What happens if I plug a 110V lamp into a 220V outlet in Thailand?

Voltage Compatibility Electrical Appliances Thailand Expat Tips Home Appliances Antiques and Collectibles

Apr 1, 2024

9 months ago

ORIGINAL POSTER

“…And everything else”

We cleared out lots of antiques from my in laws old Bangkok shophouse. Among the things that turned up is this lamp from the 50s/60s. Seems it’s 110 volt. Anyone know what the outcome will be plugging this into 220volts?* Thanks. 

*Sarcastic comments? Yes, but be funny!

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TLDR : Answer Summary

Plugging a 110V lamp into a 220V outlet can damage the lamp, often causing it to burn out or stop working. It is crucial to use a voltage adapter or change the lamp's ballast to support 220V. Some humorous responses suggest that it would work for a brief moment before failing, comparing it to flashy effects.

David ******

An easy solution: that’s an old lamp with a 110V ballast. Just change out the ballast and install a 220V bulb. Might be costly but a solution? But if there is no ballast involved just change out the 110V bulb with a 220V bulb.

8 months ago

Kool *******

Do you remember the old Rice Crispy's commercials with the characters "Snap, Crackle, and Pop"?

8 months ago

Carlos *********

It will work once, for a second maybe two and then never again

9 months ago

Mike **********

You’ll get double the amount of light. Now if you really want to see glow, find a 440 source 😉

9 months ago

Matthew **********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Mike *********

That would cut my electric bill in half! Genius!

9 months ago

Mike **********

@Matthew *********

solving world issues one response at a time.

9 months ago

Reply to

Mike **********

Stuart *********

@Mike *********

for perhaps 3 seconds (a made up number).

9 months ago

Reply to

Stuart *********

Franky ******

Boom boom .

9 months ago

Kev *********

@Franky *****

some areas are well known for boom boom 😂🤣

9 months ago

Franky ******

@Kev ********

I wouldn't know ..............................................

9 months ago

Reply to

Franky ******

Stuart *********

In your case the label specifically states 110v. Do not try to plug it in here without a voltage adapter in between.

9 months ago

Stuart *********

Plugging a 110v device in to 220v will generally result in it frying. Modern electronics generally will adapt to both voltages but you need to check the label on the item. If it isn’t able for 220v then it won’t end well.

9 months ago

John *********

@Stuart ********

I concur with Stuart. He’s so smart.

9 months ago

Reply to

John *********

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