How to choose the right electric kettle? Detailed instructions for buyers

It is difficult to find a person who does not like to drink tea or coffee. That's why thousands of people boil water every day. It would seem that there should be no problems with choosing a kettle. Finding a model that is suitable for price and capacity is not difficult. In addition, stores offer a wide selection of electric kettles to suit every taste.

The key to delicious drinks is proper boiling of water.

However, this is where the main difficulty lies: finding a good kettle is not as easy as it might seem at first glance. Some may turn out to be unreliable and break down after just a couple of months, and some may even be harmful to health.

In this article, we tried to figure out how to choose a high-quality electric kettle and what you should pay priority attention to when choosing.

Housing material

The first thing we pay attention to when deciding which electric kettle to buy for our home is its appearance. The material also plays a significant role in the choice: some people like modern glass teapots, while others like cozy ceramic models.

However, not only the appearance depends on the material: different teapots behave differently. In addition, some materials are more reliable than others, and some are more convenient to use.

Therefore, we have compiled a comparative database where we clearly described the advantages and disadvantages of various electric kettles.

Additional functions

Almost every modern model is equipped with a lot of additional options. What should you pay attention to when buying an electric kettle?

Let's look at the main points in order:

1. The length of the cord can vary from 0.5 to 1.8 m. A cord that is too long is inconvenient to use. Choose a device with a network cable length of 0.6-0.8 m;
2. Prolonged boiling allows you to completely destroy all microorganisms in the water and get rid of dissolved chlorine compounds;
3. The lid release button is very important. If the lid of the kettle can only be opened by pressing a special button, then you don’t have to worry about boiling water pouring out of the flask when pouring into a cup;
4. The presence of a timer is a very convenient function that allows you to “order” the kettle to heat water for a certain time;

   
   Timer is a very convenient feature

5. Sound, light alerts/indication. The device will give a “notification” to the owner about the end of the water boiling process. It’s very nice if the kettle is equipped with an indication of switching on, water level, operating mode, etc.;
6. The presence of backlight allows you to use the device as an additional light source. Some models can change the backlight color depending on the water heating temperature;
7. The presence of a thermostat allows you to heat water to a certain temperature and maintain it in the selected range;
8. Protection against switching on without water protects the heating element from failure due to overheating;
9. A removable internal filter allows you to additionally purify water from mechanical impurities during pouring into the flask.

It should be understood that additional functionality simplifies the operation of the device, but also significantly increases its cost.

Which electric kettle is best to choose based on the optimal price/quality ratio? Pay attention to models only with the functionality you need. This approach will allow you to choose the right model and not overpay for unnecessary options.

Choosing a plastic kettle

Plastic is the most accessible and inexpensive material. This is what explains the low price of electric kettles. If you wish, you can find a model that costs only four hundred rubles. Most often they are purchased for a summer house or office - if it breaks, then it’s not a shame to throw it away.

A plastic kettle is an inexpensive option for everyday use.

However, this accessibility also hides the main danger of such devices: cheap plastic can cause significant harm to your health. Many mixtures release toxic formaldehyde when heated. This is not dangerous in some appliances, but in the case of a kettle, the substance goes directly into the water you drink. When formaldehyde accumulates, it causes severe allergic reactions and damages the liver.

Perhaps you should completely abandon plastic teapots? Not if you choose them correctly. A more expensive plastic option is polycarbonate. It is safe for health, so you can safely purchase models from it. The price for them starts from 1000 rubles, but you will be sure of the quality.

Caring for teapots made of various types of plastic is very simple: just wipe them regularly to remove dirt. In addition, thanks to the low price, you don’t have to worry about breakdowns - replacing the unit will be a snap.

The latter quality is especially important considering that the average service life of such a kettle is only two years.

The disadvantages include the fact that most plastic kettles are produced by Chinese manufacturers who do not provide certificates. Therefore, purchase devices only from trusted stores.

Check the quality of the kettle carefully.

As for how to choose a safe plastic kettle, we recommend smelling it. Polypropylene will emit an unpleasant, pungent odor, while polycarbonate has no odor at all.

In addition, you need to inspect the device. The seams must be smooth and tight, without protruding parts. The body should not have scratches, abrasions, roughness, or uneven color. Noticed one or more signs? Most likely, the kettle was made from poor quality non-food plastic. In this case, you will have to refuse the purchase.

Materials

The choice of material for a future electrical device is very important. Modern teapots, which are presented on store shelves, are made of plastic, stainless steel, glass or ceramics. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages.

• Inexpensive models with a rich range of colors, teapots, as a rule, made of plastic. Since plastic material easily reacts with any substance, including water, it should be taken into account that a plastic device for boiling water may be harmful to the body if the plastic of the product is of poor quality. At the same time, when heated, harmful substances can be released, negatively affecting the human body, as well as worsening the taste of the finished drink with an unpleasant odor. This, of course, is a big drawback of teapot models made from this material. When choosing an electric kettle among plastic models, you need to pay attention to the fact that the product does not have a strong odor, which should go away after boiling the water 3-4 times.

  
  As a rule, electric models of plastic kettles from popular brands use materials that are safe for health, since they value their reputation among customers.

