Oregon Measurements & Electricity

The U.S. uses the Fahrenheit scale (°F), rather than Centigrade scale (°C), to measure temperature. For weights and measures, the U.S. uses the customary measurement system.

The following are a few helpful conversions from metric to the U.S. measurement system:

• 1 mile = 1.6 kilometers
• 1 yard (3 feet) = 0.91 meter
• 1 foot = 0.3 meter
• 1 inch = 25.4 millimeters
• 1 pound = 0.45 kilograms
• 1 ounce = 28.3 grams
• 1 gallon = 3.79 liters
• 32°Fahrenheit = 0°Celsius
• 75°Fahrenheit = 24°Celsius

Electricity

Currents and electric outlets are standardized and operate on 110/120 volts in the United States, so international visitors may need a voltage converter to operate their appliances if they operate on 220/240 Volts.

Using the right converter will protect your electrical appliances from damage. Hair dryers and curling irons generally use a more powerful converter, but many hotels have hair dryers available to use. Laptop computers, razors, cameras and other electronic devices usually have built-in converters. If you are planning an extended stay, consider purchasing an inexpensive appliance to use.

Adapter plugs allow you to plug your devices into U.S. outlets. Converters and sets of adapter plugs are available at most travel/luggage stores, large stores like Walmart and Target, and electronic stores. Many hotels and accommodations are also adding USB ports for charging devices, which is a convenient way to charge many of your devices without an adapter or converter.