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12v Kettles vs Gas Kettles
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.
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Getting Started
If you're new to this topic, start with the basics:
- Understand the key concepts
- Research your specific needs
- Set a realistic budget
- Plan your approach before buying
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Buying the cheapest option (often costs more long-term)
- Skipping research on UK-specific requirements
- Not reading reviews from other UK van lifers
- Forgetting about ongoing costs and maintenance
UK-Specific Considerations
Living in the UK means dealing with:
- Variable weather conditions
- UK regulations and standards
- British suppliers and support
- Right-hand drive vehicle considerations
Budget Planning
For most van lifers, we recommend:
- Budget option: £50-100 (basic but functional)
- Mid-range: £100-200 (good quality, lasting)
- Premium: £200+ (best quality, longest lasting)
Maintenance Tips
Keep your equipment working well:
- Check regularly for wear and tear
- Clean according to manufacturer instructions
- Store properly when not in use
- Replace parts before they fail
Community Recommendations
The van life community consistently recommends:
- Starting simple and upgrading as needed
- Buying from established UK suppliers
- Reading forums and Facebook groups for real-world advice
- Watching YouTube tutorials before attempting installations
