Electronics from America & worldwide - power compatibility?

Lwasabisauce on 03/08/2012 - 22:43

Hi guys,

Recently there have been a few amazon items popping up that have taken my interest. I bought something from amazon.de following good reviews on OzB and then it led to me buying from Amazon.com — without thinking about if there were any issues with plugging american electronics into our sockets.
(Specifically, I bought http://www.amazon.com/Wahl-79524-2501-Chrome-24-Piece-Haircu… )

Will this work if I just have a plug converter? Are there ever any overseas electronics that I should avoid because they won't be compatible with our sockets?

Electrical & Electronics

Comments

  • Macgyver on 03/08/2012 - 23:13

    If its 110v then it won't work and will need a power converter.

    If its made to be compatible with many countries(110v-240v) then it should work.

    I can't see power info on the amazon page. Maybe you can send them a email?

  • dirtybird on 04/08/2012 - 13:21

    I think you will find they are going to be 110v.
    Checked my set that I bought locally and its only 230v although its made in the USA.

  • ozzie freddo on 04/08/2012 - 13:56
    -1

    Unless they gave you an option to select your local power system you will end up with an American version that will not last very long here (too hot to handle and it would soon burn out). You would need a power transformer (such as Jaycar Cat No MF-1091) but the cost of that (around $50) would ruin the "bargain".
    The Americans are too arrogant in thinking the rest of the world is the same as them.

    • retiredfeline on 04/08/2012 - 17:28

      Then so are the Japanese. Just be grateful that there are only two camps, 110 and 230. There could have been many more. In fact we were a little off-standard at 240 and we are slowly moving towards 230. Also power packs for modern electronics are usually universal now.

  • wasabisauce on 04/08/2012 - 17:21

    thanks guys, managed to get a refund for this item after cancelling the purchase. a pity because the US version was only $30 while every where else it's at least $70! i'll keep looking and keep it in mind for next time, thanks guys

  • retiredfeline on 04/08/2012 - 17:29

    Things that involve heating or motors running off AC will usually not be compatible either on account of voltage or frequency. Things that are electronic using power packs will be ok if the power pack is universal, but you may need an adaptor for the plug.

  • _Bruce_ on 07/08/2012 - 11:57

    Just another point as noone has mentioned it, in Australia we have 50Hz power, some places have 60Hz power. For passive devices like heaters this normally doesn't matter, but it will matter for motors.

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