[Smart Living] 5 Energy-Saving Tips for Electric Kettles

In Hong Kong, electric kettles are a household essential, providing hot water whenever needed. However, you may be surprised to learn that some electric kettles consume more electricity annually than an air conditioner. In this Moorgenzine article, we will explore how to choose and use electric kettles efficiently to save energy.

Choosing the Right Electric Kettle

Selecting the Suitable Type of Electric Kettle

Electric kettles can boil large amounts of water, making them suitable for families or frequent hot water users. However, traditional electric kettles that remain plugged in for long periods to maintain temperature can be highly energy-consuming. For frequently reheating water, their energy usage could be comparable to that of a small refrigerator. Before purchasing an electric kettle, it's essential to understand your usage habits.

• Long-Term Insulated Kettles: Ideal for households that frequently need hot water, such as for making tea or drinking warm water. These kettles typically have a larger capacity (e.g., 3 liters) and maintain water temperature, but they consume more electricity since they are often plugged in for extended periods.
• High-Speed Boiling Kettles: For those who need hot water occasionally, such as for making coffee or instant noodles, a smaller, high-speed boiling kettle is a good choice. It heats water quickly, saving time, but its energy consumption can be high for short-term usage.
• Vacuum-Insulated Electric Kettles: Opting for a vacuum-insulated kettle can effectively reduce energy consumption during the warming period. These kettles can keep water hot for more than 8 hours without being plugged in, reducing the need for reboiling and thus saving energy.

How to Choose an Energy-Efficient Electric Kettle

There are various electric kettle options available on the market. When selecting an energy-efficient model, consider the following factors:

• Energy Efficiency Label: Check the energy efficiency label when purchasing, and choose models with higher energy ratings to effectively reduce electricity consumption.
• Capacity Size: Choose the appropriate capacity based on the number of people in your household. A 1.5-liter kettle is suitable for smaller households, while a 2-3 liter model is ideal for a family of four. Avoid buying an oversized kettle to prevent unnecessary energy consumption for maintaining temperature.

5 Energy-Saving Tips for Using an Electric Kettle

1. Set Appropriate Heating Times If your kettle has a "timed heating" function, set it based on your daily schedule. For example, turn off the kettle during work hours and heat the water before returning home to reduce energy wasted on long-term warming.
2. Control the Warming Temperature Set an appropriate warming temperature depending on your needs. For example, 60-70°C is sufficient for making baby formula or drinking warm water, while 95-98°C is needed for making coffee or tea.
3. Clean Regularly Regular cleaning is necessary for electric kettles, as limescale can reduce heating efficiency and increase energy consumption. It is recommended to clean the kettle every three months using lemon or white vinegar to remove limescale, thereby improving efficiency and saving energy.
4. Turn Off the Power When Not in Use If the kettle will not be used for an extended period, such as during long vacations, be sure to unplug it to avoid unnecessary energy consumption and increase safety.
5. Use an Insulated Flask For households needing large amounts of hot water, consider pouring boiled water into an insulated flask and turning off the electric kettle. Reheat water only when needed to save more energy.

Smart Energy-Saving Tips: Efficient Use of Your Electric Kettle

• Heat Water as Needed: Only heat the amount of water you need each time to avoid wasting energy.
• Set the Right Temperature: In most cases, 80°C is sufficient for drinking, so there's no need to boil water to 100°C each time.
• Avoid Long-Term Warming: Try not to keep the electric kettle on "keep warm" mode for extended periods; instead, heat water as needed to save electricity.

Electric kettles have their advantages for different purposes and needs, so choose according to your usage habits. By selecting the right model and using it efficiently, you can effectively lower your electricity bills. We hope these tips help you make a smart choice and use your electric kettle in a more energy-efficient and eco-friendly way.

If you'd like to experience the lifestyle improvements that smart home technologies can bring, feel free to visit Moorgen's showroom in North Point, Hong Kong, and discover what "true smart living" feels like.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

1. Do electric kettles really consume more power than air conditioners?
   Yes, some electric kettles, if used to keep water warm for long periods and reheated multiple times, can have an annual energy consumption higher than that of an air conditioner. This is especially true for traditional kettles that maintain high temperatures over extended periods.

2. How can I choose the right electric kettle for my needs?
   When choosing an electric kettle, consider your household needs. If you need hot water frequently, a large-capacity kettle with warming functionality may be ideal. If you only need hot water occasionally, a high-speed boiling kettle can save time and electricity.

3. How can I reduce the energy consumption of my electric kettle?
   You can reduce energy consumption by controlling the warming temperature, cleaning the kettle regularly, using an insulated flask, and setting appropriate heating times to minimize unnecessary electricity use.

4. What are the advantages of vacuum-insulated electric kettles?
   Vacuum-insulated electric kettles can keep water hot for more than 8 hours without being plugged in, reducing the need for repeated reheating and effectively saving electricity. They are perfect for users who need long-term warmth without high energy costs.