hi all-
im hoping to find a genius among you-
i bought a beachcomber hot tub direct from canada -problem im having is its a 4 wire 240v(2x 110 hot wires) and here in ireland its 3 wire 230 v 50hz - iv asked a couple of electricians but there not 100% sure and so obviously dont want to take a chance on it for safety reasons-
is there anything we can do?
thanks in advance
paddy

If you bought a North American model, not only is it 4 wire 240v, but it's also 60 hz. Your 3 wire 230 v 50hz, is that one ground wire, one neutral wire and one 230v wire?

You got problems! First you'll need to convert the hz (mostly this regulates any clocks and timing aspects). Then, you're going to need some transformers to cut your 230 in half. Problem is, and I don't know what's required, or if it's even possible, you're one wire of 230v needs to be converted to TWO wires of 115v, but each wire needs to have the voltage alternating in opposite directions.

Did a quick check. The hz part is easy. The voltage issue should be possible using what would be called a 1 to 1 transformer (I haven't a clue if such a thing is made, "off the shelf", or if you'd need to have one made for you). 230v in and 230v out...but the output would be split between the two wires.

A general electrician probably wont be able to help you, but look for a commercial electrician use to dealing with large industrial equipment.

thanks doc-
i have very little knowledge with electrics and i will try and locate a commercial electrivian that may be able to sort it-
in relation to the transformer we have a transformer thats cuts down to 110v (for safety on building sites etc) would this help my situation?
thanks again
paddy

Wont help. Though in this country 240v is made up of two 120v legs (wires), the electricity in each leg has to be alternating in opposite direction to archive the 240v. A 1 to 1 transformer, on your electricity, should accomplish this.