It takes a great deal of muscle and determination to insert a normal 120 volt plug into a 240 volt outlet, at least that is what I have seen.

 

It takes a great deal of muscle and determination to insert a normal 120 volt plug into a 240 volt outlet, at least that is what I have seen.

Not everywhere. I've lived in several countries where the 120 outlet and 240 outlet (US type A B receptacles and plugs) are exactly the same. Always test and label.

The standard 2 prong 110 volt American plug is identical to the standard 220 volt Filipino plug.

 

OK, I see that. So If I travel to the Filipino nation I will certainly keep that in mind.
But now I am thinking that probably 220 volts is the standard there. I do not routinely visit that area of the world.

 

that is not the only country with dual voltages. same is if you go to Peru... parts of country use 110VAC and other parts use 220VAC but the receptacles and plugs are the same.

 

that is not the only country with dual voltages. same is if you go to Peru... parts of country use 110VAC and other parts use 220VAC but the receptacles and plugs are the same.

They sound like good places to set up a small appliance repair facility.

 

They sound like good places to set up a small appliance repair facility.

Yes, there were plenty of repair places on the streets. When I lived in PI just outside the base, I had step-down auto-voltage regulation transformers for all the US made stuff. We also sealed over all the extra 220vac in the house so family and friends couldn't blow something up using the wrong socket.
The electronics on the base at the 'Far East Trader' Exchange sold equipment designed for international power. (ie: 100V, 115V,220V, and 240V Mains select) 100V is Japan that also used US style AC sockets.

 

In situations like these, an accurate voltmeter would certainly be a valuable resource.
And if the TS was not aware of just what I was describing then "plug and play" is the extent I would suggest as reasonable.
AND one would not find a good soft starter at an electronics store. It would be at an industrial supply seller. And it would really not be very good for the application.
For a series resistor as mentioned by the TS, consider an electric heater or an electric iron (flatiron)