Microwave Electricity Cost
Calculate how much your microwave costs per use and per year.
Microwave running cost calculator
Example: 1,000 W. Use the input power from the label — it's usually higher than the cooking power (e.g. 800 W cooking, ~1,200 W input).
e.g. 0.25 = 15 min
0 to 7
Example rate — enter your own tariff.
Estimated cost to run your microwave
£0.06per day used
Uses 0.25 kWh on each day it's used (1,000 W × 0.25 h).
How it works: cost = power (kW) × hours used × price per kWh. Standing charges aren't included because you pay them whether or not the appliance is on.
Estimates only. Real consumption depends on the model, settings and how the appliance is used.
How microwave electricity use is measured
Microwaves list two figures: the cooking (output) power and the input power. Electricity cost depends on the input power, which is normally the higher number on the rating plate.
How to calculate your microwave running cost
Cost = power (kW) × hours used × price per kWh
Example only: at 1,000 W for 0.25 hours, a microwave would use about 0.25 kWh, costing around £0.06 at 25p per kWh. Used 7 days a week, that's roughly 91.3 kWh and £22.81 a year. Your own figures may be quite different.
Why actual usage varies
- Input wattage.
- Minutes used each day.
- Power level — lower settings cycle the magnetron on and off.
Ways to reduce the cost
- Use the microwave for reheating small portions instead of the oven.
- Cover food so it heats faster.
To include all your household use, try the electricity cost calculator, or price any other device with the appliance electricity cost calculator.