The table below
summarizes information on the electrical power outlet plugs in use in most countries of
the world.
The voltages listed here are the “nominal”
figures reported to be in use at most residential or commercial sites in the
country or area named. Most electrical power outlet plugs systems are prone to slight
variations in voltage due to demand or other factors. Many former 220 V
countries have converted or are in the process of converting to the EU
standard of 230 V. Generally, this difference is inconsequential, as
most appliances are built to tolerate current a certain percentage above or
below the rated voltage. However, severe variations in current can
damage electrical equipment.
The electric power frequency is shown in the
number of hertz (cycles per second). Even if voltages are similar, a
60-hertz clock or tape recorder may not function properly on 50 hertz
current. All systems described here use alternating current (AC).
The power outlet plug types listed indicate all types known to be in use in that
country. Not all areas of a country may use all types of plugs listed
for that country, since there may be regional differences based on the power outlet plug
system in a certain area.
Finally, I've only included information that
is likely to be relevant for travelers. Just about everywhere listed
here has higher voltage lines available for heavy duty appliances (not to
mention commercial or industrial applications). While this would be
relevant for those moving to another country, I'm assuming most travelers will
leave their clothes dryers, air conditioners and arc welders at
home! If you are interested in converting electrical
units or sizing a generator try these Power
Generator Calculators (for calculating generator size in kW,
converting kW to kVA, kVA to kW, Volts, Amps, and
more).
* A UN
correspondent reports C and F common in Kabul, but its likely a variety of
plugs may be used around the country. Some sources report Type D also in use. Other reports
indicate voltage variances from 160V to 280V.
Notes from
correspondents: a 'C' style plug can be used with 'E' and 'F'
receptacles. All double-insulated appliances are indeed fitted with
a 'C' plug, and can be used in any compatible receptacle (C E F and narrow
L). Type C receptacles are prohibited in Belgium.
*127 V found
in states of Bahia, Paraná (including Curitiba), Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo
and Minas Gerais (though 220 V may be found in some hotels). Other
areas are 220 V only, with the exception of Fortaleza (240 V). Outlets (click for more)
are often a combination of type A and C and can accept either type
plug.
Type L
plugs/outlets may have different pin spacing. The smaller and closer
pins are for a rated current of 10 A, the bigger and wider pins are for a
rated current of 16 A.
The
"official" plug type is like type A but slightly shorter and
without holes in blades. Type A and I outlets are common, and Type G might also be found. Click here for photos and
more info.
Denmark's
connectors have slight differences from those used elsewhere. While
pin diameter and spacing is standard, outlets may have different housing
depths which could interfere with standard adaptors -- one report says
this is due to "childproofing." Also, Plug C fits into K-type
outlets (but not vice versa).
A UN
correspondent reports "power is poor in the country with frequent
brownouts and blackouts. I suspect that surges are frequent as we go
through a lot of surge-protecting power bars." Further he reports
than Type I
is common as much
construction is done by Australians; type C is common in building built
during Indonesian occupation; type E is less common; type F is common in offices but not
hotels.
Type C plugs may be found on some
appliances, and will fit the Type E outlet. Type C outlets may be found in older
buildings. Type A may be found in older buildings
but is illegal.
*Inside the
capital city of Georgetown, both 120 V and 240 V at either 50 or 60 Hz are
found, depending on the part of the city (50 Hz most common). Actual
voltage may vary from area to area.
Type L
plugs/outlets may have different pin spacing. The smaller and closer
pins are for a rated current of 10 A, the bigger and wider pins are for a
rated current of 16 A. Both kinds are currently used and comply to
the relevant Italian (CEI) regulations. Some outlets have
overlapping holes to accept either older or newer types.
*Type F
likely to be found in offices and hotels. 110 V power with plugs A & B was previously used but
is being phased out. Older buildings may still have this, and some
hotels offer both 110 V and 220 V service.
Type G*
found primarily in better hotels. Also, many of
major hotels chains are said to have multipurpose outlets, which will
take Australian 3-pin plugs and perhaps other types.
A
correspondent reports that in Barcelona's Barrio Gothic, voltage is 120 V
60 Hz using Types C & F plugs. Step up
transformers are required to use typical European
devices.
*Outlets
typically controlled by adjacent switch. Though nominal voltage has been
officially changed to 230 V, 240 V is within tolerances and commonly
found.
Type F becoming more common as a result
of computer use. *Neutral and line wires are reversed from that used
in Australia and elsewhere. Click
here for more.
Primary
sources:Electric Current
Abroad (1998 edition), U.S. Department of Commerce, National Technical
Information Service; World Electricity Supplies and Electrical Plugs;
an International Survey, (both 1993), British Standards Institute.
Additionally, since this table was first posted in late 1995, numerous revisions
have (and continue to be) made as a result of personal observations or reports
from other travelers.
