can i use an adaptor plug for all my uk electrical goods in the usa?

[bubbles4920]

we are moving to live in the states.want to know if you can use an adaptor plug on all uk electrical goods. know you can use one for hairdryers but what about tv sets and washing machines etc?

[heathfield]

The normal domestic supply in the USA is 110 to 120 volts and uses a socket for a plug having two vertical flat pins. Using an adaptor, your hairdryer will work with this mains supply if it's been designed to do so. However, UK TV sets, vacuum cleaners, and washing machines, etc, are built for use on 220 to 240 volts, and won't work on 110 to 120 volts.

However. More modern dwellings in the US may also have a 220 volt outlet. The plug for this again uses two flat pins, but one is vertical, and the other is horizontal.

With appliances using a lot of power, like a washing machine, tumble dryer, or room heater, it's unwise to use a travel adaptor - they're not up to the job and can easily overheat. Instead, simply have someone change the plug for a US style one. If you are going to live in the US, there's no point in keeping UK plugs on electrical items. Have them all changed when you get there.

[KARL]

I can't help wondering whether it is worth carting large domestic electrical goods across to the USA unless someone else is paying and will not pay for replacements. Things like european washing machines are difficult if not impossible to maintain there. Fridges and freezers are particularly likely to suffer terminal damage during the move and, in my opinion the US models are better, including durability and maintenance. You can take with you a multi socket stick extension and simply put a US plug on the cable whilst operating your imported goods on UK plugs into the stick. BUT MAKE SURE YOU WATCH OUT FOR THE VOLTAGE - do not make the mistake of plugging into 230V items that are switched dual-voltage and set to 115V. Items such as DC converters for IT goods, etc. are often self adjusting to any voltage, you need to study each item and carefully eliminate the possibility of a mis-match. Not that you asked, but furniture such as sofas, chairs and beds are frequently diabolical (my opinion) in the US and if were moving I would take my own with me.

[Captian Kirk]

You tv set won't work in USA nither will your Video player as we are on PAL set up here & they are on NTSC set up so you won't get a picture at all, same applies with video cameras you will not be able to view them on US TV's or Video's

[knobbynonuts]

You lucky lucky bar stewards I am an eletrician can I come with you and give you some advise as have been to florida twice and yes heathfield is right but karl is so much righter in what he says there is a thing that you can buy that is called an invetror (wrong spelling) that converts) 110v in america to 230v in england but anyway do not think that you have realy thinkrd this over but good luck anyay