Converters for CEE7 Europlug to UK 3 pin (BSI363) - question on fuse amperage?

leninasavage · Mar 4, 2015

Hi guys,

Thanks for taking the time to read my question.

So I have a couple hair straighteners from Germany I want to convert, both of which have CEE 7/16 Europlugs.

From my understanding, these Europlugs are used for low-mid level appliances and only support currents up to 2.5 amps. In terms of selecting the best amperage on the fuse inside the converter (in particular I'm eyeing up the Power Connections ECP 5 amp) what would be best, 3 amp, 5 amp or higher? I imagine as they usually run on less than or equal to 2.5 amps there should be no real benefit of going much higher than 3-5 amps on the fuse? Also the converters support up about 500 watts and I think straighteners use roughly half of that so there should be no problem there right?

I know the straighteners wired with UK plugs use a 13 amp fuse, but I'm guessing there's no point using the same amperage as that in the converter?

Sorry I'm a bit of a self-taught novice at all this, I would love some input to know what's right

telectrix · Mar 4, 2015

why not cut the plugs off and fit BS1363 plugs with 3A/5A fuses?

leninasavage · Mar 4, 2015

I travel a lot and the ECP means I can easily revert back to europlug if needs be, but thanks for the suggestion.

DPG · Mar 4, 2015

Agree with tel. No worries about contact resistance etc. Specially with cheaply made adaptors. Daz

leninasavage · Mar 4, 2015

DPG said:
Agree with tel. No worries about contact resistance etc. Specially with cheaply made adaptors. Daz

As mentioned (post pending approval) I would much rather prefer to use a converter as I travel regularly and gives more flexibility. Any input regarding the original question would be appreciated

telectrix · Mar 4, 2015

the fuse is there to protect the appliance flex. so 3A would be fine up to 750watts. look at the wattage on the appliance. 1000watts is 4.5A so a 5A would be my choice

leninasavage · Mar 4, 2015

telectrix said:
the fuse is there to protect the appliance flex. so 3A would be fine up to 750watts. look at the wattage on the appliance. 1000watts is 4.5A so a 5A would be my choice

Okay great, thanks, and there's no inherent risk at all using a converter long-term?

Lucien Nunes · Mar 4, 2015

Not if you are talking about a proper converter such as:
http://www.farnell.com/datasheets/12709.pdf
These are much better than flimsy travel adaptors.
And 3A fuse should be fine.