UK households with microwaves could be spending almost £16 a year on the appliance via their energy bill when costs under the current price cap are projected over a year. According to Utilita's Power Price List, it costs £0.09 per use, amounting to an estimated £15.98 over a typical year.
Microwaves are a convenient option for busy families, allowing meals to be heated quickly without the need to warm up an oven. However, like any energy-using appliance, the costs can stack up over time. They use significantly less energy than fridges or freezers, which run constantly throughout the year.
Cost breakdown under current price cap
Utilita's tool, described as the UK's only live database translating Ofgem's price cap into real-world costs, provides estimated costs per use for a range of household appliances under the current standard variable tariff. The estimates are based on the price cap effective from July 1.
Actual usage will depend on how often the microwave is used and may vary between devices. The estimates give an illustrative sense of costs, but the maximum limit on unit rates and standard charges is reviewed by the regulator every three months and does not remain in place for a full year.
Environmental impact estimates
The tool also shows the estimated environmental impact of appliances. For a microwave, this amounts to 0.34 miles driven per use, or 62.72 miles driven per year.
Utilita said: “The less energy we use, the better it is for the planet. That’s why the Power Price List also shows how the usage of common electrical items compares to the miles driven by a car – households may be shocked!”
