Electric Converter for PD Cycler

This sounds like it could be critical. Two things - contact the manufacture and ask for a recommendation. Because not all things work equal well on a voltage converter. And, there is also the possibility that it is designed to work on a range of voltages. Second, what is the amperage requirement for the unit? Generally converters are sold for 0-50 amps. Amperage over 50 requires a different type of converter. And finally, unless someone here has had direct experience with your equipment, I would not rely on their recommendation for a specific converter.

PS Chris is correct. I mean watts - not amps. 0-50 watts.

Generally converters are sold for 0-50 amps. Amperage over 50 requires a different type of converter.

Frank, have you slipped a decimal point? Electrical outlets are usually rated (fuse or circuit breaker) at between 10-15 Amps. Sometimes only 5A, never more than 15A. Even the dedicated spur to my electric oven has a 30A fuse on it!

Nelson, this needs some serious checking. You do not want to risk damaging a machine like that. Check with the manufacturer what they recommend so you can use it on 50Hz 220V AC supply.
Find out how much current it will draw at 220V, and check with your hotel that is OK. A hotel room may have only one socket which is some distance from the bed.

I understand some US equipment requires a polarised plug. French plugs are not polarised, you can put them in either way around.

Have a plan B (phone number of a local agent), in case it breaks down.
My motto: The disasters you prepare for never happen, so if you prepare for every possible problem, nothing ever goes wrong.

Three weeks!! Please read this from DaVita https://www.davita.com/services/travel-support/travel-tips-and-articles/traveling-outside-of-the-u.s.-on-dialysis/s/5737 which recommends at least a 10 week lead time to get this in place. Hopefully, a power converter will be all you need, but it could be much more complex so you best get on this right away.

I have already been in contact with DaVita and the travel has been approved by them and my doctor. The only concern they have is that I get the converter. Thanks for your concern and response to my inquiry.

Opps -- Chris -- I meant watts. You are correct about amps. 0-50 watts ----

What we are asking is what size of converter. What does the input cord system for voltage? Does it have a heat or any element that would draw a lot of current - those pesky amps.

Nelson,

It would be really helpful if you could provide the electrical specifications for the PD Cycler you're using. The spec's will be shown on a small "nameplate" somewhere on the device. Look for things like "Input Voltage" or watts / amps. Also does the device have a two-pin or three-pin plug?

The fact that the device needs to be in operation for 8 hours at a time will probably mean that a Voltage Converter (if required) will have to be rated for continuous duty, which most travel products are not. You will of course also need appropriate Plug Adaptors.

Just for clarification.....

"Sometimes only 5A, never more than 15A."

In some areas, the Code allows for 20 amp breakers for specific applications, however those circuits must be wired with 12 gauge wire and appropriate outlets have to be used.

Ken, I am talking about Europe, where the electricity is 220V 50 Hz AC.
German (Schuko) plugs are rated at 15A, so any supply to these sockets would be fused at no more than that. 2-pin Europlugs plugs are rated at 2.5A (2.5 x 220 = 550 Watts).
Some of the circuits in my flat are fused at 10A or even 5A (that fuse keeps blowing if I switch on my microwave and kettle at the same time). The OP needs to check what current his machine will draw at 220V, and if it is more than 5A check with the hotel.
The cooker has a dedicated circuit fused at 30A.

And, needs to check the voltage converter (if needed) is approved by the machine manufacturer, as not all converters are suitable for all devices.

Are you not able to contact the supplier/manufacturer of the device and have them tell you what converter is appropriate for your needs?

I suspect you are not the first person to encounter this issue and they should have the answer for you.

Chris F, thanks for the clarification on that. I wasn't sure which electrical system you were referring to.

Go back to DaVita. Probably the largest dialysis company in the US if not the world. They surely have dealt with this and must know what sort of converter you will need for this very important device. Lot’s of well meaning advice here, but you need an expert answer and DaVita is the source. Don’t let them send you on your own to find out. Escalate your concern to a supervisor.

I have spoken to Baxter. The company will only say that a transformer is needed but will not recommend a company that sells it.

You do need the specifications for that transformer. You absolutely need to know amount of wattage required. Call them back. What does the input label on the plug say. It is there - required by law.

Nelson, you are two weeks from this trip and coming back to this forum for answers? DaVita is your vendor, Baxter is the equipment manufacturer I assume? I’m assuming you get your supplies and equipment through DaVita. They recommend a long lead time for travel and this is why. Although you got clearance from DaVita early, you neglected to get a vital piece of information. You need to get back to them, escalate your call to someone who can give you a definitive answer. The odds of you not making your vacation increases every day that you allow people to not give you the information you need. You’re not going to find this vital information on this chat board, but there must be such boards for PD patients. Have you posted on those?