240V - 110V step down transformers

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rmt38

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#195720 1-May-2016 12:49

I'm buying some 16W 110V plant propagators from Amazon, where the power is used for heat pads, and am wondering about whether to get a step down transformer.

Do I need one? Or just adaptors?

If I do need one, are there any options people recommend? This seems to be the best option, providing 2 outlets, and running at about $115 delivered.

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richms

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#1544859 1-May-2016 13:15

They rate them at peak output which is how things are allowed to be rated in the US for some obscure reason, so they always say to derate them for continuous use.

I have had a couple of those type in the past, and they are noisy as, and get even worse depending on the load you put on them, Put something with a dimmer and they start to buzz like crazy because the transformer is an open type in side them.

The box full of resin around the transformer type are much quieter if that is something important to you.

Richard rich.ms

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#1544901 1-May-2016 15:32

rmt38:

<snip> What should I know about the downsides of just plugging them into an adaptor?

By "adapter" do you mean a gadget that converts a US mains plug into an Australian/NZ mains plug?

If so, you would be putting 240 volts into a device designed for 110 volts.

Bad idea. If you are lucky it would blow a fuse before it caught fire.

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