240V 60Hz is actually the US standard, the actual output from the outlets however is different and depends on what device it’s intended for. High volt outlets for high volt devices use NEMA 6-15P & 6-50P connections.
220V
Like I already said, US households are wired to the 240V 60Hz standard, it just depends on what device the outlet is intended for. The outlet can be anywhere from 110V for low volt appliances using NEMA 1-15P & 5-15R all the way up to 240V for high volt appliances using NEMA 6-15P & 6-50P.
Today, virtually all American homes and businesses have access to 120 and 240 V at 60 Hz. Both voltages are available on the three wires (two “hot” legs of opposite phase and one “neutral” leg).
can’t go wrong with these bad boys.
Yes, I know that many US homes have 220V outlets for electric ranges or water heaters but most outlets are not and the ones that are are not typically accessible for general use. It’s silly to say “240V 60Hz is actually the US standard” in this context since most US residents aren’t going to have one accessible as a special outlet just for a kettle. Or if they do, they better tell their guests before they accidentally plug in a blender.
Edit: As an aside, I used to work at a restaurant that had a 240V outlet accessible for a commercial belt-driven toaster. One day I decided it was too slow and plugged in a regular slot toaster when nobody was looking. Oh man, It glowed scary bright! I only felt comfortable using for a few seconds at a time, but it handled English muffins like a champ.
