Chuck2012

I love my Pfaff machine. But when I take it to quilting retreats, I find that there are voltage issues and my speed will fluctuate, making it hard to keep a consistent stitch size or stitch curves.

I think it has to do with how many and what kind of machines are plugged into the same circuit. Sometimes after getting thoroughly frustrated, I can isolate that it only happens if a particular person is sewing while I am.

I considered buying a new machine, but was told newer machines can also have the same issue as the electronics on them need more power.

Now I am looking at buying a Voltage Regulator for over $100. Surge protectors, even high rated ones, don’t work.

Anyone else having this issue?

bearisgray

Have no idea.

Maybe a fuse or battery issue? Pages 14, 50, and 51 in the inztruction book.

So some troubleshooting hints on paves 207 and 207.

mkc

Are there irons plugged in as well? Those consume a lot more power than the machines and exacerbate the problem.

Power droops for extended periods of time will damage motors (the windings will get hot), so it's good that you are looking for solutions.

The reason surge protectors don't work is that they are designed to be sacrificial devices that absorb/redirect a power spike that's only a fraction of a second and prevent power from passing. They don't do any line conditioning.

Be sure the voltage regulator has an internal battery. What you're basically looking for is a UPS (uninterruptible power supply) with voltage regulator capability.

tropit

The retreat may be using a generator to help power everything. Generators tend to have fluctuations in power output.

Chuck2012

This retreat is at a hotel with a large conference center. Wonderful space…except for the electricity.

QuiltE

If you are having these problems, it would seem that others would be as well.
Are they?

It's really no different than it can be in our homes, when/if we overload the circuits, with too much plugged into one plug or plugs that are all wired together. Often happens in the kitchen and we just get to know what not to do!! When you think of it, it's a wonder more do not have this problem at other sewing groups. Granted, some do/have, then after figuring it out, work around it. Example, I know one group that goes to a facility, and they have their irons in a different room. Not so much because of space, or to force movement/exercise, but because they just know they get into electrical problems.

As ​​​@mkc already described, a surge protector only deals with surges/spikes. Whereas a UPS deals with both the highs and lows (called brownouts) as effectively you are running off a battery all the time. The power goes into the UPS, and is then stored, so that you can get the right output as you need it. I've had UPS' on my computers for over 30 yrs, eventually adding my sewing machines too. Not sure how small you can get one ... but the ones that I have are a lot more weighty than I would want to be slugging to take to a sew-day! At the least you can do some queries, and see what might work for you.

Aside from your noting your sewing results are not up-to-par when this happens ... you need to be aware, that using your machine without the correct incoming power, can do damage to your machine. That's why 30+yrs ago, I had to get a UPS ... effectively the brains of my home computer were destroyed! And why, I will always use a UPS.

However, all this might be something that needs to be discussed by the whole group. Maybe the location needs to be reconsidered? Or acceptable alternatives discussed/decided?

BTW there are also whole-home UPS' that can be installed. Not the priciest either ... and might be a good and realistic option for sewing group locations. However, that's something that only an electrician could advise, based on the specifics of the location.

@Chuck2012 while you have noted ...
... keep in mind that the electricity for the room, was probably not designed for so many sewing machines running at the same time! Have discussions been had with the hotel people? If they value your group's business, they may be willing to do the changes needed, to maintain the business ... and perhaps increase their usage for your events.

Good Luck !!

mkc

That's something like a Jackery or Tesla Powerwall which will run in the thousands to tens of thousands.

tinlizzy

Not a problem for my New Home treadle. In fact, I've been able to sew at retreats when power was lost (once due to a storm and once, temporarily, from too many electric things plugged in).

GregB

What you need is a voltage regulator. First you will need to know how many watts your machine needs. It may be written near the model number. Or its watts= voltage X amperage. The regulators are rated by wattage that's why you will need this number. These items can be found at stores that sell parts or electronic goods. If lucky your sewing store has one to protect your machine. The problem could be affecting both the motor and the electronics inside the Pfaff machine. I hope I have explain a simple solution for your problem.