It is important to determine if you need a travel adapter or a voltage converter for Costa Rica plug and power outlets.
Not to worry, we have all the information you need to ensure a problem-free trip.
What type of plug is used in Costa Rica power outlet?
The power plug and outlets used in Costa Rica are the types A and B plugs.
The type A plug has two flat pins, which are parallel.
The type B plug also has two flat parallel pins, but also with a grounding pin. The type B socket can work with the type A plug.
What is the voltage and frequency in Costa Rica?
The standard voltage and frequency used in Costa Rica is 120 V and 60 Hz.
Travelers from Canada, the US, other South American countries, and typically countries with a standard voltage between 110 V – 127 V can use electric appliances in Costa Rica without a voltage converter.
This is because slight deviations of plus or minus 5% are taken into account by manufacturers.
Travelers from Japan, with a standard frequency of 100 V, have to be careful as they use appliances in Costa Rica.
Travelers from countries such as Australia, the UK, countries in Europe, Africa, and most parts of Asia, have to use a voltage converter to use electric appliances in Costa Rica.
In a situation where the standard frequency of Costa Rica is different from that of a traveler’s country, it is recommended that electric appliances are not used.
While no damage may occur, electric appliances will not function if used.
Hence, caution has to be exercised when using rotating or moving appliances such as clocks or fans. If appliances are used in such situations, they should only be used for a short time.
Some devices are free from voltage issues as they can be used with a wide range of voltage and frequency.
On the label of these appliances, an inscription such as “INPUT: 100 V – 240 V, 50/0 Hz” is written.
Such devices can be used in all countries globally.
They include chargers of phone cameras, tablets, cell phones, laptops, and electric toothbrushes.
Want to buy a power plug/travel adapter or voltage converter?
The list of travel adapter products and converters available online is endless. However, when you choose a quality travel adapter, you can stay connected to a power source.
Fortunately, here’s our top-3 travel adapter picks from Amazon, in terms of quality, design, and price.
Electricity in Costa Rica: How does Costa Rica get its energy?
Costa Rica is one of the few country’s in the world that heavily relies on renewable energy for electricity production.
In 2019, 99% of electricity production in the country was from renewable energy. Since 2014, Costa Rica’s electricity has been produced from renewable sources.
About 67.5% of Costa Rica’s electricity is produced from hydropower, 17% from wind power, 13.5 comes from biomass, while backup plants and solar panels each account for 1.16% and 0.84% of electricity.