We use it every day, often without thinking. A quick click, a little steam… and there you have it, hot water ready to serve! Yet, some seemingly harmless actions can damage your kettle, shorten its lifespan, or even affect the quality of the water you drink. Intrigued? Here’s what you absolutely must avoid (and no one’s ever told you this outright).
Kettle: pay attention to the material you choose
At first glance, they all look alike. However, not all kettles are created equal. Some, especially cheap models made of plastic or low-quality metal, can release undesirable substances when the water is heated to high temperatures.
The right approach : choose a kettle made of 18/10 stainless steel (also known as 304 stainless steel), a material renowned for its robustness and neutrality. Not only will you get purer-tasting water, but you’ll also be making a more sustainable choice – for you and for the planet. It’s a bit like switching from a processed meal to a delicious homemade dish: you can taste the difference immediately!
Too much water in the kettle? A bad idea.
Filling the kettle to the brim to “save time” might seem clever… but it’s quite the opposite. Exceeding the indicated fill line risks overflowing while heating. The result? Scalding splashes, and even worse, a possible short circuit if the water reaches the electrical base.
A good habit : always respect the maximum fill level indicated inside. And remember to only heat the amount you really need. Less water = less energy used. An effortless way to save !
Starting the engine without a load: a costly mistake
Have you ever reflexively pressed the button… before even adding water? This action, far more common than you might think, can seriously damage your kettle’s heating element. And in some cases, cause irreversible breakdowns.
The trick to avoiding this: always pour the water in before turning on the appliance. And if you notice any moisture on the base, take the time to wipe it dry. A small preventative measure that can save you a lot of trouble – and extend the life of your kettle by several years.