• Electric ones are also popular glass teapot models. Their attractive appearance captivates many kitchen owners. Some glass modules illuminate the water during operation, sometimes in different colors, which looks very beautiful and interesting. Glass models require constant maintenance, as scale and traces of dirt are clearly visible on the glass walls. Since glass does not react with any substances, including water, it is considered an environmentally friendly product to use.

  
  However, when purchasing, it is worth considering that glass vessels are quite fragile, and the electrical device itself is heavy. In addition, these models take longer to heat up, and their body heats up more, like metal. Glass electric kettles are more expensive than, for example, plastic options.

• Ceramic teapot models also attract many buyers. In stores they are presented in a variety of designs.

  
  It is believed that in a ceramic teapot water is able to retain its natural taste. Even with prolonged use of a ceramic appliance, rust and scale will not appear on the walls, which will not allow bacteria to multiply. In ceramic models, the thickness of the walls ensures quiet use when water boils. Another advantage of ceramics is that it allows you to retain the heat of heated water longer. However, they will take longer to heat and fully boil the water, thus consuming more energy. On the other hand, the heated water temperature is maintained more than in other kettle models. In addition, the disadvantage of such models of kettles is their heavy weight. At the same time, if you drop the device once, a crack may appear or the kettle may even break and become unusable. And the cost of ceramic models of teapots in comparison with similar devices made of other materials is quite high.

• Those who are interested in the quality and durability of the device choose stainless steel kettles . However, these models also have their disadvantages. The metal body of the device heats up to high temperatures, which is dangerous due to burning your hands. In addition, water heated in a metal electric kettle cools down faster than in devices made of other materials.
• Among modern models there are electric kettles from combined materials – plastic and metal. However, it should be taken into account that different thermal expansion of materials as a result of use can cause water leakage at the joints.

How to choose a stainless steel kettle

Shiny and stylish, stainless steel is another favorite among electric kettles. Many people prefer these models for their strength and reliability. However, you also need to be able to choose the right kettle so as not to run into a fake.

A steel kettle is a reliable and durable option.

First of all, keep in mind that sometimes unscrupulous manufacturers try to pass off ordinary aluminum as stainless steel. Such kettles quickly break down, and when heated, they release iron oxide, which is harmful to health, into the water. Identifying them is quite simple: if you run a pointed object across the surface, a mark will remain on the aluminum, but stainless steel will not be damaged.

In addition, you should not be fooled by a too low price - a good stainless steel kettle cannot cost less than two thousand rubles.

For this price you get a lot of advantages:

• Stainless steel is considered an environmentally friendly material, so it does not contain any harmful impurities. It is absolutely harmless to your health.
• Even if the kettle falls, it has a good chance of surviving due to the high strength of the material. The average service life of a stainless steel kettle is six years. This is significantly higher than most analogues.
• There are models with double walls on sale. We recommend paying attention to them. Due to their high heat resistance, they do not allow heat to pass through, so you do not risk burning your hands if you accidentally touch a kettle with boiling water.

However, please note that caring for a stainless steel kettle should be as careful as possible. If you damage it from the inside, the unit will have to be thrown away: it may cause harm to your health.

Nowadays steel is painted in different colors, so you can easily find an option for your kitchen.

And the price is not encouraging - available models start from two thousand rubles, and there is practically no upper limit: it all depends on the manufacturer, design and functionality.

What types of teapots are there based on body material?

Home appliance stores sell kettles whose bodies can be made of different materials. Each of them has its own advantages and disadvantages, so before purchasing, read the characteristics of all possible materials for the device’s container.

Metal

The metal case in household appliances for the kitchen has proven itself to be a strong and durable material. A metal kettle looks attractive and is resistant to mechanical damage and high temperatures. When choosing a metal device, make sure that the body is:

• not made of aluminum alloy, which can react chemically even with cold water;
• equipped with a lid and handle made of plastic or with rubber pads;
• made only of metal without adding a second wall of plastic, since due to different expansion of materials, the kettle may leak at the joints over time.

It is worth noting that a metal device weighs a little more than its counterparts made from other materials and requires more careful care.

Plastic

Most often, plastic models are found on the shelves in household appliance stores. Basically, plastic models are the cheapest in the segment, but there are also expensive ones that are of better quality. The advantages of the material usually include:

• availability;
• variety of colors and shapes;
• light weight;
• strength and durability;
• ease of care.

A significant disadvantage is that the cheaper the model, the worse the plastic, which means that when heated, chemicals or unpleasant odors will be released. Choose not the cheapest model in the range and take a closer look at the quality of the case. Plastic can be virgin, which is more resistant to damage, or recycled, which is brittle. If it has a dull color or additional impurities in the color, the plastic is of low quality, which means the kettle will not last long.

Ceramic

Ceramic electric kettles have gained popularity among connoisseurs of style and sophistication. The model range pleases not only with a variety of shapes and colors, but also with additional accessories, for example, cups to match the teapot. Ceramic devices have the following qualities:

• the device makes virtually no noise when heating;
• the surface inside does not collect scale, as it is quite smooth;
• safe to use.

Also pay attention to how thick the ceramic case is. The thin one must be used very carefully, as it is very fragile. Thick is more durable, but the water in it takes longer to heat up.

