Electric kettles boil water faster

When looking for a tea kettle that is durable, boils water quickly and has the proper safety features, electric kettles are the way to go, surpassing stovetop kettles on all these points. However, electric kettles are more expensive than most stovetop kettles, don't have the traditional design and take up often valuable counter space. Tea enthusiasts and reviewers have been won over by the ease of these electric kettles, but some still prefer the classic stovetop varieties. Some stovetop models now boast temperature gauges, which allow users to monitor internal temperature much like electric tea kettles.

When selecting a tea kettle that fits your needs best, take inventory of your intended uses for the kettle. How many cups do you plan on drinking in one sitting? Some kettles allow you to boil just a cup; the largest kettles have a 7-cup capacity. How often do you plan on using the kettle? While durable electric kettles are the way to go for daily users, occasional tea drinkers may benefit from a less expensive stovetop kettle. Finally, if you're looking for a tea kettle more for aesthetic appeal than usability, stovetop kettles have a traditional design many owners appreciate.

  • Consider your kitchen when choosing stovetop vs. electric. If you have room on your countertop or in your cabinets, go for an electric kettle. They boil water twice as fast as stovetop kettles and are safer because most of them come equipped with automatic shut-offs that prevent dry boils (which are a fire hazard and can damage kettles). The downside is that electric kettles aren't available in as many styles and colors as stovetop models.
  • Think about what size you need. The smallest kettles boil just a few cups of water, but more common sizes range from 2 to 3 quarts. Although it's tempting to buy bigger, if you want a stovetop model, think about your tea-drinking habits. Large models take longer to heat up and can be heavy. In addition, most stovetop models don't have gauges to allow you to see how much water you're using.
  • Choose materials wisely. Although it's tempting to buy the best-looking model, bear in mind that the material a kettle is made from will affect boiling -- both the time it takes and, in some cases, the taste of the water. If you're considering a plastic tea kettle, check reviews. Some users say that plastic kettles can impart a chemical taste to the water or may contain bisphenol A (BPA), a chemical linked to health issues. Porcelain-enameled stovetop kettles can rust over time, whereas stainless-steel kettles resist rusting.
  • Seek out a comfortable handle. Handles should be large enough to grab easily, while keeping your hand a safe distance from the steam-emitting spout. Look for handles made of non-slip, heat-resistant materials that stay cool to the touch.
  • Look for a wide spout. A wide spout will aid in pouring the hot water and make refilling the kettle easier. Many kettles come with button- or trigger-operated spouts that open when the handle is lifted, keeping hands away from steam.
  • Go for auto shut-off on an electric kettle. Kettles with this feature turn off automatically when the water level reaches a low point, preventing the kettle from overheating.
  • To make serving easier, choose an electric kettle with a detachable base. Cordless kettles make serving easier and are safer, as the cord doesn't get in the way of pouring. Look for kettles that have cord storage in the base, for a clean look when the kettle's not in use. Also, the cord on the base of some kettles swivels, making them easier to position on the countertop.
  • Check out the location of the handle and spout. Some stovetop kettles have handles situated directly atop the kettle, meaning users have to drastically twist their hand to pour accurately. This can be challenging for users with arthritis and mobility issues, so choose a kettle with an angled, ergonomic handle.

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