Many people don't realize that all electronics and appliances are designed to be used with a specific voltage. Throughout the world, different regions and countries use various voltages of electricity. In North America for example, the standard voltage is 120 volts. Europe on the other hand, uses 220 volts. In each of these areas, the electronics and appliances which are sold are intended for use with the domestic voltage. Any attempts to use a device or appliance with the improper voltage can cause damage to the device, electrocution, and even fire or personal injury.
If you have an electronic device or appliance that you intend to use overseas, it's critical that a voltage transformer is used. Voltage transformers regulate (increase or decrease depending on the need) electricity and deliver the proper voltage so that foreign devices can be used safely. This makes it simple to travel, vacation, or relocate to an overseas destination and still be able to use whatever you're bringing with you.
There are many different types and styles of voltage transformers available on the market for purchase from a variety of retailers. The typical transformer plugs into your wall outlet and has its own outlets built in. All you have to do to use it is plug it in, select the proper voltage setting for your electronics, and then plug the electronics directly into the converter.
Before you purchase a voltage transformer, it's important to choose the proper type. The two main things to consider are the voltage required for your devices and the watts they require to operate. This information is available on the device, the power cord, or the manufacturer's label somewhere on the device or power cable. If you're intending to use 220-volt devices in a 120-volt location, you'll need a step-up transformer. This will increase the local voltage from 120 volts up to 220 so you can safely use your devices. If you're intending to use a 120-volt device in a 220-volt country, you'll need a step-down transformer to decrease the voltage to the proper and safe level. Step-up and step-down transformers can be purchased individually, but step-up/step-down voltage transformers are also available and can be used anywhere in the world.
It's important to note that some electronics (and especially major appliances) are rated for a specific wattage but may actually draw slightly more power. This makes it important to purchase a converter that's been rated for at least double the wattage of the devices you intend to use. For example, a blender requiring 900 volts to operate would be best used with a 1500 or 2000 watt voltage transformer. This eliminates any risk of damage or failure during power surges or fluctuations during use.
To learn more about voltage transformers and understand how to choose the perfect model for your needs, check out our Voltage Transformer Buying Guide. We have a variety of Voltage Transformers to choose from, ranging from 50 to 25,000 volts. You can shop our complete selection of voltage transformers for basic personal needs up to models that can handle multiple major appliances. For more information or assistance, contact us today and our specialists will gladly help you with choosing the proper type and model. Voltage Transformers for Foreign Electronics & Appliances
- By Josh Vick
- Oct 31, 2016
Many people don't realize that all electronics and appliances are designed to be used with a specific voltage. Throughout the world, different regions and countries use various voltages of electricity. In North America for example, the standard voltage is 120 volts. Europe on the other hand, uses 220 volts. In each of these areas, the electronics and appliances which are sold are intended for use with the domestic voltage. Any attempts to use a device or appliance with the improper voltage can cause damage to the device, electrocution, and even fire or personal injury.
If you have an electronic device or appliance that you intend to use overseas, it's critical that a voltage transformer is used. Voltage transformers regulate (increase or decrease depending on the need) electricity and deliver the proper voltage so that foreign devices can be used safely. This makes it simple to travel, vacation, or relocate to an overseas destination and still be able to use whatever you're bringing with you.
There are many different types and styles of voltage transformers available on the market for purchase from a variety of retailers. The typical transformer plugs into your wall outlet and has its own outlets built in. All you have to do to use it is plug it in, select the proper voltage setting for your electronics, and then plug the electronics directly into the converter.
Before you purchase a voltage transformer, it's important to choose the proper type. The two main things to consider are the voltage required for your devices and the watts they require to operate. This information is available on the device, the power cord, or the manufacturer's label somewhere on the device or power cable. If you're intending to use 220-volt devices in a 120-volt location, you'll need a step-up transformer. This will increase the local voltage from 120 volts up to 220 so you can safely use your devices. If you're intending to use a 120-volt device in a 220-volt country, you'll need a step-down transformer to decrease the voltage to the proper and safe level. Step-up and step-down transformers can be purchased individually, but step-up/step-down voltage transformers are also available and can be used anywhere in the world.
It's important to note that some electronics (and especially major appliances) are rated for a specific wattage but may actually draw slightly more power. This makes it important to purchase a converter that's been rated for at least double the wattage of the devices you intend to use. For example, a blender requiring 900 volts to operate would be best used with a 1500 or 2000 watt voltage transformer. This eliminates any risk of damage or failure during power surges or fluctuations during use.
To learn more about voltage transformers and understand how to choose the perfect model for your needs, check out our Voltage Transformer Buying Guide. We have a variety of Voltage Transformers to choose from, ranging from 50 to 25,000 volts. You can shop our complete selection of voltage transformers for basic personal needs up to models that can handle multiple major appliances. For more information or assistance, contact us today and our specialists will gladly help you with choosing the proper type and model. 
