The parent comment didn't refer to the 120V / 240V distinction because of the voltage itself, but rather refers to two distinct kinds of electrical sockets. 12

The parent comment didn't refer to the 120V / 240V distinction because of the voltage itself, but rather refers to two distinct kinds of electrical sockets. 120V = NMEA-5, 240V = NMEA-6 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NEMA_connector http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NEMA_connector When you install a washing machine (or, for example a circular saw in your workshop) you'll have to make sure that the proper socket is available at the place where you want to put it (or you'll have to install one at that location). In Europe, the corresponding comparison would be between 1-phase (230V) power and 3-phase (400V) power, e.g. normal household socket and the red, round 5-prong CEE connectors. http://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/CEE-System http://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/CEE-System