Microwave Ovens

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There currently are no energy conservation standards for microwave ovens. Microwave ovens cook or heat food by means of microwave energy. Some microwave ovens also have thermal elements designed for surface browning of food. Microwave ovens are sometimes available as combination ovens, which have additional heating elements or convection capability. Microwave ovens enable users to cook food in ways similar to conventional ovens. These products are offered in a broad range of sizes and configurations. Typical microwave ovens are available in countertop or over-the-range configurations.

The Department of Energy (DOE) is conducting an analysis of energy conservations standards for microwave ovens as part of its current standards rulemaking.

The Standards and Test Procedures for this product are related to Rulemaking for Microwave Ovens Energy Conservation Standard, Rulemaking for Microwave Ovens Test Procedure Active Mode, and Rulemaking for Microwave Ovens Test Procedure Standby and Off Mode.

Recent Updates

DOE has published a notice of data availability regarding representative and repeatable methods for measuring the active mode energy use of microwave-only ovens and combination microwave ovens. 77 FR 33106 (June 5, 2012).

DOE published a notice of proposed rulemaking for test procedures for the active mode of microwave ovens. 78 FR 7939 (February 4, 2013). For more information, please see the rulemaking page.

DOE has published a final rule for test procedures for microwave ovens. 78 FR 4015 (January 18, 2013). For more information, please see the rulemaking page.

Standards for Microwave Ovens

There are currently no energy conservation standards for microwave ovens.

Test Procedure for Microwave Ovens

Current Test Procedure

To determine compliance with DOE standards, manufacturers must follow the test procedures specified at 10 CFR 430.23(i) for microwave ovens as of September 6, 2011. The methods to conduct the test procedure are further specified in 10 CFR Part 430, Subpart B, Appendix I. This information is also in the Electronic Code of Federal Regulations.

Interim Final Rule: Test Procedure, Federal Register, 76 FR 12825 (March 9, 2011)
Docket No. EERE-2008-BT-TP-0011 contains all notices, public comments, public meeting transcripts, and supporting documents

For further guidance or to submit questions related to the implementation of this test procedure, visit the Guidance and Frequently Asked Questions page.

Waivers, Exceptions, and Exemptions

Waivers

Test procedure waivers have not been issued for microwave ovens.

For information about obtaining test procedure waivers, see 10 CFR 430.27.

Exceptions

DOE's Office of Hearings and Appeals has not authorized exception relief for microwave ovens.

For information about obtaining exception relief, see 10 CFR part 1003.

Because there are no energy conservation standards for microwave ovens, the provisions of 10 CFR part 430 and part 1003 that apply to state exemptions to Federal pre-emption and small business exemptions are not relevant.

Statutory Authority

Energy conservation standards for microwave ovens are mandated by Part A, the "Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products Other Than Automobiles" of Title III of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (EPCA), as amended. (42 U.S.C. 6291–6309) These appliances are treated as covered products under Part A. (42 U.S.C. 6292(10))

Historical Information

Currently there are no energy conservation standards for microwave ovens. DOE determined in April 8, 2009 final rule for cooking products that such standards would not be technologically feasible and economically justified at that time. An energy conservation rulemaking for microwave ovens is currently underway. A test procedure final rule was published March 9, 2011.

Previous Standards

2009 Final Rule

Final Rule: Standards, Federal Register, 74 FR 16040 (April 8, 2009)

1998 Final Rule

Final Rule: Standards, Federal Register, 63 FR 48038 (Sept. 8, 1998)

Previous Test Procedures

2010 Repeal of Active Mode Test Procedure

Test Procedure for Microwave Ovens; Repeal of Active Mode Test Procedure Provisions Final Rule Federal Register, 75 FR 42579 (July 22, 2010)
Docket No. EERE-2010-BT-TP-0022 contains all notices, public comments, public meeting transcripts, and supporting documents

1997 Final Rule

Final Rule: Test Procedures, Federal Register, 62 FR 51976, October 3, 1997

Helpful Links and Contact Information

Helpful Links

Find tips and guidance for making your home, workplace, or vehicle more energy efficient visit EnergySavers.gov.

Contact information

For more information related to the regulation of this product, please email:

microwave_ovens@ee.doe.gov