Cordless electric kettles have become a staple in many households and workplaces, offering a convenient and quick way to boil water for different purposes.
Whether you’re a college student, office worker, homeowner, or outdoor enthusiast, cordless electric kettles have found their way into our lives for their efficacy and ease of use.
However, if you interact with this crucial appliance for the first time, you may wonder how to use it efficiently. So, how does a cordless electric kettle work?
This article explores the inner workings of cordless electric kettles to help you understand their design and compare them to corded models.
Read on!
Also Read:
What is a Cordless Electric Kettle
A cordless electric kettle is a household appliance designed to boil water using electricity. Unlike stovetop kettles, these electric appliances come with their power source and are detachable from the base, providing more flexibility and portability.
An electric kettle operates without needing a cord plugged into an electrical outlet, hence more convenient than the traditional corded electrical kettle.
Its components include the heating element at its bottom, a water reservoir, a handle, and a base with a power source.
- Heating Element: Generates heat that boils the water.
- Water Reservoir: Holds boiling water.
- Base: Houses the heating element and provides power to the kettle.
- Power Cord: Connects the base to the electrical outlet.
Benefits of Cordless Electric Kettles
If you want a convenient and easy way to boil water, then cordless electric kettles are your preferred option. Unlike traditional corded units, cordless units are convenient and energy efficient. The units are integrated with features like the auto shut-off function that turns off the kettle when the water reaches its boiling point, not consuming more electricity.
Below are some of the detailed benefits of using a cordless electric kettle.
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Convenience
The cordless electric kettles are cord-free, allowing for easy movement and pouring of water without being restricted since the units can be detached from their base. You can pour the hot water without being restricted in any particular space. This is particularly essential when you want to pour your boiled water into different cups or serve different people coffee seated at different places.
Besides, the convenience of this tool comes with its quick and efficient heating system. The units are designed to heat water compared to the stovetop kettles rapidly. The electric kettles have built-in elements that effectively boil water quickly, saving you time when you need hot water for your beverages, cooking, or other household chores.
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Safety
Cordless electric kettles are safer than corded units. The units have numerous in-built safety elements like auto-shutoff and boil-dry protection. The auto shut-off feature turns off the kettle when the water reaches boiling, preventing over-boiling and potential accidents.
On the other hand, boil-dry protection helps protect the kettle from overheating. Specifically, when no water is in the kettle, the heating element is not immersed in water, and overheating may occur. The boil-dry protection prevents the heating element from generating heat when there is no water. It detects the lack of water and cuts off the power supply to the heating element, preventing it from becoming hot.
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Energy-efficient
These kettles are designed to use electricity efficiently, reducing overall energy consumption. The cordless electric kettles have powerful heating elements that bring water to its boiling point. The electric kettles transfer heat effectively to the water, resulting in faster boiling times. With this design, the kettle takes less time and electricity to heat the water, saving energy.
Moreover, the inclusion of the auto shut-off feature contributes to energy efficiency. An auto-shut feature ensures that the kettle is turned off when it reaches its boiling point. This ensures that your kettle avoids unnecessary energy consumption and prevents over-boiling.
Also, cordless electric kettles come with transparent water level indicators on the kettle’s side. The indicators help you measure the water you need, which can be contained in the reservoir, preventing overfilling and unnecessary energy use.
Also, you can boil only the water required, reducing waste and energy consumption.
What’s more? Unlike stovetop kettles, which can lose heat to the surrounding air, cordless electric kettles are enclosed containers that retain heat more effectively. This means that once the water reaches its boiling point, there is minimal heat loss, resulting in energy efficiency.
How does a cordless electric kettle work
The working mechanism is an integral part of the cordless electric kettle. An electric kettle has numerous integral elements that help it in the execution of its roles. You need to understand the different parts to comprehend its working principle and how the different parts relate.
Below is a breakdown of the different parts of cordless electric kettles.
A. The Heating Element
The heating element is the heart of a cordless electric kettle, responsible for heating the water to its boiling point. It is typically made of materials like stainless steel or ceramic, known for their excellent heat conductivity.
