Even though using an electric kettle seems straightforward, almost everyone inadvertently makes small mistakes that can shorten the life of the kettle and potentially affect our health. Let’s talk about some common blunders that many people still continue to make without realizing it.
Choosing the Right Electric Kettle
The primary job of any electric kettle is to boil water, but it’s not as simple as picking any model off the shelf. You’d want to go for one made from high-quality materials like stainless steel. However, not all stainless steel is created equal. The wise choice would be a kettle manufactured from 304 stainless steel—a type known for its durability and resistance to corrosion. Water boiled in such a kettle is not only safer but also leaves you with a longer-lasting appliance.
Avoid Overfilling Your Kettle
We might think that filling an electric kettle to the brim is convenient, but this practice comes with its risks. When you pour too much water in, you’ll face the possibility of it boiling over. Water spilling over can find its way into the base, risking a short circuit or damaging the kettle altogether.
Properly Fill Your Kettle Before Turning it On
Some of us are guilty of flipping the kettle switch before adding water, often out of habit. However, doing so could damage your kettle. The appliance isn’t designed to handle dry boiling, and operating it in this state might lead to problems down the line.
Instead, remember to pour water into the kettle first before setting it on its base. Make sure the area is dry and plug it in only after confirming there’s no lingering moisture that could create a short circuit. Once you’re done, it’s advisable to unplug the kettle to ensure its safety.
Leave Some Water Behind
When you’ve boiled water, most of us pour it all out for convenience. But for the longevity of your kettle, it might be best to leave a little water inside. When the heating element is still hot, pouring all of it out could potentially harm the kettle’s thermal relay and shorten its lifespan.
Regular Cleaning is Essential
Maintenance is crucial for any appliance, and the same goes for your electric kettle. Over time, without regular cleaning, limescale can build up and create a yellowish deposit inside the appliance. This not only alters the taste of your water but may also pose health risks. Regular cleaning is thus necessary to ensure the water you consume is of good quality.
A simple trick is using vinegar to clean the kettle. Since limescale is alkaline and vinegar contains acid, they neutralize each other, effectively cleansing your kettle.
By paying attention to these common errors and maintenance tips, you can enjoy a longer life from your electric kettle and continue drinking cleaner, healthier water.
