Question for handy people re: voltage converters for appliances

[csala]

Hi there,

I have a question which I hope will be an easy one for those more handy than myself.

I have a washing machine with the 220v plug (large round one). I want to move it to an area where only standard 3 prong plugs are (the ones you find in your living room).

Can I buy some type of stand alone voltage converter to handle the job, or do I need an electrician to change out the plug?

Thanks in advance for your help... I hope my man card isn't revoked

[fdeck]

I am not an electrician.

But in my view, a wash machine will draw so much power that it would take a sizable step-up transformer, possibly costing more than a new wash machine. And of course that transformer will have its own efficiency losses.

Does the wash machine really run on 220? I thought only electric dryers did. There should be a plate on the back of each appliance with the actual requirements. If it's a 110 V washer with an oddball plug to let it run on one side of a 220 V outlet, then you might just have to replace the plug. If you are moving into an area that has gas service, you might consider getting a gas dryer. In some areas, the gas company will hook up your gas for free.

[csala]

This is one of those stack-able washer/dryer units. I should have been more clear.

[L-A]

Hmmm. If it takes 220V, there's really no other outlet you can plug it in, as it will jump the circuit's 110V breaker. You can run through your breaker panel to see if any other loop has is 220V but I highly doubt it (it's fire-startingly dangerous if not properly done).

You should have an electrician come and do the job. It's not especially hard but it *has* to be done right.

[Phalex]

You can try something like this: Amazon.com: Goldsource® ST-3000 Step Up/Down Voltage Transformer Converter - AC 110/220 V - 3000 Watt: Electronics

I'm not sure what the amp draw of the washer is, but if it draws 10A at 220VAC, you'll be pulling 20A from the 110VAC wall outlet.

[Clark Dark]

as mentioned the safest thing to do is have an electrician run a 220 line. It will draw less amps. It also won't spike your elec. bill

[Indiana Mike]

You HAVE to have 220 if that is what it calls for .

If you bought a step up transformer the existing circuit is likely undersized anywho

[MJ5150]

Hire an electrician and do it right.

You can run a converter and give it a try. I'll watch for the news headline about your house burning down if you do. Or maybe it will hit YouTube first.

-Mike

[csala]

Originally Posted by MJ5150

Hire an electrician and do it right.

You can run a converter and give it a try. I'll watch for the news headline about your house burning down if you do. Or maybe it will hit YouTube first.

-Mike

Point taken

I have an electrician coming over Friday. Much appreciated.