Another electricity question about the voltage in ksa?

Question

So, how do I know which outlets are 220 and which are 110?

We bought a toaster, but had to return it because it was 220V, and it wouldn't even get hot because I guess we have 110V outlets. I really want a toaster!!!!

Also, I am not a big fan of all the different plugs. It's very frustrating. I wish they just stick to one type instead of selling 3 different kinds. I don't wanna have to use a power strip in my kitchen just to power a toaster or mixer etc.!!!

Answer 1

You should always ask as you move to a new place. Answers would be like the outlets that look like this are 220, and the outlets that look like that are 110.

Then you can know by the looks of the outlet.

If not possible then, well you'll just have to test them yourself or have someone do it for you.

Many devices these days work on both 110 and 220 anyway.

Answer 2

There is no standard for outlets in Saudi,each building is different, I myself burned a computer printer and a microwave the first year I came here!

Here is what I do to prevent "burning" things again, I bought a small and easy to use voltmeter, and whenever I move to a new apartment I test every outlet with the voltmeter and write output volt on a sticker and stick it next to the outlet.

Answer 3

just go to saco or any reputable hardware store and buy one of those little pin devises you stick to the outlet and tells you the voltage.. We had to do this in my last apartment.. cause actually the outlets all looked exactly alike, the 220 and the 110, we didnt know.. I burned out a couple of apliances before I knew this..

but thank God.. we just recently moved into my own home and I made sure I knew and I designed my outlet system and placement on my walls.. (you'd laugh) I have 220 and 110 on every wall in my home, just so in case any appliance is different it will work everywhere.. lol..

Answer 4

Strange really.

Here's the catch that could help you.

Saudi Arabia is using a 3-throngs or 3-pins socket or 2-square pin socket for the 220VAC

While for the 110VAC, you have the standard 2-flat pin socket.

You can easily identify it once you see the wall electrical outlets.

Otherwise, you can purchase a 220VAC rated adapter with 220VAC light indicator. According to the intensity of light indicator (bright or pale) you will find out which one is the higher voltage and lower voltage.

Goodluck !

Answer 5

What I suggest: if you're a layman that does not know what a voltmeter looks like, let alone owning one, take a picture of the socket with your camera phone (Most ppl have one of these), and show it to the guy at the electrical store. Based on what your socket looks like he should be able to tell you what toaster he has in stock that will work. Good luck!

Answer 6

KSA have a standard outlets (for they are very strict in Building Safety) but the problem is some residence villas or flats have different types for this outlets (depends on the availability of the materials they provide during construction, repair and installation). At the same time, we can't also identify that 3 pins or 2pins plug of a certain appliances/electronics is for 220V or 110V because both voltage are having these types of plugs/pins.

The best thing to do (as my suggestions) is to call for a certified electrician so he/she can check the output of a certain outlet and/or do check out your appliances/electronics voltage written at the back of it or in the owners manual and also check out from the villa/flat maintenance, which outlet is 220V or 110V and marked it so you will not be confused everytime you will used it.

During my construction experience in KSA (specially electrical in building camps);

1. we are putting tags on the electronics cord near to the plug showing its voltage.

2. we are putting marks on the outlet if its 220V or 110V

3. posting warning signs, like dangerous etc etc to avoid any hazards.

Answer 7

1-bring a tester screwdriver.

2-insert the scredriver in the pins.

3- if the lamb inside the screwdriver has lightend in the 2 pins, it means 220, and if lightened in only one so it's 110.

Answer 8

.........standard outlets for 220volts have 3-hole outlet but the first one is horizontal and the second is vertical and the third below them is for the ground......Also, the nearest outlet on the aircon opening have 220 volts and also in the kitchen because refrigerator, water heater and microwave are all 220 volts. For 110 volts, you'll see 3 hole-outlet with the first and second hole are identical unlike 220 volts,  the orientation is horizontal and vertical for the 2 holes above as I have mentioned earlier...