Electricity in Chile runs at 220 Volts and 50 Hz.
Remember that you might need both a voltage converter and a plug adapter for your time in Chile.
Chile Voltage Converter
If your electrical appliance doesn’t run on 220 Volts and 50 Hz, you will need a voltage converter. This will keep you from frying and burning out your appliances that aren’t rated to work in Chile.
Before you plug anything into the electrical outlet in Chile, double check its power requirements.
When traveling with electronics like laptops, iPads, DVD players, etc., check the power cable and power supply for the fine print.
These devices often tell you what voltage they support. On laptops, for example, look for the little box on the power cord between the computer and the plug. The label will show you the acceptable voltage inputs and outputs. If it includes 220 Volts at 50 Hz, you don’t need a voltage converter.
As a rule of thumb, look for a label or tag on the power cord to see what your device will support. Get a voltage converter that supports your device’s power needs and will handle Chile’s 220 Volts.
Chile Plug Adapter
Power outlets in Chile accept one type of plug with two or three in-line, round pins. You’ll see these adapters sold as types C and L. These are types commonly found in European countries so if you have an adapter from there, you might be fine.
You can find wide selection of electric plug adapters on amazon.com for only a few dollars each.
If you can’t buy an adapter before your trip or you forget, don’t worry. You can buy a plug adapter cheaply in Chile at almost any shopping mall. Look for a Sodimac or Easy brand store or even a generic electronics vendor will carry them.
Make sure you check your appliance’s plug to see if both prongs are the same size and that they will fit the adapter you are purchasing.
With a voltage converter and plug adapter in hand, you should be able to safely use any of the electronics you bring with you to Chile.
We will be living in the Concepción area for 18 months and be using our electronic devices a lot. Do you think it wise to also have a surge protector?
Also, what do you recommend for cell phone access? We are contemplating switching to a smarter phone which we assume we would purchase there. We have wondered if the GPS capabilities on such a phone will be adequate or would a separate unit be better. Should we purchase a GPS there or here?
@Lynda – Surge protectors are always a good insurance to protect your electronics. You can buy phones and GPS devices in Chile but they will likely cost more than you are expecting.
what electrical current do they use on Easter Island, same as Chile 220 50hz?