How Many Watts Does a Microwave Use: Microwave Wattage Guide
In most diets today, microwave ovens have made a steady place in foods to heat foods quickly, thawing foods and baking. Yet, while most folks know how to operate their microwave, few of them know how many watts does a microwave use. The microwave wattage determines how quickly your microwave can heat or cook food and plays a role in your overall energy costs.
In this guide, we'll break down how microwave wattage impacts power usage, the average energy consumption of different models, and how to calculate the associated costs.
Key Takeaways
- Small microwaves typically use around 600 to 800 watts, while average models range from 900 to 1,200 watts. Larger models or high-power units can go up to 1,500 watts or more, offering faster cooking times.
- On average, microwaves consume about 600 to 1,000 watts of electricity. The wattage reflects how quickly the appliance heats or cooks food.
- For an average 1,000 watt microwave used for about 15 minutes a day, the monthly power consumption is roughly 12-15 kWh, and the annual usage is around 150-180 kWh.
- The cost of running a microwave typically ranges from $1 to $2 per month, and around $12 to $24 annually, depending on local electricity rates.
How Many Watts Does A Microwave Use
Microwaves come in various sizes and power levels, which influence their cooking capabilities and energy consumption. Small microwaves typically have power levels ranging from 600 to 800 watts, making them suitable for basic tasks like reheating and defrosting and ideal for use at small kitchen settings or in lodgings, mobile homes, or apartments.
Mid-range microwaves usually have power ratings between 900 and 1,200 watts. These are the frequently used microwaves in homes, offering a good balance for cooking and reheating meals.
High-power models, often considered large microwaves, can exceed 1,500 watts, providing faster cooking and the ability to handle larger meals and usually used for family services or a commercial outlet. Here's a table to illustrate how different wattages affect the microwave's functionality:
| Microwave Wattage | Typical Features & Functions |
| 600-800 watts | Reheating, defrosting, basic cooking tasks |
| 900-1,200 watts | Standard cooking, reheating, defrosting, light baking |
| 1,500 watts & above | Fast cooking, heavy-duty cooking, baking, grilling |
To calculate how much energy your microwave uses, you can use this simple formula:
Energy Consumption(kWh)=Power (W)×Time (hours)/1000
Power (W) refers to the microwave's wattage.
Time (hours) is how long the microwave is in use.
1000 is used to convert watts to kilowatts (since 1 kW = 1000 W).
This formula gives you the energy consumption in kilowatt-hours (kWh), which is how electricity usage is typically measured and billed.
To give you an idea of how much energy different microwaves use over time, here’s a table showing estimated annual power consumption for various microwave wattages. We’ll assume average daily use of 15 minutes (0.25 hours).
| Microwave Wattage | Daily Use (0.25 hours) | Annual Run Time (hours) | Annual Energy Consumption (kWh) |
| 600 watts | 0.15 kWh | 91.25 hours | 54.75 kWh |
| 650 watts | 0.16 kWh | 91.25 hours | 59.43 kWh |
| 700 watts | 0.18 kWh | 91.25 hours | 63.75 kWh |
| 750 watts | 0.2 kWh | 91.25 hours | 68.06 kWh |
| 800 watts | 0.21 kWh | 91.25 hours | 73 kWh |
| 850 watts | 0.23 kWh | 91.25 hours | 77.44 kWh |
| 900 watts | 0.225 kWh | 91.25 hours | 82.13 kWh |
| 950 watts | 0.238 kWh | 91.25 hours | 86.81 kWh |
| 1000 watts | 0.25 kWh | 91.25 hours | 91.25 kWh |
| 1200 watts | 0.3 kWh | 91.25 hours | 109.5 kWh |
| 1500 watts | 0.375 kWh | 91.25 hours | 136.88 kWh |
Note: Energy consumption varies depending on usage, but this table provides a rough estimate based on average use.
