Ruth's Ramblings

New hot water solution

So after W's electric hot pot kettle died, I did some research into looking for new replacements. We've always thought about electric hot kettles, particularly the asian ones that keep several liters of water hot/warm with a little spout and a convenient button. However, I was a bit icked by the fact that with those kettles, you can keep hot/warm water stewing in there for HOURS... with the question of microorganisms growing in there. And how the heck do you clean those things (with all the water deposits burned into its sides)?! Plus, when water comes out of the spout (after pressing the button HARD), scalding hot water spews and splatters out, not only into your container, but onto your hand, arm, etc. Quite painful for a +$60 item.

Seeing that we don't always need hot water in large quantities everyday, I figured a tea kettle would be a more economical solution for our hot water needs. I did some research, and settled for a nice Circulon one (they are listed as almost $50 at Macy's but I found it on QVC for less than half, even less than what Amazon listed!). Of course, I picked blue. I've used it twice so far - both with satisfying results. The water heated quite nicely and quickly (this kettle has an anonized bottom, so that it distributes heat equally and quickly). I filled the kettle up 3/4 of the way and set it on my gas stove on medium heat, and it was ready in a couple minutes. Not only that, but the whistle was subtle - not screaming like a train was ready to plow through my house - but enough of a notice for me to know that it was ready. And the stainless steel handle - it looked like it would get hot while steaming (and although they advertise it as a cooling handle, the instructions specifically warn users to use potholders while handing) it was surprisingly cool to the touch, so I didn't have to use a potholder. The water came out very nicely. All in all, I was very satisfied with my purchase; it sits pretty on my gas stove, shiny blue and pretty.



Picture courtesy of www.amazon.com

Posted by Ruth at 2/27/2004