The C-PAP machine is heated device. Do I need a dual voltage converter or can I really only use an adapter? I don't want to fry the machine before I even get to use it.
You need to check the voltage on the machine to determine if you need a converter. My dad has a relatively new machine and he took it with him to Europe with only an adaptor (and an extension cord he had to use a couple of times). He did call the manufacturer's customer service hotline to confirm what he needed before our trip and they were quite helpful.
Thank you so much. In going back to the machine (thought I'd looked at it before, but guess not as well) to have all information ready for questions, I found two things: volt connector is made in both USA and Germany and is both 110 and 240. So the adapter is truly all I need. It calls for a corded surge protector even in US, so always use that. Can't imagine my relief. Thank you again.
Paula You need to check that corded surge thingie. It is exceedingly vulnerable to wrong voltage. If it is only designed for 110-115 it will instantly blow up with sparks, smoke, noise and light show when plugged into 220-240. That's even if the C-pap is, as you say, ok for multi voltage.
It isn't the corded surge that is dual, it is the machine itself manufactured by the company making the machine. The cord from the machine to its plug has a huge converter - that is the dual voltage unit. You are right that the little surge protector which is required for regular daily use is only 110-115, but that wasn't the unit I referred to. The company providing the machine told me that all I need is the adaptor. The machine is built with own converter.
Paula, you mentioned that it was advised by the manufacturer to use a surge protector, and that you always use one...that's why Nigel posted with his helpful info. I believe he understands your situation clearly. NOW, if you're saying (to the contrary) that the manufacturer's rep told you not to bother with a surge protector, then yes - all you need is the $1.00 adaptor. I would strongly suggest an extension cord, though. There's no telling how far away your outlet may be...but it's often pretty far away. Have a great trip!
Ah, I finally understand the electric link from wall to machine and what you are getting at regarding the extension surge protector. I will not use it. However, if I am not close enough to the wall, I might have to use a convertor for the extension to the machine plug. The surge protector is also the extension, but it is 110 and needs the convertor.
Paula, "The surge protector is also the extension, but it is 110 and needs the convertor." Could you clarify WHICH "surge protector" you're referring to??? Are you referring to the power supply for the machine? Based on the information you posted previously, the CPAP machine is designed for use at both 115 & 230 VAC, so doesn't need a "Surge Protector". To reiterate what others have said DO NOT use a North American 115 VAC Surge Protector or surge protected Power Bar in Europe!!! If you do feel that you want to use a Surge Protector in Europe, you can obtain a 230 VAC model at www.magellans.com You'll probably only need to take Plug Adapters and perhaps a short extension cord. Depending on which countries you'll be visiting, you may need two different types of Plug Adapters (the UK style is different than that for continental Europe). I'd advise taking two of each type, as they're small and easy to "misplace". Does the plug for the CPAP machine have two or three pins? If it's a grounded plug, I'd probably use a grounded Plug Adapter. Some just use an ungrounded type, but I prefer to use what the product was designed for. Cheers!
Paula, I have used CPAP machines with and without humidifier/heaters for years here and in Europe. If the unit says 110-240 (all the ones I have used had that on them), all you need is a plug adapter. I have never used a surge protector at home or abroad. I agree with the previous poster who advised you to take an extension cord. That will allow you to plug two or three devices in with only the one adapter. I run my CPAP, phone charger and camera battery charger on one extension cord in Europe with no problems. Another thing to keep in mind is that if he uses distilled water for the humidifier, he may find that hard to locate. I have stopped lugging the humidifier overseas, but when I did in the past, I used a water heating coil to boil tap water to sterilize it. For the coil, you MUST have one that operates on 240 volts.
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