Common Mistakes When Using Electric Kettles and How to Avoid Them

Using an electric kettle to boil water is simple, but many people make mistakes that shorten the lifespan of the device and can even harm human health.

Many households use electric kettles because of their convenience—just fill it with water, turn on the switch, and in a few minutes, you have boiling water ready to use. However, despite the simplicity, there are common mistakes that shorten the life of the kettle and may cause harm to your health. Here are five common mistakes that 9 out of 10 households make.

1. Choosing Any Type of Electric Kettle

The main function of an electric kettle is to boil water. Many people think that any kettle will work, and choose cheaper models, assuming they’re all the same. However, when buying an electric kettle, it’s important to select one made of stainless steel. Stainless steel comes in various types, and the best option is 304-grade stainless steel, which is corrosion-resistant and can withstand high temperatures. This ensures that the water boiled in the kettle is safer.

2. Overfilling the Electric Kettle

Some people have the habit of filling the kettle completely with water. This can be risky because when the water boils, it may overflow and potentially leak into the kettle's base, leading to short circuits or malfunctions. The maximum water level is usually marked inside the kettle. Always make sure not to exceed this level to avoid electrical hazards.

3. Turning on the Kettle Before Adding Water

A common mistake is turning the kettle on before adding water and then filling it with a separate container. This can damage the kettle because it will dry out without water inside. While it may take a while for the kettle to boil dry, this can cause the heating element to burn out over time, or worse, lead to electrical shorts. To prevent this, always add water to the kettle first, then place the kettle on its base, plug it in, and turn on the switch.

When placing the kettle on its base, make sure the base is dry. If there’s any water on the base, wipe it off before placing the kettle on it to avoid short circuits. After each use, always unplug the kettle to ensure safety.

4. Emptying All the Water After Boiling

After boiling water, we often pour it into a water jug or thermos for later use. However, it’s not recommended to empty all the water from the kettle. It’s better to leave a little water inside. The reason is that when the kettle turns off and the base is still hot, pouring out all the water could cause the thermal relay to dry out, which affects the kettle's lifespan. Therefore, leave some water inside, discard it the next time you boil water, and clean the kettle before use to ensure it lasts longer.

5. Rarely Cleaning the Electric Kettle

It’s important to clean the kettle regularly, as mineral deposits will build up inside if it’s not cleaned. Over time, these deposits form a yellowish layer. Boiling water in such a kettle not only affects the water quality but can also harm your health. To remove these deposits, pour white vinegar into the kettle and add half a cup of water. Then, turn on the kettle to boil the mixture. After the water boils, let it sit for about 10 minutes, then pour it out. You will notice that the mineral deposits at the bottom of the kettle have significantly reduced. Use a cloth to wipe the inside clean, and the kettle will be free of the deposits.

Vinegar works well because it’s acidic, while the mineral deposits are alkaline. The acid-neutralizing effect of vinegar helps dissolve and remove the buildup.