Kettles

About Kettles 

Small kitchen appliances feature a whole range of super-convenient tools, easy to use. Boiling water belongs to the simplest of all household tasks, but it sometimes can take forever. That is the reason why a device designed for such a straightforward purpose makes its way to homes worldwide. 

Electric kettles bring convenience, precision, and, most importantly - speed that no other water boiling tool can match. 

Advantages of Using Kettles

• Speed: Electric jugs bring water to a boil in no time, more efficiently than microwaves and stove-tops. It’s especially convenient when the morning time runs fast. 
• Ease of use: They are simple and based on two steps - adding water and pressing down a button. Even smart kettles with a variety of temperature settings and other features are typically designed as accessible and intuitive.
• Energy Efficiency: Fast operation spends less energy than using traditional ways of boiling water. 
• Precision: With some electric jugs, it’s possible to achieve and control just the ideal temperature for a cup of instant coffee or tea. 

Types of Kettles 

Kettles are classified into two main categories: electric and stove-top. Stove-top kettles are traditional and don’t require electricity. Electric jugs are fast and more convenient to use. 

Stove Top Kettles

Stove top kettles feature no direct connection to the electric source. Instead, they are used in combination with another heated source such as a stove - hence the name. They are slower than electric models, and a full pot can take up to 20 minutes before ready.

• Heat-resistant copper, stainless steel, and cast iron kettles are more durable than electric models, typically made of plastic. Another advantage is the higher water temperature they can achieve and maintain.
• Modern versions also include heat-resistant glass kettles. 
• Stove top jugs do not depend on electricity and can be functional even over a campfire. 
• Two available versions come as whistling and non-whistling. While a whistling jug is an iconic, rewarding sound, some prefer more silent options. 

Gooseneck kettles are the typical representatives of stove top models, elegant and stylized with a narrow, long spout. Such design allows for a more controlled pour and better flavour of tea extraction.

Electric Jugs

There are two essential advantages of an electric jug over the stove top one. It heats water much more efficiently, while its lightweight, compact design allows for more convenience of use. 

Some handy features of electric jugs include:

• Auto-shutoff function: This might be the most crucial option to look for. It provides peace of mind, eliminating the need to think if the appliance has been turned off after last use. Electric jugs with an auto-shutoff option also prevent unnecessary waste of energy.
• Detachable or no cord: Cordless kettles are the most convenient to use, but a detachable cable is almost as good. 
• Base cord storage: A cord storage option is excellent in ensuring that it won’t stand in the way.
• Water gauge: A visible water gauge helps control and maintain the water level inside the jug, also preventing risks that may come with heating an empty device. 
• Keep Warm feature: A temperature-controlled kettle is an exceptionally handy feature that can make a number of kitchen tasks more convenient. 

Modern electric jugs can be plugged into, more or less, any power outlet. 

Electric kettles are typically made of plastic, glass, metal, glass, or their combinations. Stainless steel and glass are more durable than plastic, which has the advantage of being lightweight and cooler to the touch.

Smart Technology

Advanced technologies allow the user to control their water temperature, while many models also allow smartphone integration. A smart kettle can be operated from a distance, as far as the connection can reach, eliminating the need to get up twice for a cup of brew. That being said, for as long as there is water in the jug. 

Things to Consider Before Buying an Electric Jug

• Speed: Most electric jugs take up to four minutes to boil water, while the fastest models can perform in a range of 1.5-2 minutes.  
• Capacity: The jug size might not be directly related to its capacity. Some models are designed to appear attractive and spacious, but the water container inside is often standard. Portable, small kettles typically have capacity only for a cup or two, which might prove insufficient after a while.  
• Design: Electric jugs usually sit on the counter all the time. While their function is more important than appearance, many models are made to look as good as they perform. Designer kettles make quite a visual feature, especially when matched with other appliances such as coffee machines or toasters. White or black kettles can easily blend with most decor schemes. 
• Durability: Quality materials and construction are, in most cases, directly related to the longevity of the appliance. While those may require a higher initial investment, they also need to be replaced less often. 

Sometimes electric kettles develop a weird smell and taste. In order to avoid this from happening, it’s advised to fill it up only as much as needed for one particular use. Any leftover water should be spilled rather than kept inside for a long time.