1. Important Safeguards
When using electrical appliances, basic safety precautions should always be followed to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and injury to persons, including the following:
- Read all instructions before using the kettle.
- Do not touch hot surfaces. Use handles or knobs.
- To protect against electric shock, do not immerse cord, plugs, or the kettle base in water or other liquid.
- Close supervision is necessary when any appliance is used by or near children.
- Unplug from outlet when not in use and before cleaning. Allow to cool before putting on or taking off parts, and before cleaning the appliance.
- Do not operate any appliance with a damaged cord or plug, or after the appliance malfunctions or has been damaged in any manner. Contact customer service for examination, repair, or adjustment.
- The use of accessory attachments not recommended by the appliance manufacturer may result in fire, electric shock, or injury to persons.
- Do not use outdoors.
- Do not let cord hang over edge of table or counter, or touch hot surfaces.
- Do not place on or near a hot gas or electric burner, or in a heated oven.
- Always attach plug to appliance first, then plug cord into the wall outlet. To disconnect, turn any control to 'off', then remove plug from wall outlet.
- Do not use appliance for other than intended use.
- Extreme caution must be used when moving an appliance containing hot water.
- Ensure the lid is securely closed before operating.
- This appliance is for household use only.
2. Product Overview
The West Bend 1.5-Liter Electric Kettle is designed for quick and efficient water boiling. Its cordless design and 360° swivel base offer convenience for filling, pouring, and serving.
Key Features:
- 1.5-Liter Capacity: Ideal for various hot beverages and cooking needs.
- Stainless Steel Interior: Ensures water purity and durability.
- Stay-Cool Plastic Outer Layer: Provides insulation and safety.
- Cordless Serving: Kettle lifts easily from its corded power base.
- 360° Swivel Base: Allows for convenient placement and handling from any angle.
- One-Touch On/Off Button: Simple operation with an illuminating orange indicator light.
- Boil-Dry Protection: Automatically shuts off if the kettle is accidentally turned on without water.
- Automatic Shut-Off: Kettle turns off once water reaches boiling point.
Components:
- Electric Kettle (with lid and handle)
- Power Base (corded)
- Removable Filter (located inside the spout)
Figure 2.1: The West Bend 1.5-Liter Electric Kettle in black, showcasing its sleek design and ergonomic handle.
3. Setup
Unpacking and Initial Cleaning:
- Carefully remove all packaging materials from the kettle and its base.
- Wipe the exterior of the kettle and the power base with a damp cloth.
- Wash the interior of the kettle and the removable filter with warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly.
- Dry all parts completely before use.
First Use:
Before using for the first time, or if the kettle has not been used for a long period, it is recommended to boil a full kettle of water and discard it. This helps to remove any manufacturing residues and ensures optimal performance.
- Fill the kettle with water to the MAX fill line.
- Place the kettle securely on its power base.
- Plug the power base into a standard electrical outlet.
- Press the On/Off button to start boiling.
- Once the water boils, the kettle will automatically shut off.
- Discard the boiled water. The kettle is now ready for regular use.
4. Operating Instructions
Filling the Kettle:
- Ensure the kettle is unplugged from the power outlet.
- Press the lid release button on the handle to open the lid.
- Fill the kettle with the desired amount of fresh, cold water. Do not fill below the MIN mark or above the MAX mark indicated inside the kettle. Overfilling may cause boiling water to spill out.
- Close the lid securely until it clicks into place.
Figure 4.1: Filling the kettle with water. Ensure not to exceed the maximum fill line.
Boiling Water:
- Place the filled kettle firmly onto its power base. The kettle can be placed in any direction on the 360° swivel base.
- Plug the power base into a grounded electrical outlet.
- Press the On/Off button located at the bottom of the handle. The button will illuminate orange, indicating that the kettle is heating.
Figure 4.2: Activating the kettle by pressing the On/Off button. The orange light indicates heating.
Automatic Shut-Off and Boil-Dry Protection:
- The kettle will automatically turn off once the water has reached a rolling boil. The orange indicator light will extinguish.
- If the kettle is accidentally switched on without sufficient water, the boil-dry protection feature will automatically turn off the heating element to prevent damage. Allow the kettle to cool down for a few minutes before refilling with cold water.
Serving:
- Carefully lift the cordless kettle from its power base.
- Pour the hot water slowly and steadily.
- After pouring, return the kettle to its power base.
Figure 4.3: Lifting the kettle from its base for cordless serving.
5. Care and Cleaning
Regular cleaning and maintenance will prolong the life of your electric kettle.
Exterior Cleaning:
- Always unplug the kettle and allow it to cool completely before cleaning.
- Wipe the exterior surface with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads, as they may scratch the finish.
- Never immerse the kettle or its power base in water or any other liquid.
Interior Cleaning and Descaling:
Mineral deposits (limescale) can build up inside the kettle over time, especially in hard water areas. This can affect performance and taste. Descale your kettle regularly.
- Vinegar Method: Fill the kettle with 2 cups of white vinegar and 2 cups of water. Let it stand for at least 30 minutes, or boil the mixture and let it stand for 15 minutes. Empty the kettle and rinse thoroughly several times with fresh water.
- Citric Acid Method: Dissolve 1 tablespoon of citric acid in 4 cups of water. Pour into the kettle and boil. Let it stand for 15 minutes. Empty the kettle and rinse thoroughly several times with fresh water.
- After descaling, boil a full kettle of fresh water and discard it before using the kettle for beverages.
Filter Cleaning:
- The removable filter in the spout can be cleaned by rinsing it under running water. If necessary, use a soft brush to remove any deposits.
- Ensure the filter is properly re-inserted before using the kettle.
6. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Kettle does not heat. | Kettle not properly seated on base; Power cord not plugged in; No power at outlet. | Ensure kettle is correctly placed on the base; Check power cord connection; Test outlet with another appliance. |
| Kettle turns off before boiling. | Too little water in kettle (Boil-Dry Protection activated); Mineral deposits (limescale) buildup. | Ensure water level is above MIN mark; Descale the kettle (refer to Care and Cleaning section). |
| Water tastes unusual or has particles. | New kettle residue; Mineral deposits (limescale). | Perform first-use boiling and discard water; Descale the kettle regularly. |
| Kettle leaks from spout. | Kettle overfilled; Lid not properly closed; Filter not correctly installed. | Do not fill above MAX line; Ensure lid is securely closed; Check filter placement. |
7. Specifications
- Model Number: KTWB2LBK13
- Capacity: 1.5 Liters
- Power: 1500 Watts
- Voltage: 120V~60Hz
- Material: Stainless Steel Interior, Plastic Exterior
- Color: Black
- Product Dimensions: 9.07"L x 6.3"W x 9.88"H
- Item Weight: 2.36 Pounds
- UPC: 072244891232
8. Warranty and Support
For warranty information or product support, please refer to the warranty card included with your purchase or visit the official West Bend website. Do not attempt to repair the appliance yourself. Any servicing other than cleaning should be performed by an authorized service representative.
