While there's plenty of information on voltage converters across the web, the opinions are always varying.. Some say you need them, others say you don't, and even more common are the misconceptions about which type you need and what the proper voltage is. It can be a bit confusing at times and it might get to the point where it's overwhelming. We'd like to make it simple and try to give you an idea of when you do and do not need a voltage converter for traveling.
When you DON'T need a Voltage Converter or Transformer
- When you're headed to a country with the same voltage as your home country, you will NOT need to purchase, use or bring a voltage converter along. The important factor here is doing a simple check on what the standard voltage is for your destination country. It really is that easy.
- When you're bringing nothing more than your laptop, you will also NOT need a voltage converter. Laptop manufacturers understand that people travel and laptops are designed for mobility and the power supplies are designed to work with any voltage.
- When you have Multi-system electronics, you do not need a converter. Multi-system electronics are usually TVs, stereo systems or components, Blu-ray players and the like. They've been specifically designed to use at any voltage and therefore do NOT require a voltage converter. You can
purchase multi-system electronics to avoid the hassle of lugging a voltage converter around and also for ease of use.
When you DO need a Voltage Converter or Transformer
- When you're traveling to a destination that has a different standard voltage than your home country and you plan to bring personal electronics or appliances. If the appliances or electronics are not designed for global use, you will ruin them by attempting to use them with the wrong voltage. You also might electrocute yourself, and that's never fun!
- When you're moving or relocating to another country and want to take your local appliances with you instead of buying new multi-system appliances, or instead of purchasing new appliances at your destination. You'll need to have the proper type of voltage converter to manage the wattage of your appliances and electronics, and you'll need to purchase the converter before you move to ensure your electronics are able to use immediately upon arrival.
- When you're traveling to an overseas trade-show or business event and will be bringing items for electronic displays such as TVs, large computer monitors, lighting equipment, etc. you WILL need to have a voltage converter. There's nothing more frustrating than showing up and realizing none of your electronics are suitable for the standard voltage in that country.
What To Do?
If you're going to need a voltage converter, you can check out our complete selection of
voltage converters and voltage transformers here. But before making your purchase, you might want to take a look at our
voltage converter buying guide to ensure you're purchasing a suitable unit(s). Alternatively, if you can purchase multi-system electronics that will allow you to avoid the need for a converter. However, this depends on the type of electronics you're using and if it's available with worldwide voltage.
If your situation is international relocation and it will be long-term or permanent, you'll want to consider saving a lot of money and stress by making the purchase of small & large home appliances BEFORE you move. We stock a complete inventory of 220 volt appliances specifically for this situation and are versed with over 35 years experience in international relocation so don't hesitate to check us out before making any decisions, we offer free relocation consultations with absolutely no obligation.
Whatever the situation is, we're here to help and have a wide array of products to make your life safer, simpler, and stress free when it comes to traveling with electronics.
Voltage converters are devices that do exactly what the name says - convert voltage. They are a simple product that either increases or decreases electrical voltage to a desired level. Generally, they're used for appliances or electronic devices that require a voltage which differs from the standard. Voltage converters are very easy to use because they simply plug into a regular electrical outlet. The device itself has its own self-contained outlets that are then used to deliver the proper voltage to your equipment, appliance or electronic device. The image at the right is of a typical average sized voltage converter.
Typically, voltage converters are utilized by those who are traveling or moving to other countries. Since all regions of the world don't use the same standard voltage, it's important to have a converter if you're bringing a foreign device or other foreign equipment that requires electricity. This ensures that the items can be used effectively in a safe and efficient manner.
If an item was manufactured to be sold in North America, it was made for a 110/120 volt electrical system. If an item was manufactured to be sold in Southeastern Asia, it was made for a 220/240 volt system. Traveling between those areas requires the use of a converter because the voltage at your destination will either be too low, or too high - and attempting to use a product that was intended for a different voltage can result in damage to the product, electrocution, fire, or worse.
Regardless of where you're traveling to or what equipment you'll bring along, there's always a voltage converter that's perfect for the situation. There are simple converters that are available for traveling with small items and personal effects, and there are larger converters which are more appropriate for larger appliances or industrial equipment applications. The size of your converter will be determined by the wattage that your devices require to operate and there are smaller models for just 500 watts and larger models for up to 15,000 watts or more. But the wattage isn't the only thing to take into consideration - you're also going to need to know which style of converter you need.
If you're traveling to somewhere with a lower voltage, than you're going to need a step-up converter because it steps the electricity up to the proper voltage. If you're traveling to somewhere with a higher voltage, you're going to need a step-down converter because it steps the electricity down to the proper voltage. Voltage and wattage usage information and requirements can easily be found on the manufacturer tag or the owners manual of any electrical product. You'll need to find this information first and foremost. Once you know which voltage your device(s) operate at, you'll be able to choose the proper style of converter. Once you know the wattage it requires, you'll be able to choose the proper size of converter.
Some of the more common examples of the need for a voltage converter would be going on vacation and needing to use a computer, hair dryer or electric razor that you've brought along. Another example is individuals or companies who are traveling overseas for work or to perform foreign contracting, as they'll likely be bringing all sorts of power tools, machines and equipment along with them.
Still, there are other examples for the need of a converter, such as domestic applications. Converters are sometimes used in domestic situations for equipment or machinery that requires the use of a higher voltage because they consume a significantly higher amount of electricity to operate. This would be true for certain welding machines, heavy industrial equipment and custom applications. While most converters are portable, some larger and more permanent converters can be wired directly into an electrical system if needed.
Voltage converters are a powerful tool that are utilized all over the world by individuals, companies and even the military.
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