Appliance Amp Draw Chart: Every Common Device Listed
By the VoltConvert team · July 6, 2026
Knowing the amp draw of common appliances is the foundation of safe electrical work. Whether you're sizing a new circuit, troubleshooting a tripped breaker, or planning a panel upgrade, this chart gives you the numbers you need — all calculated using the standard formula: Amps = Watts ÷ Volts.
Values below are typical running amps. Starting (inrush) current for motor-driven appliances can be 3–7× higher for the first few seconds. Use our watts to amps calculator to get precise figures for your specific device wattage.
Kitchen Appliances
The kitchen is the most electrically demanding room in most homes, combining high-wattage cooking appliances with continuous-load refrigeration.
| Appliance | Watts | Amps @ 120V | Amps @ 240V |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 150–400 | 1.25–3.3 | — |
| Microwave | 900–1,500 | 7.5–12.5 | — |
| Dishwasher | 1,200–2,400 | 10–20 | — |
| Electric oven/range | 2,000–5,000 | — | 8.3–20.8 |
| Toaster | 800–1,500 | 6.7–12.5 | — |
| Coffee maker | 600–1,200 | 5–10 | — |
| Kettle | 1,500–3,000 | 12.5–25 | 6.25–12.5 |
| Blender | 300–1,000 | 2.5–8.3 | — |
Laundry & Climate
These are the biggest loads in a home. In the US, dryers and air conditioners typically run on 240V circuits; in the UK, they run on 230V. Always check the nameplate on the appliance for the exact wattage.
| Appliance | Watts | Amps @ 120V | Amps @ 240V |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washing machine | 500–1,200 | 4.2–10 | — |
| Electric dryer | 4,000–6,000 | — | 16.7–25 |
| Central A/C (3-ton) | 3,000–5,000 | — | 12.5–20.8 |
| Window A/C (10,000 BTU) | 900–1,440 | 7.5–12 | — |
| Space heater | 750–1,500 | 6.25–12.5 | — |
| Electric water heater | 3,000–5,500 | — | 12.5–22.9 |
Home Office & Entertainment
| Appliance | Watts | Amps @ 120V | Amps @ 240V |
|---|---|---|---|
| Desktop PC + monitor | 150–400 | 1.25–3.3 | — |
| Laptop | 45–100 | 0.375–0.83 | — |
| LED TV (55") | 60–130 | 0.5–1.1 | — |
| Gaming console | 100–200 | 0.83–1.67 | — |
| Phone charger | 5–20 | 0.04–0.17 | — |
The 80% Rule — Why It Matters
The NEC (National Electrical Code) requires that a circuit's continuous load must not exceed 80% of the breaker's amp rating. A 20A breaker should carry no more than 16A continuously. This safety margin prevents overheating in wiring and breakers.
If you find yourself adding up appliances and approaching that limit, it's time to add a dedicated circuit rather than overloading an existing one. Use our watts to amps calculator to check your load, and read our guide on how voltage affects amp draw for more context.
How to Read Your Appliance's Nameplate
Every appliance has a nameplate (usually on the back or bottom) listing its exact electrical specs. Look for the wattage (W) or amperage (A) directly. If only watts are listed, divide by your voltage to get amps. If only amps are listed, multiply by voltage to get watts. Always use the nameplate value over any chart — individual models vary significantly.
Frequently asked questions
How many amps does a refrigerator use?
A typical refrigerator draws 3–6 amps running at 120V, with a starting surge of up to 15 amps. Most are on a dedicated 15A or 20A circuit.
What appliances need a dedicated circuit?
Appliances drawing over 50% of a breaker's rating continuously need a dedicated circuit. These include refrigerators, dishwashers, microwaves, washing machines, electric dryers, ovens, and air conditioners.
How do I calculate total amp load on a circuit?
Add the wattage of all devices on the circuit, then divide by the voltage (120V or 240V). The result must not exceed 80% of the breaker's amp rating — the NEC 80% rule.
Why does amp draw differ between 120V and 240V?
Amps = Watts ÷ Volts. At 240V, the same wattage requires half the current compared to 120V. This is why high-power appliances like dryers and ranges use 240V — thinner, cheaper wiring can carry the same power.
Related calculators
Watts to Amps calculator · Amps to Watts calculator · kVA to Amps calculator