Is there something I can buy to limit AC voltage from a power outlet?

Question

Something went on the fritz at my apartment and now I get too much voltage coming out of my power outlets. I have my audio/video system plugged into a Panamax MAX 1000+ line conditioner, and its overvoltage light stays on when I turn it on. The manual states that the voltage must be greater than 135V for that to happen. The amplifier won't turn on at all and the turning on the DVD player causes the line conditioner to repeatedly turn on and off. I notified the apartments maintenance, but I don't expect them to do anything because other things work, like the tv and lamp. I want to know if there is something I can buy to plug into an outlet and step down the voltage to about 120 AC.

Answer 1

It's not a maintenance issue.

Call your power company, as the transformer outside for some reason is not stepping the voltage down properly... OR your Panamax thing is broken.

There is nothing you can do easilly to step down the voltage... it should already be stepped down, and if something is wrong, the power company will fix it.

If you have a multi-meter, stick it in the outlet and see exactly what voltage you are getting.

Answer 2

Sounds like your panamax got fried. The incoming voltage is controlled by the power company.

Answer 3

There are step down transformer to reduce from 240 to 110, but it sounds as though your apartment may have some wiring iissues. It may only be that particular circuit, or the entire place. Best is to get a voltmeter and test the outlets. The landlord should be responsible for proper wiring. If he does not cooperate, seek legal counsel.

http://www.voltage-converter-transformers.com/step-down-transformer.html

Answer 4

This is incredibly easy but nearly pointless you can probably have a guy out to fix it faster then you can make a solution.