Electricity in Andalusia operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz frequency, using standard European two-pin plugs (Type C and F). Travellers from the UK, Ireland, and North America will require adaptors, and in some cases, voltage converters, to use their devices safely.

Andalusia uses the same electrical standards as the rest of mainland Spain and most of continental Europe. If you are visiting from the UK, North America, or Australasia, your devices will not fit the wall sockets without an adaptor. Furthermore, if you are travelling from a country with a 110V system (like the USA), you must check if your appliances are dual-voltage before plugging them in to avoid permanent damage.

Plug Types: C and F

Spain uses two primary types of electrical plugs. Both feature two round pins, but they differ in their earthing (grounding) arrangements.

• Type C (Europlug): This is the standard flat, two-pin plug. it is ungrounded and used for low-power devices like phone chargers and lamps. It fits perfectly into Type F sockets.
• Type F (Schuko): This is a round plug with two pins and two earth clips on the sides. It is used for larger appliances like kettles, hair dryers, and laptops.

If you have a UK three-pin plug (Type G), you will need a Type G to Type E/F adaptor. These are widely available at airports, though they are significantly cheaper if bought at a local hardware store (ferretería) or a general store (bazar) once you arrive.

Voltage and Frequency

The standard voltage in Andalusia is 230V, and the frequency is 50Hz. This is compatible with equipment from the UK, Europe, Australia, and most of Asia and Africa.

Important for North American Travellers: The US and Canada use 110V-120V. Most modern electronics (laptops, smartphones, camera chargers) are dual-voltage and can handle 100V to 240V. You can verify this by reading the fine print on the power brick; it should say "Input: 100-240V, 50/60Hz". If it only says "110V", do not plug it into a Spanish socket without a voltage transformer, or the device will likely catch fire or short-circuit.

Hair Dryers and High-Wattage Appliances

Hair dryers, hair straighteners, and curling irons are the most common victims of voltage differences. Even with a plug adaptor, a 110V hair dryer from the US will overheat and fail instantly on a 230V circuit.

• Dual-voltage travel hair dryers: These often have a small switch on the handle to toggle between 125V and 250V. Ensure this is set to 250V before use.
• Straighteners: Modern brands like GHD are usually universal voltage, but always check the label.
• Hotel provision: Most hotels and registered holiday rentals (VFTs) in Andalusia provide hair dryers as standard, so it is often easier to leave yours at home.

Information for Expats: Potencia Contratada

If you are moving to Andalusia or renting a long-term apartment, you must understand Potencia Contratada. This is the maximum amount of power you can draw at any one time, measured in kilowatts (kW).

1. The Limit: Most apartments have a limit between 3.3kW and 5.5kW.
2. The Trip: If you run the oven, the air conditioning, and the washing machine simultaneously, you will likely exceed this limit. The smart meter will automatically cut the power.
3. The Fix: To restore power, turn off the last appliance you started and reset the main circuit breaker (ICP) at your consumer unit.
4. Cost: Your monthly standing charge is based on this limit. Increasing your potencia involves a fee (approx. €45 per kW increased) and may require a new electrical safety certificate (boletín).

USB Charging and Power Strips

Newer hotels and renovated apartments in cities like Seville, Málaga, and Granada often feature integrated USB-A or USB-C ports in the wall sockets or bedside lamps. However, in older buildings and rural cortijos, power points are often limited in number and inconveniently placed.

Practical Tip: Bring a UK or US power strip (multi-plug) and one single Spanish adaptor. This allows you to charge multiple devices using only one wall socket and one adaptor, which is more reliable than using several cheap individual adaptors.

Where to Buy Adaptors in Andalusia

If you arrive without an adaptor, you have several options:

• Bazaars (Bazares): Locally referred to as "Chinos", these shops are found in almost every neighbourhood. They sell basic adaptors for €1.50 to €3.00.
• Ferreterías: These are traditional hardware stores. The quality of the adaptors here is usually higher, costing between €5.00 and €8.00.
• Large Retailers: El Corte Inglés, Carrefour, and MediaMarkt stock universal travel adaptors and high-quality converters.
• Airports: Expect to pay a premium (€15.00+) at Málaga or Seville airports.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my UK hair straighteners in Andalusia?

Yes. UK devices operate on the same voltage (230V). You only need a physical plug adaptor to convert the three-pin plug to the European two-pin format.

Do I need a voltage converter for my iPhone?

No. Apple chargers (and almost all modern smartphone chargers) are designed to work between 100V and 240V. A simple plug adaptor is sufficient.

What should I do if the power goes out in my rental?

Check the electrical panel (usually located near the front door). If the main switch has flipped down, you have likely overloaded the circuit by using too many appliances at once. Flip it back up. If the street lights are also out, it is a local grid failure.

Are Spanish sockets safe for children?

Modern Spanish sockets (Type F) are recessed, making it difficult for fingers to touch the pins. However, if you are staying in an older property, the sockets may be flush with the wall. Standard plastic socket covers are available at any ferretería.

Summary

• Plug Type: Two-pin Type C or F (Schuko).
• Voltage: 230V (safe for UK/EU devices; US devices need a transformer).
• Best Practice: Bring a power strip from home and use a single high-quality adaptor.
• Buying Locally: Visit a ferretería or bazar for the best prices.

Note: Electrical regulations and prices are subject to change. This information is correct as of April 2026. Always consult a qualified electrician for installations or property modifications.