Step-Down Converter 220V -> 120V

[differentbutsamesame]

I've imported a kitched appliance from Canada which is not available in Thailand. The problem is the voltage is set to 120v / 60 cycles but

the voltage in Thailand is 220v / 50 cycles. I've been searching for a step-down converter today without any luck.

Can anyone tell me where to buy one in Bangkok? And will the difference in cycles cause a problem?

[thaimite]

What you need is a simple 220 to 110V transformer, however before anybody can state if the difference in frequency (cycles or hertz) is important they would need to know what the device is.

You also need to know how many watts the device uses in order to buy the correct size of transformer. Step down transformers are easily obtainable.

In general devices with motors may be affected by the different frequency as they will run slower, but electronic devices should be OK.

Please provide more information for a more definite answer

[differentbutsamesame]

It's a yogurt maker http://www.lyo-san.ca/english/yogourmet/#yaourtiere and it uses 12 watts.

I'm afraid the thing will become too hot if it receives more than 120v, thus killing all the probiotic bacteria in the yogurt. The bacteria need to be cultured between 38 and 43 degrees celcius. Maybe i can attach a dim-switch to it as well.

[maprao]

It will not become to hot. It will burn out. Get a simple transformer. Look at the current rating on the back of the appliance. Then multiply the voltage by the current to get the power rating for the transformer that is required,

Ie if itneeds 2AMPS =2 X 240 You need a 500Watt Transformer. Something like a kettle or rice cooker will require a 1500Watt or 2000Watt (2KW) Transformer.

If you choose the wrong one then the transformer will go up in smoke.

[Tywais]

It's a yogurt maker http://www.lyo-san.c...met/#yaourtiere and it uses 12 watts.

I'm afraid the thing will become too hot if it receives more than 120v, thus killing all the probiotic bacteria in the yogurt. The bacteria need to be cultured between 38 and 43 degrees celcius. Maybe i can attach a dim-switch to it as well.

I just looked at the specs - Power Consumption: 12.5 watts.. It is simply a precision heater with no motors. As such a standard 220V to 110V step down transformer will work. You can't use a dim switch as the device is designed to self regulate the temperature and a dimmer is a phase chopper device meaning you will still be supplying 220 but in slices and the electronics for temperature regulation will not like that.

So 25-50 VA 220-110 step down transformer is all you need. At that low rating it will not be expensive.

[Crossy]

What he said ^^^.

You should be able to find a suitable converter in any hardware store.

Do make provision to ensure that it can't accidentally be plugged directly into the local mains by fixing the plug to the converter in some way, we don't want any accidents with your imported kit.

Any particular reason you chose to import from a 110V country, we have yoghurt makers in Europe too ?

[differentbutsamesame]

Thanks guys, i'll buy a simple step down transformer then.

Any recommendations on where to exactly buy it? I've been to Big C, Tesco, Central and home depot without luck.

@Crossy, The 110v - 220v debacle didn't cross my mind when i ordered the thing.

[JakeBKK]

the best price you probably get in zeer-rangsit. That's a bit behind the old airport.

[WilliamCave]

I got one at PAntip placa on rattanatibet for 500 bath I also brought some things from Canada and they work fine with the converters I bought. Try Pantip plaza down town bkk

[wayned]

I paid about 400 baht. Most of the electric shops will have them, but probably hidden in the back Draw a simple picture of a transformer with input 220vac and output 115vac and show it to them. Never had a problem finding one.

[kennedy]

I got one at PAntip placa on rattanatibet for 500 bath I also brought some things from Canada and they work fine with the converters I bought. Try Pantip plaza down town bkk

Question- Did any of those things have motor?

[differentbutsamesame]

I found one today at Home Pro and it was half the price of the yogurt maker...

The next problem is the Canadian plug consists of two pins which of one is a bit wider. It looks the same like a Thai plug but it doesn't fit into the converter. I've put a cheap travel adapter inbetween but i worry about the safety of it. The converter isn't grounded so far i know. I'm not an electrician so i'll make a photo and post it later on.

With all the safety problems in mind i have purchased a yogurt maker from a Thai brand today @ 1400 baht or so.... it's not grounded so how can i improve the safety of the thing? Last thing i want is to find my condo burned down.

I'll buy a proper machine next time i'm in my homecountry but in the meanwhile i need one of these two running for at least 24 hours per batch.

Edited January 18, 2013 by differentbutsamesame

[TallGuyJohninBKK]

Amorn Electronics shops have these kind of step down transformers in varying wattages and prices... much less expensive than places like HomePro.

One Amporn is on the 3rd or 4th floor of the FortuneTown electronics mall at the Rama 9 MRT station, just across the street from Central Rama 9.

That company also has other shops in other locations.

http://www.amorngroup.com/en/branch.php