With its modern Scandinavian design, this large-capacity water kettle is attractive enough to pour water for tea in a conference room full of executives. And, with its affordable price, this kettle works equally well boiling water to dish up bulk ramen noodles for a group of college students. Made of heavyweight polypropelene plastic, the Ibis holds a maximum of 57-1/2 fluid ounces of water (about 13 cups). It must be filled to a minimum of 8-1/2 fluid ounces--just enough to cover the heating element--to operate. A floating red water-level indicator on the outside of the Ibis rises as water is added and shows how many cups of liquid it is holding. The detachable kettle locks onto the base unit for heating and can then be removed for pouring or refilling. Also made of polypropelene, the base encases the stainless-steel heating element. The short 22-inch power cord stores beneath the base so the unit can be easily transported.
Flipping up the switch below the kettle's handle turns on the power and illuminates the indicator light on the kettle's top. The heating process is rapid and quiet: it takes only 4-1/2 minutes to boil 35 ounces of water and the sound is almost imperceptible. For safety purposes, the Ibis automatically shuts off after boiling and has a hinged safety lid to prevent boiling water from spilling and a frosted handle for a secure grip. --Cristina Vaamonde
