Using a curling iron in Azerbaijan

Azerbaijani power outlet

Summary

Check your curling iron can work in Azerbaijan:

  • If your curling iron can run using 230 volts or can support dual voltage (how you can check) then you will only need to use the correct power adapter listed on this page if the plug on your curling iron will not fit in the outlet.

If not then:

  • Use a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] - you may still need an appropriate power adapter for Azerbaijan but 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 an 230 volt Azerbaijani power outlet, however this is substantially bulkier, heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel curling iron. A voltage transformer will change the voltage but not the actual physical shape of the plug on your curling iron to fit in the power outlet used in Azerbaijan, therefore please check that your power converter comes with the correct power adapter for Azerbaijan otherwise you will need to bring a seperate power adapter. Note that your personal curling iron might not be suitable for travelling and you could risk potential damage in your luggage. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your curling iron won't handle 230 volts used in Azerbaijan you run the potential risk of damage to your curling iron, an electrical fire hazard or blowing a fuse. Before using your curling iron in Azerbaijan please check the instruction manual first to ensure safe operation.

Using a curling iron in Azerbaijan

Will my curling iron work in Azerbaijan?

That depends on if your curling iron can operate using the 230 volts which are used in Azerbaijan:

Can I use my American curling iron in Azerbaijan?

The guides on this page assume that you are an America reader travelling to Azerbaijan and will provide guidance for using your US curling iron with an Azerbaijani power outlet.

Azerbaijan power outlets and plug sockets

What voltage is used in Azerbaijan?

Power outlets in Azerbaijan are 230 volts.

What is the frequency used in an Azerbaijani power outlet?

The frequency found in an Azerbaijani power outlet is 50 Hz. [8]

Which power adapter do you need for using a curling iron in Azerbaijan?

Type C and F power outlets

Which power adapter do you need for using a curling iron in Azerbaijan?

There are two types of power outlets used in Azerbaijan, types F and C with the primary power outlets being type F:

  • Plug Type C - You can identify this plug socket by the 2 adjacent holes where the twin plug socket pins go.
  • Plug Type F - You can identify the plug socket by the two adjacent holes where the live and neutral plug socket pins slide into and a pair of two thin metal grounding clips on the top and bottom.

A recommended travel adapter to bring for using a 230 volt curling iron in Azerbaijan is a Type F power adapter - read the simple instructions below for full details of using a curling iron in Azerbaijan with a power adapter. Be aware that unless you that have a dual voltage curling iron you will need to confirm if you have to use a power converter.  [6] [9] [AD]

Dual voltage curling irons

How can you tell if your curling iron is dual voltage?

An easy way how to tell if your curling iron supports a dual voltage outlet is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the handle or plug. The location will depend on the make and model of your curling iron, it could also state on the box. Some dual voltage curling irons will change automatically, however other models will have a button which allows you to change between different regions.

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

Travelling to Azerbaijan with a curling iron

Is it safe to bring my curling iron to Azerbaijan?

Bringing a dual voltage travel curling iron is preferable to bringing your existing curling iron as it ensures that it will work with the 230 volt power outlets used with an Azerbaijani power outlet, as long as you bring the correct plug adapter for Azerbaijan.

Be aware that bringing expensive domestic curling iron could put it at risk due to potential damage or loss in your check in suitcase by a baggage handlers in Azerbaijan. The cost and inconvenience of replacing or repairing an expensive specialised curling iron in Azerbaijan might be more than purchasing a cheaper dual voltage travel curling iron [2] . If you intend to bring your own curling iron in your luggage it is recommended to either slot it inside a boot or sneaker to protect from light knocks, alternatively use a shockproof and heat resistant hot tools travel case which will also allow the curling iron to be packed whilst hot without risk of burning.  [10] [AD]

Can curling irons go in my carry on luggage to Azerbaijan?

