USA lights working in the UK?

Natrod · May 2, 2013

Hi

i have a customer who wants us to hang these lights on his Patio but I have no idea if they will work without a transformer?

Amazon.com: Table in a Bag SL5015 Outdoor Commercial String Lighting, 48-Feet, 15 Lights: Patio, Lawn & Garden

Any advice gratefully received.

Cheers

N

Knobhead · May 2, 2013

Archy Styrigg said:
If they live near Lands End ish, maybe they could utilise the old telephone cables?
Volt drop might be a bit of a problem though.

The first link was screwed up when they tried raising the voltage to get the signal through.

Adam W · May 2, 2013

What's the difference between these and UK festoon lights like these:
Elec 20M Outdoor Festoon Light String with 20 x 25W ES Lampholders C/w Lamps - QVS Electrical Supplies | Electrical Wholesaler ?

Silly Sausage · May 2, 2013

Adam W said:
What's the difference between these and UK festoon lights like these:
Elec 20M Outdoor Festoon Light String with 20 x 25W ES Lampholders C/w Lamps - QVS Electrical Supplies | Electrical Wholesaler ?

See post 3

Adam W · May 3, 2013

Archy Styrigg said:
See post 3

See post #5

ipf · May 3, 2013

They must be bloody powerful..if they're lighting us up from across the Atlantic.

telectrix · May 3, 2013

even if they could get them compatible with our supply, it would take 2 years for them to switch on.

Natrod · May 3, 2013

Agree with all the above - problem is they already have the lights

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Agree with all the above - problem is they already have the lights

Richard Burns · May 3, 2013

You would need to check that the fitting is compliant with BS as you should not fit non BS items.
Check that the cable is rated for 230V since it is designed to 120V.

You could fit a transformer that would cost more than the fitting but would work OK.

So long as the fitting is E27 (and not E26) then:
You could try using pygmy sign lamps, a bit short, a bit bright but may be OK.
Some LED replacement lamps are about the right size.
Tubular or round cooker lamps may work but not be designed for out side use.
60mm Golf balls may well fit OK.

All depends on the sealing arrangement and depth of fitting.

Octopus · May 3, 2013

Natrod said:
Agree with all the above - problem is they already have the lights

- - - Updated - - -

Agree with all the above - problem is they already have the lights

In which case walk away. Some customer are not worth dealing with.