Glass

Devices with a glass body look beautiful and modern, especially attractive glass teapots equipped with multi-colored lighting. Glass is an environmentally friendly and safe material, easy to clean and retains heat well. You will always know how much water is left in the container. The disadvantages usually include the high price, fragility and strong heating of the material, as well as the heavy weight of the electrical appliance. The kettle will have to be washed more often, as any dirt inside will be visible.

How to choose a glass teapot

Stylish glass electric kettles are now at the peak of fashion. According to statistics, this is perhaps the most popular material. They look unusual and can become a real decoration of your kitchen.

In addition, manufacturers, trying to meet trends, produce a wide variety of models: fancy shapes, with painted patterns, with LED backlighting or imitation water coloring. Therefore, you can easily choose a kettle to suit every taste.

It is easy to choose any glass teapot design.

In addition, glass is the most environmentally friendly material, so such teapots can conditionally be called the safest for health. Why conditional? In any case, only the body will be glass. The heating element and lid are made of plastic or metal, so it is important to pay the same attention to their quality as in previous cases.

Otherwise, you risk purchasing a kettle that is harmful to your health. In addition, at the moment glass teapots are the most expensive in terms of price. Especially if we are talking about devices made of impact-resistant glass - and it only makes sense to buy such. Ordinary glass is not resistant to mechanical damage and can be easily broken.

Check the quality of plastic and metal parts - your health depends on them.

Please also take into account the care features: you will have to use only bottled water, as any plaque will immediately catch your eye. And the outside will have to be washed almost every day - fingerprints and the slightest specks of dust are noticeable on the glass.

What else should you pay attention to when purchasing?

1. Volume.

It can be from 0.45 liters (“travel” version, which is easy and convenient to take with you) to 5 liters. For one person, a device with a volume of 0.5 liters is quite enough, for a couple a liter model is suitable, but for a large family it is better to buy an electric kettle with a volume of at least 2 liters.

Note:

Thermal sweaters are also quite common in modern stores. These are capacious (up to 8 liters), very large units that are capable of not only heating water, but also maintaining a given temperature. They are equipped with a pump that allows you to pour water into the cup without lifting the unit. The cost of such devices is significantly higher than the price of conventional electric kettles, so it is not always advisable to give them preference. Especially when it comes to buying a home kettle.

2. Power.

For the most popular models of medium-sized electric kettles, it is
1.5-2.5 kW
. This indicator ensures fairly fast heating of water, and is quite compatible even with not the “strongest” and most durable electrical wiring. When deciding to buy a more powerful electric kettle, you can completely reduce the waiting time to a couple of minutes, but the problem of broken plugs risks becoming an everyday occurrence. In the event that the wiring in the house requires a particularly sensitive attitude, it is recommended to opt for low-power models - up to 1 kW. As a rule, these are relatively miniature models, holding no more than a liter.

3. Heating element.

As a rule, this is a stainless steel spiral, similar to a classic boiler.
It can be located directly at the bottom of the tank (open heater)
or “hide” under the metal bottom
(closed heater) .
In the first case, the spiral has direct access to water, which can negatively affect the taste of future drinks and also contribute to the regular formation of scale in the device. When filling the kettle, it must be completely immersed in water, otherwise the spiral will simply burn out. The closed type of heater is more practical, safe and easy to clean, which is why the vast majority of modern electric kettles in the mid-price category are equipped with it.

Note:

In models of electric kettles of the latest generation, there is often no metal spiral at all. Instead, the heating function is performed by a disk element to which electric current is directly conducted. This principle contributes to the maximum operating speed of the kettle, allowing it not to waste time heating the bottom, and also eliminates unnecessary noise during the heating process, which is typical of closed heaters.

4. Features of the stand.

The first thing you should pay attention to here is the location of the contact group.
If it is located on the side, you will have to place the kettle in a strictly defined position - this is not always convenient. Most modern models are equipped with stands with central contacts, which makes their use easier.

Another important point is weight. An element that is too light can make using the kettle problematic. When you lift the device, you will automatically lift the stand - this is certainly not the most desirable “option”.

5. Availability of filters.

In electric kettles, these elements play a special role - they prevent salt sediment formed during the boiling process from entering the cup.
They can also help soften water. They are a gold-plated steel grid or a nylon mesh equipped with small cells. The best choice is a product with a removable filter: it can be washed regularly without affecting the device itself
.

6. Cover type.

Here you should decide in advance what is more important to you: maximum convenience and ease of use of the kettle, or its durability.
Models that can be opened only by pressing a button make life easier - it’s not for nothing that they have been occupying leading positions on the market for many years
.
However, this mechanism is very capricious and is able to perform its work for a long time only if the parts are made of high-quality materials. Otherwise, it will fail quite quickly, and the kettle will simply stop closing tightly: as a result, more time will be spent boiling water, and your electricity bills will be lower. The conclusion is simple: if you decide to buy an electric kettle at a low price, it is better to give preference to the good old classic with a removable lid
.

7. Build quality.

How well are the wires insulated? The safety of using the device will depend on this. How tightly are the body and auxiliary parts connected to each other? This will directly affect the heating rate. Finally, is the flask airtight? This will affect energy consumption. When deciding to buy an electric kettle, you should pay attention to each of these points.

8. Design.

Ideally, an electric kettle is a purchase for many years to come.
Therefore, it is important not to forget about the aesthetic side of the issue. The device should not only please the eye of its owner, but also organically combine with the overall style of the kitchen
. So, for the most modern interiors, where clear lines and conciseness prevail, metal models made in the original color or painted in a bright shade are best suited. For example, such as HOTTEK HT-971 or Stadler Form 11 smart, plain plastic is also suitable. A glass electric kettle HOTTEK HT-960 will always be appropriate in a bright kitchen. A ceramic product made in soft colors and decorated with delicate patterns will always make your kitchen space truly warm and cozy.

How to choose a ceramic teapot

In the case of electric kettles, ceramics are a relatively new material. Ten years ago it was practically not used. Therefore, many do not know how to choose the right ceramic teapot and what to pay attention to.

A ceramic teapot adds coziness to any kitchen.

First of all, you need to take into account that if there are children or people with hand diseases in the family, it is better to think about another model - ceramics are quite heavy and the lightest model weighs at least one and a half kilograms.

In addition, clay products are not very durable - if you drop them, they are likely to break. Considering the not-so-low price, this can be quite annoying. And possible injuries should not be ruled out.

In addition, the kettle is not suitable for those who are used to sleeping longer in the morning and then getting ready in a matter of minutes: it takes longer to heat up than any analogue models.

Ceramic teapots with a capacity of more than one and a half liters are rarely found on sale. This is enough for 3-4 people, but if you have a large family or often have guests, consider a different type.

On the other hand, while heating slowly, it cools just as slowly. Counterfeiting of ceramic teapots is impossible: they have not yet learned how to imitate baked clay, which means you are guaranteed to purchase a teapot made from environmentally friendly material.

Clay can be given the most bizarre shapes.

Well, and of course, don’t forget about the appearance: ceramic teapots look very unusual and are ideal for country or retro style kitchens. On sale you can find a wide variety of models of any color, with patterns or unusual “antique” shapes.

Having decided on the material, move on to the main part of choosing an electric kettle - its filling, technological component.

Which kettle should I buy? It's all about the material

When going to the store to buy an electric kettle, you need to accurately determine the material of the product. You have to choose from several main options: plastic, metal, heat-resistant glass and ceramics. It is the material that largely determines the performance characteristics of the device, its weight, safety and external gloss.

. The price of an electric kettle also depends on it, which can vary from several hundred to tens of thousands of rubles. For example, you can buy an electric kettle with a plastic body without significant costs, while a ceramic product will definitely cost a pretty penny.

Metal teapots

Electric kettles made of stainless steel have been popular almost always. This is not surprising: the metal is strong, durable, not afraid of moisture and is not at all demanding to maintain. Metal kettles look very modern, always fit well into a minimalist interior and are available in the widest range

. But the most important thing is that the metal is absolutely non-toxic, so you don’t have to worry about the possible and very unpleasant consequences of its use. This is true even for the cheapest electric kettles, with only one amendment: aromatic tea or even rich black coffee in this case may well give off a metallic taste. Light, but still noticeable.

By the way, lightness is not typical for metal teapots - the products are quite weighty compared to plastic appliances. It is also worth taking into account the high thermal conductivity of steel, which somewhat complicates the operation process: when water is heated, the body also becomes very hot, and careless touching it can lead to burns. However, this problem can also be solved, because in modern stores you can easily buy a double-walled kettle

– this unique thermos is free from the shortcomings of its “simple” brother.

When choosing a steel product, it is important to remember the “noisiness” of metals. It is impossible to heat water in such a kettle quietly and unnoticeably, regardless of the model. This flaw is not so significant, however, if there are small children in the house, it, coupled with the heavy weight of the device, can cause discomfort.

Glass electric kettles

The most popular electric kettles today, combining affordable cost, visual appeal and environmental friendliness. The body of such products is made of glass, which has excellent heat resistance and impact resistance. You should not expect any specific smell or any taste from such a kettle; drinks prepared in it will not affect your health in any way - even in the long term

.

Thanks to the transparency of the walls, it is easy and convenient to control the water level in the device, and their impressive thickness allows the heat to be retained longer

. However, the main “strength” of a glass electric kettle, for which buyers love it so dearly, is its impeccable aesthetics. The glass looks bright, sophisticated, elegant; in addition to the colored plastic edging, the appearance of the device becomes light and, at the same time, complete.

Illuminated glass electric kettles have won particular love among customers. Under the bulb of such models there are miniature light bulbs that begin to shine immediately when the device is turned on. When the water reaches the set temperature, the shade of the glow changes, signaling that the kettle has done its job and you can safely proceed to the next stage of preparing the drink. Thanks to the lighting, a glass teapot looks even more impressive and can become one of the main highlights of the kitchen interior

. However, it is not always advisable to overpay for this “filling”, because the material is quite self-sufficient.

Before buying an electric kettle of this type, it is important to consider the vulnerable aspects of the material. The transparency of the glass reveals even the smallest errors in care, so you will have to clean the device from plaque and dirt with enviable regularity. Just like metal, it conducts heat quite well, so getting burned on a boiling kettle in this case is elementary. And finally, glass, even impact-resistant, is a breakable material. Under ordinary living conditions, this quality is unlikely to make itself felt, but during transportation it may well appear.