How to Check Your Microwave's Wattage
To determine your microwave wattage, the first place to check is the user manual. The wattage is usually listed in the specifications section. If you no longer have the manual, don't worry—most microwaves have a label or sticker on the door frame or the back of the appliance that includes the model number and other important details, including wattage. You can often look up the model number online on the manufacturer's website to find the full product specifications, including its power rating.
If you're still unable to find the wattage using these methods and don’t have access to support, there’s a way to estimate the power level yourself.
One common method is to perform a simple test using a cup of water. Place a microwave-safe cup of water in the microwave and heat it for one minute. Then, measure the temperature change in the water. Higher wattage microwaves will heat the water faster. As a rough guide, microwaves with 600-800 watts will will take around 2 to 2.5 minutes to heat the water to a boiling point (near 100°C or 212°F) while 900-1200 watts will typically heat the water in about 1.5 to 2 minutes. High-power microwaves like 1500 watts can bring the water to a boil in about 1 to 1.5 minutes.
How Much Does It Cost to Power A Microwave?
You’ve probably never really thought about how much it costs to run your microwave, right? It’s one of those things we just use without much thought. But the truth is, the cost can add up, especially if you use it daily. While microwaves are generally considered energy-efficient appliances, their operating costs can vary significantly based on their wattage, usage, and the electricity rates in your area.
By being aware of these costs, you can make smarter choices about your microwave usage and potentially save on your energy bills. Below, we’ll break down the monthly and annual running costs for microwaves of different wattages, as well as how costs can differ depending on where you live.
Monthly and yearly costs to run a microwave by microwave wattage
| Microwave Wattage | Average Electricity Rate (USD/kWh) | Monthly Cost (USD) | Annual Cost (USD) |
| 600 watts | $0.13 | $1.05 | $12.60 |
| 650 watts | $0.13 | $1.15 | $13.80 |
| 700 watts | $0.13 | $1.25 | $15.00 |
| 750 watts | $0.13 | $1.35 | $16.20 |
| 800 watts | $0.13 | $1.45 | $17.40 |
| 850 watts | $0.13 | $1.55 | $18.60 |
| 900 watts | $0.13 | $1.65 | $19.80 |
| 950 watts | $0.13 | $1.75 | $21.00 |
| 1000 watts | $0.13 | $1.85 | $22.20 |
| 1200 watts | $0.13 | $2.25 | $27.00 |
| 1500 watts | $0.13 | $2.80 | $33.60 |
Microwave Operating Costs in Different States
The costs below are calculated using a 1000 watt microwave, based on the average daily use of 15 minutes. Since electricity rates can vary greatly across the U.S., these numbers will help you understand how location impacts your microwave’s operating costs. States with higher electricity rates, like California, will see a noticeable increase in cost, while areas with lower rates, such as Washington, will keep your costs down.
| State | Average Electricity Rate (USD/kWh) | Monthly Cost (USD) | Annual Cost (USD) |
| California | $0.22 | $1.75 | $21.00 |
| New York | $0.18 | $1.55 | $18.60 |
| Texas | $0.12 | $1.05 | $12.60 |
| Massachusetts | $0.23 | $1.80 | $21.60 |
| Florida | $0.11 | $0.95 | $11.40 |
| Virginia | $0.13 | $1.05 | $12.60 |
| New Jersey | $0.16 | $1.35 | $16.20 |
| Maryland | $0.14 | $1.15 | $13.80 |
| Washington | $0.10 | $0.85 | $10.20 |
| U.S. Average | $0.13 | $1.05 | $12.60 |
Renogy Solar Panels for Microwaves
Although microwaves are high-wattage appliances, their usage time is relatively short—usually between 15 to 30 minutes a day, depending on how often you cook or heat food. Thus, It won't consume much energy daily. However, over time, these small usage periods can add up, also impacting your electricity bill. If you're looking for a way to power your microwave while reducing your energy costs, Renogy’s solar panels and batteries provide a clean, efficient solution.
