There are many things that a homeowner should always be aware of. For example, when to conduct maintenance on the HVAC system, or even how many amps your appliances use. Although it is necessary to understand your utility bill and do your best to keep the bill as low as possible. Most homeowners have no idea how it all works. How many amps does a washing machine use? This will vary based on the size of the machine, but you will not go above 20 amps.
Let’s take a look below at some more electrical information.
What Is The Typical Electrical Usage
When it comes to what a washing machine requires, the electrical usage will vary depending on the size of the washing machine. A standard washing machine will use between 400 and 1,400 watts of electricity. Consequently, this means that the washing machine will be connected to a 120-volt outlet fixture and use between 5 and 15 amps.
Also, depending on the number of times you use your washing machine per week, will determine how much electricity will be used. Let’s take a look:
- Running the washing machine every day will use 6.3 kilowatts of electricity per week. That equates to 327.6 kilowatt-hours per year.
- Running the washing machine three times a week uses 2.7 kilowatt hours per week. That equates to 140.4 kilowatt-hours per year.
- Running the washing machine one load of laundry a week uses 0.9 kilowatt-hours per week. This equates to 46.8-kilowatt hours of energy consumption per year.
How Many Amps Does It Use
Keep in mind that the size of the machine will determine how many amps will be needed to operate the machine. Let’s take a look at how many amps various washing machines might use.
- Top-loading machine – a top-loading washing machine will use between 12-15 amps.
- Front-loading washing machine – this type of washing machine will use between 11-20 amps.
Also, remember that the national electric code NEC requires all appliances that have a motor to be on a dedicated circuit. Additionally, the average washing machine ranges between a 15-amp rating and a 20-amp breaker circuit.
Other Recommended Maintenance
Now that you know how many amps your washing machine uses, let’s take a look at how many amps are required for a microwave. A microwave above the oven requires a 20 amp/240-volt circuit breaker. It is essential to make sure this is the proper size for your home. Also, if you have a microwave that plugs into the wall, it will work on a smaller circuit.
Next, if you are interested in the amps required for all of your household appliances, consider reading up on how many amps your garbage disposal uses. Additionally, this will allow you to be prepared to hire an electrician and understand what must take place for your garbage disposal to properly operate.
Lastly, while you are learning about amps in your appliances also read up on the type of wiring that has been used in your electrical system. In many cases, copper wiring should be used. If you have aluminum wiring, most home inspectors will recommend a replacement for copper.
When Do I Call A Professional
Getting to know the ins and outs of your home and appliances is key. If you want to ensure that everything has been installed properly, get to know some key pieces of information. Calling on a professionally licensed electrician allows you to get peace of mind.
Also, since washing machines are not created equally, it is important to know how much electricity they are using. Additionally, if you aren’t sure where to start, call on your local home inspection team. They can inspect your washing machine and electrical system. Also, they can recommend a professionally licensed electrician.
Conclusion
Dealing with electrical projects can be fairly daunting. Most homeowners have no interest in even knowing the amps used by their appliances. However, this is great information as it allows you to determine what appliances need to be upgraded to save money on your utility bills. Consequently, if you aren’t sure what amps are being used by your washing machine, call on your local home inspection team. Reach out to Honor Services for your home inspection in Brevard County, FL.
