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). In contrast, many other parts of the world 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, if you plan to use a 110/125 appliance somewhere else, you must first “convert” the current from 220/250 volt to 110/125 volt. If you don’t, you’ll damage the appliance or worse—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. This 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
If you are preparing to travel internationally, you need two things; a tool that will convert electricity from 220 volts to 110 volts, 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, or a fax machine.
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 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.
Need help?
Should you have any questions about electricity for travelers, please call us at 800.997.7875. One of our representatives will gladly assist you.
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