230V

230V commonly refers to the nominal mains voltage used for residential and light commercial electrical systems in many parts of the world. It is the RMS value of the alternating current voltage, typically at a frequency of 50 Hz. The peak voltage is about 325 V, and the peak-to-peak voltage is around 650 V.

Regions where 230 V, 50 Hz is standard include Europe, Africa, most of Asia, and Australia. Some nearby countries historically used 220 or 240 V, but harmonization has led to a common nominal value of 230 V, with actual voltages usually close to that value albeit subject to tolerances.

In many installations, households are supplied with 230 V between line and neutral, while the line-to-line voltage in a three-phase system is about 400 V. Three-phase distribution is common for delivering higher power to buildings and industrial facilities.

Standards and tolerances: National and international standards define permissible deviations from the nominal value for public distribution networks. Actual voltage varies with load, distance from the transformer, network conditions, and regulatory limits.

Safety and appliances: Electrical equipment intended for 230 V must be designed and tested for this voltage. Plugs, sockets, and protective devices vary by country, and some devices are dual-voltage or universal input (100–240 V) to accommodate different mains voltages.

History: The European Union and associated regions moved toward a harmonized nominal voltage around 230 V in the late 20th and early 21st centuries, replacing a broader 220–240 V range. This standardization influences appliance design and international compatibility.