When you turn on the kettle, the heating element converts electrical energy into heat. This heat is then transferred to the water, rapidly raising its temperature. As the water reaches its boiling point (100°C or 212°F), bubbles form and rise to the surface, resulting in a rolling boil.
B. Water Reservoir and Capacity
The water reservoir is where you pour the water to be heated. It comes in various capacities, ranging from 1 liter to 1.7 liters, to accommodate different needs. It’s essential not to overfill the kettle, as doing so might cause spills and compromise safety. The heat from the metal coil is transferred to the water reservoir to the water.
Once the water reaches its boiling point, the boiling stops. The electric kettle has an auto shut-off function that prevents heat transfer to the water reservoir once the water is boiled. This saves on energy.
C. The Base and Power Supply
The base of the cordless electric kettle serves multiple functions. Firstly, it houses the heating element, which connects to the power supply. Secondly, the base provides a stable platform for the kettle to sit on while boiling the water.
When placed on top, the base has power contacts that connect to the kettle. These contacts facilitate the transfer of electrical energy from the base to the heating element in the kettle. The cordless design allows the kettle to be lifted easily, and the absence of a cord makes it more manageable and safer to use.
The below video illustrates how cordless electric kettle works with an elaboration of various components.
Cordless Kettle Design
The unique design of cordless electric kettles contributes to their portability and ease of use. This design revolves around the detachable feature differentiating them from corded electric kettles.
The kettle sits at the base, where the heating element is located. When boiling water, the kettle sits on the base and draws power from it. The base has a knob in the center. It also has a cord that you plug into an electrical outlet with a metal heating coil sealed inside the base.
The circuit is completed by placing the water reservoir on the base, and power is supplied to the base when you turn on the electrical outlet.
Once you have switched on the electrical power, you must flip the knob at the kettle’s base. This heats the metal coil inside the kettle. The heat is transferred to the water reservoir and into the water.
After the water is boiled, you can lift the kettle off the base for serving without being confined by a cord. This convenient feature makes cordless electric kettles ideal for various settings, such as offices, kitchens, dorms, and outdoor activities like camping.
The cordless electrical kettle’s water reservoir is not attached to anything. The implication is that you can conveniently pick it up from the base, walk to other parts of your house, and serve the hot beverage you have boiled.
You can set the kettle back to the base once you are finished. However, the base will not continue to produce like with the corded kettles, which makes it a safer unit coupled with energy efficiency.
Electric Kettle Temperature Control
Temperature control in an electric kettle is facilitated with various elements integrated into the kettle system. One such element is a temperature sensor. At the kettle’s base is a temperature sensor to measure the water temperature. This can be a simple bi-metallic strip or an advanced electric sensor, depending on the design of your kettle.
Besides, the kettle has a thermostat to sense the water temperature and control the output of the heating element. The thermostat helps you regulate the temperature to your desired level.
Once you have put water to the desired level in the reservoir, you need to turn on the kettle, and the heating element will heat the water. As the temperature of the water increases, the sensor detects this temperature rise.
The electric kettle’s temperature control system is pre-programmed with specific temperature settings. The settings may include the boiling point of water (100 (100°C or 212°F) or other temperature levels suitable for beverages like coffee or tea.
Once the temperature sensor detects that the water has reached the desired temperature, the thermostat cuts off the power to the heating element, preventing the water from boiling further, and maintains the water at the set temperature.
If the kettle has a “keep warm” feature, it will periodically turn on the heating element to maintain the water temperature at the desired level. The thermostat will monitor the water temperature and activate the heating element to keep the water warm.
Generally, the temperature control mechanism allows users to heat water to specific temperatures for various purposes, making it convenient to brew different types of beverages or perform other tasks requiring precise water temperatures.
Cordless vs. Corded Electric Kettle
Cordless Electric Kettle
Cords do not limit cordless electric kettles. Instead, they are detachable from their bases, hence portable.
Advantages:
- Portability
Cordless design allows easy movement and serving without a cord’s restriction. The units have a detachable that lets you lift and pour water without a cord’s restraint. The mobility brings massive convenience, mainly when serving hot water in multiple cups. You will not be forced to carry the base as you serve the hot water to different containers. You can take the detachable kettle anywhere within its range from the base.
