Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I calculate what wattage transformer I need?

To safely select the right transformer, check the rating label on your imported appliance (measured in Watts [W] or Amps [A]):

• Standard Resistive Loads (Laptops, simple heating elements, lamps): Select a transformer with at least a 20% buffer above the appliance rating. (e.g., a 400W device requires a 500W converter).
• Inductive & Motor-Driven Loads (Power tools, blenders, kitchen mixers, compressors, refrigerators): Electric motors draw an initial inrush/surge current at startup that is 2.5x to 3x their continuous running wattage. For a 700W stand mixer, you should use an ST-2000 or ST-3000 unit.
• Formula: If only Amps are listed at 120V: Watts = Volts × Amps (e.g., 120V × 10A = 1200W → Recommend 2000W+ transformer).

2. Does the frequency difference (50Hz vs 60Hz) affect my appliance?

Australia operates on a 50Hz electrical grid, whereas the USA and Japan operate on 60Hz (or 50/60Hz in Eastern/Western Japan). A voltage step-down transformer converts 240V to 100V/110V/120V, but does not alter the 50Hz AC frequency.

For 95%+ of modern electronics and appliances, this causes no issue:

• Solid-state power supplies, televisions, audio equipment, electronics, and universal brush motors run smoothly and cooler on PAC 50Hz-rated transformers.
• Appliance designs that utilize synchronous AC motor timing (such as vintage electromechanical mechanical clocks or certain direct-drive turntable motors) will rotate roughly 17% slower.
• Heavy electronic frequency changers are costly and rarely necessary for standard household or commercial equipment.

3. What is the difference between an Autotransformer and an Isolation Transformer?

Autotransformers (PAC ST Series): Share a common electrical winding between the 240V primary input and 110V/120V secondary output. They are highly efficient, compact, cost-effective, and ideal for standard domestic appliances, kitchen gear, and power tools.

Toroidal Isolation Transformers (PAC STIS Series): Feature completely separate primary and secondary copper windings with zero direct electrical connection. They offer 1:1 galvanic isolation, filtering mains interference, ground loops, and electrical noise. These are specifically engineered for high-fidelity audiophile amplifiers, sensitive medical test instruments, and laboratory environments.

4. Can I run high-draw American appliances (washers, dryers, espresso machines) simultaneously?

Heavy heating and motorized appliances (like imported commercial dryers or washers drawing 1300W–1500W each) require careful circuit management:

For high-draw appliances running together, we recommend dedicated, separate transformers (such as an ST-3000 for each device) plugged into separate wall circuits.

5. Why isn't the cooling fan on my PAC Inverter spinning constantly?

PAC inverters utilize smart thermostatic cooling. The cooling fan is temperature- and load-controlled, engaging only when internal board temperatures reach approximately 50°C – 55°C or when continuous load exceeds 80%. When running under light loads, heavy-duty aluminium heatsinks quietly dissipate heat without activating the fan, maximizing efficiency and saving power.

6. How quickly will my order be dispatched and delivered?

All items in stock are warehoused and dispatched directly from our Adelaide, South Australia facility:

• Same-Day Dispatch: Orders placed before 2:00 PM ACDT (South Australian Time) on business days depart our warehouse the same day.
• Express & Overnight Delivery: Available via StarTrack Express, TNT/FedEx, and DHL Express. Capital cities and metropolitan zones typically receive delivery within 1–2 business days.
• Automated Carrier Selection: We dynamically book each parcel with the courier network that provides the fastest transit time to your specific postcode.

7. What does the 2-Year Replacement Warranty cover?

All PAC step-down autotransformers and isolation transformers come with a 2-Year Australian Replacement Warranty. If a unit experiences an internal electrical or manufacturing failure under normal operating conditions, our Adelaide technical support team will evaluate and replace the unit directly.

(Excludes damage caused by blatant user overload beyond rated wattage, liquid ingress, or external lightning surges.)

8. What is the correct way to put on graduated compression stockings?

1. Turn the stocking inside out, leaving only the foot/heel pocket tucked inside.
2. Insert your foot into the foot portion, aligning your heel precisely with the stocking heel pocket.
3. Gently ease and roll the stocking over the heel and up your leg, smoothing out wrinkles with flat palms or rubber application gloves.
4. Do not pull aggressively by the top band: Work the fabric up gradually in increments along the calf and thigh to ensure even pressure distribution without bunching.

9. Why do compression stockings sometimes slide down during the day?

Graduated compression garments apply the highest level of pressure at the narrowest point (the ankle) and gradually decrease pressure upward towards the calf and thigh. Because human calves and thighs taper, movement naturally causes firm elastic tension to ease downward if the sizing isn't exact or if skin lotions are applied right before wearing.

Ensure accurate limb measurements (circumference taken first thing in the morning) to select the correct sizing bracket from our charts.