According to the TSA guidelines for curling irons there are no restrictions when carrying a mains powered curling iron in your carry on hand luggage through airport security in the US. The TSA suggests that you should verify that the airline who is taking you to Azerbaijan will allow curling irons onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane. 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 cables in your carry on luggage (the TSA recommends wrapping wires tightly around curling irons). If you intend to pack fragile or expensive curling irons in your hand held luggage then it is recommended to use hard carry on luggage as this provides the greatest protection against bumps and knocks during your journey.   [10] [11] [12] [AD]

Power converters for Azerbaijan

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

A power converter (or voltage transformer) will allow a curling iron using a different voltage to work with the 230 volt power outlet used in Azerbaijan. A power converter is suitable for travellers wishing to use their own curling iron, but it might be cheaper to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel curling iron [2] than it will be to purchase a power converter. Also, a travel curling iron can be significantly lighter than a power converter making a travel curling iron more suited for packing in luggage. [7] [AD]

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

Voltage converter

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

A small, cheap and lightweight power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your curling iron to slot into a power outlet in Azerbaijan, whereas a heavier and more expensive power converter will convert a 230 volt Azerbaijani power outlet to work with a non-230 volt curling iron. [7] [AD]

How to use a curling iron in Azerbaijan using a type C power adapter

How to use your curling iron in Azerbaijan by using a Type C travel adapter.

  1. Please make sure that the curling iron is either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or works with a 230 volt power outlet; but if it doesn't then do not attempt these instructions because you may blow a fuse, damage your curling iron or create an electrical fire hazard. Some curling irons will sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before using the iron make sure you have set it to accept 230 volts for use in Azerbaijan; please consult the user guide for more details on how to do this.
  2. You'll need to buy a Type C plug adapter [4] if the shape of the power outlet which is used in Azerbaijan isn't the same shape as the plug of your curling iron. The Type C plug adapter helps convert plugs on appliances from other countries for a power outlet found in Azerbaijan by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the voltage of your curling iron to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Begin by taking the Type C plug adapter and inserting it into the Azerbaijani power outlet. This unearthed wall supply, sometimes known as the Type C power outlet [3], is recognised by 2 adjacent holes where the twin plug outlet pins go.
  4. Plug in the curling iron into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Turn on the Azerbaijani power outlet.
  6. The curling iron can now be used in Azerbaijan. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Azerbaijan using a type C power adapter

How to use a curling iron in Azerbaijan using a type F power adapter

Instructions showing how to use your curling iron in Azerbaijan with a Type F power charger.

  1. Please ensure that the curling iron is either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or works with a 230 volt power outlet; if it doesn't then do not attempt these instructions because you may damage your iron, blow a fuse or create an electrical fire hazard. Before using a travel curling iron which can toggle between different voltages make sure you have set it to accept 230 volts to use in Azerbaijan; consult the owners manual for more information on how to do this.
  2. You will need to bring a Type F plug adapter [6] if the shape of plug used on your curling iron isn't the same type of plug outlet used in Azerbaijan. The Type F plug adapter will help fit plugs on appliances from other countries for a power outlet used in Azerbaijan by changing the shape of the plug, but it doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your curling iron to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Start the process by inserting the Type F plug adapter in the Azerbaijani power outlet. The sunken round wall supply (sometimes known as the Schuko outlet or Type F power outlet [5]) can be recognised by the two large round holes 19 mm apart from each other for live and neutral along with metal grounding clips above and below.
  4. Plug in your curling iron into the Type F plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Azerbaijani power outlet.
  6. You can now turn on the curling iron to use in Azerbaijan. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Azerbaijan using a type F power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Azerbaijan Wikipedia web page
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel curling iron
  3. iec.ch - Type C power outlet
  4. Type C plug adapter - An unearthed Europlug Type C travel adapter with two 4mm rounded pins placed 19mm apart, designed to fit a variety of sockets commonly used across Europe, including Italy, France, Spain, Greece, Turkey, Croatia and Iceland..
  5. iec.ch - Type F power outlet
  6. Type F plug adapter - A versatile Type F adapter, also known as Schuko, compatible with Europlugs and CEE 7/17 plugs. Ideal for use in countries using the Germany outlet type like Peru, Chile, and Uruguay..
  7. 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..
  8. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  9. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  10. Hard case for hot tools - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a flat irons, curling irons and hair straighteners.
  11. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for curling irons -
  12. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.