The article is designed to help you understand the differences between the electrical systems in the United States and in other countries, and more important, what these differences mean to you when you travel.

Electricity Primer
There are two main differences between the electrical system in the United States and those in other countries; there are differences in voltages, and there are differences in outlets and plugs.

Voltage
The electrical system in the United States operates on 110/125 Volt alternating current (AC).  Many other parts of the world, in contrast, operate on 220/250 Volt alternating current.   Said another way, electrical systems in other parts of the world supply twice the current as the electrical system in the US.   Therefore, in order to use an appliance designed to be used on 110/125 current somewhere else, you must first “convert” the current from 220/250 volt to 120/125 volt.  If you don’t, you’ll damage the appliance, and you may even start a fire.  

Outlets/Plugs
The electrical system in the United States uses a two prong outlet or three prong grounded outlet.  Likewise, appliances in the U.S. have a two prong or a three prong grounded plug.  Other electrical systems in other countries use plug/outlet configurations that are different than the configuration we use here.  That means when you travel internationally, you need to find an adapter that will let you put your appliance plug into their outlet. 

Preparing to Travel

So if you are preparing to travel internationally, you need two things; a tool that will convert electricity from 220 volt to 110 volt, and an adapter or adapters that will let you plug your appliances into foreign outlets.

Converting Electricity
There are two tools you can use to convert electricity; a converter or a transformer.

• Use a converter when you are using an electric appliance, like a razor, hair dryer, or curling iron, that you will be using for a short time.
• Use a transformer when you are using an appliance with electronic circuitry, such as a radio, a television, a fax machines or a computer.
• Use a transformer when you are using any appliance for an extended period of time.

Both converters and transformers are rated according to the wattage that is required by the appliance.  A low wattage appliance is rated between 0-50 watts.  A High wattage appliance is rated between 50-1750 watts.  Low wattage appliances require a low wattage converter, while high wattage appliances require a high wattage converter.

If you have low wattage appliances, buy a low wattage converter.  If you have high wattage appliances, buy a high wattage converter.  If you have both low and high wattage appliances, consider a converter like the TS-1650 from Franzus that automatically senses and selects the correct wattage setting for your appliance.

Important Notes About Converters:

• Always unplug your transformer or converter when it isn’t in use.
• Though it is fairly uncommon, there are some countries that use Direct Current instead of alternating current in some areas.  Do not use a converter or transformer with direct current.

Dual Voltage Appliances
Today, many appliances are designed to be dual voltage; or in other words, they are designed to run on either 110 or 220 volt current.  Typically, an appliance with this capability has a switch.  A hairdryer, for example, may have a 110/220 switch somewhere on the handle of the appliance.  With this type of appliance, you do not require a converter.

Adapter Plugs
Once you have found a converter or transformer, you need to make sure you can plug it in.  Use this Foreign Voltage Guide to select the correct Adapter plugs for the country you will be visiting. 

Should you have any questions about electricity, please call us at 800.997.7875.  One of our representatives will gladly assist you.

Click here to browse our selection of electricity converters and adapters.  

Click here to browse our selection of travel appliances.

Tips for...

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    Features & Designs
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Foreign Voltage Guide

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International Travel Tips

Have a question?  Call us at 800.997.7875.  One of our experienced professionals will happily answer your questions.

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Click here to browse our selection of electricity converters and adapters.  

Click here to browse our selection of travel appliances.