The Top 6 Electric Tea Kettle With Variable Temperatures

Sure, you can watch your water boil by the size of the bubbles. Or you can set your temperature, walk away and come back to a water temperature that is perfect. An electric kettle with temperature control is a lifesaver. Okay well maybe I exaggerate but it sure will save you time and money. They look great also.

What is a variable temperature tea kettle? 

A variable temperature tea kettle is on that allows you to heat the water by electricity. It also has a thermostat. That can take water from room temperature to the temperature that you desire for your cup of tea. Depending on the tea you have chosen the temperature will vary. These kettles save us time and money. Both by not overheating and shutting off when the desired temperature is met.

What are the desired temperatures for tea?

• Green tea – 150-180 degrees
• Oolong tea – 190- 200 degrees
• White tea – 160 degrees
• Black tea – 200- 212 degrees
• Pu’erh tea – 205 degrees
• Herbal teas – most should be steeped in boiling water

How to tell if your water is at the right temperature

While researching for this article I found an interesting view on these electric kettles. I found it interesting enough to share. The Chinese use this method to gauge the temperature of their water. There are a few ways to judge the temperature of your water besides an automated gauge.

The first measure of temperature is called Shrimp Eyes. This is when you first start to see bubbles and the temperature is around 160 degrees.

After Shrimp Eyes when the water temperature reaches about 175 degrees. The bubbles increase in size. This is called Crab Eyes. Small amounts of steam will start to escape as well.

Fish Eyes, is the temperature for most teas. The temperature when the water is almost at a boiling point or 180 degrees. The steam grows stronger and the water bubbles are now the size of Fish Eyes.

We leave the eyes and move onto the Rope of Pearls. This water is just about boiling and around 200 or so degrees. The bubbles now are forming a rope and racing to the top of the water.

When the water is boiling the Chinese call this Ragin Torrent. The water is raging like rapid water, with lots of bubbles and steam.

What is the best temperature to put into the kettle?

Coldwater is the best option, cold water comes from your faucet. Hot water comes from a water heater and may have an off taste from being stored in the heater for some time. While hot water will boil faster, we are not focused on speed. Our main goal is the taste! 

Are tea kettles with variable temperature controls with the money?

In my opinion: YES! They save you money and time. Money by not using more electricity than you need. They save you time. Time wasted waiting for water to boil. You know the saying a watched pot never boils. It sure does feel like that at times. No need to watch a variable temperature kettle. It heats up and turns off at the perfect time.

So do you NEED a variant Temperature tea kettle? No, you do not need it. But it sure is helpful and convenient. You do not have to spend time watching for bubbles. Missing your temperature for that perfect cup of tea.

Do all kettles boil to the same temperature?

Yes, in general. Most tea kettles do heat to the same temperatures. However, different altitudes heat water in different ways. Water closer to the heater part of the kettle will be warmer than that at the opposite end. Water will also not “over-boil”. Once water heats to a certain temperature it becomes steam, so it changes form and is no longer variable to use in tea. 

Can I leave water standing in the kettle?

It is not the best idea to do so. By leaving water standing in the tea kettle it will leave a lime residue or calcium build-up. It’s not difficult to clean, but it’s just as easy to empty the kettle if it is not going to be in use for a while.

What To Look For When Buying An Electric Kettle

Variable temperature

Variable temperatures are one of the best features in a tea kettle for a tea drinker. Variable temperatures allow you to pick the temperature for your desired beverage. You won’t get that feature on the stove or in a microwave. To taste a tea brewed at the perfect temperature is the best way to taste that tea.

A variable temperature electric kettle is an excellent choice for boiling water. Boiling to the exact temperature needed for a perfect cup of tea.

A variable electric tea kettle can take your water from room temperature to boiling. You have spent good money purchasing quality teas. Why scorch them in water that is too hot when you can brew at the perfect temperature.

How fast can the kettle boil water?

Models will vary but we found an average time of 4-4.5 minutes to boil 1.5 liters of water. 

The electric kettle can also warm water for baking, coffees, and even your noodle soups. You can use the heated kettle water to boil pasta and make noodles and homemade herbal products. It’s faster and better.

By using a variable temperature tea kettle you will save money by not boiling water when you don’t need to. It saves you some energy and that saves you money in the long run.

Saves money and saves time. While your water is brewing to the perfect temperature. You can be preparing your teas and clean up the kitchen or dining area. An entire teapot at one time. Serving more than one cup (for yourself or others)? Easy with an electric tea kettle and much better than a microwave.

Design

The design of the kettle is a factor you need to think about before choosing. The kettle of your choice. They look stunning on a counter and some even light up. The designs can match your decor as well, from modern to classic to contemporary. They are all there for your choosing.

Take a look at the spout. The spout is important as well because it needs to look nice and function as well. No one likes hot water spilled all over the counter while pouring.

Some models will have lids that need to be removed, or turned before pouring. Take that into consideration. Some are easier to remove than others.