Plastic electric kettles

The most affordable price, lightness, pleasant appearance and high heating rate - these are the main characteristics of plastic devices. In addition, the material is very easily and quickly cleaned of dirt (which, in principle, it is not prone to), so caring for the product is not at all difficult

. The water in such a kettle quickly turns into boiling water, eliminating long waits, but the body itself warms up weakly, without creating a risk of burns - an almost ideal combination of functionality and safety.

However, the safety of plastic kettles is one of the favorite topics of debate. Many argue that when exposed to high temperatures, plastic releases substances harmful to health and this can lead to dire consequences. According to this very common belief, water boiled in a plastic kettle literally becomes a poison that slowly destroys the body. And this is true if we are talking about low-quality or simply unsuitable (not “food grade”) plastic.

Representatives of polymers such as nylon, silicone, polypropylene and polyacetal are classified as “food grade”: even with strong heating, they do not react chemically with foods and liquids. In this case, the device should not smell either: the presence of a strong amber often indicates the manufacturer’s dishonesty. Ardent opponents of plastic in the kitchen should take into account that
even the most environmentally friendly kettles contain elements made of polymers (in addition to the handle and edging) - silicone gaskets that are located inside the unit
.

When deciding to buy an electric kettle made of plastic, it is important to remember that this group of materials is short-lived. Constant exposure to high temperatures over time depletes the plastic, making it brittle and prone to cracks. The chlorine contained in the water also adds its fly in the ointment. If you place the device on a windowsill, the “life” of the kettle will be noticeably shortened by ultraviolet radiation. However, the low price of electric kettles of this type allows you to painlessly update this kitchen attribute.

Ceramic electric kettles

As a rule, they have the most familiar, classic design. Therefore, they look very cozy, “at home.” They are characterized by maximum environmental safety, do not emit harmful substances during heating and are completely odorless. Boiling water in a ceramic kettle is an almost silent process

, which distinguishes it very favorably from its metal counterpart. Scale does not form in it too quickly, so it is very easy to care for the product.

Another pleasant bonus of ceramic products is the ability to maintain temperature for as long as possible.

. This is convenient, but there is one “but”: ceramics also take quite a long time to reach the required temperature values, being much inferior to metal, glass, and plastic. The difference is not so critical - no more than a minute, but during everyday use in a family of 3-4 people it can make a difference. Such a kettle is unlikely to be suitable for entertaining numerous guests: the capacity of most ceramic units does not exceed 1.2 liters.

Buying an electric kettle with a ceramic body inexpensively is also not an easy task. In terms of cost, it does not compare favorably with all other “competitors” that have equal parameters and functionality. And finally, strength is not the strongest indicator of any ceramic product, and an electric kettle, alas, is no exception. However, in many cases these flaws are successfully covered by the advantages of the material.

Brief conclusion:

if you are looking for an inexpensive electric kettle, choose plastic, giving preference to proven and reliable manufacturers. The price is not so important, but do you like the classics? A ceramic product will come in handy. Those who are looking for a device that will last for decades to come should choose stainless steel. If your priority is environmental friendliness and aesthetics, we recommend buying an electric kettle with a glass body.

Types of electric kettles

Modern electric kettles are not always just heating devices. We'll talk about fancy features like remote control below.

Here we suggest you understand what types of electric kettles are:

• Electric kettles with an open heating element in the shape of a spiral are the most inexpensive. Most often they use a spiral made of stainless steel or chrome plated. The power outlet is located on the side.
• For kettles with a closed heating element, the power connector is located at the bottom, in the center of the stand. It's much more convenient and neat. The stainless steel heating element is hidden under a thin protective layer, which completely prevents contact with water and contributes to its safety.
• One of the latest technological achievements is the so-called thermopots. They combine the options of both a regular electric kettle and a thermos. When connected to the network, the device can maintain the water temperature at a given level for up to several hours, simply heating it up if necessary.

Let's take a closer look at the advantages and disadvantages of various types of electric kettles.

Basic criteria for choosing an electric kettle

To understand how to choose a good and reliable electric kettle, you need to decide on a number of parameters.

Power and volume

How to choose the right electric kettle by volume? We recommend using a simple algorithm: per person you need approximately 0.4 liters ± 100 ml of water.

To solve the issue of choosing the optimal power of the device, you need to remember your physics lessons. In order to bring 1 liter of fresh water to 100 °C, you need to spend 100 Wh of energy. In other words, a 100 W kettle will heat 1 liter of water for 1 hour. There is no desire to wait for boiling water for an hour - choose a device with more power.

As a rule, in most models of electric kettles, the power and volume parameters are directly proportional. In other words, the smaller the device’s capacity, the lower the power and energy consumption of the device. With this approach, manufacturers ensured that the boiling time of water in models with different volumes was almost the same.

In practice, choosing the optimal electric kettle based on power/volume parameters is as follows:

1. For one or two people, a device with a volume of 1 liter and a power of 1.2-1.4 kW is sufficient;
2. For a family of 3-5 people, it is better to purchase an electric kettle with a capacity of 2 liters or more and a power of at least 2 kW.

