for a 1000 watt microwave?
A 1000-watt microwave will require a 15-amp breaker. If you’re not sure what the amp rating of your breaker is, consult the owner’s manual or ask a professional for help.
Does microwave need its own breaker?
Yes, a microwave should have its own breaker. If you’re not sure what the amp rating of your breaker is, consult the owner’s manual or ask a professional for help.
How many watts can a 20-amp circuit handle?
A 20-amp circuit can safely handle up to 2,400 watts of power before it needs to be replaced or upgraded. If you’re not sure what the amp rating of your breaker is, consult the owner’s manual or ask a professional for help.
What size breaker do you need for a 1200 watt microwave?
A 1200-watt microwave will require a 20-amp breaker. If you’re not sure what the amp rating of your breaker is, consult the owner’s manual or ask a professional for help.
Can you put a microwave on a GFCI outlet?
Yes, you can put a microwave on a GFCI outlet. However, it’s important to make sure that the outlet is properly rated for the appliance. Consult the owner’s manual for your specific model to be sure.
What happens if you use too many amps on a circuit?
If you use too many amps on a circuit, you could potentially overload the circuit and cause a fire.
It’s important to make sure your electrical system is capable of handling the load. Consult the owner’s manual for your specific model or ask a professional for help.
How to save energy and reduce your electric bill by using a low-amperage microwave?
There are a few things you can do to reduce the amount of electricity your microwave uses.
🔸 Make sure the unit is properly ventilated.
🔸 Only cook food for the amount of time needed.
🔸 Consider investing in a more energy-efficient model.
As we learned earlier, microwaves use a lot of power when they’re first turned on. So, it’s important to make sure the unit is properly ventilated.
If the microwave is enclosed in a cabinet or other tight space, the air inside can quickly become heated and cause the appliance to overheat.
To avoid this, make sure there’s at least two inches of space between the back and sides of the microwave and any surrounding objects.
Additionally, make sure the ventilated opening on the back of the unit is not blocked.
Another way to reduce the amount of electricity your microwave uses is to only cook food for the amount of time needed.
Many people make the mistake of cooking food for longer than necessary, which not only wastes electricity but can also dry out your food.
As a general rule, you should only cook food for half the time listed on the package. So, if a package says to cook something for four minutes, you should only cook it for two minutes in the microwave.
If you’re concerned about the cost of running your microwave, consider investing in a more energy-efficient model.
Most microwaves today are designed to be energy-efficient, so you shouldn’t have any trouble finding a model that meets your needs.
As we learned earlier, it’s important to make sure your electrical system is capable of handling the load. If you’re using more amps than your system can handle, you could potentially overload the circuit and cause a fire.
To avoid this, make sure you know the amperage rating of your circuit breaker and don’t exceed it.
Additionally, consult an electrician if you’re unsure whether your electrical system can handle the additional load.
Conclusion
Microwaves are a common appliance in many households. This guide will help you to understand how to calculate the amps that your microwave uses.
Once you know how many amps your microwave uses, you can take steps to conserve energy and save money on your electric bill.
Although microwaves use a lot of amps, they can be convenient when you need to heat up your food quickly.
By understanding how many amps microwaves use, you can better plan for your electrical needs and avoid any surprises. Have you ever had to calculate the number of amps a microwave uses?
Thank you for reading our blog post on how many amps does a microwave use. We hope this guide was helpful and informative in showing you how to calculate the amps a microwave uses.
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