Converting US appliances for UK use

[Startinez]

Hi guys and girls,

So my fiancée's parents have just moved back from America and have brought with them some sentimental appliances in the hope that they can be converted for UK use.

I know that the American supply is usually 110-120V and 60Hz and utilising a two-pin system, meaning appliances with motors etc will be a no-go. However things like lamps (which I think is their priority) could, as far as my training knowledge goes, potentially be converted.

So a few questions:

Is it possible & worthwhile to convert simple appliances such as lamps?
What kind of problems am I likely to encounter, and materials/"specialist tools" will I need?
Any other tips, tricks, relevant info?

Just a quick note so that you are aware of my knowledge level - I currently have my 2392-10 & 2382, and I'm studying towards my level 3 NVQ.

Many thanks to anybody that can offer some assistance!

 

[Marvo]

With lamps it would depend if there's a transformer or LED driver involved or if it's just a standard filament type. Maybe a few pictures would help, you can attach some below if the filesizes aren't too large.

 

[Startinez]

Although, after doing some digging myself, I've found these fantastic things called transformers :38:

Guessing this will be the easiest and cheapest method for a few lamps? Found one at Maplin's rated at 300W for £35 which seems fairly reasonable.

 

[Startinez]

With lamps it would depend if there's a transformer or LED driver involved or if it's just a standard filament type. Maybe a few pictures would help, you can attach some below if the filesizes aren't too large.

Their shipment container arrives tomorrow so I'll get them to send me some pics and post them up when they do.

 

[Marvo]

Although, after doing some digging myself, I've found these fantastic things called transformers :38:

Yeah, I read about these the other day, appears to be a new technological breakthrough that can change voltage, but they seem to be quite expensive and bulky etc.

35 Quid for a step up tranny that will supply a table lamp is a bit expensive in my book, I'm sure you could buy an entire new lamp for less than that but I suppose if it's some designer bespoke thing it might be worth it.

 

[davesparks]

Table lamps and suchlike are normally pretty easy to rewire for UK use. We used to do this occasionally where I served my apprenticeship.
The American cable is very unlikely to be rated for UK voltage, and is often an insulated cable without a sheath for the flexible cable from plug to lamp.
We used to just strip the cores out of 0.5mm flex to use for the internal wiring inside lamps/chandelier type fittings, but that's probably frowned upon now.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk