Best Energy Saving Kettle In The UK

Boil your kettle efficien-tea.

Best Energy Saving Kettle In The UK

by Natalie Knowles |
Updated on

The best energy saving kettles in the UK are among a new wave of kitchen appliances that pave the way to a more sustainable lifestyle. In general, the best kettle to go for is electric. Much more energy-efficient than a stove-top kettle, an electric kettle automatically switches off when the water reaches boiling point, so there's no further electricity wastage. Overfilling the kettle is the biggest source of wastage, so it's better to boil what you need. And yet, there's always someone in the household who does it; perhaps it's a legacy from living in student digs when a cuppa was on the go every five minutes...

Smart meters give us an insight into our water and energy consumption. Rather than being triggered by watching the numbers ramp up, we know that we can save money through the efficient use of household appliances. The key factors are usage (how much do you boil the kettle?), energy consumption (how much electricity does that use?) and wastage (how much boiled water gets poured down the sink?). Finally, think about seasonal use - more hot drinks are needed in the colder months of the year. If you spend most of the day at home, the kettle will be the most used appliance in the kitchen.

Best Energy Saving Kettle At A Glance

Best quiet boil kettle for efficiency: Russell Hobbs Luna Quiet Boil Kettle – View on Argos
Best eco-friendly kettle: Philips Eco Conscious Edition Kettle 5000 Series – View on Amazon UK
Best mid-range energy-efficient kettle: Breville Edge Electric Kettle – View on Amazon UK

Research by Science Direct has compelling findings about our national use of the kettle. "In the UK, more than nine in ten people (90 per cent) use the kettle every day, with 40 per cent doing this five times a day or more." Although the article is extremely scientific, in summary, it found that a smart kettle was more energy-efficient than a standard kettle. If we're thinking collectively about sustainability, boiling the kettle a little less or switching to an energy-efficient smart kettle, will make an enormous difference to our national energy use.

Overfilling the kettle not only wastes water, but also consumes more electricity too. It takes more energy (kWh) to boil a large amount of water so make use of the water level indicator guide on your kettle. Generally, a large mug holds 330ml, so if you're making two mugs of coffee you need to fill the kettle with 660ml of water. Also, look for rapid boil as a feature when you buy a new kettle. Quite simply, a kettle that boils fast consumes energy for a shorter amount of time. Kettles with a higher wattage of 3kW will boil faster. Whether you're looking for the latest eco kettle or the best quiet kettle, scroll to the FAQs at the end of this article for more brew-how.

Best Energy Saving Kettle In The UK

Best quiet boil kettle for efficiency

This Russell Hobbs Luna Quiet Boil Kettle boasts fast boiling at a volume that won't disrupt your conversations or wake up your household. You can also save up to 66 per cent energy by boiling one cup instead of one litre with the 1-3 cup markings. It has a clear, illuminated water window so you can keep an eye on the water level.

Customer review: "Love this kettle, bought it to replace a very pretty kettle but couldn't hear yourself think. This is really quiet, looks good and has a fast boil. Would recommend."

Pros

  • Good value
  • Rapid boil

Cons

  • Only has a small capacity

Best eco-friendly kettle

The ultra modern-looking Philips Eco Conscious Edition Kettle 5000 Series has been created from 100 per cent Bio-based plastics, reducing its CO2 footprint during its production process by 25 per cent. Its 2200W power also ensures a powerful boil quickly, while its water level indicator helps you use the required amount of water needed, contributing to a more sustainable environment.

Customer review: "As a house of addicted tea drinkers, we boil the kettle a LOT. We've been through expensive kettles and the cheapest ones so this time wanted a middle of the road kettle that was more eco friendly and looked good too. This is the best kettle we've ever had. You can boil just one cup super quick, it's super lightweight and looks great too. Really delighted with this purchase."

Pros

  • Stylish design
  • Sustainably made
  • Easy to read water level and cup indicator
  • Automatic switch-off function
  • Good size

Cons

  • A little lower wattage than competitor kettles

Best mid-range energy-efficient kettle

The clever Breville Edge Electric Kettle saves you time and energy and will prevent you from constantly reboiling water. The water level indicator changes from white to red when the kettle reaches boiling, and it will stay red until the temperature falls below 80 degrees Celcius, so you'll know if the water is hot enough for another cuppa. It's made of robust brushed stainless steel, so it's durable and robust for busy kitchens, and metal is a great insulator.

Customer review: "Great kettle. It's quick to boil, fairly quiet but the red light feature, where it stays red to indicate the water is still at boiling temperature is PERFECT. I have a lodger who often makes a cuppa before me, but I always fill and boil before I make mine. Several mornings now, the kettle is red, so I just pour what's left in the cup and a perfect brew is made without having to re-boil. Obviously saving me a bit of electric at the same time."

