Electric shavers in Germany

Ray,

The first thing you'll need to do is verify the "Input Voltage" specifications on the Charger for your Electric Razor. As Lee mentioned, if these state "Input Voltage 100-240 VAC, 50/60 Hz", the Shaver will work fine on the Euro electrical system. You will however need a Plug Adapter to allow connection to the different pin configuration of the outlets (I'd suggest taking at least two Plug Adapters, as they're cheap).

If the spec's on your Shaver state "Input Voltage 115 VAC, 60 Hz", then you'll definitely need a Voltage Converter as well. Could you clarify what is listed on your Razor?

I always travel with an Electric Razor which is designed for "world operation" and have never had any problems with it. I typically only have to recharge it every few days.

Cheers!

I have a rechargeable razor that operates on 100-240VAC, 50-60Hz. I can plug it in in Germany just like in the US (with a 2-blade to 2 pin plug adapter). Check the specs on the razor. My old razor had a switch for 115V to 230V. For my last three trips, I've either grown a beard or used a disposable and saved the weight.

My husband has an electric razor that he has used throughout Europe. As long as it is dual voltage, which yours probably is, all you need is the electrical adapter.

If you need to buy an electric converter, make sure the plug that goes into the European socket is round. I've seen converters that have difficulty fitting into European sockets because of this issue.

And to complicate matters further... you will sometimes find European hotels that have a converter already mounted on the wall.

I checked the shaver and it says 110v, 60 C cycle, 10 watts.

Get a new razor. A voltage converter will probably cost nearly as much and will just be that much more weight to carry. Better yet, learn to use a disposable, or grow a beard.

Ray,

Given the information on your Shaver, DON'T use that in Europe without a Voltage Converter. It will burn out very quickly, perhaps just with a "popping" sound or perhaps with a fireworks show of smoke and sparks!

You have several options:

> Buy a new Electric Razor which is equipped with a "world" Charger.

> Use a blade-style Razor (disposable or otherwise).

> Buy a Voltage Converter for your present Razor. You can find these in local Travel Stores. You might have a look at * www.thesource.ca/estore/Product.aspx?language=en-CA&catalog=Online&category=Travel+Adapters&product=2738627 * (cut & paste the link inside the asterisks). If you decide to use this Converter, it's important that you leave it in the "Low" position for charging the Shaver. That uses Transformer conversion, which is more suitable for electronic devices. It appears to be currently "on sale" for $29.99.

Cheers!

Ray, also, if you use your current shaver not only will it blow but it can blow the fuses in your hotel!

For about 25 US dollars, Braun makes a great, folding travel razor that runs to two AA batteries. It is a little slower because it has only one cutting head but a pair of batteries will give about 40 days of usage. A few years ago it won a design of the year from someone. And it weighs less than a half pound.