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Common Step-Down Transformer Failures and How to Prevent Them

Transformers 250-500WStep-up or down transformers help us a lot. Because in the Philippines, our working voltage is at 220-240V, appliances bought abroad having a 100 or 110V working voltage could not be functional here. This is where a step-down transformer comes in. A Meiji step-down transformer’s input voltage is at 220V, it therefore steps DOWN to 110V in order to utilize appliances from the US or Japan. Likewise, a step-up transformers input voltage is at 110V, it has to STEP UP the working voltage to 220V in order for your appliances in the Philippines to work abroad.

Meiji step-up and step-down transformers bring much convenience too when traveling. You do NOT have to worry bringing your laptop, hair dryer and other appliances you use daily because of different working voltages.

But what we sometimes miss is the fact that even these transformers can develop some glitches as well. And if we do not pay much attention, our equipments, properties and even lives could be at stake. This is why having a clear understanding of the things that might get wrong with step-down transformers would be a great help for us.

transformers coreThe following are some of the most common transformer problems:

  1. Primary winding problem. The coil that is meant to generate magnetic field is the step-down transformer’s primary winding. Having more loops compared to the secondary winding, this one may have a turn-to-turn short, which may lead to interruption of the current flow. Problems also arise when the voltage output is 10% higher than its designed capacity.
  2. Problem with the secondary winding. Unlike the primary winding, where the wnding of transformervoltage output should not be more than what is supposed to be, here, problems arise when the voltage is lower than the set value.
  3. Open circuit. If the circuit of the step-down transformer is open, then there is no continuity in the flow of electricity. Therefore, there is a break in its circuit.

These transformer problems should be properly addressed. Especially for high-wattage transformers. occurrences like overheating and fire are just some of the possible dangers that can be caused by transformer failures.

It is also advisable for individuals facing these problems to seek the necessaryTransformer Step-down Box Type advice whether to go for a repair or to immediately replace the step-down transformer. One has to know the best thing to do in order to avoid more serious consequences.

Also, it would be helpful for owners to remember the supplier of the transformer bought and regularly check the devices plugged in  for possible problems or failures. And when there are some inconsistencies in terms of the output, one has to immediately seek proper troubleshooting. This way, one can act on it immediately and ensure safety.

How to Deal With Imported Appliances

imported appliancesImported appliances may be more favored than the local ones with their latest innovations, popular brand names, prestige and exquisite quality.  People are inclined to buy appliances, gadgets and others from overseas to avail of its edge over the locally known produce.  However, there are a few things to remember when dealing with imported appliances.

This article aims to inform you of the precautions to remember in doing so.

  • Compatibility of the socket outlets. Since each country has its own standards, this should be one of the things to look out for. In case outlets in your appliance is incompatible, be informed too where to get your adapters.
  • Knowledge of your appliance. Ensure that all aspects of the device is properly explained. This includes features, technical parameters to avoid confusion and malfunctioning due to damage in its sensitive parts. Moreover, some appliances entail you to use step-down transformers due to their voltage capacities.

Step-down TransformersManuals too, may have terms that are not commonly used by the public. It would also be wise to ask explanations from sales representatives especially if these appliances are not yet being sold in the country.

  • Maintenance. Maintaining these appliances may also be quite a challenge because not many brands have their outlets in our country to accommodate warranties.  If changing of some major component ensue, these electronic pieces might be hard to find in the local stores.  The owner can deal with this by contacting the dealers or the manufacturers on what or where to buy the replacements.

One thing more, the export of these products from the originating country is also a daunting task.  Getting the products from its manufacturer entails high risk and expensive handling charges.  There is also the danger of getting the appliances damaged because of constant transfer during transit not to mention getting the products lost during these times.

  • Money’s Worth. The owner should be vigilant enough that they get real value for what they bought. Many have been victims of this kind of fraud, believing that what they bought abroad are much cheaper not knowing that it isn’t when researched properly.

Buying imported appliances has both its advantages and disadvantages but remembering the above mentioned precautions can help you get the most out of your hard earned cash.

Power Saver: Turning it off VS. Standby Mode?

food cravingsRefrigerators are one of the most common things left on inside our homes. But if you will check your power meters, your water heater may be the bigger reason why your power bill shoot up last month. This is why refrigerators are almost always on standby in terms of its electric consumption. This however, changes when you keep on feeding on your cravings every 10minutes.

Michael Bluejay, an energy efficient expert said that a laptop or desktop usually takes 1/8 of its electric consumption when it is on “standby” or what we now call “sleep” mode. This was in the context of experimenting whether or not turning off a machine would save more electricity compared to turning it on again or just leaving it on.  This was done as many have a notion that it would save us more electricity when we turn off an appliance.

On the other hand, interestingly, we know that turning on an appliance could require probably three times more electricity compared to just leaving it on stagnant for a time where it has a stable amount of electric consumption.

sleep modeNordman also believed that sleep settings use very little energy which is probably why most BPO companies nowadays prefer leaving their computer systems on standby mode even if its not in use than to totally shutting it off. So what really is more helpful?