Pros

  • Still hot illumination light prevents unnecessary reboiling
  • Non-fussy, modern design

Cons

  • The outside gets hot

Best high-end energy-efficient kettle

Part of a range of Enfinigy products that include toasters, coffee machines and food processors by Zwilling. Made from high-quality materials with innovative design, these appliances are designed to be long-lasting. There are a range of kettles to choose from that feature temperature control. We love this Zwilling Enfinigy Glass Kettle because it lets you steep tea, and because it's made of glass, you can watch the water change colour. Also, the pre-boil feature, which heats water to boiling point and automatically cools it down to the desired temperature, is invaluable if you are sterilising bottles.

Customer review: "This is a great product with a high quality design. Four option for the temperature can be chosen (60, 70, 80, tea temperature and 100 degree). The inner filter can also be removed and you can keep the water warm in the kettle. Highly recommended."

Pros

  • Tea steeping functionality
  • Temperature control
  • Premium design
  • Pre-boil for sterilising

Cons

  • Power base protrudes

Best choice for the connoisseurs

Sage the Smart Kettle is not 'smart' in the sense that you operate it with an external device. Smart refers to this kettle's variable temperature control, which allows you to bring water to precise temperatures that are optimum for steeping green, white or oolong teas. There are five pre-set temperature buttons, including coffee and black tea. Also, there is a handy keep warm function that allows you to keep the water at a consistent temperature for 20 minutes (the kettle needs to remain on its power base). Ideal if you're rummaging around for your teapot in the cupboard or having a lazy Sunday morning breakfast. The start/cancel button is large and illuminated, so it's easy to use. The Smart Kettle has a removable mesh filter which catches limescale deposits, and Sage sells its own descaling product called 'the Descaler', which can be ordered through its website.

Our review: "If you are a really particular tea or coffee drinker, this is the kettle to go for. Being metal, it naturally keeps water warmer for longer. Sage's the Smart Kettle has been developed with Heston Blumenthal with the USP of getting the maximum flavour from tea and coffee by adding water that's the optimum temperature to release tasting notes and aromas. And it's true - coffee does have more flavour when boiled at 90 degrees. Also, green tea tastes delicious, boiled at 80 degrees, allowing the delicate flavour of the leaves and jasmine to shine through.

"It's a smart-looking kettle too, made of brushed stainless steel. Neat and compact, unlike the Zwilling Enfinigy Glass Kettle, which has a deeper base. The ergonomic handle stays cool, and the soft top lid opens gently to prevent splashing. There are dual water level indicator windows, so you can see the water level if you're using it left or right-handed. It stands steady and securely on its power base, the button controls are easy to use, and there's an audible beep when the kettle's boiled. Overall, the product feels very well made. The spout is overly large, but that has benefits as it gives an even pour. It boils fast, just a tad noisy, but no biggie.

"Condensation does gather on the inside of the glass lid, some may enjoy it aesthetically when the kettle is boiling, but others may find it a design flaw as it builds up when the kettle is not in use. I've popped a Chef Aid Stainless Steel Doughnut Kettle Descaler in the kettle to prevent limescale particles building up, thereby prolonging the kettle's lifespan. With Sage, you benefit from superb customer care should anything go wrong. There are clear contact telephone numbers and an email address for customer support.

"Finally, I loved the keep warm feature. My freshly boiled water stayed at a constant temperature while I prepared my cast iron teapot and spooned green tea leaves in. I loved the ritual and thoroughly enjoyed savouring this on a sunny morning by my parent's fish pond with the flag irises in full flower."

Pros

  • produces better-tasting tea and coffee
  • Boils efficiently
  • Compact
  • Easy to use
  • Comfortable handle

Cons

  • Exterior will get hot as it doesn't have double-wall technology

Best energy-saving budget kettle

Ideal for one or two people, the Quest Kettle is a compact kettle with a spout filter, water level indicator and hinged lid. It's a good option for elderly people as it's not too heavy to lift at just 790g. Additionally, this is a low-wattage kettle, so if you're making a lot of teas and coffees throughout the day, it saves a little on the energy costs. Bear in mind it will take longer to boil though.

Customer review: "It's a good kettle it's cute and small but I didn't realise that when I bought it but it's good for what it is. But for me it takes quite some time to boil the water. Also is good in its noise it doesn't make much noise when boiling."

Pros

  • Low wattage saves on energy consumption
  • Perfect for one or two people

Cons

  • Sometimes difficult to put it back on its base

Best vacuum insulated kettle

The Vektra Vacuum Insulated Electric Kettle combines the insulating properties of a double-walled vacuum flask with an energy-efficient electric kettle to keep water hot for up to four hours. Made from high-quality 18/8 stainless steel, this is a small and durable kettle that's been praised in reviews for keeping water hot, but some have found the push button lid tricky to operate, and it's heavy. Undoubtedly, a simple and clever idea that saves boiling the kettle repeatedly.

