Smeg Variable Temperature Jug Kettle 1.7L
The Smeg KLF04 takes the same retro silhouette and everyday features of the standard KLF03 and adds seven selectable temperature settings, making it the more considered choice for anyone who drinks a range of hot beverages. The steps run from 50 to 100 degrees C in increments that cover the main requirements: 70 degrees C for green tea, 80 for oolong, 90 to 95 for most coffee brewing methods, and 100 for black tea and a standard boil. A 20-minute keep-warm function holds the selected temperature once reached, and acoustic tones signal the start and end of each cycle, though these can be switched off. The lid, filter, and base are the same as the KLF03: soft-opening with condensation return, a removable stainless steel limescale filter, and a 360-degree swivel base with integrated cable tidy. Available in four colours.
Features:
Seven temperature settings from 50 to 100 degrees C: Select from 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 95, or 100 degrees C using the backlit controls, covering the full range of commonly brewed hot drinks from delicate white teas to a standard full boil.
20-minute keep-warm function: After reaching the selected temperature, the keep-warm function holds it there for up to 20 minutes, useful when brewing tea or making drinks in stages.
Soft-opening lid with condensation return: The lid opens gently and is designed so that any condensation runs back into the kettle rather than dripping onto the worktop or your hand when you open it after boiling.
Removable stainless steel limescale filter: A washable stainless steel filter in the pouring spout catches limescale particles before they reach the cup and can be removed for cleaning separately.
Backlit controls with switchable acoustic tones: The temperature selection controls are backlit for easy use, and the acoustic tones that signal cycle start and end can be deactivated if preferred.
Specifications:
Capacity: 1.7 litres (approximately 7 cups)
Power: 3000W
Dimensions: H275mm x W226mm x D171mm
Temperature settings: 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 95, 100 degrees C
Keep-warm: Yes, up to 20 minutes at selected temperature
Auto switch-off: Yes, when selected temperature is reached
Heating element: Concealed in base
Limescale filter: Removable and washable stainless steel
Lid: Soft-opening with condensation return
Controls: Backlit
Acoustic tones: Switch-on, switch-off, start and end of cycle (deactivatable)
Base: 360-degree swivel
Cable: Integrated cord with tidy
Water level indicator: Yes
Anti-slip feet: Yes
Care instructions:
Limescale filter: Remove the stainless steel filter from the spout regularly and rinse under running water. In hard water areas, clean more frequently. For heavier deposits, soak briefly in a citric acid or descaler solution before rinsing.
Descaling the kettle: Descale periodically using a proprietary kettle descaler or citric acid solution. Fill to the minimum level, run the descaler solution, then rinse thoroughly with fresh water before use. Avoid vinegar, which can leave a residual taste.
Exterior and controls: Wipe the exterior with a damp cloth. Do not spray liquids directly onto the backlit controls or base. A soft dry cloth removes fingerprints and water marks from gloss finishes.
What to avoid: Do not immerse the base station in water. Do not fill above the maximum 1.7-litre level. Do not operate the kettle without water in it.
Questions and answers:
Which temperature setting should I use for different drinks?
Green and white teas typically do well at 70 degrees C, oolong at around 80, and black tea at a full 100 degree boil. For coffee, the filter coffee or pour-over method generally works well at 90 to 95 degrees C. The 50 and 60 degree settings are useful for cooling a drink that has already been made, or for warming water gradually for more sensitive applications.
How does the keep-warm function work?
Once the kettle reaches the selected temperature and switches off, the keep-warm function holds that temperature for up to 20 minutes. It then switches off automatically. If you need the water hot again after that, you will need to run another cycle.
Can I turn off the beeping tones?
Yes. The acoustic tones that signal the start of a cycle, the end of a cycle, and the switch-on and switch-off can be deactivated via the controls on the base.
What is the difference between this and the standard Smeg KLF03 kettle?
The KLF04 adds seven selectable temperature settings and a 20-minute keep-warm function, which the KLF03 does not have. The KLF03 boils to 100 degrees C only and switches off automatically. The KLF04 is slightly taller at 275mm versus 248mm for the KLF03, and is priced at £179.95 across all four available colours.