US AC receptacles (down under)?

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probeski

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Hi, I'm from Australia (220V) and am interested in installing US AC recepacles as the Home Theatre varieties are better quality than what we have here. I don't know much about code so I need some advice for installing single gang outlets into full-brick walls. Do I require a metal backbox, how about the non-metal ones, or can I use mounting brackets instead? My Australian power outlets simply attach to a metal mounting bracket but i'm not sure the brackets will be adequate for US receptacles.

Thanks
 
I'm also a home-theater installer and enthusiast, and in my opinion, "audiophile-grade" receptacles, such as the Wattgate, are a total waste of money, as are the expensive Marinco-equipped replacement power cords.

After miles of power-company conductors and myriad transformers and other devices, as well as service equipment, breakers, and branch-circuit wiring, why is the last 6 feet of power pathway suddenly so critical?
 
I'm unaware of any NEMA 5-15 (or 5-20) type receptacles that are rated for 220vac that you can buy in the USA.

If there are some, I sure could have used them last month when I shipped some control panels to Peru (220vac) and they wanted me to put in some 'laptop plug straight blade type" receptacles. Had to tell them that they would have to buy them there and install.
 
If I am understanding you you want to buy a american made home theater unit 120volt here and use it on your 220 volt system? to do thsi would it not be simpler to just buy a product like this

Remington TL265BP Foreign AC Converter
* Changes foreign 220/240 voltage into United States 110/120 voltage
* Handles 50-1600 watts
* 5 Adapter Plugs to fit most foreign outlets
* Spare fuse
now you can just use a regular outlet from your country
 
justdavemamm said:
I'm unaware of any NEMA 5-15 (or 5-20) type receptacles that are rated for 220vac that you can buy in the USA.

If there are some, I sure could have used them last month when I shipped some control panels to Peru (220vac) and they wanted me to put in some 'laptop plug straight blade type" receptacles. Had to tell them that they would have to buy them there and install.
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The devices have no clue (nor care) what voltage is attached to them.
If an otherwise aware person (even an electrician) uses these devices as the OP wants, so be it.

As to the hardware issues, in the US we don't use a 'back box' as you are used to them; but I don't suspect it would be a large bother to get a US style box for masonry use (when you arrange to get the other components).
You could probably use (or get away with) a "mud ring" if you're used to not having a box behind the devices.
 
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Would any US devices be allowed in OZ??? That would be the $64.000 question if regulations there would allow it.
 
Are you saying that the higher voltage should not pose a danger to the US plugs and receptacles?
Excuse my ignorance but I've seen much on the net about using electrical outlet boxes in the wall for the receptacle, are you saying that they aren't necessary for brick (masonry); that I can use a mud ring; when does an outlet box become necessary eg. BX cable, drywall?
 
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