Which plug adapter will I need to bring to use a curling iron in Algeria?

Algerian power outlet

Summary

First check your curling iron can handle the voltage in Algeria:

If not then either:

  • Use a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] - you may still need to use a power adapter for Algeria but these cheap lightweight accessories are designed specifically for travel.
  • Use a power converter (or voltage transformer) - this will enable you to use your existing curling iron and other applicances with an 230 volt Algerian power outlet, however this is significantly bulkier, heavier and more expensive than a dedicated travel curling iron. A power converter changes the voltage but not the actual shape of the plug on your curling iron to fit in the types of power outlet used in Algeria, so check that your power converter includes a suitable power adapter for Algeria otherwise you will need to purchase another power adapter. Be aware that your domestic curling iron might not be suited for travelling and you could risk damage in your luggage. [7] [AD]
Warning: If your curling iron won't handle 230 volts you run the risk of damage to your curling iron, an electrical fire hazard or a blown fuse. Prior to using your curling iron in Algeria check the instruction manual to ensure safe operation.

Using a curling iron in Algeria

Will my curling iron work in Algeria?

That will depend on if your curling iron is designed to operate using the 230 volt power outlets used in Algeria:

Algeria power outlets and plug sockets

What is the mains voltage in Algeria?

Power outlets in Algeria are 230 volts.

What frequency is used in an Algerian power outlet?

The frequency of the current from an Algerian power outlet is 50Hz. [8]

Which plug adapter will you need to bring to use a curling iron in Algeria?

Type C and F power outlets

Which plug adapter will you need to bring to use a curling iron in Algeria?

There are two types of power outlets used in Algeria, these are type F and C with the primary power outlets being type F:

  • Plug Type C - You can recognise this plug outlet by the 2 circular adjacent holes next to each other where the live and neutral pins slide into.
  • Plug Type F - You can identify the power socket by the two large holes 19 mm adjacent to each other for live and neutral and a pair of metal grounding clips above and below.

A Type F power adapter allows you to use a 230 volt curling iron in Algeria - read the simple instructions below for full details of using a curling iron in Algeria. Note that unless you that have a dual voltage curling iron you will need to confirm if you also have to bring a power converter.  [6] [9] [AD]

Dual voltage curling irons

Is my curling iron dual voltage?

One method to tell if your curling iron can accept dual voltage is to look for either a sticker or numbers printed on the handle or the plug of the curling iron. The location might vary depending on the make and model of your curling iron and should also be written in the instruction manual or on the box. Some dual voltage curling irons can change automatically but other irons will have a button or switch which allows you to change between different regions.

  • Single voltage might say a specific number - such as 110V. If this number matches the 230 volts used in Algeria then you should be able to use your curling iron with an Algerian power outlet.
  • Single voltage could also have a small voltage range with a dash to accomodate small voltage fluctuations - such as 100-120V. If the 230 volts used in an Algerian power outlet falls within the range shown on your curling iron then you can use it in Algeria.
  • Dual voltage will typically say a larger voltage range separated with a slash - such as 100/240V. Your curling iron will be capable of being used in Algeria or any other country if these numbers are shown.

Travelling to Algeria with a curling iron

Is it safe to bring my curling iron to Algeria?

Packing a dual voltage travel curling iron is preferable to bringing your existing curling iron as it ensures that it will operate correctly with the 230 volt power outlets used with an Algerian power outlet, as long as you bring the correct power adapter for Algeria. Note that packing expensive domestic curling iron might place it at risk because of potential damage or loss in transit by an airline baggage handler. The cost and inconvenience of repairing an expensive specialised domestic curling iron in Algeria could overshadow the costs of purchasing a cheap dual voltage travel curling iron [2] before setting off. If you intend to bring along your own personal curling iron in your luggage either slot it inside a boot or sneaker to protect from light damage, alternatively use a shockproof and heat resistant hot tools travel case which also allows the curling iron to be packed whilst hot without risk of burning.  [10] [AD]

Can you carry on a curling iron to Algeria?

According to the TSA guidelines for curling irons there are no restrictions when bringing a mains powered curling iron in your carry on hand luggage through airport security in the United States. The TSA recommends that you should check that the airline that is flying you to Algeria will allow a curling iron onboard and that it will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane.

Packing the curling irons in a dedicated heat resistant protective hot tools travel case leaves it easily accessible when going through airport security checks, it can be packed away quickly avoiding a tangle of power cords in your carry on luggage (the TSA recommends wrapping cables tightly around curling irons). If you do intend to pack fragile or expensive curling irons in your hand held luggage then it is advisable to bring hard carry on luggage as this provides the most protection against drops and knocks during transit.   [10] [11] [12] [AD]

Power converters for Algeria

Do you need a converter to use your curling iron in Algeria?

