Miele 240v-to-120v Conversion Kit - how does this work?

14 years ago

I recently learned that Miele, many years ago when they still sold proper 240-volt washing machines in the U.S., used to offer an optional accessory to allow their washers to be plugged into a more common 120V/20A outlet and circuit. According to the owner's manual:

"This washing machine should be connected to a 208/240 V - 20 Amp supply.

Connection to a 120 V supply is possible with the use of a 120V/20 Amp conversion kit (TN 3580 550)"

Question: What does this thing do? How does it affect performance, speed, maximum water temperature? This is from a manual for a 20-year-old machine; does it still work with more recent ones they made a few years ago before they ditched 240V machines for the U.S.?

And if they don't still sell this part (or if it costs a fortune - we're talking Miele here), can I build one myself with generic parts from an electrical supply store or Home Despot?

Here's the online PDF manual - it's on page 6.

Thanks!

Here is a link that might be useful: Miele 240v-to-120v Conversion Kit - part # TN 3580 550

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Comments (8)

deutsch100
14 years ago
We've had 3 Miele (USA) spec washing machines and dryers in the last 15 years, and NOT one was able to be converted. IMO, this is not possible, or a good idea. Miele now sells several washers that run on good ol' American current...although their electric dryers (as so USA electric dryers) still require 240/200.

Good Luck!
lee676
Original Author
14 years ago
It may not be possible on more recent machines, but it evidently was on older ones - why else would Miele themselves sell a "conversion kit" specifically designed for doing so? I could rig up a 240V/20A line but at greater expense/effort so the 120V option looked good for the time being.
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I'm actually in Canada, this machine is both CSA and UL listed and the manufacturer, although attaching a 4-wire plug does not have the neutral connected in the machine. In fact the wiring diagram provided inside doesn't even mention the neutral and at the attachment point inside the machine there is no place for the neutral to attach. So, I want to be perfectly clear, no matter what plug is attached to this machine, it will only EVER use Hot, Hot, & Ground--end of story. This is perfectly safe and government certified. The Hots are at 180 deg. to each other negating the need for the Neutral. So, again my question is: because the previous stove receptacle was also a 4-wire configuration and I'm just changing one pin really (an L-shaped one from a straight one) if for some reason there is actually no ground (or it doesn't go anywhere) can I swap the neutral and Ground pins so the the washer would use the Neutral as a Ground instead of the Ground, or is this not safe (and why)? Although I do like the above debate, I would really like some help with my specific question. Thank you.
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deutsch100
14 years ago
Well, if Miele sells one...then you answered your own question. Buy one! Honestly don't mean to sound like a d--k, but you did solve your own post question! :)
weedmeister
14 years ago
If I were going to guess, I would think that it is a few parts and wiring instructions to rewire the motor for 120v operation. The electronics would not care (and are probably 120v anyway) and the heater could be left alone. Of course, it could be more than that, like a new 120v motor.
whirlpool_trainee
14 years ago
Maybe that washer had two heating elements: one rated, say, 1000 watts and the other one 1500. Converting the washer to 120v disabled the more powerful heater. Just a guess...
regus_patoff
14 years ago
Wouldn't it just be easier to run a 220v line from the Circuit Breaker Box to the Washer ?
Ron Natalie
14 years ago
You can call or email Miele tech support up in NJ. I've found them generally helpful with questions.
scotkight
14 years ago
Conversion kits normally either turn down the heater/mechanicals, or require you to take cables and plug into two circuits. 240v in the usa is just both phases of the 120v service on one plug.

Major restrictions on distance and cabling.

Miele 240v-to-120v Conversion Kit - how does this work?

Comments (8)

deutsch100

lee676
Original Author

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Miele 240v-to-120v Conversion Kit - how does this work?

Comments (8)

deutsch100

lee676Original Author

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deutsch100

weedmeister

whirlpool_trainee

regus_patoff

Ron Natalie

scotkight

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lee676
Original Author