Voltage Adapter/Converter

MD, there have been lots of discussions on taking flat irons. I suggest that you do a search on the topic. There's a faction that thinks useless to take it with you. Even with the converter it doesn't work very well. For sure you'll need an adapter, and the converter, but check the earlier threads for type of converter and for info on using North American flat irons in Europe. Pam

Look for the subject head, Power Converter, under TO THE BOOT:Italy. You will your answer there in greater detail. There two types of voltage converters - Less than 50 watts and, obviously, greater than 50 watts. Under 50 watts is suitable for electronics and other light usage. A flat iron will draw a lot of wattage [INVALID] could be 1500, could be 1800 or even over 2000. Therefore you need a converter RATED to handle the wattage of your flat iron. There should be a tag on the flat iron or something engraved on the iron itself that indicates input of voltage and wattage. If it doesn't match up, a lot of bad things can happen in a hurry. Also, the converter could cost more than the flat iron so you might want to consider just buying one in Europe IF this is a critical item.

MD, there WILL be a nameplate on the device, according to CSA rules. However, this may just be stamped in the plastic and difficult to read. It's highly likely that your Flat Iron is ONLY designed for use on 115 VAC, so you WILL need both a Voltage Converter and a Plug Adapter to use that in Europe. You may also need an extra Plug Adapter, as some outlets in Europe are recessed, so even if a Voltage Converter is fitted with a European plug, it doesn't fit the outlet. What you'll need is a solid-state Voltage Converter with a capacity of 1600-2000 watts. These tend to produce a very "rough" AC waveform, but that's not usually a problem with simple heating devices which only have a resistive element. While on the topic, you might want to check the "Input Voltage" specifications for EACH device you'll be travelling with (in addition to the Flat Iron). As someone else mentioned, hair appliances often don't work as well in Europe when used with a Voltage Converter. The other option you might consider is to just buy one when you arrive in Europe. You could also check * www.magellans.com/store/Health___Hygiene___Hair_Care?Args= * (cut & paste the link inside the asterisks) for information on dual-voltage hair appliances. Happy travels!

Pamela, Frank, and Ken: We do appreciate your patient explanations for those who haven't been through the drill.

Here, here Kent! I find this subject a bit tricky to navigate. I realize some people don't think a flat iron is a necessity, but some days it makes me feel good if I look good. Also it is a bit overwhelming to do a search and draw a bunch of conclusions that don't directly relate to what I need. Thanks, thanks, thanks!!