220V Transformation

Here is a little detail that is worth not overlooking: Chile’s electrical grid is on 220V rather than 110V and uses a plug with two round prongs in line (or three in line if grounded). They also use different cycles: 50 hertz instead of 60 hertz used in the USA.

That means many things you bring down to Chile from the USA will not work unless you have a transformer. Europeans will need to have an adapter to comply with the prong difference but will not need a transformer. Likewise, floor lamps and notebook computers just take an adapter to the prongs. For some devices that have their own transformer, like laptop computers, a simple adaptor that plugs into the 220V outlet, with a standard 120V blade-type receptacle is sufficient. Desktop computers and digital camera chargers can also be used without a transformer. But be careful to flip the switch on the power supply to 220V on desktops (laptops/notebooks and camera chargers usually automatically detect the power source). Check the transformer that comes with your devices to see what input voltage range is acceptable.  These simple and inexpensive prong adapters can be purchased at Radio Shack or a store in Chile (e.g., Sodimac, Easy, and Homecenter). However, all other appliances and electronic devices from America require a power transformer.

If you buy the heavy floor model transformers (pictured below) you can leave it plugged in full time. If you choose to use a cheap transformer that is used for shavers and blow dryers then be sure to not leave it in the wall too long. I have had a number of them burn out by doing so. Larger appliances will typically not run on such a puny transformer anyway so it is best to go directly to Easy, Sodimac or Homecenter once you arrive in Chile and purchase some larger transformers.

My advice, therefore, is not to bother getting the little transformer from Radio Shack that is only good for a shaver since they often burn out if left in the wall. Instead get the heavy floor models, i.e., the black and white ones with metal feet in the photograph below that transform 150W to 2,000W. These are avaialbe in the USA from luggage stores or at the aforementioned Chilean stores for $25 to $100 (depending on the size).

Be sure to bring several power strips (extension outlets) from your originating country that can be plugged into your transformer in Chile (see photo below). That way you can plug in several devices to each transformer. It will make the transition to Chile just that much easier.

One final word of caution: The cycle difference wreaks havoc on American 60 hertz appliances over time. If you decide to bring down your favorite Maytag dryer, for instance, do not expect it to last more than a few years on a transformer.