How Much Does a Microwave Cost to Run?
Microwave running cost: about 2.6p per 5-minute use, or £19.16 a year with 14 uses a week, at the 26.32p per kWh Ofgem price cap.
| Per day (average) | 5.3p |
|---|---|
| Per week | £0.37 |
| Per month | £1.60 |
| Per year | £19.16 |
| Energy used per year | 73 kWh |
How we worked out the cost
We use a typical figure of 0.1 kWh per 5-minute use for a typical 800 W (output) microwave drawing about 1.2 kW. At 26.32p per kWh, that is 0.1 × 26.32p = 2.6p. Over a week of 14 uses it is £0.37, and over a year £19.16.
These are typical estimates rather than lab measurements. Your appliance may use more or less, so adjust the kWh in the calculator for your own.
Microwave cost at different electricity prices
| Electricity price | Per 5-minute use | Per year (14 uses a week) |
|---|---|---|
| 20p per kWh | 2p | £14.56 |
| 25p per kWh | 2.5p | £18.20 |
| 26.32p per kWh (Ofgem cap) | 2.6p | £19.16 |
| 30p per kWh | 3p | £21.84 |
| 35p per kWh | 3.5p | £25.48 |
| 40p per kWh | 4p | £29.12 |
How to reduce the cost
- Microwaves are one of the cheapest ways to cook or reheat small portions.
- Use a microwave or air fryer for small meals instead of the full-size oven.
- Put lids on pans and match the pan size to the ring.
- Batch cook and reheat, and defrost food in the fridge instead of in the oven.
How does it compare?
| Appliance | Cost per use | Typical use | Per year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kettle | 5.3p per full boil | 35 boils/week | £95.80 |
| Electric Oven | £0.39 per hour of cooking | 7 hours/week | £143.71 |
| Electric Hob | £0.26 per hour | 7 hours/week | £95.80 |
| Air Fryer | £0.16 per 20-minute use | 7 uses/week | £57.48 |
| Slow Cooker | £0.32 per 8-hour cook | 2 cooks/week | £32.85 |
| Dishwasher | £0.32 per cycle | 5 cycles/week | £82.12 |
| Fridge Freezer | £0.13 per day | 7 days/week | £47.90 |
Based on the Ofgem price cap of 26.32p per kWh for 1 October to 31 December 2026. Ofgem states these figures do not include VAT from 1 October 2026 to 31 March 2027, because the Government has removed VAT from electricity bills for that period. The standing charge is not included. Source: Ofgem.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a microwave cost to run per 5-minute use?
At the Ofgem price cap of 26.32p per kWh, a typical microwave costs about 2.6p per 5-minute use, using around 0.1 kWh (a typical 800 W (output) microwave drawing about 1.2 kW).
How much does a microwave cost to run for a year?
With 14 uses a week, it costs about £19.16 a year (£1.60 a month), using about 73 kWh. Change the numbers in the calculator above to match how you use yours.
Is the price cap the rate I actually pay?
Not necessarily. The cap is an average limit on default tariffs. Your own rate depends on your supplier, region and tariff, so check your bill and use the calculator to see the cost at your rate. Doubling the rate doubles the cost.
How accurate are these figures?
They are estimates for a typical modern appliance. Age, model, settings and how you use it all change the real cost, so treat them as a guide and check your appliance’s energy label for a precise figure.
← All appliance running costs · Calculate any appliance
Figures are for the 2026/27 tax year from official sources and are estimates for guidance only, not financial or legal advice. Printed from ukanswers.co.uk.