Hamilton Beach 1.7L Glass Variable Temperature Kettle
Quick guide for the Hamilton Beach 1.7L Glass Variable Temperature Kettle. Learn how to use temperature settings, brew tea, clean the filter, descale the heating element, and assemble the tea steeper.
Table of contents
Manual images
Click an image to enlargeQuick guide from the manual
Before using your kettle for the first time, press the OPEN button to lift the lid and fill with water to the MAX fill line. Press the lid down until it locks. Press the START/STOP button to boil the water. Discard the water and repeat this process 2-3 times to rinse the kettle. Always ensure the mesh filter is in place before use.

Operating the kettle
To heat water:
- Plug the kettle into an outlet.
- Fill with the required amount of water (between 0.5 L and MAX).
- Press the desired temperature button, then press the START/STOP button.
- The temperature button will illuminate in blue and flash until the target temperature is reached.
- The kettle will beep six times when the temperature is reached.
- If no temperature button is selected, the kettle defaults to Boil mode.
- To keep water warm, press the KEEP WARM button at any time. The kettle will maintain the temperature for 30 minutes before shutting off.
Tea brewing
For best results, use filtered or good-tasting tap water. Use 6 ounces (177 ml) of water per cup of tea. If using loose tea, measure 1 rounded teaspoon per cup into an infuser. Pour heated water directly over the tea. Note that oversteeping tea will make it bitter.
Tea steeper assembly
For models equipped with a tea steeper:

- To assemble: Place the lid directly over the rod on a flat surface and push down to secure. Insert the tea assembly into the kettle and press the lid down into place.
- To use: Add tea to the basket, replace the basket, and turn clockwise to lock. Rotate the knob to unlock and pull the basket up until it locks into place. Insert the assembly into the kettle. When the water boils, push the assembly down to steep.
- To remove: Ensure the kettle is completely cooled. Pull on the lid to remove the assembly, then press the tabs to remove the rod and basket.
Cleaning and maintenance
Anti-Scale Mesh Filter: The filter prevents lime and calcium particles from being poured out. To clean, unplug the kettle, allow it to cool, and gently brush the filter with a clean, wet toothbrush.
Descaling: If the heating element discolors or scale builds up:
- Place 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) of cream of tartar into the kettle.
- Fill the kettle halfway with water.
- Plug in, press START/STOP, and bring to a boil.
- Press STOP, unplug, let cool, and rinse several times with clean water.
Do not use abrasive scouring pads or powders on the exterior or the glass, as this may scratch the surface.
Troubleshooting
- Kettle heats but does not boil: The unit may need descaling.
- Kettle won't turn on: Ensure it is plugged in, seated firmly on the base, and the START/STOP button has been pressed.
- Boil-dry protection: If the kettle is switched on without water, it will automatically switch off. Unplug the kettle, wait 20 minutes for the element to cool, then refill and try again.
Manufacturer information
Hamilton Beach
Practical help
Common problems
The heating element may have scale buildup. Perform the descaling procedure using cream of tartar.
The automatic safety device will shut it off. Unplug the unit, wait 20 minutes for the element to cool, then refill and use as normal.
Check if the cord is firmly plugged into the outlet and the kettle is properly seated on the base. Ensure the START/STOP button was pressed.
Before use
- Remove all packaging materials.
- Fill kettle to the MAX line.
- Boil and discard water 2-3 times to rinse the interior.
- Ensure the anti-scale mesh filter is installed.
- Place the power base on a level surface.
Specs in practice
- Cream of Tartar
- Recommended cleaning agent for removing scale/discoloration from the heating element.
Images and diagrams
- The kettle features a lid, anti-scale mesh filter, open button, control buttons, and a power base.
- Select models include a tea steeper assembly consisting of a lid, knob, basket top, and tea basket.
Model compatibility
- Use only for heating water. Heating other liquids (coffee, tea, etc.) voids the warranty.
- Use only the provided power base.
Manual page author
Emily Carter
User documentation editor
Prepares concise manual descriptions and highlights the most useful setup, operation, and maintenance information for readers.