A toaster oven typically uses about 1,500 watts (roughly 1,200-1,800 W), drawing full power while preheating and then cycling on and off to hold temperature.
- Running watts
- 1,500 WTypical; 1,200–1,800 W across models
- Starting watts
- NoneNo motor surge
- Per day
- 0.27 kWh0.3 h of use, cycling
- 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 toaster oven models draw between 1,200 and 1,800 W while running; a typical one draws about 1,500 W. About 18 minutes a day; elements cycle to hold temperature after preheat: 1,500 W x 0.3 h x 0.6 = 0.27 kWh. NV Energy estimates about 96 kWh/yr (~0.26 kWh/day).
- Size: large convection 'smart ovens' run near 1,800 W
- Preheat is at full power; holding temperature cycles the elements
- Convection fan and air-fry modes
- Cooking time and temperature setting
Running a toaster oven 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 capacity | Estimated runtime |
|---|---|
| 500 Wh | 0.5 h |
| 1,000 Wh | 0.9 h |
| 2,000 Wh | 1.9 h |
| 3,000 Wh | 2.8 h |
Based on 900 W average draw (running watts × duty cycle) and 85% usable capacity.
- No starting surge, but you need a generator or power station that can deliver 1,500-1,800 W continuously
- Uses less energy than heating a full-size 240 V oven, making it a good outage option
- Keep it away from other big loads on the same circuit or outlet
- 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.
Add it to the generator calculator
Questions people ask
Does a toaster oven use less electricity than an oven?
Usually yes: about 1,500 W vs 2,500 W or more for a full oven, and it heats a much smaller space.
Can a 2000 watt generator run a toaster oven?
Yes, a 2,000 W inverter generator can run a typical 1,500-1,800 W toaster oven, but not much else at the same time.