Kettles are extremely susceptible to calcification. Of course, there are several means for descaling. However, here we will explain why descaling the kettle with vinegar or vinegar essence is preferable.
Tap water and descaling
Today, more and more households have a kettle. In Germany, tap water is consistently of drinking water quality. This is the reason why kettles are mainly filled with tap water. If you do not own a high-priced kettle with a lime filter, descaling is one of the regular maintenance tasks around the kettle.
Frequency of descaling
How often the appliance needs to be descaled depends on the water quality at your location. The waterworks will tell you the hardness and other composition of the tap water on request. Do not use any commercially available descaler to descale the kettle. In this way, even if you rinse the kettle accurately, you will avoid consuming aggressive chemical components.
Means for descaling the kettle
You should preferably resort to “natural” home remedies. Among them are the following means for descaling:
- Vinegar and vinegar essence
- Citric acid
- Baking soda and baking powder
Why citric acid is not so good for descaling
You can combine baking soda and baking powder with vinegar. However, vinegar, vinegar essence and citric acid are most commonly used. Citric acid is basically good for descaling, but it comes with a real disadvantage. The water mixed with the citric acid must not be heated under any circumstances.
The water used for descaling must be cold, at most lukewarm. Otherwise, a chemical process will occur on the lime deposits. If the water is warm, the lime deposits turn into calcium citrate under the influence of citric acid. Calcium citrate is almost impossible to dissolve. For the same reason, citric acid should not be used on coffee machines or washing machines.
Descaling the kettle with vinegar or vinegar essence
In principle, therefore, vinegar is always preferable. The effect is the same, except that the smell of vinegar can be somewhat annoying. Vinegar essence is used like vinegar, except that it must be diluted. To one part vinegar essence, add four parts water, so the mixing ratio of vinegar essence/water is 1:4.
How to decalcify the kettle
You can put the vinegar into the kettle undiluted. It is enough if the area around the heating element is completely immersed in vinegar. Now heat the vinegar and let it cool down. Now let the vinegar soak for about two hours. Then pour off the vinegar and rinse the water heater thoroughly. Before you boil water for tea or coffee with the device again, you should perform two to three “idle runs”, i.e. boil water an appropriate number of times without consuming it.
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Elizabeth Green
Elizabeth Green is a seasoned home chef and culinary expert who has a passion for all things kitchen-related. With her extensive knowledge of the latest kitchen products and appliances, Elizabeth provides insightful reviews and recommendations to help consumers make informed purchasing decisions. Whether you're looking for a new refrigerator, blender, or cookware set, Elizabeth is your guide to finding the best kitchen products available in the UK.