A family needs a kettle with a volume of 2 liters or more

Important! When choosing a large-volume kettle (from 2 liters), pay attention to the body material. Metal or porcelain models themselves are quite heavy. If you add water to the “clean” mass of the device, then using such a device will be extremely difficult due to its large weight.

A heating element

The heating element in an electric kettle can be made in two engineering solutions:

• open heating element;
• closed heating element.

The open heating element is a spiral installed at the bottom of the flask. To operate, such a heating element must be completely covered with water. Modern manufacturers have practically abandoned the use of open spirals due to the direct contact of the heating element with water, which increases the risk of corrosion, breakdown and failure of the heating element.

Open type heating element Closed type heating element

A closed heating element is a spiral installed under the metal bottom of the device. Thus, contact of the heater with water and all the negative consequences of this solution are eliminated.

How to choose a good electric kettle based on the design of the heating element? Pay attention to models with closed type heaters. It's simple: open the lid of the kettle and see a boiler sticking out of the body - put the model aside and continue your search. If you only see a shiny bottom inside the kettle, this is your option.

Stand type

Bases (stands) for electric kettles are available in two types:

1. Stationary;
2. Pirouette.

Stationary models require installation of the device in only one position due to the lateral location of the contact group. In the Pirouette stands, the contacts are located in the center of the base, which makes it possible to install the kettle in any position.

Housing material

Models of modern electric kettles are made from various materials. Each has its own operational features, advantages and disadvantages.

Next, we will consider the main characteristics, pros and cons of the main materials used for the production of teapot bodies:

1. Plastic. The lightest, cheapest and one of the most practical materials. Plastic kettles are quite durable, easy to care for and practically do not heat up. The disadvantages include fragility, low resistance to mechanical damage, and the release of a chemical odor when heated;
2. Glass. Glass utensils are as chemically safe as possible. They are very attractive, hygienic and the drink in them will not have any foreign odor. However, glass electric kettles are heavy and have low shock resistance. In addition, they are quite expensive and the water in them takes longer to heat up than in plastic devices;
3. Ceramics. Ceramic containers have a lot of advantages: low noise level during operation, attractive appearance, low heat transfer coefficient, which makes it possible to maintain the temperature of heated water for a long time. The ceramics retains the natural taste of water without unpleasant impurities, and there is no scale or rust left on the walls. Among the disadvantages are heavy weight, fragility, slow heating of water;
4. Metal. Metal kettles are rightfully considered the most durable, reliable and durable. Stainless steel is resistant to corrosion, aesthetically pleasing and environmentally friendly. The only disadvantage of metal is the high degree of heating, which can cause serious injury to the user. That is why most manufacturers equip steel kettle bodies with an additional internal flask.

Plastic kettle Material - glass Ceramic kettle Electric kettle made of metal

How to choose the right material for an electric kettle for your home? Based on the balance of cost, aesthetics, practicality and reliability. According to the majority of our compatriots, stainless steel and plastic meet these parameters.

Filter material

A filter is a necessary element of any electric kettle. When the heating element comes into contact with water, scale appears. It can be on the walls of the flask, the surface of the heating element, and as a suspension in water. The filter prevents most of the suspended particles from entering the cup.

The filter element is a fine mesh, the material for which can be:

1. Nylon thread;
2. Metal wire;
3. Gold plated wire.

Electric kettle filter

Nylon is the cheapest, quite practical, but short-lived material. Stainless steel wire is stronger than nylon. According to experts, gold-plated wire does not react with macronutrients in water. Depending on the design, there may be one or two filter elements in the kettle. In the first option, the filter is installed directly in the spout of the kettle. In the second, an additional cassette is placed directly on the neck of the device.

Appearance

Appearance and ergonomics are one of the most important criteria for choosing a kettle. The device should be convenient. Moreover, it is important that it is easy to draw water into it, and that when pouring boiling water into a cup, it does not splash. For safety reasons, it would be a good idea if the model is equipped with a lid locking function.

It is assumed that the kettle will be used by all family members, including children and the elderly. Heavy appliances can cause injury, and lightweight plastic models, in this case, are not the best option. So what is the best weight for an electric kettle? Experts recommend paying attention to ceramic and glass models.

Pros and cons of an open spiral kettle

Since the heating element is located in the kettle itself, it is constantly in the water. Due to this, heating occurs faster, but maintaining this model is much more difficult: scale quickly forms on the coil, which must be removed correctly. Read about how to deal with scale here.

An open coil heats the water faster.

It is very important to monitor the water level in the electric kettle: if the spiral is not completely immersed, the spiral can burn, and if you use a plastic kettle, it can even cause a fire.

As already mentioned, the heating time for such kettles is very short - depending on the volume of the tank and the power of the device, it can range from 2 to 9 minutes.

The noise level varies depending on the model, but many reviews note that these kettles are much quieter than those with a hidden heating element.

Please note that their service life rarely exceeds three years - due to the fact that you are constantly mechanically acting on the spiral, trying to clean it.

In general, such kettles can be safely recommended to those who do not boil water several times a day or for use in the countryside.

Rating of the best manufacturers of electric kettles

Which company should you choose to choose the right electric kettle?

Today, the majority of our compatriots prefer products from the following brands: Bork, Philips, Bosch, Vitek, Moulinex, Tefal. Next, we will consider the most popular models of electric kettles in various price segments.

