Yes, a microwave oven does use a small amount of electricity even when it is not actively cooking anything. When the microwave is plugged into an electrical outlet, it remains in a standby or idle mode, ready to receive commands and operate when needed. During this standby mode, the microwave consumes a small amount of power to maintain functions such as the clock display, control panel, and internal electronics.
The exact amount of electricity consumed in standby mode can vary between different models and brands of microwave ovens. In general, the power consumption during standby is relatively low, typically ranging from a few watts to around 10 watts. While this energy usage may seem minimal, it can accumulate over time, particularly if the microwave remains plugged in constantly.
To reduce energy consumption, you can unplug the microwave when it's not in use or connect it to a power strip with an on/off switch, allowing you to easily turn off the power supply when the microwave is not needed. Some modern microwaves also feature energy-saving modes or options to minimize standby power consumption. Consulting the user manual for your specific microwave model can provide more details on its power consumption and any available energy-saving features.