How do I use my curling iron in Guernsey?

Guernsey power outlet

Summary

First check your curling iron can handle the voltage in Guernsey:

  • If your curling iron can run on 230 volts or can support dual voltage (how you can tell) then you'll only need to use a suitable power adapter listed on this page if the plug on your curling iron won't fit in the outlet.

If not then either:

  • Use a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] - you may still need to use the right power adapter for Guernsey however these cheap lightweight accessories are designed specifically for the rigors of travel.
  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this will enable you to use your existing curling iron and other applicances with a 230 volt Guernsey power outlet, however this is significantly bulkier, heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel curling iron. A power converter changes the voltage but not the physical shape of the plug on your curling iron to fit in the wall outlet used in Guernsey, therefore please check that the power converter comes with an appropriate power adapter for Guernsey otherwise you will still need to bring a seperate power adapter. Please be aware your domestic curling iron might not be suited for travelling and you risk potential damage in transit. [5] [AD]
Warning: If your curling iron won't handle 230 volts used in Guernsey you run the risk of blowing a fuse, damage to your curling iron or even an electrical fire hazard. Before using your curling iron in Guernsey check the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a curling iron in Guernsey

Will my curling iron work in Guernsey?

That will depend on if your curling iron is designed to operate using the 230 volts as used in Guernsey. If you're using either a dual voltage curling iron or your curling iron can handle 230 volts and you have the correct power adapter then you can use the curling iron in Guernsey. If not then you will need to consider buying either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or a heavier and more expensive power converter. Read the section on can you use a voltage converter to use a domestic curling iron in Guernsey for help deciding which option is more suitable. [5] [AD]

How can I use my US curling iron in Guernsey?

The guides on this page assume that you're an America reader visiting Guernsey and provide guidance for using your American curling iron with a Guernsey power outlet.

Guernsey power outlets and plug sockets

What is the electrical frequency used in Guernsey?

The frequency in a Guernsey power outlet is 50Hz. [6]

What is the mains voltage in Guernsey?

The typical residential voltage in Guernsey is 230 volts.

Which power adapter do you need to bring for using a curling iron in Guernsey?

Type G power outlet

Which power adapter do you need to bring for using a curling iron in Guernsey?

The type of power outlet used in Guernsey is type G. This plug outlet, technically called a type G power outlet, looks like 3 vertical holes forming a triangle pattern. A recommended power adapter to bring for using a 230 volt curling iron in Guernsey is a Type G plug adapter, read the step by step instructions below for full details of how to use a travel adapter for Guernsey. Be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage curling iron you might also need to use a voltage converter.  [4] [7] [AD]

Dual voltage curling irons

Is my curling iron dual voltage?

An easy way how to tell if your curling iron supports a dual voltage power outlet is to check for either a sticker or numbers printed on the plug or the handle of your curling iron. The location might vary depending on the make and model of your curling iron and should also state on the box or in the instruction manual. Some dual voltage curling irons can change automatically but other models will feature a button which allows you to operate between different regions.

  • Single voltage might say a specific number - such as 110V. If this number matches the 230 volts used in Guernsey then you should be able to use your curling iron with a Guernsey power outlet.
  • Single voltage could also have a small voltage range with a dash to accomodate small voltage fluctuations - such as 100-120V. If the 230 volts used in a Guernsey power outlet falls within the range shown on your curling iron then you can use it in Guernsey.
  • Dual voltage will typically say a large range separated with a slash - such as 100/240V. Your curling iron will be capable of being used in Guernsey or any other country if these numbers are shown.

Travelling to Guernsey with a curling iron

Can you carry on a curling iron in your luggage?

