The microwave oven needs a dedicated 20-amp, the 120/125-volt circuit to feed it. This will require 12/2 NM wire with a ground. Microwave ovens come in different varieties and sizes. Some are countertop models, and other microwaves mount above the stove.

Does the NEC require a dedicated circuit for a microwave?

Microwave ovens often demand dedicated circuitry, but this isn’t always a necessity. The National Electrical Code requires it for all fixed equipment, so a circuit must be set aside for any built-in oven. Small or older countertop models draw less power than modern full-size units.

Does a microwave need a dedicated 20 amp circuit?





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.

What size microwave needs dedicated circuit?

Do Microwaves Need A Dedicated Circuit? Microwaves require a dedicated 20A circuit. Apparently, the requirements of a microwave are similar to those of any other heavy-duty appliance such as a refrigerator. You should also include AFCI protection.

Should a microwave be on its own breaker?

A microwave should be on its own breaker. If other appliances are on the same circuit it could overload and trip the breaker. The standard for electricity in the United States is 110–120 volts of alternating current.

Does a microwave need a 15 or 20 amp outlet?

Microwaves require a 20-amp branch circuit due to constant load and spike issues. Under strenuous use, a microwave could draw nearly the maximum 15 amperes of current regularly for hours. Under this maximum load scenario, 14- gauge wiring could heat up beyond safe levels.

Can I run a microwave on a 15 amp circuit?





Though it’s not uncommon to see large microwaves (especially over-the-range models) using a 15 amp circuit breaker, any microwave oven this large should absolutely use a dedicated 20 amp breaker or 20A circuit for optimal safe use.

Can a refrigerator and a microwave be on the same circuit?

According to the 2020 version of the NEC, you can’t power a microwave and refrigerator on the same circuit because each of these appliances requires a dedicated circuit, which is one shared by no other appliances or lights.

Does a microwave need a GFCI outlet?

Moderator. IMO, the ’17 Code clarified this situation. In 210.8(A) GFCI is required for kitchen receptacles that are installed to serve the counter-top surfaces.

Can microwave and range be on same circuit?

Assuming you have a 20 amp circuit, putting them both on the same circuit would not be code compliant. As well, your circuit would be overloaded.

Does a microwave need 12 2 wire?



Microwave Oven Circuit
The microwave oven needs a dedicated 20-amp, the 120/125-volt circuit to feed it. This will require 12/2 NM wire with a ground.

How many amps is a 1200 watt microwave?

But, keep in mind that a 1200 Watt microwave use 10 Amps @120 volts.

What size breaker do I need for a 700 watt microwave?

Microwaves require either a 15 amp breaker or a 20-amp breaker, depending on their wattage requirements. Microwaves that use 600 to 700 watts can get by with a 15-amp breaker, but microwaves that use over 700 watts should have a 20-amp breaker.

How many amps does a 800 watt microwave use?



The output of a microwave is 800w. The rating plare will give an exact figure for the input power consumption. This will draw about 6.5 Amps at 230V.

How many amps does a 1000W microwave use?

A 1000 watt microwave requires about 1700 watt of wall power. That would be 14 Amps. You need at least a 20 Amp circuit for a microwave. Even without anything else on the circuit.

How many amps is a 900 watt microwave?

13 amps

According to the manufacturer this unit uses about 900W, 110V and draws 13 amps.

How many amps does a 950 watt microwave use?



The microwave oven needs 120 volts of electricity in the form of alternating current to operate, and draws 5 Amps of current during use, according to the information on the label.

How many amp does a microwave pull?

The microwave ovens consume power at a rate of 650– 1200 watt, which equates to a current of around 10 Amps.