Why would I need a German extension cord? I’m using some European kitchen appliances which have 1) permanently attached cords and 2) require 230V so I’m using them on a 3000W pier converter/transformer
@thomasfuchs I thought the US tended to have some 220v socketing for high power stuff? For kitchen appliances is the frequency a problem if it's motor drive?
@penguin42 @thomasfuchs A transformer retains the frequency, so obviously that is not a problem in this case. The issue with 220V in the U.S. is typically that the wiring is very limited and dedicated to the equipment in a residence. In my house, each of dryer, oven, HVAC, and water heater have their own outlets, but there's no spare outlet. The only time I ever saw an available outlet (which was 208V back then) was when I lived at a place that had a window-mounted A/C unit. It should be possible to retain a licensed electrician to install additional outlets, but that's going to cost a fortune. Also, that option is not available if you want to power appliances at a different location (which what I suspect is the case, because why else would anyone care if transformers are heavy, unless they get moved).
Luckily devices for both power systems generally don’t need more than 10-15 amps so power conversion is relatively simple (transformers are very heavy though).
@pro @penguin42 You get 220-230v in houses because it's basically pulling off both taps of the transformer, while the 110-115v pull from one tap, and the center tap. The only places you get 208v is when you're in apartments and you're instead pulling off two different phases of the electric grid. You should be able to get an electrician to install an outlet for 230v, but it takes two slots in your breaker box. (Breaker boxes alternate ends of the transformer.)
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@penguin42 @pro Yeah, Electroboom showed that in one of his videos, but it's a bit dangerous.