Korean Job Discussion Forums

nekopanchi113 · Joined: 10 Apr 2011

My parents sent me a capsule coffee machine for christmas. I am wondering if anyone knows about the best way to deal with the voltage difference. what do I need to get it to work and is it worth it. or should i just buy the machine again here if i can.

timhorton · Joined: 07 Dec 2005

You can buy a voltage converter.

http://www.amazon.com/VOLTAGE-CONVERTER-PRODUCTS-COUNTRIES-TRAVELLING/dp/B003EULJVM

nekopanchi113 · Joined: 10 Apr 2011

i have one like that but they say not to use it for kitchen appliances.

fustiancorduroy · Joined: 12 Jan 2007

If your apartment has 110V American power outlets like mine does, you can just use them. Barring that, read the directions of your coffee machine. Korean outlets are usually 220V, so make sure your appliance can handle the voltage. If it can, then just buy a simple plug converter for about 1,000 won.

ttompatz · Joined: 05 Sep 2005 Location: Kwangju, South Korea

nekopanchi113 · Joined: 10 Apr 2011

My apartment is only standard korean outlets at 220 volts and the machine runs at 120 volts and 1470 watts. Anyone know where I can get the heavy duty step up converter in korea?

Jake_Kim · Joined: 27 Aug 2005 Location: Seoul

Keywords to look out for is '변압기' or '도란스' (yes, the latter comes from 'transformer' of which pronunciation has been tweaked by the Japanese in the past)

http://gmkt.kr/gLEk4_ : this is just an example, and since you need a 'downward' voltage conversion from 220 to 110/120, it'll be more specifically called '강압(변압)기'.

Upward converter, on the other hand, will be '승압(변압)기'.

When you buy or order one, don't forget to add a few extra fuses. That little thing always shorts out when least expected.

Redcap · Joined: 03 Jan 2010

"Roasted" will be a term you can apply equally to your coffee beans and your coffee machine, unless you get a step-down converter.

A step-down converter's (transformer) job is to send 110 volts into your U.S. appliance, instead of the Korean standard of 220 volts. Simply plug the step-down transformer into a Korean electrical outlet (ie. wall socket), and then plug your coffee maker into the step-down transformer's socket.

You can purchase them at most hardware stores and some electronics stores. Even Emart sells them, albeit for a premium rate. Prices generally range from 30,000 to 60,000 won.

Alternatively, you can pick up up a used one from the buy and sell section on Daves. There's at least one currently for sale.