Voltage within the UK (All the pieces you want to know)

When did the UK change to 240 volts?

In 2003, the voltage used all through the continent of Europe was set at 230V and 50 Hz. Earlier than this, it was formally 220V in Europe and 240V within the UK.

Why is UK voltage so excessive?

The reply to this one may shock you. Apparently, Europe opted for a 230-volt energy provide as a result of much less copper wire was wanted to ship the next voltage. This implies energy corporations can ship a extra environment friendly provide.

Are Sort G pin plugs used anyplace exterior the UK?

It’s possible you’ll surprise if you should use that energy adaptor when travelling to different locations in future. The sort of plug – with three pins in a triangle – can be frequent in another international locations. 

These embody Eire, Malta and Cyprus – in addition to locations in Asia, the Center East and Africa. Akin to Hong Kong, Tanzania, Singapore, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia and extra. Some Caribbean islands additionally use three pin plugs, together with St Lucia. They’re additionally used within the Seychelles.  

Does the UK and Europe have the identical kind of plugs?

No, it could shock you to study that totally different plugs are used within the UK to these utilized in Europe. Principally the Sort C plug is used throughout mainland Europe, whereas Sort G is commonplace within the UK. The excellent news is that kind C adaptors are additionally appropriate with kind E, F, J, Okay and N sockets. 

So in the event you’re visiting the UK and mainland Europe, then you definately’ll want to purchase two adaptors. Or streamline the entire course of by shopping for one common adaptor as an alternative. This kind can be utilized everywhere in the world. 

The sort C plug can be generally known as the Euro plug.