I have an old broken electric kettle. I do not think it can be repaired as it is a good 5 years old and it contains so much limescale that its probably doubled in weight! I want to get rid of it, but I don't want to just chuck it in landfill. What can I do?
Kerry, NR5
Dear Kerry
Disposal of electronic items is always tricky, but I have a few options for you:
1) Upcycle: If the element is still working then it can be used to make homebrew and various other things, interesting instructions can be found on the instructables website.
2) Reuse: The jug portion of the kettle besides being used as a jug, makes a unique planter for herbs or flowers.
3) Recycle: Thanks to the European Waste Electronics directive (WEEE), there are now electronics recycling facilities as most recycling centres. The Mile Cross Centre on Swanton Road takes a large range of electronics for recycling - more information can be found here. Some electronics retailers also take waste electronics in store, but check with them first!
4) Reduce: Prolong the life of your kettle in the first place by keeping it free of limescale. Soak the element in a solution of a tablespoon of vinegar to a pint of water as soon as scale starts to appear or prolong the life of all of your appliances with the Waltham Scale manager that reader Stan recommended on my last blog.
I hope that gives you a few ideas.
Green wishes
J.Bloggs
Next time J.Bloggs will be answering a tricky question:
A friend who collects most of her shopping by bicycle from Sainsburys, has asked me whether it is preferable to have her milk delivered by electric float in bottles or to buy it in the newly available, recyclable plastic JugIt bags.
John, Hethersett
If you have any answers to the questions please do comment and share them with everyone.
**disclaimer** J.Bloggs does not have all the answers and takes no liability for the consequences of any suggestions!**
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