Why are American power outlets different?

Englishmen improved upon on the American plug with a much safer [and bulky] plug. They just developed their own plug system to work with that requirement. Thus, each system of plugs had their own advantages suitable for their system and countries didn’t accept one system to be better than another.

Why do European outlets look different?

Companies in Europe realized that supplying power at 220 volts instead of 110 volts would be cheaper. At a higher voltage, electric companies can deliver the same power with less current – picture a narrow stream flowing quickly compared to a wider stream flowing slowly. And less current allows for thinner wires.

Why do American outlets not have switches?

They are a safety tool that allows people to disconnect appliances from power without touching the plug. Americans prefer unswitched outlets because you can power an appliance by simply inserting the plug into the outlet. They are not convinced that switched outlets are safer.

Why are British and European plugs different?

To save copper, Britain adopted the ring main system, with sockets connected sequentially, but this meant each connection needed its own fuse. Instead of putting the fuses in the sockets, they were included in the plugs themselves. Hence the UK’s bigger plugs.

Why are there different electrical outlets?

As the need for safer installations grew, three-pin outlets were developed. The reason why the world is now stuck with no less than 15 different styles of plugs and wall outlets, is because many countries preferred to develop a plug of their own, instead of adopting the US standard.

What is the difference between European electricity and American electricity?

American appliances run on 110 volts, while European appliances are 220 volts. If you see a range of voltages printed on the item or its plug (such as “110–220”), you’re OK in Europe. Some older appliances have a voltage switch marked 110 (US) and 220 (Europe) — switch it to 220 as you pack.

Why does Europe have different voltage?

Why are there so many different power outlets?

The reason why the world is now stuck with no less than 15 different styles of plugs and wall outlets, is because many countries preferred to develop a plug of their own, instead of adopting the US standard.

Why do British power outlets have switches?

The reason plugs in the UK are so big is that each one must be individually fused. And the reason for that is something called a “ring circuit”. In a ring circuit you have, say, a 40 amp fuse at the mains/box. Ring circuits have serious drawbacks, but they helped during a time when there was a copper shortage.

Why does Britain have different outlets?