If you plug a 120V appliance into a 230V outlet without any voltage adapter or converter, it can lead to several potential outcomes, depending on the specific appliance and the nature of its electrical components:
Damage to the appliance: The higher voltage can cause excessive current flow through the appliance, resulting in overheating and potentially damaging the device's electrical components. This can lead to the appliance malfunctioning, or in worst cases, it may become irreparably damaged.
Fire hazard: The increased voltage can cause the appliance to overheat to a dangerous extent, which may result in a fire hazard. Overheating wires and other electrical components can potentially ignite nearby flammable materials.
Tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse: In some cases, the higher voltage may cause the circuit breaker to trip or the fuse to blow, disconnecting the power supply to protect against potential damage or fire. While this provides some level of safety, it still indicates an issue with the appliance.
Immediate failure: Some appliances have built-in protection mechanisms, such as fuses or thermal cutoffs, that are designed to prevent damage in case of voltage irregularities. If the appliance has such protection, it may immediately shut down or stop functioning when exposed to a higher voltage.
To avoid these risks, it is crucial to ensure that the voltage requirements of an appliance match the voltage supplied by the outlet. If you encounter a situation where you need to use an appliance with a different voltage, it's recommended to use a voltage adapter or converter specifically designed for that purpose. These devices can step down or step up the voltage to match the requirements of the appliance, ensuring safe and proper operation.