500 watts: blenders, projectors and home cinema systems.300 watts: most TVs, electric blankets and refrigerators.100 watts (or less): small, low-wattage appliances such as small fans, printers and desktop computers.230 V * 2 A = 460 W).īelow is a list that gives an idea what the wattage of common appliances is. If this is the case, simply multiply the voltage by the amperage rating to find the wattage rating (e.g. In some cases, the voltage and amperage will be listed, but not the wattage. ![]() The appliance’s voltage and wattage requirements are listed on the manufacturer’s label located on the back or at the bottom of the appliance. When plugging multiple items into a power strip, then into the transformer, you have to calculate the combined wattage of all appliances and the power strip, then add an additional 25% to that total. The wattage rating of the transformer should always be larger than the wattage rating of the appliance to be plugged into it (plus a 25% buffer to allow for heat build-up in the transformer or converter). Therefore you must pay careful attention to the wattage ratings of the appliances to be plugged into a transformer. Transformers are sold in various sizes based on how much wattage they can support. Fortunately, nowadays all laptop, tablet and phone chargers are dual voltage, so they can be used with only a travel adapter. The advantage of converters, however, is that they are lighter and less expensive.Ĭomputers are electronic devices and therefore they must be used with a transformer, unless they are dual voltage. Transformers can also be used with electric appliances and may be operated continually for many days. Electronic products have a chip or circuit. Transformers also step up or down the voltage, but they are more expensive than converters and are used with “electronic” products. “INPUT: 120V”) and you are in Europe where the mains voltage is 230 V, you will need to step down the voltage. Luckily, many travel gadgets (such as laptops or phone chargers) are multi or dual voltage, so you will only need a travel adapter. “INPUT: 100-240 V” means that your device is multi-voltage and that it will work with any voltage between 100 V and 240 V. That is why you need to check your device’s voltage listing. Since a travel adapter does not convert the voltage, you have to be sure that your appliance can deal with the electricity coming out of the socket. The plug of a Continental European appliance will not fit into an outlet in a foreign country without a plug adapter. However, they do not convert electricity. Travel adapters simply allow a device from one country to be plugged into the wall outlet of another country. First the good news: in many cases you may not need to carry much with you at all… Plug adapters (or travel adapters) What do I need to use my appliances abroad? What is the difference between a plug adapter and an electric converter? Here are the facts. These types of travel adaptors should only be used with double insulated equipment, which will be clearly marked with the symbol shown below.Travel adapters do NOT convert the voltage! What do I need to use my appliances abroad? ![]() ![]() It’s important to understand that some travel adaptors are not suitable for any appliances that require an earth connection. You can determine whether you’ll need to use a converter or transformer, by researching the voltage used in the destination you’re travelling to on our travel adaptors page. Converters are typically used with appliances that operate for a short duration (1-2hours), whilst most transformers can be used alongside appliances that operate continuously.Īs voltage can differ from country to country, you may need to use a voltage converter or transformer. It can be extremely dangerous to use an electrical appliance that is rated at a voltage different from the supply.Ĭonverters and transformers perform a similar function, but their applications differ. However, we recommend you check the information for the destination you're travelling to on our travel adaptors page.Įlectricity supplies worldwide can vary from anything between 100V and 240V. It is important to note that it does not convert the voltage or frequency.įor Europe the associated travel adaptor is type C, which is the plug which has two round pins. This normally includes the use of a travel adaptor, which is a device that simply allows you to plug any UK electrical appliance into a foreign electrical socket. You will need to consider what to pack, to ensure you can use your personal electrical appliances safely whilst abroad. Europe travel adaptors: which type do I need? It’s important to arm yourself with knowledge, to make sure you see all the delights this continent has to offer. With so much to see and do, discovering all the delights of Europe can take a bit of planning.
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