According to the TSA guidelines for curling irons there are no restrictions when bringing a mains powered curling iron in your carry on luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA also suggests that you should verify that the airline that is flying you to Guernsey will allow curling irons onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the aircraft. Packing your curling irons in a dedicated heat resistant protective hot tools travel case leaves it easily accessible for airport security checks, it can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of power cords in your carry on luggage (the TSA recommends wrapping cords tightly around curling irons). If you intend to bring fragile or expensive curling irons in your hand held luggage then it is advisable to bring hard carry on luggage as this provides the most protection against knocks and drops during your journey.   [8] [9] [10] [AD]

Is it safer to bring my travel curling iron or dual voltage curling iron to Guernsey?

Bringing a dual voltage travel curling iron is preferable to packing your existing curling iron as it ensures that it will operate correctly with the 230 volt power outlets used with a Guernsey power outlet, provided that you use the correct plug adapter for Guernsey. Note that packing expensive domestic curling iron might place it at risk due to potential loss or damage in your check in luggage by airline baggage handlers. The costs involved in repairing or replacing an expensive quality curling iron in Guernsey might overshadow the costs of purchasing a cheap dual voltage travel curling iron [2] beforehand to bring along with you. If you intend to pack your own curling iron in your luggage it is recommended to either slide it inside a sneaker or boot to protect from light knocks, alternatively use a heat resistant and shockproof hot tools travel case which will also allow the curling iron to be packed whilst hot without risk of burning.  [9] [AD]

Power converters for Guernsey

What is the difference between a voltage converter and a power adapter for Guernsey?

Voltage converter

What is the difference between a voltage converter and a power adapter for Guernsey?

An expensive and heavy power converter converts the voltage of 230 volts from a Guernsey power outlet to work with a non-230 volt curling iron, however a cheaper and smaller power adapter (or plug adapter) changes the shape of the plug on your curling iron to slot into a power outlet found in Guernsey. [5] [AD]

Do I need a voltage converter to use a curling iron in Guernsey?

The correct model of power converter (or voltage transformer) will allow your curling iron using a different voltage to work with the 230 volt power outlet used in Guernsey. Travellers wishing to bring their own curling iron can use a power converter, but it could be a lot less expensive to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel curling iron [2] than it is to purchase a power converter. Also, a travel curling iron can be noticeably smaller than a power converter making a travel curling iron more suited for packing. [5] [AD]

How to use a curling iron in Guernsey using a type G power adapter

How to power your curling iron in Guernsey using a Type G travel charger.

  1. Make sure that your curling iron is either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or is compatible with a 230 volt power outlet - if not then do not proceed as you may create an electrical fire hazard, damage your iron or blow a fuse. Before using a dual voltage travel curling iron make sure the switch is set to accept 230 volts; please refer to the user guide for more information on where this switch is found.
  2. If the type of power outlet used in Guernsey isn't the same shape as the plug on your curling iron you'll need to buy a Type G plug adapter [4]. This Type G plug adapter helps adapt plugs from other countries for an electrical outlet used in Guernsey by changing the shape of the plug, however it doesn't change the voltage of the curling iron to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Begin the process by taking the Type G plug adapter and inserting it in the Guernsey power outlet. This power outlet (technically called the Type G power outlet [3]) can be recognised by 3 vertical rectangular slots with plastic shutters in a triangular configuration for live, neutral and earth.
  4. After that plug in your curling iron into the Type G plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Guernsey power outlet.
  6. You can now switch on the curling iron for use in Guernsey. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Guernsey using a type G power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Guernsey Wikipedia page
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel curling iron
  3. iec.ch - Type G power outlet
  4. Type G plug adapter - An earthed BS 1363 certified UK power adapter, featuring a fuse to protect against overload and consequent fire risks. Ideal for use in over 50 countries, including England, Scotland, Ireland, and also in international cities like Dubai and Hong Kong..
  5. Power converter - Heavy-duty power converters are designed to convert voltage levels between different electrical standards, shifting between 110V/120V and 220V/240V with both 50Hz and 60Hz, often incorporating safety features such as fuse protection and circuit breakers..
  6. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  7. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  8. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for curling irons -
  9. Hard case for hot tools - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a flat irons, curling irons and hair straighteners.
  10. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.