convert 120v to 240v?

[bamzam]

Does anyone know if there's a way to safely convert one of my standard 120v house outlets to a 240v outlet? I was in the market for a uv sterilizer and being loyal to eheim, decided to order a eheim reeflex uv from the UK despite a lack of reviews. Well it turns out the product was never made to work on standard US outlets as it needs 240v to operate. I'm unable to return the item since I've opened it and tested it, so is there a converter or anything that will safely convert just one of my outlets while not affecting the other outlets in the room that my other equipment is plugged into?

[jughead]

They make outlet adapters for world travelers.dont know if they are ok to use 24-7.

[ROB281]

to upgrade an outlet you would need to re-wire it all the way from the breaker panel to the outlet, and increase the size of the breaker.

[bamzam]

to upgrade an outlet you would need to re-wire it all the way from the breaker panel to the outlet, and increase the size of the breaker.

Thanks for the replies. Sounds like a lot more trouble and money than its worth. I was hoping there was a plug in converter or something like mentioned earlier but agree I don't know if it's safe to run that 24/7. Guess I just have to accept I wasted some money =(

[ptran]

Sounds like you need a transformer.

[chadw1920]

I think the converter would work. If it's OK to work for 20 minutes it's OK to work for 24hrs. It wouldn't make sense to make something like that and give it to the public to use. Big safety issue they would get pulled off the shelves real quick. Doubt your the first to have this question

[prostreet69camaro]

I have not heard of a 120 to 240 volt convertor. The ones overseas convert 240v to 120v. For 240v you need 2 120v legs. So the adapter eliminates one 120v legs so we can use our 120v devices overseas.

[wesleydnunder]

Sounds like you need a transformer.

Correct: You would either need to find a 1:2 isolation step up transformer and a receptacle to match the prong configuration of the European plug or pull a 240 V circuit dedicated to the spot you need it and again find a receptacle that matches the plug. The breaker for this is a two pole breaker; its amperage is based on the requirement of the UV sterilizer. Either one will require an electrician.

Mark