How Many Amps Does a Microwave Use?
Microwave draws about 8.3 amps at 120 volts (1,000 watts running). At 8.3 A, a microwave fits comfortably on a standard 15 A or 20 A household circuit (kitchen countertop receptacles are on 20 A small-appliance circuits per NEC 210.11(C)).
Amps = watts ÷ volts. Enter the wattage from your appliance's nameplate or label for an exact figure.
Current draw — a microwave
8.3 A
- At 120 V
- 1,000 W
- Typical breaker
- 15 A
Breaker figure is guidance for a simple resistive load — confirm against the nameplate and a licensed electrician.
Microwave amperage at 120 V and 240 V
Same 1,000 W load — the current halves when the voltage doubles. Microwave is typically a 120 V appliance in US homes.
| Draw | Watts | Amps at 120 V | Amps at 240 V |
|---|---|---|---|
| Running | 1,000 W | 8.3 A | 4.2 A |
Breaker and circuit for a microwave
At 8.3 A, a microwave fits comfortably on a standard 15 A or 20 A household circuit (kitchen countertop receptacles are on 20 A small-appliance circuits per NEC 210.11(C)). For a dedicated circuit, guidance is a 15 A breaker with 14 AWG copper (75°C terminations).
Guidance only — actual circuit sizing depends on your unit's nameplate, wire run length, and local code. Confirm with a licensed electrician. See the wire & breaker size chart for the full NEC ampacity table.
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