A kettle is a household appliance that is often taken for granted. People only think about it when it stops working. The truth is that you should replace kettles regularly to ensure optimal performance and safety.
Kettles are an essential kitchen appliance and one that gets used multiple times a day. Over time, the heating element in the kettle can become calcified, which reduces its efficiency. The kettle also accumulates mineral deposits from the water, affecting its performance.
It’s important to descale your kettle regularly to keep it in tip-top shape. You can do this by boiling water with vinegar and letting it sit for 30 minutes. You should replace your kettle every two to three years if it shows signs of wear and tear.
This blog post will discuss how often you should replace your kettle and the signs that it’s time to do so.
How Often Should You Replace an Old Electric Kettle?
You should start thinking of replacing your old electric kettle after it has served you for 4 to 5 years. It is time for a replacement if it starts to give off a burning smell or the water inside starts to turn brown. Bacteria and limescale can also build up inside the kettle, so cleaning it regularly and extending its lifespan is important; you can descale it once a month.
When choosing a new kettle, go for one made of stainless steel, and it should also have a concealed element to prevent limescale build-up. Read the reviews before purchasing to find the best kettle for your needs. In short, replacing your old kettle every four to five years, or descaling it once a month, will keep it bacteria and limescale-free.
Signs That Your Electric Kettle is Not Working Properly
Sometimes, your most precious electric kettle could not function properly, but what signs should alert you?
1. Faulty Lid
If you can’t open or close the lid of your kettle, it might be time to replace it. A faulty lid can also signal that the kettle is not working properly. For example, if the lid is not sealing properly, steam could escape, and the water might not boil.
2. Water Leakage
If you notice water leakage from your kettle, it’s time to get a new one. A leaking kettle can not only be a waste of money, but it can also be dangerous. Water leakage can lead to electrical problems and even fires. Therefore, getting a new kettle as soon as possible is important if you notice any water leakage.
3. Auto Cut-Off Issues
If your kettle has an auto shut-off feature, it must be tested regularly to ensure it’s working properly. A faulty auto shut-off could result in your kettle boiling dry, which is a fire hazard. To test the auto shut-off, fill the kettle with water and turn it on.
Once the water comes to a boil, remove the kettle from the heat source. The auto shut-off should kick in and turn the kettle off. If it doesn’t, contact the manufacturer for a replacement.
4. Limescale Issues
If you use hard water, you’ll probably find that your kettle becomes covered in limescale quickly. This can make it less effective at boiling water and can also make it more difficult to clean. If you notice that your kettle is starting to develop a lot of limescale, it’s probably time to change or replace it.
You can check with your local water supplier if you’re unsure whether you have hard water. They should be able to tell you whether the water in your area is hard or not.
5. Visible Damage on the Cord
If you see damage to the cord, it’s time to replace your kettle. The cord is one of the most important parts of the kettle, and if it’s damaged, it can pose a serious safety hazard. If you have a kettle with a damaged cord, don’t use it and replace it as soon as possible.
If the damage is just cosmetic, you can probably get away with using the kettle for a little longer. But, if you have any doubts, it’s always better to be safe than sorry and replace the kettle sooner rather than later.
6. The Kettle No Longer Keeps Water Hot
If your kettle no longer keeps water hot, it’s time to get a new one. Depending on how often you use your kettle, it can last anywhere from a few years to a decade.
If you use your kettle every day, it’s recommended that you change it every four to five years. If you only use it a few times a week, you can get away with changing it every five to seven years.
How Long Do Electric Kettles Last?
Electric kettles last 4 to 5 years, with most people opting to replace their kettle after four years. If you’re still using the same kettle you had in college, it might be time for an upgrade. However, you shouldn’t expect your electric kettle to last this long if you don’t properly maintain it.
For example, if you don’t descale your kettle regularly, it will start to develop mineral deposits that can shorten its lifespan.
To keep your electric kettle in good condition, descale it at least once a month. You can use a commercial descaling solution or a simple mixture of water and vinegar.
Can You Repair an Electric Kettle on Your Own?
Yes, you can repair an electric kettle, but situations could arise when you need an expert to check and repair your spoiled kettle. Some kettles come with a warranty; if your kettle is within the warranty period, you can get it repaired for free. However, if your kettle is not under warranty, you might have to spend some money on the repairs.
If your kettle breaks down and is not working properly, you should first check the power cord and make sure it is plugged in correctly. If that doesn’t work, check the heating element to see if it is burned out — if the heating element is burned out, you will need to replace it.
You can usually find replacement heating elements online. Finally, if your kettle still isn’t working, you might need to replace the thermostat. Once again, you can usually find replacement thermostats online.
If you are not comfortable repairing your kettle yourself, you can always take it to a repair shop. However, keep in mind that repairs can be expensive, so it might be cheaper to buy a new kettle.
Tips To Take Care of Your Electric Kettle For Long-Lasting Usage
Everybody wishes to keep their electric kettles before returning to purchase new ones. This is a challenge to many, so below are some tips to help you take care of your electric kettle:
1. Regularly Clean Your Electric Kettle
You should clean your kettle after every use. This is because, over time, kettles can develop a build-up of limescale and other minerals, affecting the flavor of your tea or coffee. To clean your kettle, add a solution of equal parts water and vinegar to the kettle and let it sit for 30 minutes. Then, rinse the kettle with clean water and dry it thoroughly.
2. Use Distilled — Not Tap Water
If you live in an area with hard water, it’s essential to use distilled water in your kettle. Hard water will, in most cases, lead to mineral deposits forming in your kettle, affecting its performance and shortening its lifespan.
If you don’t have access to distilled water, you can boil tap water for a few minutes to remove some of the impurities — just be sure to let the water cool before using it in your kettle.
3. Empty Your Kettle After Use
Like most people, you probably don’t think much about your kettle, so you fill it up with water and put it on the stove whenever you want to make a cup of tea. However, did you know that you should be emptying your kettle after each use?
If you leave water in your kettle, it can start to build up mineral deposits. These deposits can not only affect the taste of your tea, but they can also shorten the lifespan of your kettle. So, empty it out after each use to keep your kettle in top condition (and ensure your tea tastes its best).
Of course, this doesn’t mean you must wait for your kettle to cool down before emptying it. Just pour the water into the sink, and then give your kettle a quick rinse. Then, once it’s empty, you can put it back on the stove to dry.
4. Heat the Right Amount of Water
You should always heat the right amount of water to extend the lifespan of your electric kettle and save you money on your energy bill. Use a microwave or stovetop if you only need a small amount of hot water.
5. Refrain From Turning on Empty Kettle
You shouldn’t ever turn on an empty electric kettle. This can damage the heating element and, over time, cause it to break. If you accidentally turn on an empty kettle, unplug it immediately and let it cool down before filling it up and turning it back on.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is important to change or replace your kettle when needed. A leaking kettle can not only be a waste of money, but it can also be dangerous. Be sure to keep an eye on your kettle and ensure it is in good working condition. If you have any concerns, consult with a professional.
