Monday, January 4, 2016

Using a Thermomix in USA

I recently moved to the US with my Thermomix from Australia. Through the moving company, Thermomix Australia recommended using a Todd Systems Step-Up transformer. Using the electrical information on the bottom of my Thermomix, Todd Systems was able to recommend the correct transformer I required.

In my case, they recommended using model SU-14G
Note: This transformer is very heavy - around 20-22 lbs. and there is no easy way to carry it. It's definitely an industrial product (you're buying straight from the manufacturer), not like consumer friendly ones you might pick up at a shop with a finished case or handle.

   


Also, because I was referred by Thermomix, I received a discount on the price (with shipping came to around US$230).

They also shipped a 230v US male plug because the transformer only receives that type of plug.

Todd System's instructions were to cut off my male Australian plug and attach the 230v US male plug they provided.

I didn't want to do this for a couple of reasons:

  1. I didn't want to void any warranty if there still was one on my Thermomix 
  2. The plug is bright yellow and aesthetically, I didn't want to alter my Thermomix 


Instead, I went to an electrical company that rewires lamps, appliances, etc. and got two things...

  • 1 foot of wire 
  • Australian female plug (also in a beautiful bright yellow)


Total cost: $7
With these two items and the male plug provided by Todd Systems, my dad made an adaptor cord for me. (With your Thermomix, everything has to be grounded electrically, so make sure you talk to someone who knows what they are doing and can assist you to make sure you have the right parts. Once you have the right parts, the actual wiring of the cord is easy enough.)







The set-up works as follows...

THERMOMIX (male Australian plug) >> (female Australian plug) ADAPTOR CORD (male US 230V plug) >> (female US 230V plug) TRANSFORMER (male US standard grounded plug) >> US WALL OUTLET


Alternative to building your own adaptor cord, you can have someone else professionally put it together. In my research this would have cost $50 for my required set-up vs the $7 it cost me to make my own.

Whatever route you go, make sure you have enough wattage from the transformer to power the Thermomix. Otherwise, your Thermomix may not work properly or at all!