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What can I plug into a shaver socket?
In other words, it’s probably fine to use most “shavers only” plugs for most small solid-state electronics, including phone chargers. But you should avoid using them to power laptops, hairdryers, curling irons, or other high-draw devices.
Why do toothbrushes have different plugs?
The reason is actually to do with safety. In the UK and Europe, mains voltage is 230V (plus or minus a bit) referenced to earth. In older houses, the only thing protecting you against a lethal shock was a fuse – 30/32A for a standard ring main socket.
What is special about a shaver socket?
The bathroom shaver socket is mounted in an isolation transformer that cuts it off from the rest of the electrical system. This limits the risk of electrical shock, a concern in the bathroom where lots of water can be present. In addition, the current is very low.
Why are shaver sockets in the bathroom safe?
They use a so-called isolating transformer. Your body is connected to ‘earth’, through your feet.
Can you plug a shaver into a normal socket?
No, not quite. A 2 pin plug found on an electric toothbrush or shaver has pins that are closer together than a traditional 2 pin EU mains adapter. However, most bathrooms will have a shaver socket which you can connect to.
Can I charge my phone in a shaver socket?
The answer is “Yes”. Phone chargers use even less power than the typical shaver – even the turbo-charging ones. Hence no problem there.
Why are there no outlets in UK bathrooms?
Because the rules about domestic power in the UK are some of the safest in the world (partly because we use 240V which has a higher risk of death) and having power outlets in a bathroom, particularly on an earthed system like the UK uses, is very risky, as people will plug things in which shouldn’t be used when wet; …
Is a shaver plug the same as a toothbrush plug?
Where can a shaver socket go in a bathroom?
The use or installation of sockets is not allowed in bathrooms or shower rooms unless they can be fitted at least 3 metres from the bath or shower. The only exception to this is a shaver-supply unit.
Is it illegal to have a plug socket in the bathroom?
Sockets are not allowed in bathrooms or shower rooms (apart from shaver-supply units) unless they can be fitted at least three metres from the bath or shower.