If you don't turn off a microwave after use and leave it with the door closed, it will likely continue to draw a small amount of electricity to power the electronic control panel and display. This standby power consumption is common in many modern appliances and electronic devices.
The amount of electricity consumed in standby mode is relatively low compared to the power used during active cooking. However, if you want to conserve energy and reduce your electricity bill, it's a good practice to turn off the microwave or unplug it when it's not in use.
Most microwaves have a built-in timer that automatically stops the cooking process once the set time elapses. When the timer finishes, the microwave stops producing microwaves to heat the food. However, the electronic components, control panel, and display may continue to draw a small amount of power, as mentioned above.
To minimize standby power consumption, you can take the following steps:
Turn off or unplug the microwave when not in use, especially for an extended period or when you are going away on vacation.
If your microwave has an "Eco" or "Energy-saving" mode, consider enabling it, as it may reduce power usage during standby.
Use a power strip or surge protector to easily switch off multiple appliances at once, including the microwave, when they are not needed.
Consider using a smart plug or smart power strip that allows you to remotely control the power to your microwave and other devices using your smartphone or voice commands. This way, you can turn off the microwave even when you're not at home.
By being mindful of standby power consumption and taking these steps, you can save a small amount of energy and contribute to reducing your overall electricity usage.