I unplugged my microwave between uses for 2 weeks this April to see if it would cut my electric bill. This is what happened
Unplugging a microwave can reduce “phantom” electricity use, but the savings are surprisingly small: one experiment found that a microwave using about 3 watts on standby saved only around half a kilowatt-hour in two weeks—roughly a few cents, or just over $3 a year. While unplugging works, larger energy-saving steps like efficient appliances, LED bulbs, smart power strips, and thermostat adjustments can make a much bigger difference.
