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Points to consider when buying an electric kettle:
* Ease of holding / gripping handle (side or top)
* Weight to lift and carry (lightweight preferable)
* Automatic switch off when boiled
* Light to indicate whether power is on
* Ease of plugging and unplugging
* Ease of switching on and off
* Ease of seeing water level
* Accuracy of liquid level gauge
* Liquid level visible to left-hand user
* Ease of removal of lid
* Possibility of filling kettle through spout
* Ease of filling (tall kettles may be awkward in shallow sinks)
* Audible signal that kettle has boiled
* Stability of kettle
* Ease of pouring, without dripping
* Heat transferring ability of kettle material (polypropylene cooler to touch than metal)
* Ease of cleaning kettle
* Boiling time
* Length and conditions of warranty

Commonly found features:
* Reset / reboil switches / buttons
* Water level visible through 'window'
* Automatic switch off when they have boiled. Even if a kettle does not do this, it should switch off if it boils dry

Other available features:
* Cordless kettles are available; the power base unit is separate from the kettle and a power cord does not need to be plugged in
* A 'hold boil' feature which keeps the water at boiling temperature for a certain period of time and does not necessitate switching the kettle on again
* Slip resistant base

Suggestions for those who experience pain, weakness or stiffness of hands:
* Choose a kettle that is lightweight
* Choose a kettle that can be filled through the spout without a spring loaded cover
* Fill the kettle with a measuring jug to ensure it is not overfilled
* A cordless kettle does not have to be unplugged
* A kettle tipping device may be helpful; it tips the kettle without having to lift it
* A device is available which helps remove a two or three point electrical plug from the power point

Suggestions for those with visual problems:
* Choose a kettle with large, accessible controls
* The amount of water in the kettle can be judged by the weight

For further information, check choice magazine, the yellow pages of the telephone book or talk to a retailer

We are pleased to receive feedback on the information we provide. These are general suggestions - if you experience considerable difficulty in performing activities of daily living, consult an occupational therapist at a community health centre or aged care assessment team, or make an appointment with the ILC.

Standards

Standards
Some assistive technology needs to meet Australian or other standards. Standards may relate to materials, manufacturing and installation. Products that meet Australian or international standards will have written certification. To find out if a product meets Australian Standards ask the supplier to show you the certificate. For more information about standards also see
http://at-aust.org/home/assistive_technology/standards.html

TGA
Many of the items on the Assistive Technology Australia website are categorised as a Medical Device. Medical devices that are approved for use in Australia have been entered into a national database called the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG), which is maintained by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA). You can ask the supplier for the ARTG number for the device you wish to purchase and search the ARTG for the entry. To access information on the ARTG visit www.tga.gov.au

When buying a medical device it is advisable to only choose a medical device that is recommended by a healthcare professional and has been included on the ARTG.