An electric kettle full of scale not only looks disgusting, but also prolongs the boiling time and wastes energy because the scale prevents the boiler elements from transmitting heat. Finally, the elements in the kettle can be damaged if the scale is not removed, so you will have to throw it away and buy a new one.
Step
Step 1. Know what a crusty kettle looks like
In the two images below, you can see the difference between a crusty and non-crusted kettle:
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Crust boiler:
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Non-crusted kettle:
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Step 2. Select the material to be used
You can use white vinegar or citric acid (lemon/lime), whichever is available. See the "Tips" section if you are using a commercial descaling agent.
Method 1 of 3: Using vinegar
Step 1. Make the mixture
Dissolve vinegar in water in a 1:1 ratio.
Step 2. Pour the mixture into the kettle and leave for an hour, without boiling
Step 3. Discard the vinegar mixture after soaking is complete
Step 4. Wipe
If any scale remains, wipe it off with a small amount of bicarbonate of soda sprinkled on a damp cloth. Disconnect the kettle cord before doing so.
Step 5. Rinse
Rinse the kettle with clean water at least five times before using it again.
Method 2 of 3: Using lemon or lime juice
Step 1. Make the mixture
Mix 30 g (30 ml) of lemon or lime with 500 ml (2 cups) of water.
Step 2. Pour the lemon or lime juice mixture into the kettle and boil
Let the kettle cool before emptying it.
Step 3. Wipe
If there is still some scale left, you can wipe it off with a small amount of bicarbonate of soda sprinkled on a damp cloth. Let the elements cool first, and disconnect the wires before you perform this step.
Step 4. Rinse
Rinse the kettle with clean water at least five times before using it again.
Method 3 of 3: Using lemon or lime (remove scale on a small scale)
Step 1. If your kettle just needs a little cleaning, you can try cutting a lemon or lime into quarters, filling the kettle with water, and adding the lemon/lime slices
Boil the kettle once or twice and let it soak until the water cools down.
Step 2. Wipe
If there is still some scale left, you can wipe it off with a small amount of bicarbonate of soda sprinkled on a damp cloth. Let the elements cool and disconnect the wires before you perform this step.
Step 3. Rinse
Rinse the kettle with clean water at least five times before using it again.
