Electricity and Your Devices
Electricity voltage differences between the United States and other countries using 110-120 volts and Germany can confuse some. However, understanding these differences is essential to ensure that your electronic devices and appliances will work properly and avoid any potential issues with incompatible voltage.
Choosing the correct converter or transformer rated for your device's wattage is essential, as using an undersized converter can damage your device and potentially cause a fire.
Stuttgart FAQ will help you navigate through all of your electricity-related questions below.
Appliance Voltages
In the United States, the standard electricity voltage is 120 volts (V) at 60 hertz (Hz). This means that electrical outlets in the US provide power at a voltage of 120V and a frequency of 60Hz.
In contrast, the standard electricity voltage in Germany is 230V at a frequency of 50Hz. This means that electrical outlets in Germany provide power at a voltage of 230V and a frequency of 50Hz.
It's important to note that these voltage differences can cause issues when moving between the two countries. For example, if you bring an appliance or device designed for 120V operation to Germany, it may not work correctly because it is receiving a higher voltage than intended.
Similarly, getting a device designed for 230V operation to the US may not work correctly because it is receiving a lower voltage than intended.
Most appliances purchased in the USA operate on 110 volts. European appliances and devices work on 220 volts. Many modern electronics are dual voltage, meaning the item can run on a 110 or 220 voltage.
Dual Voltage
A dual-voltage device is a device that is designed to operate at two different voltage levels. This is typically done to allow the device to be used in other regions where the electrical systems may have different voltage levels.
A dual-voltage device can be used in a region using 120 or 230 volts by selecting the appropriate voltage setting and using a plug adapter. This is often done using a switch or a selector on the device itself, or it may be done automatically by the device.
There are several benefits to using dual-voltage devices. First, they allow you to use the same device in multiple regions without worrying about voltage compatibility. This can be especially useful for travelers, who can bring a single device with them and use it in various countries. Additionally, dual-voltage devices can often be more efficient and cost-effective than using a voltage converter, which can be bulky and expensive.
How to Find the Voltage of a Device
USA 100V-120V
Europe 220V-240V
Find a range of numbers on the device label followed by a "V."
If the device label reads 100/120V, this device is a single voltage and needs a transformer to run in Europe.
If the label reads 110-240V, the device is a dual-voltage device, and only a plug adapter is needed.
Some blowdryers and other products have a screw to change the voltage.
Often newer televisions may indicate the device is a single voltage on the external label, but it may have a higher input rating in actuality. To find the input rating of a device, you may need to access the power supply board.
Plug Adapters
A plug adapter, also known as a travel adapter or electrical adapter, is a device that allows you to connect your electronic devices to outlets in different countries. It does this by physically adapting the shape of the plug on your device to fit into outlets that may have a different configuration.
Plug adapters do not change the voltage or frequency of the electrical outlet. Instead, they provide a physical connection between the device and the outlet, allowing you to charge or use it while traveling abroad.
Dual-voltage devices such as cell phones, laptops, and tablets typically only require a grounded plug adapter to charge in Europe.
However, it is generally safer to use a power cord instead of a plug adapter whenever possible. This is because, over time or with heavy use, the insulator in a plug adapter may fail, which could potentially cause a fire. To avoid this risk, it is recommended to use a power cord to connect your device to the electrical outlet. This will ensure that your device is charged safely and efficiently.
Before using a plug adapter, you must ensure the device is genuinely dual voltage. Most cell phones, digital cameras, tablets, laptops, and desktop computers, not including peripheral equipment, i.e., monitor, printer, etc.) are dual voltage.
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Transformers
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Voltage transformation is magic!
A voltage converter, also known as a transformer, is a device that converts the voltage of an electrical outlet to a level that is compatible with your electronic devices and appliances that is not dual voltage.
Voltage converters come in different sizes and ratings, and it is essential to choose one that is suitable for the wattage of your device. An undersized converter can potentially damage your device and create a safety hazard.
Types of Voltage Transformers
If you want to use an appliance designed for 110-120V in Germany, which has a voltage of 220-240V, you will need to use a transformer known as a "step up" transformer to increase the voltage to the appropriate level. It is also a good idea to purchase a "step up and down" transformer if you plan on buying 220-240V devices and bringing them back to the United States, as it will allow you to use the devices in both regions safely. In addition, you can safely use plug adapters with a transformer to ensure that the device's plug is compatible with the outlets in the area you are using it in.
What Size of Transformer Do You Need?
Find the Wattage of the Appliance
You can find this information on the back, at the bottom of the device, or in the manual.
No Wattage Listed, No Problem.
You can calculate the wattage by finding the device's amperage and voltage.
