Belize's Power Supply: An Overview

Belize has three types of power supply: type G, A and B. The primary power supply is type G. The standard voltage is 110V, but some areas run power at 220V. The standard frequency is 60Hz.

Plug types and power outlets

Belize has three types of power outlets: A, B, and G.

Type A has two thin, flat, and parallel pins. This type of power outlet is mainly used in the US, Canada, Mexico, Central America, China, and Japan.

Type B is similar to Type A but has an extra pin for grounding. Type B is mainly used in the US, Canada, Mexico, Central America, and Japan. Type A plugs will also fit into a Type B outlet.

Type G has three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern. This type of outlet is of British origin and is mainly used in the UK, Ireland, Malta, Malaysia, and Singapore.

The standard voltage in Belize is 110V, with a frequency of 60Hz. However, there are some areas in Belize that run power at 220V. It is advised to check the local voltage before plugging in your devices.

Voltage and frequency

Belize has an unusual power supply in that it has multiple voltage types depending on the region or city. The voltage range is 110/220V, with a standard frequency of 60Hz. The power supply is inconsistent throughout the country, with some locations running power at 220V, and others at 110V.

If you are travelling to Belize from the US, you will not typically need a voltage converter as the voltage in Belize is in the same 100-120 volt range as the US. However, if the voltage exceeds the maximum limit, you will require a voltage converter.

If you are using a device that runs on 220-240V, you will need a step-up power converter to use it in Belize. If your device runs on 100V-240V, it can be used in Belize without a converter.

It is important to check the voltage requirements of your devices before plugging them in. If the local voltage is much higher at 220V and your device is not compatible, you risk serious damage to your devices.

Power supply consistency

Belize has an inconsistent power supply, with some areas of the country running power at 220V and others at 110V. The voltage range in Belize is 110/220V, with a standard frequency of 60Hz. This inconsistency means that travellers to Belize will need to be mindful of the voltage requirements of their devices and may need to purchase a voltage converter.

Plug Types

Belize has three compatible plug types: Type A, Type B, and Type G. Type A has two parallel, flat pins and is mainly used in the US, Central America, China, and Japan. Type B is similar but has an extra pin for grounding and is mainly used in the US, Canada, Mexico, Central America, and Japan. Type G has three rectangular pins formed in a triangle and is of British origin. It is mainly used in the UK, Ireland, Malta, Malaysia, and Singapore.

Voltage Converters

Voltage converters are typically only required for devices that are not dual-voltage. Most personal electronic devices such as mobile phones, tablets, laptops, and cameras are dual-voltage and can be used on any power supply without a converter. Converters are generally only needed for high-powered electronics that can cause power outages or short circuits, such as hairdryers, curling irons, rotating fans, and boilers.

Power Outlets

It is worth noting that power outlets are not always safe in Belize, so caution should be exercised when plugging and unplugging devices. Additionally, while two countries may operate on the same voltage, their outlets may not accept the same plug shape. As such, it is recommended to use a universal power adapter that works in multiple countries when travelling to Belize.

Power Supply in Rural Areas

Many areas in Belize are not connected to the national grid, including rainforest eco-lodges, off-the-grid homes, and Airbnb properties. As a result, there is a strong reliance on alternative energy sources such as hydro, solar, and wind power.

Recommendations for Travellers

When travelling to Belize, it is important to check the voltage requirements of your devices and ensure you have the necessary adapters and converters. It is also recommended to bring a portable power bank, as some areas may not have access to electricity or may experience power blackouts.

US to Belize power adapters

If you're travelling to Belize from the US, it's important to know that you'll need to bring a power adapter for any electrical devices you plan to use. While Belize, like the US, uses Type A and Type B power outlets, it also uses Type G outlets, which are incompatible with US plugs. You can purchase a Type G power adapter online or at most major US international airports.

In addition to a power adapter, you may also need a voltage converter for your devices. Belize's standard voltage is 110V or 220V (at a frequency of 60Hz), while the US standard voltage is 120V. Be sure to check the voltage of your devices before using them in Belize, as plugging a device into a voltage that's too high can cause serious damage. Many modern devices, such as laptops, phones, and cameras, are dual voltage, so they should work in Belize without a converter. However, high-power devices like hair dryers and kettles may require a converter.

It's also worth noting that some areas in Belize have limited access to electricity and experience power blackouts, so it's a good idea to bring a portable power bank for your devices.

Voltage converters

Belize uses two voltage levels: 110V and 220V. These can vary by region, city, or even hotel, so it's important to check the local voltage before plugging in your devices. If the local voltage is much higher than what your devices are used to, you will need a voltage converter to avoid damaging your devices.

When buying a voltage converter, look for one with surge protection to prevent damage to your devices in the event of a power surge. Some voltage converters also come with multiple plug sockets and USB ports, allowing you to charge multiple devices at once. You can also buy combined plug adapter/voltage converters if you need both.

Frequently asked questions