Alec S. Says:
Do I need adaptors for my appliances or power tools in Ecuador? Are there places like Home Depot or Lowe’s down there?
IL Executive Editor Jennifer Stevens Says:
Hi Alec,
Ecuador uses 120V supply voltage and most devices come with 2-pin plugs just as in the U.S., so all your devices will be compatible here and you won’t need adaptors.
Many electrical outlets have the additional round hole to accommodate plugs with grounding pin, too.
There are no Home Depots or Lowe’s in Ecuador, although there are a number of “big box” home supply stores, such as Kywi and Coral, in larger cities.
High-quality, American-made tools are expensive if you can find them, so bring those along if you think you’ll need them.
Appliance stores carry excellent modern appliances manufactured in the U.S., Mexico, Brazil, Colombia, Chile, and Ecuador, and several specialty home stores have opened recently, enhancing competition and bringing prices down. Among the better Latin American appliance brands are Mabe (made in Chile) and Indurama (made in Cuenca).
Imported, high-quality appliances like KitchenAid or Maytag will cost much more in Ecuador than they do in the U.S.
If you’re moving here as a resident and want these brands, it’s worth bringing them with you since they’ll come in duty-free. Make sure, however, the brand you bring can be serviced in Ecuador.
And don’t forget to check out our Escape to Ecuador guidebook for full details of shipping your household goods.
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