Volts x Amps = Watts
This television's input is
3 Amps, 120 Volts
3 Amps X 120 Volts= 360 Watts
1
Calculate the Size of the Transformer Needed for the Appliance
Use the maximum wattage for the appliance in your calculation; always round up the wattage to the closest transformer size available.
Appliances with a Motor
i.e., blender, mixer, etc.
Use this formula:
(Watts x 0.8)+Watts =
Minimum Transformer Wattage Capacity Needed
Example:
(525 x 0.8)+525=945 watts
3A X 120v=360 Watts
(360 x 0.2)+360=432
Example:
Appliances without a Motor
i.e., television, gaming console, etc.
Use this formula:
(Watts x 0.2)+Watts =
Minimum Transformer Wattage Capacity Needed
A 1000-watt or higher transformer is needed.
2
A 500-watt or higher transformer is needed.
Cautions
3
-
Do not run any appliance with a higher wattage than the transformer's capacity, or you risk damaging both your device and the transformer!
-
If two or more appliances are running simultaneously on the same transformer, add the wattage of both appliances together for the correct calculation.
-
Heavy-duty transformers can only be used continuously (24/7) at 17%-80% of their wattage capacity.
Transformer Cost Considerations
Transformers in use draw the maximum power (wattage) of the transformer at all times, compared to a dual voltage appliance which only pulls the wattage needed to power the device.
The current price of electricity per kWh is 0.6053€ (November 2022- EnBW)
Using a 500-watt transformer to power a 120v/360-watt television for 4 hours per day will cost you 441.87€ per year.
500 Watts x 4 hours/day=2000 watt-hours per day
2000÷1000= 2 kWh (kilowatt-hours) per day
2 kWh x 365 days=730 kWh/year
730kWh/year x 0.6053€= 441.87€/year
Compared to a dual-voltage television with the same wattage.
360 Watts x 4 hours/day=1440 Watt-hours per day
1440 ÷ 1000= 1.44 kWh (kilowatt-hours) per day
1.44 kWh x 365 days=525.6 kWh/year
525.6 kWh/year x 0.6053= 318.15€/year
Using a transformer will cost you 123.72€ (39%) more per year.
Calculate the electricity cost for other appliances with this convenient energy cost calculator and see how much you can save per year.
Other Considerations
Before bringing those 110-120V devices* consider the following:
-
Limited storage in the kitchen and no closets.
-
The extra costs incurred using a transformer and purchasing a transformer.
-
The current utilization of the device
-
The original price, current resale value, and replacement cost
-
Does the replacement cost outweigh the added expense of using a transformer?
220V-240V appliances with a motor from North America can NOT be used with a transformer, for example, clothes dryers, stoves, ovens, cooktops, and air conditioners.
Refrigerators, freezers, washing machines, or dishwashers will require a special transformer hardwired into the house's electrical system.
*Base housing has 110V and 220V outlets
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Gaming Systems
If you have purchased a gaming system in the United States or Japan and want to use it in Europe, it is essential to consider the voltage requirements of the system. Using a plug adapter may not be the best option, as some gamers have reported issues with overheating when using these adapters.
One option is to change the power supply cable to one compatible with the voltage in Europe. This is typically a good choice if the system is not dual-voltage and is only designed to operate at a specific voltage.
If the system is dual-voltage, you can change the power cord to one with a European plug and select the appropriate voltage setting on the system itself. This will allow you to use the system in Europe without any issues.
Overall, it is essential to carefully consider the voltage requirements of your gaming system before using it in Europe. Following the appropriate steps ensures that your system operates safely and effectively in any region. Below you will find helpful guides for the most popular gaming systems to help you navigate what you need to do to keep your gaming system working correctly in Germany.
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As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
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Replace the power cord with an AC adapter with a European plug for the best charging results.
Change the power supply to a 220v power supply with a European plug.
Change the power supply to a 220v power supply with a European plug.
Change the AC adapter with a European plug.
Replace the power cord with an AC adapter with a European plug for the best charging results.
Change the power supply to a 220v power supply with a European plug.
Replace the AC adapter with a European plug.
Replace the USB C power adapter with a European plug.
PS 2 early models without the external power brick use a 200W transformer.
SLIM
Change the 2-pin power cord only if the power supply (brick) is rated 120v-240v. If not, replace the brick.
Change the 2-pin power cord to a European plug.
If you purchased in a country using 110v, use at least a 300W transformer with this console.
Gamers have reported that changing the power brick to 220v is sufficient. However, Xbox does not recommend it as the internal power supply is not rated for 220-volt. Use a 200W transformer, or proceed at your own risk.
If you purchased in a country using 110v, use at least a 200W transformer with this console.
Replace the power supply (brick) if not rated for 220v, along with a European plug power cord.
Change the 2-pin power cord to a European plug.
Change the 2-pin power cord to a European plug.
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