UK households with microwaves hit with £15.98 charges

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. Microwaves are a godsend for busy families, allowing them to quickly heat up meals without the faff of warming up the oven.

But like any appliance that uses energy, the costs of using them can stack up over time. Thankfully, microwaves don't use nearly as much energy as fridges or freezers for example, that are constantly at work throughout the year. But as cost of living pressures continue to bite, it's worth being aware roughly how much it's adding to your bill over time. Utilita’s Power Price List allows you to pick from a variety of household appliances, with the elecrity and gas supplier providing an estimated cost per use under the current Ofgem price cap standard variable tariff.

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy

According to the firm, it costs £0.09 per use under the current price cap. Under Utilita's calculation for typical use over the course of a year, it comes to an estimated £15.98.

However, actual usage will depend on how much you use it, and may vary between devices.

Additionally, while the estimates give you an illustrative sense of the costs the cap represents when projected over a longer period, the maximum limit on unit rates and standard charges is reviewed by the regulator every 3 months and doesn't remain in place for a full year.

Utilita's tool also allows you to see what the estimated environmental impact of appliances is over time.

The firm said: “Utilita has updated its Power Price List – the UK’s only live database that translates Ofgem’s price cap into the real‑world cost of powering everyday household electrical items.

“The update reflects Ofgem’s latest direct debit price cap, effective from July 1. The Power Price List breaks down the cost of running more than 100 common appliances and activities, from heating and cooking to laundry, lighting, entertainment and more.”

“The less energy we use, the better it is for the planet," it adds. "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!”