Canadian TVs, Electronics, etc, will they work?

[rvfloyd]

Hi All

Wondering if someone can advise me whether I should bother to ship my Canadian TVs, lamps, electronics etc. to Antigua for our move there in January 2011 or buy new stuff when we get there. Shipping from Canada is very expensive and I don't want to find out I cannot use the TVs etc. down there after I spend the money to get them there. I know the voltage is different but I wonder whether there are converters available that would do the trick.

Also wondering about whether it is worthwhile to ship my car there or should I purchase something after I get there?

All advice and opinions are appreciated.

Thank you,

[streatley]

The critical thing about power is the frequency as generally you can generally change the voltage with a converter. Power in Antigua varies between 110v & 220/240v depending on where you're based - for example we're in Jolly Harbour and that's 220v. The frequency is 60Hz so if your equipment is also 60Hz you can run your equipment (depending on the voltage) either directly or through a voltage converter (transformer). Changing frequency is very complex (and hence expensive) so I'd recommend you avoided that route. For example our stuff in the UK is rated at 50Hz and therefore won't work very well in Antigua - even though the voltage is the same. Many devices are rated as 50Hz/60Hz and they'd work fine. Also you can get away with some devices - for example our vacuum cleaner is rated 50Hz but it runs fine - the motor is probably running 20% faster which means it sucks better but it won't last very long - but since it only cost £9.99 it's not a big deal! Also things like toasters should work just fine as they are just heaters. Anything with a timer that relies on the frequency is a definite no no - for example a clock running 20% faster is not much good!

Not sure about cars as we're not permanent residents but I think the import taxes may be too high (they certainly were when we looked at it a while back) - if you have some concession then it will be different.

Regarding TV's - not only will you have the power issues mentioned above but you need to consider the transmission standard (PAL, NTSC etc) you will need to check that your TV can decode Antiguan transmissions. Perhaps someone locally can help regarding the Antiguan standard as we don't have a TV at out place in Jolly Harbour.

Hope the above helps.

Kind regards

[Mark]

TV's will be fine from Canada to work here NTSC same as there. Also all your electrical goods will be too, PROVIDING the place you are going to live in is 110/120v, same cycle as Canada 60HZ, same flat 2 pin plugs too, or sometimes with a ground as well. One thing bring plenty of good surge protectors with you, it will save you money in the long run.

Regards

[Donna]

Hi rvfloyd

Before you make any decisions on shipping your personal belongings make sure you know all the rules on import duties. Cars especially are very high and really not worth bringing in. Your stuff might also be held up in customs for months. Unless you are planning to spend forever in Antigua I would suggest you buy what you need there. Watch for "leaving the island" sales, classified in the Observer paper and signs on grocery stores for the best buys.

Cheers Donna