 Katharine Kaplan, a person who leads the EPA’s energy star program also agreed with Nordman that “sleep mode” is the best way to save electricity which is why we can assume that turning on and off an elecrtric appliance would consume much more electricity than leaving it stagnant on.

The above-mentioned statements from known personnel in their fields of electric consumption can be a good reason to say that electric consumption doubles up if we turn on and off our gadgets/appliances rather than if we leave it stagnant on.

So ladies and gentlemen, for appliances you use regularly that have standby or sleep mode, make use of these power savers! Provided with supervision and proper maintenance, you can be sure to save energy.

Find out too for yourself what really works! We’re open to hear your personal experiences. What is the better way to save electricity? Turning off an appliance VS. Leaving it on Standby?

MEIJI JOINS ACE HARDWARE ELECTRICAL SALE!

meiji Transformers SaleCome one, come all to Meiji Electric’s whole month sale in participating ACE HARDWARE STORES! Starting July 1, we are slashing off 15% off those price tags! At last, a company that provides us with affordable, good quality electrical supplies!

This year, Meiji Electric would like to showcase their Step-Down Transformers! Rated from 50, 75, 100. 125, 150, 250, 350, 500, 750, 1000, 1500, 2000, 3000, 4000 and 5000 Watts! It’s time to use that rated 110W appliance with Meiji Step-down transformers.

Hassle not your relatives and friends to buy transformers abroad as they bring you your dream appliances/gadgets. Meiji heard your cry and has the answer! No minimum quantity required, no voucher or slips needed.

Visit MEIJI ELECTRIC at their participating ACE Branches:

  1. Megamall
  2. Makati
  3. Dasmarinas, Cavite
  4. Fairview
  5. Pampanga
  6. Cagayan de Oro
  7. Baguio
  8. Clark, Angeles
  9. Noth Edsa
  10. San Lazaro
  11. Southmall
  12. Muntinlupa
  13. Santa Rosa
  14. Festival
  15. Santa Mesa
  16. Davao
  17. Taytay
  18. Virramall
  19. Cebu
  20. Bacoor
  21. Mall of Asia
  22. Calamba
  23. Rosario
  24. Market Market
  25. Cubao
  26. Bacolod
  27. Del Gado
  28. Iloilo

Come and see for yourself! :D

 

How to Properly Determine the Appropriate Wattage for Your Appliance

the solution to lower electric billsDo you wonder why your monthly electricity bill is not consistent or not meeting your estimates? Perhaps you need to take a look at the wattage consumption of your appliances. It’s a good thing to know at least a rough calculation of the monthly energy consumption of your appliances at home so you can think of ways on how to reduce the usage. A lot of appliances differ in terms of their watt usage. The importance of cost-effective living involves knowing how to save energy consumption on the appliances that you use.

Keep in mind to always check the label of any appliance to determine how much electricity it uses. Nowadays, manufacturers are required and have made it easier for people to locate the information regarding energy consumption. Commonly you’ll be able to find the label at the back of the appliance or in its adapter or power cord. The lower the wattage, the better; however, there are various factors to consider in calculating for your total energy consumption for an entire month and so as to an annual approximation. In fact, the actual cost of your electricity usage will still depend on how long you use a certain appliance as well as how much your electricity provider charges you per kilowatt.

Avoid using typical high-wattage appliances such as clothes dryer, iron and electric water boiler for a long duration as this will surely affect electricity costs to rise. Do you know that a clothes dryer can consume as much as 5 kilowatts (or 5000 watts), a microwave oven can consume as much as 1.5 kilowatts (or 1500 watts), and an iron can consume as much as 1 kilowatt (or 1000 watts)? By the way, as you may have noticed, 1 kilowatt (kW) is equal to 1000 watts (W). Below is the formula for you to compute the energy usage of your appliances:

(Wattage x Hours Used per Day) ÷ 1000 = Daily Kilowatt-hour (kWh) consumption

Using the given formula above is one way to effectively manage your electricity consumption. Although it will not provide you with the exact daily kWh consumption of your appliances, but then it’s still going to be efficient by giving you a better understanding on how to properly manage your appliance usage.

Step Down Transformers | Truth or Myth: Buying 1 High Wattage Transformer Saves Energy Than Buying 2 Lower Wattages

You’ve sure heard about step down transformers in the context of electricity. You might not be familiar, though, of the structures and technicalities underlying how it works. At the least, you should be aware of its usage benefits.

In a fundamental scale, transformers are electrical devices that work by converting electricity from a certain voltage how transforerms workto a different voltage as necessary either by stepping up or down, in the same frequency.

Much have been said and written enumerating the different types of transformers with a variety of wattages. But in terms of the saving energy, ever wonder about the truth (or myth) that by using high wattage than low wattage transformers, you can actually save more energy?