Renogy 200 Watt 12 Volt Monocrystalline Foldable Solar Panel
If you're using a 600W-1000W microwave for about 15 to 30 minutes a day, A 200 Watt 12 Volt Monocrystalline Foldable Solar Panel provides enough energy to power it, along with other small appliances, for an entire day. With an output of approximately 1000Wh per day, this panel offers the perfect balance between power and portability. It’s ideal for RVs, camping, or off-grid living, providing you with a sustainable way to run your microwave without worrying about your energy bills.
Renogy 220W Lightweight Portable Solar Panel
For those with larger microwaves or who need a bit more power, the 220W Lightweight Portable Solar Panel is an excellent option. With a daily power output of around 1300Wh, this panel can easily handle larger microwaves in the 1000W-1500W range, providing enough energy to run your microwave while also charging your devices or powering other electronics. Whether you’re using your microwave to cook meals on a camping trip or powering up in an RV, this lightweight and durable panel can keep your microwave running without putting a dent in your electricity bill.
Renogy Core Mini - 12.8V 100Ah Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery
Of course, solar panels need somewhere to store all the power they generate, and that’s where the Renogy Core Mini - 12.8V 100Ah Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery comes in. This compact yet powerful battery allows you to store the energy captured by your solar panels so you can use it to power your microwave when you need it most. Whether you’re using a 600W small microwave or a 1000W larger model, the Core Mini battery ensures you have consistent, reliable power without depending on the grid. With two Core Mini batteries, you can even run your microwave and other appliances for up to 1.5 days, making it a perfect solution for off-grid living or when you're out camping.
How Long Can They Power Your Microwave?
The table below shows how long the Renogy solar equipments can power different sizes of microwaves based on typical energy consumption. The daily usage time is estimated at 15 to 30 minutes, which is typical for many households and the sunlight hour is 5 hours.
| Microwave Wattage | 200W Monocrystalline Foldable Solar Panel | 220W Lightweight Portable Solar Panel | Core Mini 12.8V 100Ah Battery |
| 600W | 1.5 Hours | 1.8 Hours | 2.5 Hours |
| 700W | 1.3 Hours | 1.5 Hours | 2.2 Hours |
| 800W | 1.1 Hours | 1.3 Hours | 1.9 Hours |
| 900W | 1.0 Hours | 1.1 Hours | 1.7 Hours |
| 1000W | 0.9 Hours | 1.0 Hours | 1.5 Hours |
| 1200W | 0.7 Hours | 0.8 Hours | 1.3 Hours |
| 1500W | 0.6 Hours | 0.7 Hours | 1.0 Hours |
Final Thoughts
Microwaves are an essential kitchen appliance that help us quickly prepare meals, while understanding how many watts does a microwave uses and how this affects energy consumption is key to managing your electricity costs. Whether you have a small, medium, or large microwave, knowing your microwave wattage can help you make smarter choices about energy use. To avoid power outage or cut off your electric bill, consider Renogy’s solar panels and batteries, which provide an eco-friendly solution to power your microwave efficiently—helping you save on energy while enjoying the convenience of modern cooking.
FAQs About Microwave Wattage
What factors affect the microwave wattage?
Size and model number are the main factors that affect the microwave wattage, with larger microwave typically having higher power ratings because they require more power to heat larger amounts of food. In addition, technology and design can also have an impact on their wattage. Microwave ovens with advanced features such as inverter technology and designed for specific functions (such as commercial or industrial models) tend to have higher power ratings to handle continuous, heavy-duty use.
Does a higher-wattage microwave use more electricity?
Yes, a higher-wattage microwave uses more electricity in a given period because it consumes more power per minute of operation. However, it's important to note that while high-wattage microwaves use more power, they generally cook food faster, meaning they may actually use less energy overall for the same task compared to lower-wattage models. The key factor is how long the microwave is running rather than just its wattage.
How many solar panels does it take to power a microwave?
In general, for typical daily use, one to two solar panels (200W-220W) would likely be sufficient to power a microwave, depending on the microwave's wattage and how long it's used each day.
