“Transparency: As an Amazon Associate, we earn from purchasing. Which is better for van life — a 12v electric kettle or boiling water on the gas hob?
Comparison
| Factor | 12v Kettle | Gas Kettle |
|---|---|---|
| Time to boil (500ml) | 10-15 min | 4-6 min |
| Power use | 12A from battery | Gas (negligible) |
| Battery impact | Heavy (15-20Ah per day for frequent use) | None |
| Running cost | Free (solar) | £0.05-0.10 per boil |
| Convenience | Press a button | Light hob, wait |
Battery Reality
A 12v kettle draws 12A for 12 minutes = 2.4Ah per boil. If you boil water 4 times a day, that is 9.6Ah — 10% of a 100Ah battery. Over a week without driving, your battery is dead.
Gas Verdict
Gas is faster and does not drain your battery. A 6kg Calor cylinder lasts months with daily kettle use.
When to Use 12v
Use the 12v kettle when:
- You have excess solar power (summer day, sunny)
- You need a quick cuppa without lighting the hob
- You are driving (alternator charging)
Best Approach
Use gas as your main boiling method. Keep a 12v kettle as a backup for when you have solar surplus.
