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[toggleswitch2]

Yes, actually we are used to different ways. And the above probably does describe the sentiment of many in North America.

To make permanent changes to our homes and wiring to accomodate machines of a different ethos makes little sense, especially if they are a fad or a have an extremely limited following in North America at this time.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ethos

 

[MrX]

@toggleswitch2

When you see how complicated the split-phase 110V system becomes when you need to plug in some heavy appliances, you can really see why it was dropped in Europe.

Back in the early part of the 19th century, some European countries had 127V/220V systems which were wired in a similar way to those found today in North America, just with a slightly different voltage and frequency. In fact, some of them are still in use in areas that were influenced by European wiring methodologies at that time e.g. parts of the Caribbean, Africa and certain countries in the Middle East.

Because of a demand for 3000W+ appliances by the 1950s e.g. space heaters, dryers, electric kettles etc etc they were abandoned and single phase 220V hot + 0V neutral became the norm.

It always surprises me that the North American system wasn't simplified too.

I notice that there are a lot more 20amp socket outlets arriving in the US/Canada in newer homes to provide more power in areas like kitchens.

It would make sense to provide a bit more juice in laundry rooms these-days too with the advent of front loading washing machines in the states and canada.

It seems that the wiring regs aren't quite catching up with the demand.

 

[MrX]

Sorry that should have read 1900's not 19th century !!

Woops!

 

[toggleswitch2]

~It always surprises me that the North American system wasn't simplified too.

It's a shame that there are worldwide differences in the frequency of power (50/60Hz). Were they one and the same, conversion to 220v nationally would have been easier and perhaps a bit less costly.

When the UK gets rid of ring-circuits and this continent 110v, we'll all be closer to the majority's way of electrical wiring! [And let me tell you how fascinating ring-circuits are to us "outsiders"! One's jaw falls to the ground!]



Perhaps when the Chinese take us over, they will convert us.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ring_circuit