Appliance Amperage
How Many Amps Does a Dishwasher Use?
The running amps a dishwasher draws, the watts-to-amps math behind it, and the branch circuit it is typically put on, with what the code permits.
Will a dishwasher Run on Your Circuit?
Dishwasher Circuit
| Typical watts | 1,400 W |
| Voltage | 120V |
| Running amps | 11.7 A |
| Startup surge | No |
| Typical circuit | 20A / 120V dedicated |
A dishwasher draws about 10-12 amps (roughly 1,400 watts with the heating element and drying cycle on) and is typically put on a dedicated 15A or 20A circuit, GFCI protected and, under the 2023 NEC, AFCI protected. It should not share the circuit with the garbage disposal unless local practice allows and the breaker is sized for both. Amps = watts / volts; a continuous load (3 hours or more) may use at most 80% of the breaker, the same rule as rating the breaker at 125% of it (NEC 210.20(A)). The nameplate lists the exact draw and always governs over a typical value.
Adding this on a new circuit? Check whether your panel can handle it (the NEC 220.87 service check), or size the breaker for the load.
Compute Your Unit's Exact Amps
Read the watts off the nameplate and enter them below to get the exact running amps at 120V or 240V, with power factor for motor loads.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many amps does a dishwasher use?
A dishwasher uses about 11.7 running amps at 120 volts (roughly 1,400 watts). To get your unit's exact draw, divide the nameplate watts by 120: amps = watts / volts. A dishwasher draws about 10-12 amps (roughly 1,400 watts with the heating element and drying cycle on) and is typically put on a dedicated 15A or 20A circuit, GFCI protected and, under the 2023 NEC, AFCI protected. It should not share the circuit with the garbage disposal unless local practice allows and the breaker is sized for both.
What size breaker for a dishwasher?
A dishwasher is typically put on a dedicated 20A / 120V circuit. The code permits it to share a circuit that supplies only fastened-in-place appliances, such as a disposal, within that circuit's rating (NEC 210.23(B)); its installation instructions, which NEC 110.3(B) makes binding, name the circuit it needs, and a dedicated 15A or 20A circuit is the common choice. At 11.7 running amps it is within the 20A rating of that circuit (NEC 210.22).
How do I calculate the amps a dishwasher draws?
Divide the wattage on the nameplate by the voltage: amps = watts / volts. A dishwasher at about 1,400 watts on 120V works out to 1,400 / 120 = 11.7 amps. The nameplate always governs over a typical value.
How many amps does a built-in dishwasher use?
Same answer: built-in dishwasher is another name for a dishwasher. It draws about 11.7 amps at 120V, typically on a dedicated 20A / 120V circuit. A dishwasher draws about 10-12 amps (roughly 1,400 watts with the heating element and drying cycle on) and is typically put on a dedicated 15A or 20A circuit, GFCI protected and, under the 2023 NEC, AFCI protected. It should not share the circuit with the garbage disposal unless local practice allows and the breaker is sized for both.
How Many Amps Do Other Appliances Use?
TV
About 0.8 A at 120V.
Refrigerator
About 5.8 A at 120V.
Freezer
About 4.2 A at 120V.
Mini Fridge
About 0.8 A at 120V.
Microwave
About 10 A at 120V.
Coffee Maker
About 10 A at 120V.
Window Air Conditioner
About 10 A at 120V.
Space Heater
About 12.5 A at 120V.
Washing Machine
About 8.3 A at 120V.
Garbage Disposal
About 6.7 A at 120V.
Dehumidifier
About 4.2 A at 120V.
Sump Pump
About 6.7 A at 120V.
Hair Dryer
About 12.5 A at 120V.
Toaster
About 9.2 A at 120V.
Electric Water Heater
About 18.8 A at 240V.
Box Fan
About 0.8 A at 120V.
Air Fryer
About 12.5 A at 120V.
Vacuum Cleaner
About 8.3 A at 120V.
PS5
About 1.7 A at 120V.
Xbox Series X
About 1.3 A at 120V.
Gaming PC
About 4.2 A at 120V.
Watts to Amps Calculator
Convert any wattage to amps at 120V or 240V.
Wire & Breaker for Appliances
The exact wire gauge and breaker for hardwired appliance circuits.