- Fast Heating
If you are looking for a way to heat water faster, consider the cordless electric kettle. The units have been designed to heat water faster, enabling you to save time in the busy mornings or when you need hot water urgently. The heat transfer in the appliances is faster, which also helps with energy saving. Thus, an electric kettle is a great way to get hot water faster.
- Energy Efficient
The cordless electric kettles are known for their superb energy efficiency. The units directly heat water in the reservoir, only using the necessary energy to heat the required water. No energy goes to waste, which lowers your overall energy bill compared to the traditional corded kettle.
- Temperature Control
Most cordless electric units have temperature control settings for heating water to give temperatures suitable for different beverages. The control ensures you get the perfect water temperature for your tea, coffee, and other drinks.
- Ease of Use
Another essential benefit of the cordless electric kettle is its ease of use. The units are user-friendly with just one-touch operation. Besides, the units are equipped with ergonomic handles with easy-to-read water level indicators that ensure comfort on your hands and guarantee water does not spill over to cause safety hazards. You need less effort to operate these units, which are suitable for individuals of any age group.
The units are also versatile. There are cordless electric kettles that will allow you to prepare tea or some that enable you to infuse beverages directly into the kettle. Thus, you may not only use the units to boil water.
Disadvantages
Limited capacity
Corded Electric Kettle:
Advantages:
- Constant Power: The kettle remains connected to the power source throughout boiling.
- Larger Capacity: Some corded models offer larger water capacities than cordless units. This gives you the luxury of boiling more water for use.
Disadvantages:
- Cord Hassle: The cord can be cumbersome, especially when pouring or serving. The cord restricts movement and makes it challenging to pour water freely.
Verdict
When it comes down to choosing between cordless and corded electrical kettles, cordless electric kettles are more suitable for specific target audiences.
Homeowners, office workers, college students, and campers/hikers all benefit from the convenience and safety of cordless kettles, making them a popular choice for diverse settings.
Safety Features and Maintenance
Cordless electric kettles have various safety features to ensure a worry-free boiling experience. Some standard safety features include:
Auto Shut-off: This feature automatically turns off the kettle once the water reaches its boiling point, preventing over-boiling and potential accidents. It also improves energy efficiency as no power will be consumed once the water has reached its boiling point.
Boil-Dry Protection: The feature is essential to protect the heating element from getting damaged. If the water level in the kettle drops too low, the boil-dry protection feature automatically shuts off the kettle to avoid damage to the heating element.
Cool-Touch Exterior: The outer surface of cordless electric kettles is designed to remain cool to the touch, preventing accidental burns. This makes them safe even for use in households with children and pets or someone handling them without realizing they are in use.
Despite the cordless electric kettle’s safety parameters, it is also essential to practice certain maintenance practices. Regular maintenance is vital to keep your cordless electric kettle in good working condition.
Here are some tips:
Regular Cleaning: Clean the kettle regularly, especially the interior, to prevent the buildup of mineral deposits that will reduce the appliance’s lifespan.
Descaling: The removal of the mineral buildup in the kettle is an inevitable practice. Descaling the kettle removes mineral buildup, ensuring optimal performance and prolonging its lifespan.
Avoid Overfilling: Follow the water capacity guidelines and avoid overfilling the kettle to prevent spills and potential hazards. The units have an indicator on the side of the water reservoir to help you know when the water has reached the needed capacity or based on the amount of water you want. The volume, however, should not be lower than the heating element.
Conclusion
Cordless electric kettles are an eccentric addition to any kitchen or setting where boiling water is a frequent requirement. Their unique design, rapid boiling capabilities, and safety features make them popular among homeowners, office workers, college students, and outdoor enthusiasts.
The convenience and efficiency of cordless electric kettles have revolutionized how we boil water, offering a seamless experience with minimal hassle.
So, a cordless electric kettle is your reliable companion, whether enjoying a cup of tea in your kitchen, preparing coffee in the office, or making hot noodles during a camping trip. Embrace this modern marvel and elevate your water-boiling experience to new heights!
We hope you have learned a thing or two. Let’s interact in the comment section. Regards!