Budget models

Budget models include devices costing from 1 to 4 thousand rubles.

Middle price segment

Models in the mid-price segment include devices costing from 4 to 8 thousand rubles.

Premium models

Which is the best electric kettle from the premium segment? Our rating includes models costing from 8 thousand rubles.

Pros and cons of a kettle with a hidden spiral

Due to the fact that the heating element does not come into contact with water, the service life of the kettle is noticeably longer - you can count on a minimum of five to seven years.

In addition, this makes it much more hygienic: it is easier to clean a kettle with a flat surface than a complex-shaped spiral. This means that after cleaning there is practically no scale left in it.

The hidden spiral is a more modern solution.

And practically no special care is required: it is enough to periodically boil the kettle with citric acid or a special product, and then rinse it.

Kettles with a hidden spiral are characterized by increased safety: they do not turn on if there is not enough water in the tank. However, even outdated models without this option are safer than kettles with an open spiral - the main thing is that there is at least one cup of water so that it completely covers the bottom. Thus, fire or short circuit is practically excluded.

The volume varies from two to seven liters, depending on the model. However, they also have a significant drawback: such kettles most often provide a high noise level. And the price for them is noticeably higher than for models with an open spiral.

Operating principle and design of an electric kettle

Electric kettles are essentially quite simple devices. Their design includes:

1. A housing that is combined with a water tank;
2. A heating element;
3. Temperature sensor, which is designed to automatically turn off the kettle when it boils. Budget models also use a pressure sensor, which is used for the same purposes;
4. A stand that serves as a contact pad for transmitting electric current to the heating element;
5. Control panel or power button. Depending on the functionality of the kettle, it is intended to set the temperature or simply turn on the device.

The stand in the vast majority of models of electric kettles is nothing more than a contact pad, thanks to which the kettle itself becomes wireless. Only on multifunctional devices is it equipped with additional electronic controls, allowing, for example, to adjust the water temperature.

Everything else is installed directly in the kettle itself. After turning on the device, the circuit between the contact pad and the heating element is closed, and the latter begins to increase its temperature.

After the temperature of the water in the kettle reaches a certain value, the thermal relay or corresponding sensor is activated, which opens the circuit. Budget devices do not have a temperature sensor, but a steam pressure sensor. The boiled, gaseous water comes into contact with it, and it opens the circuit.

Kettles with a temperature sensor are much safer than models equipped with a steam pressure sensor. They pass out from the heat. Therefore, the sensor is triggered even if there is no water in the kettle, and if its lid is not closed tightly. But at the same time they are more expensive.

Thermopot: better or worse than an electric kettle?

The ability to maintain the temperature at a given level for a long time is an undeniable advantage of a thermopot over conventional ones.

If you like to drink tea or coffee all the time, have a large family or often have guests, a thermopot can be an excellent choice. In addition, they have more capacity - from three to five liters.

Thermopot is the choice for large families or partygoers.

However, keep in mind that even the most economical model consumes more electricity than a simple electric kettle due to the fact that it operates for several hours.

If you decide to purchase a thermopot, choose models where the maintained temperature can be set manually - this is more convenient than those where it is initially fixed at one level.

In addition, monitor the quality of the water - if it is too hard or contains impurities, the thermopot will quickly fail.

Choosing an electric kettle by power

The assortment of household appliances stores provides a wide range of choice of kettles based on power consumption - from 0.7 to 3 Watts. Which one should you prefer? Let's figure it out now.

Many people mistakenly believe that the higher the power, the better the kettle. However, this is not entirely fair.

Size is not an indicator of how powerful a kettle is.

On the one hand, a powerful device actually heats up faster. On the other hand, it places an additional load on the network and adds a significant amount to electricity bills.

Is water heated a minute earlier worth the burnt-out wiring and an extra five hundred rubles a month? We are not sure. And powerful models usually cost much more.

From the point of view of experts, it is necessary to give preference to a kettle of medium power - one and a half to two watts. This way you won’t have to wait 10-15 minutes for hot water, but the load on the network will also be optimal.

Types of electric kettles by type of heating element

All kettles, regardless of what they are intended for and what functions they perform, are divided into two categories according to the type of heating element.

With open spiral

The cheapest and rather outdated type of heating element. Inside the body of the electrical appliance there is an open spiral, reminiscent of a boiler. A kettle with an open spiral boils water quickly and consumes a small amount of electricity. Among the disadvantages, one can highlight the fact that with constant contact with water, hard-to-remove scale often forms on the coil, and also that water must necessarily cover the heating element when heated.

Closed volute or disc

Most modern devices are equipped with a disk heating element. The electric kettle's spiral is hidden under a metal disk that heats the water. The device is easy to care for. It is capable of heating a small amount of water in a few minutes. Using a disk electric kettle is safer than using an open heating element. Among the disadvantages, one can point out that the device consumes more energy, since the metal disk is heated first, and then only the water. They also make more noise and are slightly more expensive than their counterparts.

How to choose the size of the kettle

As with power, the principle “more is better” is not entirely true here. If you have a family of two or three people, why should you buy a seven-liter kettle?

