Another way to boil water with the Rival 4071-WN Electric Kettle

Ok so now it’s a couple of weeks past Christmas and some of us have a small pile of stuff we wonder if we will ever use. I received the Rival 4071-WN Electric Kettle and while it’s the thought that counts, I never thought I’d use this and would wind up “Re-Gifting” this.

I was wrong. This is a handy little item. I do most of my work in a small wood shop (garage) attached to the house. When I’m working on a project I tend to get wrapped up in my work and forget to eat. Now I can at least keep a stash of Ramen Noodles and canned food out in the shop so I can at least have a hot snack while I’m working.

The nicest thing about this is that it’s small and doesn’t take up much space. It’s only six inches tall and about eight inches across. A nice snap on top will keep out the sawdust that’s always flying when I’m working. There is just one control, a rotary dial on the side with seven settings. I haven’t bothered to time how long it takes to boil a quart of water, but it does so quickly. (Insert your own pun about “A watched pot never boils” here.)

The heating element draws 1,000 watts which is less than Mrs Twigg’s hair dryer. The white ABS housing is heat resistant so while it will get warm it won’t burn your hand if you need to steady it as you pour hot water or soup.

Now, there’s always a down side to everything and here’s what I don’t like about this.
If you turn this on and are absorbed by your work or easily distracted, ( Like myself ) there isn’t a safety mechanism at work to prevent the heating element from overheating. There isn’t an “off” button on it either so remember to unplug it after using it.

Fortunately there is a non-stick lining to make clean up a lot easier, and it does clean up easily. As with all electrical appliances you're not supposed to dunk this in water to clean it, just wipe it out with a soapy sponge or dishrag. If you really forget things though I think you’d be better off not even trying to clean it up and simply toss it.

This is sold under the name of “Hot Pot Express” and is readily found on-line for about fourteen bucks. You’ll probably find it at your local Wal or K Mart / Target, etc. Not a bad choice for short money.