Buying Lighting in the U.S.: What You Need to Know About 110V vs 240V
When shopping for lighting at Dekoorlight, most people focus on style, material, or color. But one often-overlooked factor is voltage. Choosing the wrong voltage doesn’t just affect performance—it can shorten the lifespan of your fixture or even cause safety issues. Let’s break down the difference between 110V and 240V, and what U.S. customers should keep in mind before making a purchase.
What Is Voltage? Why 110V and 240V?
-
Voltage is the “pressure” that pushes electric current through a circuit.
-
Different countries adopted different voltage standards for historical, technical, and safety reasons.
-
In the U.S. and Canada, the household standard is 110–120V at 60Hz.
-
In most of Europe, Asia, and other regions, the standard is 220–240V at 50Hz.
110V vs 240V: Pros and Cons
Key Things to Check When Buying Lighting in the U.S.
-
Voltage Label – Look for markings like “110V / 120V / 220V / 240V / Dual Voltage (110–240V).” Dual voltage is the most versatile option.
-
Driver/Transformer Compatibility – For LED fixtures, confirm whether the driver or transformer is designed for U.S. voltage.
-
Frequency (Hz) – The U.S. runs at 60Hz, while many other regions run at 50Hz. Frequency mismatches may cause flickering or humming.
-
Safety Certifications – Look for UL, ETL, or CSA marks for U.S. compliance.
-
Plugs and Wiring – U.S. outlets use flat parallel prongs; imported fixtures may require rewiring or adapters.
-
Dimmer Compatibility – If dimming is required, ensure both the fixture and dimmer are designed for 110V and the same dimming method (TRIAC, 0–10V, etc.).
Why Dekoorlight Cares About Voltage
-
Fewer Returns and Repairs – Clear voltage information helps customers avoid mismatched products.
-
Builds Trust – Showing technical knowledge makes buyers more confident in your brand.
-
Global Advantage – Offering dual-voltage fixtures or guidance on voltage options expands your international reach.
-
U.S. households run on 110–120V, 60Hz.
-
Always check voltage, frequency, driver, and dimmer compatibility before buying.
-
Dual-voltage (110–240V) lighting is the safest and most convenient choice.
-
Using a 240V-only fixture in the U.S. may require special adapters or transformers—and may not deliver the best performance.
