Stupid electrical question!

kayl

I realise that this will sound like a really stupid question, but am confident that someone will be able to tell me the right answer!

My daughter's dearest wish for her 21st birthday present is a Kirthen Aid, and I am trying to source the cheapest place to get one. There is an American seller on ebay who has lots, and the cost will save about £100 on the RRP here

It says on the listing
International Customers only are getting an automatic transformer adapter 500W (110v/220v/240v - 240v/220v/110v) and an all-in-One travel power plug adapter for US, UK, EU, AU
Does this mean that it will be totally safe to use in the UK? Are there any drawbacks to this?


Thanks

maninthestreet

I googled 'Kirthen Aid', and I'm still not sure what is...

lifes-too-short

i can only think you have mispelt kitchen aid? remember you might have an import duty tax on your item! £100 saving but no guarntee without return postage costs, no back up / spares, reliant on a transformer? I would rather fork out £100 extra. IMO

muckybutt

Personally speaking from an electricians point of view, I would not rely on a 500W power adaptor, you would in my opinion require a minimum 750kva step down transformer similar to http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Carroll-Meynell-7501-Single-Outlet-Transformer-750-kVA-/320804646768?pt=UK_BOI_Electrical_Components_Supplies_ET&hash=item4ab1726f70 you would need a part p sparky to install this in the kitchen under a worktop with a socket above the counter that only the mixer could plug into

DVardysShadow

kayl wrote: »

... It says on the listing
International Customers only are getting an automatic transformer adapter 500W (110v/220v/240v - 240v/220v/110v) and an all-in-One travel power plug adapter for US, UK, EU, AU
Does this mean that it will be totally safe to use in the UK? Are there any drawbacks to this?

Until you clarify what a kirthen aid is, I think the considered opinion is not to take up this offer. Not only is US mains a different voltage to that in the EU, it is a different frequency. So now you need to consider whether this kirthen aid will work on 50Hz rather than 60Hz. And also whether the seller will in fact provide a 50Hz transformer rather than a 60hz transformer. A 60Hz transformer of 500W will be a fire hazard on 50Hz mains - if it manages not to blow fuses perpetually.

And given that this is eBay, there is no guarantee that your seller understands all of this.

kayl

Thanks for all replies.

Sorry for the typo - it is a Kitchen Aid food mixer I meant.

Looks from the electricians' advice above that not recommended, so that is helpful