adapter/transformer ??

[7window]

Looking to a get a 1600w 220/110 stepdown transformer. My question is if you leave the transformer plugged in without any appliance plugged in the transformer. Is the transformer using 1600w just for being plugged in?

 

[lxskllr]

No. It uses some power, but nowhere near it's max output. If it did output that kind of power, it would be a space heater.

 

[7window]

how much power is it using without anything plugged in?

 

[WhoBeDaPlaya]

No, but it will still heat up some as it is lossy.

 

[lxskllr]

how much power is it using without anything plugged in?

I imagine it depends on the specific transformer. To pull a number from my ass, I'd guess ~10 watts, but I don't know if that's right. Someone into electronics would be able to give you a better idea.

 

[7window]

I imagine it depends on the specific transformer. To pull a number from my ass, I'd guess ~10 watts, but I don't know if that's right. Someone into electronics would be able to give you a better idea.

Your last comment on the space heater was dead on. I don't know why I didn't think of that in the first place. Made me chuckle. Thanks

 

[Rubycon]

It depends on a lot of things. It's called core loss.
It could be as high as 100W but nowhere near 1.6kW.
Incidentally if you draw its maximum rating of 1.6kW the primary load is going to be higher than 1.6kw. (total copper+iron losses)

 

[WhoBeDaPlaya]

And please, please for the love of God don't use a 60Hz transformer with 50Hz mains. It's a damn fire hazard!
Edit : If you do, please make sure to derate it.

 

[bobdole369]

Having installed a bunch of these onboard marine vessels - they get slightly warm just plugged in. I would say between 15-40W at idle for a 2kw transformer.