HELP!!! Using Electronics in Ghana-gctid50695

[Okomfo Akosua]

HELP!!!!!!!

I have a Vitamix Blender that I will bring to Ghana.  I was told that I may not be able to use it because of the voltage difference.  This is unacceptable.  I must be able to make smoothies whenever I want WITHOUT difficulty because it is smoothie time ALLLL the time!  

The Vita-Mix is 120 V, 50/60 Hz, 11.5 amps.  Will a regular plug adapter work or do I need a heavy duty transformer???

Voltage, Frequency and Plug/Outlet Type in Ghana - Treehouse Cityguide

[Ɔbenfo Ọbádélé]

Anything you plan on keeping, use a heavy-duty transformer...period. You'll spend more repairing stuff than you'll spend on the transformer. Ghana electricity is...well...what it is... :sankofa:

[Okomfo Akosua]

Do you know if the transformers can be purchased there?  I found one but they are heavy.  Wondering if they are cheaper and if it would be better to just purchase one when I get there.

[Ɔbenfo Ọbádélé]

Keep in mind you'll need not only something to change the current over but also an automatic voltage regulator for the spikes and dips which also destroy electronics. They're cheaper there, but you're right, they're heavy. You have to weigh it out pay for the weight possibly or pay more when you get here for the same or similar. I have 3 Simran ones that I purchased online and had my mother bring for me. If I would have brought them with me when I first came I would have saved a looooooot of money and time unnecessary repairs.

[Okomfo Akosua]

Thanks! I saw one that had a regulator and wasn't sure of what is was for so I overlooked it but will buy.  Only $10 difference than one that does not have it..  LiteFuze LR-5000 5000  Watt Heavy Duty Voltage Regulator w/ Voltage Converter Transformer -  Step Up/Down 110/120/220/240V (Free Euro Plug)
Also read that the converter transformer should be able to handle wattage 3 to 4 times more than what the machine you are running has.  My Vitamix is about 1380 watts so I'm a little over when multiplying times 4.  Your thoughts?

[Ɔbenfo Ọbádélé]

I'm not familiar with this particular brand but definitely go for the extra $10 and save yourself hundreds + your good time in the long run. You should be more than fine with 5,000. I'm running a multiple electronic devices through 2,000 and two 1,000s in the house with no problems since I got them.