Plug Count

How many watts does a microwave use?

A microwave's advertised wattage is its cooking power; it actually pulls about 1.2-1.5 times that from the outlet. A typical 1,000-1,200 W microwave draws about 1,500 watts, with a range of roughly 800-1,700 W.

Running watts
1,500 WTypical; 800–1,700 W across models
Starting watts
NoneNo motor surge
Per day
0.5 kWh0.33 h of use
Current
12.5 AAt 120 V while running

Figures checked against DOE, ENERGY STAR and manufacturer data on . Your model's label is the final word.

Watts by model and setting

Most microwave models draw between 800 and 1,700 W while running; a typical one draws about 1,500 W. About 20 minutes a day at full power: 1,500 W x 0.33 h = 0.5 kWh. Utility guides estimate roughly 0.5-0.6 kWh/day (NV Energy 190 kWh/yr; OPPD 18 kWh/month).

  • Rated (cooking) power vs input power: a Panasonic 1,200 W model is listed at 1,480 W input
  • Lower power settings cycle the magnetron on and off, so average draw falls but peak draw does not
  • Inverter microwaves can hold lower power continuously
  • Over-the-range models also run a vent fan and light

Running a microwave on a generator or power station

  • Generator: at least 1,500 running watts. A generator rated 2,000 W or more covers it with room to spare.
  • Power station: continuous output of at least 1,500 W. Pure sine wave output is the safe choice for motors and electronics.
Power station capacityEstimated runtime
500 Wh0.3 h
1,000 Wh0.6 h
2,000 Wh1.1 h
3,000 Wh1.7 h

Based on 1,500 W average draw and 85% usable capacity.

  • Size your generator or power station using input watts from the label on the back or inside the door, not the cooking wattage
  • Microwaves need pure sine wave power; modified sine inverters can make them hum, heat poorly or fail
  • A microwave's transformer can cause a short inrush, so leave headroom: a 1,000 W microwave usually needs a 1,800 W+ power station
  • Run a gas generator outdoors only, at least 20 feet from doors, windows and vents; carbon monoxide from generators kills. Connect appliances with heavy-duty extension cords or a professionally installed transfer switch, never by backfeeding.

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Questions people ask

Is a 1000 watt microwave 1000 watts from the wall?

No. 1,000 W is the cooking output; input power is usually about 1,400-1,500 W. Check the label for the input rating or amps.

Can a 1000 watt power station run a microwave?

Usually only a small 600-700 W microwave. A typical 1,000-1,200 W microwave needs about 1,500 W of continuous output.

Sources