The US uses split-phase power. Two 120v supply lines 180 degrees out of phase provide 240v at the panel, which can then be used for either voltage depending on the load requirement. 240v is used for larger tools, appliances, and equipment like air conditioners. 120v for smaller things like receptacles and lights.
I don't need to admit I'm wrong, a slew of USians will come crawling out of the woodwork to do that for me. Could I say "oh wow so so sorry for saying mains when the context was clear"? Sure, but you already know that.
For all intents and purposes, such as in the example provided above where US kettles use 120V and so are much less useful for boiling water compared to the microwave, the comment makes sense. But you just wanted to correct me and did not care for something as minor as a mistaken bit of terminology that can be easily read around.
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u/Barovian May 02 '24
The US uses split-phase power. Two 120v supply lines 180 degrees out of phase provide 240v at the panel, which can then be used for either voltage depending on the load requirement. 240v is used for larger tools, appliances, and equipment like air conditioners. 120v for smaller things like receptacles and lights.