Choosing a Kettle

Tea or herbal tea, kettle is a kitchen utensil designed to boil water or any other liquid at any time of day. There are two kinds of kettles: the traditional metal that was used by our grandmothers or more fashionable, the electric model wired or wireless. These latter dominate the market because they can heat water in a relatively short time. Some models will even acquire an option making it possible to maintain the temperature.

You want to purchase a kettle but do not know which to choose among the many existing models on the market? This article guides you in your choices.

Types of kettles

* Traditional kettle: iron container, copper or aluminum, the traditional kettle has a generally plastic handle, a spout and a plug whistle. It is intended to be placed on a hot plate or burner on a stove to warm up the liquid contents. They are also provided with a spout. Some models are equipped with a whistle cap to the spout, which produces a shrill sound depending on the vapor emitted, preventing in this way the boil.

* Electric kettle: metal or plastic container, electric kettle may have a shape similar to the traditional kettle or a more elongated shape. It is, at any point, more economical than a conventional kettle that is placed on a stove. Electric kettle works through a heater, which is, either submerged at the bottom of device, or is placed in a steel plate, such as cordless kettles. It can also be used as a simple container because it is detachable from their base. Electric kettle shuts off automatically as soon as the liquid is boiling, with a thermal circuit breaker.

The criteria for choosing an electric kettle

There are currently a range of electric kettles on the market, whether in terms of colors, shapes or design. The ability level, depending on the number of people in the house. If you live alone, a small kettle is the case, if you are a large family, some models have a capacity of up to 2 liters.

Some models have an insulated handle and a lid incorporating a locking system, handy for toddlers. Most electric models are equipped with an automatic shutoff system.

For easy cleaning, anti-scale and removable anti-tartar and washable filter (placed in the spout) is usually supplied with the device depending on the model or brand. The latest in kettle are water filters cartridges to remove harmful substances such as lead or chlorine. Others still have a variable thermostat system to FIT the beverages taste such as teas and infusions.

Recommendations for use and maintenance

It is necessary to properly maintain your unit. Indeed, if the electrical resistance is covered with tartar or limestone, water takes longer to boil and more energy is consumed. There are several effective ways to ward off tartar, either by using a special product purchased commercially or a mixture of white vinegar and salt that reproduce the effect of a mild acid when boiled.

If the container of your kettle is copper, a pad of newsprint for effective cleaning is fine. The hot crystals water also restores its copper luster.

Popular kettle brands: Severin, Russell Hobbs, Tefal, Kenwood, Cuisinart...