A typical 2-slice toaster uses about 1,100 watts (roughly 800-1,400 W), and 4-slice models draw up to about 1,650 W. It only runs for a few minutes, so daily energy use is small.
- Running watts
- 1,100 WTypical; 800–1,650 W across models
- Starting watts
- NoneNo motor surge
- Per day
- 0.11 kWh0.1 h of use
- Current
- 9.2 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 models draw between 800 and 1,650 W while running; a typical one draws about 1,100 W. About 6 minutes a day at 1,100 W = 0.11 kWh; NV Energy estimates about 39 kWh/yr (~0.11 kWh/day).
- Number of slots: 4-slice toasters use roughly 50% more than 2-slice
- Darkness setting changes how long it runs, not the wattage
- Wide-slot and bagel settings may run only one side of elements
Running a toaster on a generator or power station
- Generator: at least 1,100 running watts. A generator rated 2,000 W or more covers it with room to spare.
- Power station: continuous output of at least 1,100 W. Pure sine wave output is the safe choice for motors and electronics.
| Power station capacity | Estimated runtime |
|---|---|
| 500 Wh | 0.4 h |
| 1,000 Wh | 0.8 h |
| 2,000 Wh | 1.5 h |
| 3,000 Wh | 2.3 h |
Based on 1,100 W average draw and 85% usable capacity.
- It is a resistive load with no starting surge, but 1,100-1,650 W is a lot for a small power station
- Run it alone, without other large loads on the same generator outlet
- Short run time means little battery use: a few minutes is about 0.1 kWh
- 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
Can I run a toaster on a 1000 watt power station?
Only a small 800-900 W toaster. Most 2-slice toasters draw 1,000-1,200 W, so plan on at least 1,500 W of output.
How much does it cost to run a toaster?
Very little: about 0.1 kWh per day of typical use, around a penny or two.