Let’s try to analyse by taking this example. A beauty salon owns three transformers: one having 100W and two having 50W. Their electrical tool that is mostly used to finish dressing up the hair of every customer is the hair blower which consumes 20W of power. On a typical working day, hairdressers use hair blowers simultaneously to serve customers efficiently in regard to time.

Given below are two cases. Which do you think saves more energy?

  1. Plugging two hair blowers in each of the two 50W transformers; or
  2. Plugging four hair blowers in one 100W transformer

Note that using simple arithmetic, the result of power consumption is the same for both cases: 80W. But by considering the materials used inside the transformer, it is concluded that using higher wattage transformers can save more energy than lower wattage transformers. This rationale can be simplified by the principles of resistivity.

Resistance is the property of a material that hinders the electric current’s flow. It is calculated using the formula: R = pL/A, wherein resistance (R) of the wire is taken as the quotient of the product of the length (L) and resistivity or constant of a particular material (p) and the area of the material (A) which is the copper wire in the transformer.

Applying this formula theoretically, we can say that when the area or diameter of the copper wire is smaller, the value for resistance is bigger.

The opposite is true; by having a bigger diameter of the copper wire, resistance drops. And bigger gauge size or diameter of the copper wire is exactly what higher wattage transformers are composed of.

So there you have it! We busted  the myth! :D

Why Meiji Has the Best Transformers

Transformer Box TypeAmong many product lines that Meiji Electric carry, Transformers consist to one of them. Transformers according to Wikipedia are used to transfer electrical energy from one circuit to another through magnetic coils operated by its primary and secondary windings. These windings determine the two types of a transformer: step-up or step-down.

Now as you know, in our country our working voltage is 220. But in countries such as Anguila, China, Cuba, Guam and USA use 110-120V. Because of this, when relatives and loved ones send appliances over to the country, we need to use step down transformers.

A step down transformer decreases voltage from primary to secondary, having more primary winding turns than secondary winding turns. Transformers 50-100WPlugging the appliance on Meiji’s step down transformer 110V outlet allows your appliance to have an output of 220V thus making it useable. A step up transformer on the other hand, increases voltage from primary to secondary windings having more secondary winding turns than primary winding turns. When you in turn will bring an appliance or gadget having a 220V output, you need to buy a step up transformer using its 220V outlet in order for it to be used.

Meiji step down transformers have a number of advantages compared to other suppliers in the market. First, Meiji TC models comprising of 50 to 750 wattages come with handles. These handles do not heat up in case you need to transfer your transformer from one place to another. For higher and heavier wattages such as 1000-5000 called ST models, the handles are made up of rubber material. Meiji promotes convenience to its users.

Transformers 250-500WMeiji step down TC models also have fuse protection device that will blow in case of a short circuit, over current or over voltage. This will warn the user to make sure the device plugged-in is inappropriate with the load capacity of the transformer. In addition to this, ST models also have a circuit breaker on top of the fuse protection device. This circuit breaker will automatically trip protecting both your appliance and the transformer unit itself.

The number of available outlets is also a major advantage with Meiji step down transformers. For models TC-250, TC-350, TC-500 and TC-750, there are 2 available output voltages namely 110 and 100 catering to countries with these working voltages. For ST Models 1000-5000, 3 outlets are available: 2-110V and 1-220V.

Meiji provides you with convenience, aesthetics and a complete line of wattages available from 50W until 10,000W for all your needs. Try it and tell us what you think!

Transformers

Transformer Box TypeAccording to the Business Dictionary, a transformer is a device that converts an alternating (A/C) current of a certain voltage to an alternating current of different voltage, without change of frequency, by electromagnetic induction. A ‘step up’ transformer receives a low voltage and converts into a higher voltage, and a ‘step down’ transformer does just the reverse.

Meiji transformers allow you to use your 110V of appliance bought or sent from abroad to our usual working voltage of 220V-240V.

Meiji Transformers have the portable type from 50w-750w with plastic handles. Also, it has a fuse as a protective device for over voltage. This will be the initial warning as it blows to inform you or the user that the ampere rating being used is more than the allowable. It also protects your appliance against short circuits and other dangerous faults to avoid accidents like fire. We also have a convenient switch for easier turn-on and shut-off without the need of pulling the plug from your wall outlet.

Also, we have a new feature dual output voltage (100V and 110V) to cater to countries using these voltages (i.e. Japan, etc). All our outlets are also uniquely round to flat (universal) with ground. These features together with our affordable prices make us a leading brand in the stores.

Transformers 50-100WWe have the box type for the higher rated transformers. We call it ST series. It has similar features except our outlets here are all universal (3: 110, 1:100) with sturdier handles. An added safety feature of a circuit breaker is included that would trip to protect your appliance in case of a short circuit and a fuse that will blow when over voltage occur.

You cannot go wrong with Meiji Transformers!

Available wattages:

50w

75w

100w

125w

150w

Transformers 250-500W250w

350w

500w

750w

1,000w

1,500w

2,000w

3,000w

4,000w

5,000w

10,000w