Make sure the handles are a comfortable fit for you. Pick up your kettle and test how it feels in your hands.

Does the water taste good with my tea?

The biggest complaints are a strange aftertaste with certain electric kettle water. Make sure you clean your kettle first. A light detergent will work or a swooshing of apple cider vinegar followed by a cool water rinse.

Choosing a kettle with the right components for you is important. Using good quality water is as important as the vessel and the beverage being brewed. All things come into play when brewing a beverage.

I have very hard water so I am careful not to use that water in my electric kettle. I have filtered water that I use. The water makes an amazing difference in taste as well as sediment building up inside my kettle.

If you have time or interest to experiment. Take the same tea and brew it with different waters. Taste the differences that water can make.

Material

Electric kettles are made out of various materials. In all the questions I field about tea kettles people are looking for stainless steel.

Stainless steel is the material most sought after in an electric kettle. There are no concerns about toxins transferred when heated. Plastics can be of some concern as well as silicone.

It’s hard to find a 100% stainless steel kettle. Some of the parts connecting to the kettle are plastic. Those plastic parts do come in contact with the water. They do not seem to be causing many issues and people who are sensitive to a plastic taste do not seem to mind.

There are many more that have plastic parts that do not come in contact with the water. 

Is the kettle easy to clean

This is a major thing to consider. How will you clean your kettle? How easy will it be to clean? Can you get your hand into the kettle?

Most kettles have openings that make them easy to clean. Consider this when purchasing your kettle. You will need to clean it. Eventually, all-electric tea kettles need to be cleaned.

Residue can also be a problem in some electric tea kettles. You can also clean that residue periodically from your kettle. 

There are products on the market you can use to clean your kettle. Yes, you will need to clean your kettle. You will want to wipe your kettle dry after cleaning so being able to reach deep inside is a plus. Boiling water will leave a mineral residue that you will need to clean from all kettles.

Is the tea kettle safe and designed with you in mind?

That tea kettle will catch your eye. It will adorn your counter or tea station, and it will be yours.

It comes down to preference. Your preference.

The winner for you may be the handle. What material is the handle made of and is it heat resistant? A higher handle is better than a lower one.

Automatic shut-off is an important detail. Live is busy at times and we can rush around the house or even out of the house leaving the electric tea kettle on. Having an automatic shut-off leaves not doubt or worry.

Some tea kettles come with a filter. Do you need or want one? Tea filters are good to have when brewing water and tea leaves together. If not, the filter or infuser is not necessary.

What size tea kettle do you need? Is it for you, or a family? How much tea do you drink per day? How often do you want to refill your tea kettle?

Does the kettle come in the color you want? Yes, color is important and tea kettles come in an array of colors. What color will you choose?

What design works best in your area of use. Electric tea kettles come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Not only do you have to be concerned with the tea kettle size but the size of the heating element as well. Make sure your choice will fit into the area it will go.

Some Cautions for Electric Tea Kettles

• Only use your electric tea kettle for water boiling
• Do not brew tea unless specified that you can
• No, you cannot make oatmeal or ramen noodles in them
• Do not wash in the dishwasher
• Do not submerge
• Do not overfill
• Hard water will leave residue (be ready to clean)
• Don’t let water stand too long in the kettle

Care and Maintenance

Your kettle will work hard for you, so in turn, take care of your kettle by cleaning it now and again. Don’t leave water standing for a long period of time.  Even with removing standing water, you will still have to clean your kettle of residue and minerals that get left behind as you boil water for tea. Below are a few ideas on how to keep your kettle clean and lasting longer.

How to Clean Electric Kettles

You can always buy a cleaner such as Bar Keepers Friend to clean your kettle. I have found using the baking soda or vinegar methods below to work as well.

Baking Soda Method

• Add one cup of baking soda into your kettle
• Fill with water
• Heat the water until it boils
• Turn off and allow to cool for 15 minutes
• Now scrub the inside using a long-handled brush so you do not burn yourself
• You can add more baking soda if you need too
• Once clean, remove the contents and clean with soap
• Rinse clean.
• Dry with a towel

Vinegar Method

• Fill the kettle with half vinegar and water
• Boil
• Remove and cool.
• Dump the contents
• Wipe with a towel
• Rinse a few times to remove vinegar left over
• Dry with a towel

Do not use metal or abrasive scrubs or scrubbers as these will scratch your kettle. Plastic or Nylon works but cloth is so much better. Using a cloth to clean your kettles is the best way to clean and dry your electric tea kettle.

Conclusion

I own two electric variable temperature tea kettles. One at home and one at work. Having these, especially the one at work makes my life so much easier. Life comes at you fast and keeps you busy. I don’t have time to watch the water boil or almost boil. 

For me and you, the winner will be the tea kettle that fits your lifestyle and needs. We’ve given you the top choices so you don’t have to spend all day looking at reviews. Don’t worry, you can still click on each one and read more about them.