Electric water boiler

This article is about the consumer electronics product. For residential or commercial tap water heating systems, see Water heating. For vessels for heating water under pressure, see Boiler.

An electric water boiler, also called a thermo pot or tea urn^[1] in British English, is a consumer electronics small appliance used for boiling water^[2][3] and maintaining it at a constant temperature in an enclosed reservoir. It is typically used to provide an immediate source of hot water for making tea,^[2] hot chocolate, coffee,^[2] instant noodles, or baby formula, or for any other household use where clean hot water is required. They are a common component of Japanese kitchens and the kitchens of many East Asian countries but are found in varying use globally. Smaller units are portable. Some thermo pots are designed with a feature that can purify water.^[4]

Japanese Zojirushi brand "Thermo Pot" electric kettle hot water dispenser

Wall mounted, unpressurized electric boiler with 5 liters maximum capacity

Components

An electric water boiler is a device comprising a water reservoir equipped with a heating element positioned at the bottom. While some models offer the convenience of multiple temperature settings, others are integrated into larger water systems capable of boiling water and dispensing it in various forms: hot, cold, or lukewarm. Dispensing methods vary and can include pouring, utilizing an electric pump, or pressing a large button that acts as a diaphragm pump.^[5] Additionally, electric water boilers are typically equipped with a built-in thermostat that senses when the water has reached its boiling point of 100°C (212°F), automatically shutting off to prevent overheating.^{[citation needed]}

Sedimentation

Sedimentation refers to the gradual accumulation of natural minerals within the water reservoir, typically found in trace amounts in municipal water mains. These minerals, predominantly calcium carbonate, tend to settle at the bottom of the reservoir as the water is heated. Over time, this sediment buildup can lead to several issues. Firstly, it can generate various noises within gas boilers due to the disturbance caused by the sediment. Additionally, the accumulation can impair the efficiency of the unit, as the sediment acts as an insulating layer, hindering the transfer of heat. Moreover, the presence of sediment can result in the development of an unpleasant sulfur or rotten-egg smell in the water.

To address sediment buildup in electric kettles, descaling agents such as vinegar or citric acid are commonly used. These substances effectively dissolve and remove the accumulated minerals, restoring the kettle's performance and eliminating any associated odors.^[6]

Uses

Some electric water boiler models enable tea to be steeped at a desired, adjustable temperature.^[7]

See also

• Samovar
• Electric kettle
• Electric steam boiler
• Instant hot water dispenser
• Thermoelectricity
• Joule heating

References

1. https://www.collinsdictionary.com/dictionary/english/tea-urn
2. Max Cryer (8 October 2010). The Godzone Dictionary: Of Favourite New Zealand Words and Phrases. ReadHowYouWant.com. p. 64. ISBN 978-1-4587-7952-6. Retrieved 2014-03-25.
3. Leon Reznik (21 August 1997). Fuzzy Controllers Handbook: How to Design Them, How They Work. Newnes. p. 10. ISBN 978-0-08-050716-3. Retrieved 2014-03-25.
4. Matsushita Electric Corporation of America (1992). Annual report.
5. "Electric Water Boiler Parts And What They Do". DeBST. Retrieved 2024-03-07.
6. Christopher Goodall (4 May 2012). How to Live a Low-Carbon Life: The Individual's Guide to Stopping Climate Change. Routledge. p. 157. ISBN 978-1-136-56406-2. Retrieved 2014-03-25.
7. "The Tide in Tea - Features - Gourmet Retailer Magazine". As tea drinkers become increasingly sophisticated, so too do the equipment and brewing techniques for this aromatic beverage. A number of companies [offer] precision temperature control

Further reading

• Retrieved on 2014-03-25.Ashby, M. F. (2012-03-28). Materials and the Environment: Eco-informed Material Choice. Butterworth-Heinemann. pp. 198–199. ISBN 978-0-12-385971-6.

External links