The correct model of power converter (or voltage transformer) will allow your curling iron using a different voltage to work using a 230 volt power outlet used in Algeria. Travellers who wish to use their existing curling iron can use a power converter, but it could be a lot less expensive to purchase a dedicated dual voltage travel curling iron [2] than it is to purchase a power converter. Also, a travel curling iron can be substantially lighter than a power converter making a travel curling iron more suitable for packing. [7] [AD]

What is the difference between a plug adapter and a voltage converter for Algeria?

Voltage converter

What is the difference between a plug adapter and a voltage converter for Algeria?

An expensive and heavy power converter converts the voltage of 230 volts from an Algerian power outlet to work with a non-230 volt curling iron, however a more lightweight and smaller power adapter (or plug adapter) will change the shape of the plug on your curling iron to slot into a power outlet found in Algeria. [7] [AD]

How to use a curling iron in Algeria using a type C power adapter

Instructions showing how to use a curling iron in Algeria using a two pronged Type C power adapter.

  1. Make sure that the curling iron is either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or can work with a 230 volt power supply but if it doesn't then do not proceed as you may create an electrical fire hazard, damage your iron or blow a fuse. Travel curling irons sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the iron ensure you have set it to the 230 volt setting; please refer to the manufacturers instructions to find out where this switch is.
  2. If the plug shape on your curling iron isn't the same shape as the outlet which is used in Algeria you'll need to bring a Type C plug adapter [4]. This Type C plug adapter will adapt plugs from other countries into a power outlet in Algeria simply by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your curling iron to work with a 230 volt outlet.
  3. Begin the process by plugging the Type C plug adapter into the Algerian power outlet. You can identify the power supply by the two holes adjacent to each other for live and neutral pins.
  4. After that plug in the curling iron into the Type C plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Algerian power outlet. The curling iron can now be powered on. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Algeria using a type C power adapter

How to use a curling iron in Algeria using a type F power adapter

A page showing how to use your curling iron in Algeria with a Type F travel charger.

  1. Please check that your curling iron is either a dual voltage travel curling iron [2] or works with a 230 volt power supply but if it doesn't then don't attempt these instructions as you may create an electrical fire hazard, damage your iron or blow a fuse. Dual voltage curling irons sometimes have a switch to toggle between voltages, before operating the iron ensure you have set it to the 230 volt setting to use in Algeria, please refer to the manufacturers instructions for more information on where this switch is found.
  2. If the plug shape on your curling iron isn't the same shape as the outlet which is used in Algeria you will need to buy a Type F plug adapter [6]. This plug adapter will help fit plugs from other countries for an electrical outlet found in Algeria simply by changing the shape of the plug, but the adapter doesn't change the frequency or voltage of your curling iron to work with a 230 volt supply.
  3. Start by plugging the Type F plug adapter into the power outlet. This recessed round plug supply (sometimes known as a Type F power outlet [5] or Schuko plug) can be recognised by two circular adjacent holes next to each other where the live and neutral pins slide into, plus two grounding clips at the top and bottom.
  4. Plug in the curling iron into the Type F plug adapter.
  5. Switch on the Algerian power outlet. You can now turn on your curling iron in Algeria. [AD]
How to use a curling iron in Algeria using a type F power adapter

See also

  1. Wikipedia - Wikipedia.org entry about Algeria
  2. Amazon - dual voltage travel curling iron
  3. iec.ch - Type C power outlet
  4. Type C plug adapter - An unearthed Europlug Type C travel adapter with two 4mm rounded pins placed 19mm apart, designed to fit a variety of sockets commonly used across Europe, including Italy, France, Spain, Greece, Turkey, Croatia and Iceland..
  5. iec.ch - Type F power outlet
  6. Type F plug adapter - A versatile Type F adapter, also known as Schuko, compatible with Europlugs and CEE 7/17 plugs. Ideal for use in countries using the Germany outlet type like Peru, Chile, and Uruguay..
  7. Power converter - Heavy-duty power converters are designed to convert voltage levels between different electrical standards, shifting between 110V/120V and 220V/240V with both 50Hz and 60Hz, often incorporating safety features such as fuse protection and circuit breakers..
  8. Wikipedia - WikiPedia - Mains electricity by country -
  9. iec.ch - IEC World Plugs by location -
  10. Hard case for hot tools - Hard case designed for storing and protecting a flat irons, curling irons and hair straighteners.
  11. tsa.gov - TSA guidelines for curling irons -
  12. Hard carry on luggage - Example of hard cases, suitcases and luggage suitable for airline carry on.