Best Electric Kettles for Boiling Water

Although it may be referred to as a tea kettle, electric kettles boil water for making coffee, green tea or any other hot drink. They come in a number of different shapes, sizes and styles. Electric kettles run on electricity versus getting heat from a stove top. You can also use electric kettles to boil water quickly for oatmeal, instant noodles or soup packets.

Electric kettles have a heating element at the base of the kettle. Once activated, the element gets hot, then the heat passes to the water by conduction and rapidly heats it up. Electric kettles heat water faster than traditional stove top kettles. This is because the heat is enclosed and cannot escape from the kettle. The enclosure allows the pressure to rise faster helps the water to boil more quickly.

Electric kettles have a range of features to choose from. The best electric kettle for you will meet all the features your value in a water kettle. Here are some common features found in electric kettles:

Corded or Cordless:

• Electric kettles have a cordless or corded option.
• A corded kettle has an attached cord that pushes directly into the pitcher that sits on an attached plate that holds the heating element.
• A cordless kettle detaches from its base, so you can lift the kettle without having to unplug the base plate.
• Some of the cordless water kettles feature a swivel base, which is good for left or right-handed people.

Capacity:

• Standard electric water kettles hold around 6 to 8 cups of water.
• Small and travel sized kettles hold around 4 cups.

Style:

• Electric kettles typically come in three styles: glass kettle, stainless steel kettle or plastic colored kettle.
• A stainless-steel electric kettle is a popular choice due to its modern style.
• Glass and ceramic kettles are also popular for a more classic look.
• Color plastic kettles are economical and add a fun pop of color to your kitchen.
• There are also different styles of spouts such as a gooseneck kettle, which is good for pour-over coffee.

Power:

• The more powerful water kettle is, the faster it can boil water.
• Most kettles use 1500 watts; however, there are a few that use more and less power.
• In general, travel or smaller kettles will be less powerful.
• Keep in mind that the more wattage a kettle uses the louder it will be.

Beyond the most obvious features
like capacity and power, some eclectic kettles offer more specialized functions for added convenience. Here are some others to look out for when you’re shopping:

• Filter:
  Some water kettles are equipped with a filter that prevents particles from going into your cup.
• Water Gauge: A gauge allows you to see how much water is in the kettle without opening the lid. This feature is very practical when you are boiling a specific amount of water.
• Auto Shut-Off: Most kettles have an auto-shut off feature that turns the kettle off when it reaches a boil.
• Preset Temperature Controls: This handy feature is great if you do not need boiling water all the time. It allows you to select specific water temperatures.

• Using an electric kettle is simple and it allows you to walk away without worrying about your water boiling over.
• Fill your electric kettle with water to the max fill line. The max fill line will be labeled inside the kettle or on water gauge.
• Set the kettle on its base if it has one. Corded kettles may not have a base.
• Plug in the kettle.
• Flip the power switch on the kettle to the “On” position.
• Allow 2 to 4 minutes for the water to begin boiling.
• Once the water reaches the boiling point, the kettle should automatically shut off.
• Lift the kettle by its handle and use your other hand to steady it as you pour water into your cup.

Because electric kettles simply boil water, you don't need to clean your kettle daily. However, it's good practice to wipe the outside of your kettle on a regular basis with an anti-bacterial multi-purpose cleaner. If you have hard water, clean the inside of your kettle every couple of months with mild soap and water if you see any hard water build-up.