Customer review: "This really is the best kettle I could have imagined for economy and eco-friendliness. I am amazed at how simple the technology is and why everyone is not doing it. The kettle is basically a thermos flask. Because the water is under pressure and insulated it boils really quickly and until you press the lever on the handle it doesn't release any water, steam or lose any temperature. It keeps its contents hot enough to make coffee or tea for over an hour. The spout and pour lever are incredibly well engineered to only allow a sensible amount of liquid out in a steady flow."

Pros

  • Leakproof
  • Very quiet

Cons

  • Some reviews comment that they've had trouble opening the lid

Best energy saving kettle under £30

Russell Hobbs Textures White Plastic Kettle
Price: £20 (was £25)

www.argos.co.uk

Admittedly, yes, the Russell Hobbs Textures kettle is a little dull to look at. Design-wise, it's plain and simple, but if you're not too fussed about how your kettle looks, you'll find that this is a perfect addition to your kitchen. With a 1.7L capacity (that's six cups) and a boiling time of 45 seconds per cup, the whole family can enjoy a pick-me-up coffee within moments. Plus, it claims to save up to 70 per cent of energy, meaning it'll save you money on energy bills. Best of all, it's affordable and is guaranteed for the next three years, so rest assured you won't be without a hot drink any time soon.

Customer review: "If you are looking for a lightweight white plastic kettle with a perfect pour this Russell Hobbs Textures White Plastic Kettle is the one you need. I've got bad joints so I need a lightweight kettle that pours properly. Very quiet and boils very quickly. I'm 100 per cent happy with my purchase and I recommend to everyone."

Pros

  • Good value
  • Decent build quality
  • Boils fast

Cons

  • Design is a little dated

Our Verdict: Best Energy Saving Kettle In The UK

We recommend the Russell Hobbs Luna Quiet Boil Grey Jug Kettle as the best energy-saving kettle. It's received thousands of positive reviews and it's a great mid-range price point. The Luna kettle is stylish, with its moonlight grey appearance, and you can enjoy an enchanting light show when it boils. Additionally, this kettle boils super fast - just 45 seconds to boil a cup of water. There's a handy cup measure feature built into the kettle to ensure you don't overfill the appliance and only boil what you need.

FAQs

How Do I Measure The Energy Consumption Of My Kettle?

One way to see how much energy your kettle is using is to do an experiment with your smart meter's in-home display. An IHD shows you how much energy you're using in kilowatt hours (kWh) and it shows how much it costs. Citizens Advice suggests turning off all devices, except essential electricals, and then using your kettle to see how much it costs you.

If you don't have an in-home display or smart meter, you can work out how much your kettle costs to use with this equation:

Appliance Power (W) x Amount of Time Used (p/h) x GBP per kWh (0.33) / 100 = Price Per Use

As of April 2023, the unit rate for electricity is on average 33.21p/kWh.

The amount of time must be in decimals (0.5 is 30mins, 1.5 is 90mins)

For example, if you've totted up that you use your 3000W kettle for 15 minutes a day the sum is:

3000 x 0.25 x 0.33 / 100

Rounded up, it works out at 2.5 pence a day to use a kettle.

What Features Should I Look For In A Kettle?

Bet you've never thought of the humble kettle as a multifunctional cooking appliance. No, neither did we, but the more you think about it, a kettle can prepare breakfast, lunch and dinner, provided it's porridge, pasta and instant noodles. It's there for your first coffee of the day, that mid-morning cuppa, an afternoon herbal tea and the evening hot chocolate. Where would we be without a kettle?

If you're concerned about energy efficiency then opt for an electric kettle rather than a stove-top kettle. Power tends to be between 2-3kW; the higher the wattage the faster it will boil. Russell Hobbs introduced the first fully automatic stainless steel kettle in 1955. As the water boils, the steam that's produced feeds through a pipe to the thermostat. The steam causes the piper to flex and cut off the current. This automatic shut-off prevents damaging the heating element and the water boiling away.

Opt for a kettle with a concealed heating element or a separate power base, as limescale can build up around an internal coil element, making it tricky to clean. Always go for a kettle with some sort of limescale filtration. There are some fantastic kettles designed to prevent limescale – essential if you live in a hard water area.

Look for a kettle with a clear water indicator level. This enables you to fill the kettle with enough water for your purpose and no more. Boiling a full kettle is a waste of energy. On that note, a double-walled kettle will insulate hot water for longer. Also, it keeps the outside of the kettle cool to the touch.

The weight of the kettle will be an important factor for anyone with shoulder, arm or hand issues. Lightweight kettles are made of plastic. Although they don't tend to have the longevity of a metal kettle, they will be functional and easy to pick up. Additionally, you may want to consider a kettle with a lift-off lid so it's easier to fill.

Finally, if you have a little more money to splash out on a smart kettle, you'll benefit from quiet boiling, temperature control, a keep warm function, voice control and app integration.

Natalie Knowles is a Homes & Garden Product Writer for A Modern Kitchen, specialising in kitchen appliances. When she's not testing coffee machines, she flexes her creative flair as an artist.

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