Microwaves have become an essential appliance in most modern kitchens. They provide convenience and speed in heating up food, making them a popular choice among homeowners. However, have you ever wondered how many amps does a microwave use? It varies, so you need to calculate it using the formula of wattage divided by voltage. This will give you the amount of amps your microwave uses.
Watts = Volts x Amps
Before we dive into the specifics, let’s briefly touch upon the relationship between watts, volts, and amps. Watts represent the amount of power an appliance consumes, while volts indicate the electrical voltage supplied by outlets. Amps, on the other hand, measure the electric current flowing through the circuit. To calculate amps, you can divide the wattage by the voltage.
Now, let’s explore how many amps different wattages of microwaves typically use.
How Many Amps Does a 700-Watt Microwave Use?
A 700-watt microwave is commonly found in many households. Using the formula mentioned earlier, we can calculate the amps consumption of this microwave. Let’s assume a standard voltage of 120 volts for residential outlets. By dividing 700 watts by 120 volts, we find that a 700-watt microwave uses approximately 5.83 amps.
How Many Amps Does a 600-Watt Microwave Use?
If you own a 600-watt microwave, you might be wondering about its amp consumption. Following the same calculation method, with a standard voltage of 120 volts, a 600-watt microwave will use around 5 amps.
How Many Amps Does an 800-Watt Microwave Use?
Moving up the wattage range, an 800-watt microwave would consume more electricity. Based on our calculations, an 800-watt microwave operating at 120 volts would use approximately 6.67 amps.
How Many Amps Does a 900-Watt Microwave Use?
For those who have invested in a slightly higher-powered microwave, such as a 900-watt model, the amp consumption increases accordingly. A 900-watt microwave using 120 volts would consume approximately 7.5 amps.
How Many Amps Does a 1200-Watt Microwave Use?
Lastly, if you own a powerful 1200-watt microwave, it will naturally consume more electricity. With a standard voltage of 120 volts, a 1200-watt microwave would require around 10 amps.
Do Microwaves Use a Lot of Electricity?
Now that we have discussed the amp consumption of microwaves at different wattages, you might be wondering if microwaves use a lot of electricity overall. The answer largely depends on how frequently and for how long you use your microwave. Microwaves are generally considered energy-efficient appliances, especially when compared to other kitchen appliances like ovens or stovetops. However, it’s still important to be mindful of their usage and take steps to conserve energy whenever possible.
Factors Affecting Amps Consumption of Microwave
Several factors can affect the amp consumption of a microwave, apart from its wattage. These include:
- Cooking time: The longer you cook food in the microwave, the more energy it will consume. It’s best to follow recommended cooking times to minimize unnecessary energy usage.
- Power levels: Many microwaves allow you to adjust the power level according to your needs. Using lower power settings can help reduce energy consumption.
- Efficiency of the microwave: Some microwaves are designed to be more energy-efficient than others. When purchasing a new microwave, consider looking for models with energy-saving features or certifications.
Other Recommended Maintenance
Now that you know about amps used by microwaves, let’s look at a few other areas of recommended maintenance. One of those is the breaker size for the microwave. It will depend on the size of the microwave, but smaller microwaves require a smaller circuit breaker and could just be plugged into a regular outlet. However, microwaves above your oven typically require a 20 amp/240-volt circuit breaker.
Another is knowing how to light a gas oven. If you have one of these, you will need to follow the steps to light a gas oven. It is important to do this as it takes a little more effort than an electric oven.
Lastly, when putting things in the oven, we have to think about materials that can go in there. One of those is silicone. Silicone is a great material that doesn’t melt in the oven, has a high heat tolerance, and is environmentally friendly.
When Do I Call a Professional?
While understanding the energy consumption of your microwave is important, it’s equally crucial to know when you should seek professional help. If you notice any unusual behavior from your microwave, such as electrical sparks, unusual noises, or frequent circuit breaker trips, it’s best to contact an electrician. They will be able to assess the situation and provide appropriate solutions to ensure your safety and the optimal functioning of your appliance.
Conclusion
Microwaves consume varying amounts of electricity depending on their wattage, typically measured in amps. While there are differences in amp consumption among different wattages, microwaves are generally considered energy-efficient appliances. By being mindful of their usage and considering factors that can affect energy consumption, homeowners can reduce their overall energy consumption without sacrificing convenience. While you are taking a look at this, it may be a good time to reach out to Atkinson Inspection Services for a complete home inspection in the Orlando, Clermont, and Villages areas.