Most likely, you will simply overpay for electricity. And taking into account the fact that it is not recommended to boil water again, there is also a need for water supply. Well, or harm your health, which is even more undesirable. In addition, capacious units take up quite a lot of space in the kitchen.

For a small family, a one and a half to two liter kettle is enough. Do you have a lot of household members or do guests come often? Here it makes sense to think about a kettle with increased capacity. Just count how much hot water you use at a time and go from there.

Choosing a thermopot

Thermopots combine the functions of a thermos and an electric kettle. While the device is turned on, the water will maintain the desired temperature. The thermopot can be directly connected to a water source, which is especially convenient for older people and families with small children who constantly need a supply of hot water.

For more information about how to choose this device, read the article “How to choose a thermopot?”

The disadvantage of thermopots is that they are quite expensive and consume quite a lot of electricity.

Stand shape

Many people do not pay attention to this parameter, but it should also be taken into account - the ease of use of the kettle depends on it.

The classic stand is a simple panel on which the kettle is placed in a standard position. This may not always be convenient, especially if you have a small kitchen or an injured right hand. Therefore, it is worth considering such models only from the point of view of accessibility - they are cheaper than the so-called Pirouette.

It got its name because the kettle can easily be rotated in any direction on its round base. Thus, you can turn the handle as convenient for you - in any direction.

Without a doubt, the second type is much more comfortable in everyday life - however, such electric kettles are a little more expensive.

High-tech technology: modern features of electric kettles

Many manufacturers of electric kettles now offer a real technical miracle instead of ordinary heating devices.

Some teapots look like mysterious space devices.

Let's see what additional options there are and at the same time decide whether they are needed:

• An adjustable thermostat in an electric kettle allows you to set the water heating temperature down to one tenth of a degree. On the one hand, this is convenient - you don’t have to boil the water if you just need to heat it up. On the other hand, you will overpay at least two to three thousand rubles for the option. Is it really worth it to not have to wait an extra 10 minutes for the water in your cup to cool?
• The extra boil function kills germs and bacteria, ensuring clean water. It makes sense to buy such kettles for those who live in a house with an old pipeline and pour water from the tap. If the communications are new or you use bottled water, you can do without this option.
• Teapots with lighting or various hologram effects
  look very impressive. Of course, they have no practical use, but they can become a real decoration for a high-tech kitchen.
• A smart kettle that can brew coffee and tea. It seems to be a useful thing - one device for the price of two, with an additional option for brewing tea. On the other hand... Now the cheapest model costs 27 thousand rubles. Maybe it’s easier to buy a teapot, a coffee maker and a regular kettle?
• A kettle with remote control using a smartphone can be turned on from a distance. If you live alone and come home in cold weather, it's nice to have hot water waiting for you. However, reviews say that usually, after playing with a smart model in the first week, everyone conveniently forgets about this opportunity.

Types of heaters in electric kettles

The main element of an electric kettle is the heater, which comes in the form of a spiral or disk. Inexpensive electric kettles have spiral heaters. Affordable price is the only advantage of such a heater. The spiral causes a lot of trouble when you need to clean an electric kettle from scale accumulated inside the body. When heating water, the spiral must not be completely covered with water, otherwise it will overheat and burn.

A disk heater is essentially the same spiral, which is covered with a round metal plate. It is easier to care for a “disc” electric kettle than a “spiral” one. Among the disadvantages, experts note the increased energy consumption of the disk heater and a sufficient noise level when heating water.

General recommendations for choosing an electric kettle

So, you have roughly decided which model and with what characteristics you need. All that remains is to choose the right kettle.

The ideal teapot is for everyone.

With our recommendations, you can easily do this:

• Pay attention to the manufacturer. It is impossible to answer unequivocally which manufacturer of electric kettles is better: everyone can have their own opinion. However, you should not buy products from a company unknown to anyone, trying to save money - most likely you will get a not very high-quality kettle. Even among giants like Samsung, Bosch, Electrolux you can find quite affordable models.
• Always check the build quality of the kettle you choose. It is important to evaluate the quality of soldering joints, the tightness of the container, and the insulation of the wire. If you overlook even one factor, the kettle cannot be considered safe. At the same time, it’s worth checking even models from well-known brands - there is always a risk of an accidental error during manufacturing. In addition, in this way you will definitely exclude counterfeiting.
• Do not buy equipment without a warranty card. It will either be a cheap replica of the original, or fraud on the part of the store. In both cases, it is better to refuse the purchase.
• Be sure to read reviews of electric kettles . In addition, check out our rating - the best models of 2022 are collected there.

We are sure that with these tips you will buy the perfect kettle for your family!

Tips for choosing

As a conclusion, let us summarize all of the above. When choosing an electric kettle model, first of all, pay attention to the following parameters:

1. Design. The appearance of the device should fit organically into the design of the kitchen;
2. Volume. For a family of 3 people, a kettle with a capacity of 1.5-1.7 liters is enough. For a family of 5 people, purchase a kettle with a volume of at least 2 liters;
3. Power. This parameter is directly dependent on volume and energy consumption. The rule is simple: more volume means more power;
4. Functional. The basic purpose of this device is to boil water. If you are interested in more options, pay attention to devices equipped with a thermostat.

And lastly: purchase models equipped with multi-level protection.

Watch a video on how to choose an electric kettle