December 18, 2025 – A consumer has reported an incident involving a Chefman Model RJ111-10-GMRL WM electric kettle, expressing concern that water inside the appliance remains warm for hours after use, even when unplugged, suggesting a continuous, unexplained energy source. The manufacturer, Chefman, has responded, clarifying that the observed warmth is a normal function of the kettle’s design and insulation, not a malfunction or safety hazard.
Product Details
Incident Overview
The incident was reported on November 14, 2025, by a consumer who purchased a Chefman 1-liter hot water kettle from Walmart a few months prior. The consumer recently observed that water left in the kettle remained warm to the touch for hours after the appliance had been used and, crucially, that the water only cooled down once the kettle was physically unplugged from the wall outlet. This observation led the consumer to believe there might be a “positive source of energy being used” even when the kettle was not actively heating, raising concerns about potential electrical issues or energy consumption. The consumer was unable to provide the product’s original packaging but identified the model as RJ1110GMRLWM electric kettle, Made in China, with access code 301351G and date code 2519.
Safety Concerns
From the consumer’s perspective, the primary safety concerns revolve around the perception of unexplained energy usage and potential electrical hazards:
- Immediate Dangers: If the kettle is indeed consuming energy or retaining heat due to an electrical malfunction when it is supposed to be off, it could pose a risk of overheating internal components, potentially leading to smoke, fire, or electrical shock. An uncontrolled energy source could cause unexpected internal temperatures.
- Long-term Risks: Continuous low-level energy consumption or heat retention beyond normal operating parameters could degrade internal wiring or components over time, increasing the risk of failure, short circuits, or fire.
- Who Might Be Affected: Anyone using the kettle could be affected, particularly if they are unaware of the perceived ongoing energy use or heat. Unattended kettles with potential hidden energy draw could pose a risk in homes.
- Property Damage Potential: An electrical malfunction leading to overheating or fire could result in significant property damage to countertops, surrounding kitchen areas, or even the entire dwelling.
What Consumers Should Do
While the manufacturer has provided an explanation for the observed phenomenon, consumers who notice similar behavior with their electric kettles, or any appliance exhibiting unexpected operation, should take the following precautions:
- Immediately Unplug: If you suspect an appliance is malfunctioning or consuming energy when it should be off, unplug it from the wall outlet immediately. This is the safest way to cut off power to the device.
- Monitor Product Behavior: Pay close attention to how your appliances operate. Note any unusual warmth, smells, sounds, or visual cues.
- Do Not Use If Suspect: If you believe your Chefman RJ111-10-GMRL WM electric kettle, or any other appliance, is not functioning as intended, cease using it until the issue is resolved or clarified.
- Check Your Product: Verify if you own the Chefman Model RJ111-10-GMRL WM kettle by checking the base or underside of the unit for the model number.
- Contact Manufacturer: Reach out to Chefman customer service directly to report your observations and seek clarification or assistance, even if you do not perceive an immediate hazard.
- Report Incidents: If you believe an appliance poses a safety hazard, report the incident to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) at SaferProducts.gov.
Manufacturer’s Response
On December 4, 2025, Chefman provided a response to the incident report. The manufacturer stated that the Chefman RJ11-10-GMRL WM electric kettle utilizes a bi-metallic switch, which is a mechanical safety switch. This switch is triggered by the heat and steam generated during the heating process, ultimately shutting the kettle off once it reaches boiling temperature. Chefman clarified that this operation is normal and in accordance with the product’s ETL electrical safety certification.
Regarding the consumer’s observation of water remaining warm, Chefman explained that the kettle’s carafe is constructed of glass and stainless steel. This design ensures that water remains hot even after the unit stops boiling due to the inherent insulation properties of these materials. Chefman emphasized that this is the insulation of the carafe itself, and not the unit continuing to generate energy after it has shut off. The manufacturer concluded that while the kettle does shut off, the water inside will not immediately cool to room temperature. Chefman affirmed that the description given by the consumer is not indicative of a malfunction or safety hazard, but rather the kettle’s normal operating procedure.
Legal Help Available
If you or a loved one has been injured by a defective product or suffered property damage due to a product malfunction, you may be entitled to compensation. The experienced product liability attorneys at Farzan Law understand the complexities of defective product cases and can help you navigate the legal process.
Contact us today for a free consultation: 424-325-3112
Our legal team has successfully represented clients in product liability cases involving defective appliances, automotive defects, medical devices, and consumer products. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay unless we win your case.
Note: This information is based on incident reports provided by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. If you find information that is incorrect, please contact us immediately so we can correct the post to reflect accurate information.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this post is not intended to be legal or medical advice. This article is based on publicly available incident reports. The incidents mentioned have not necessarily been independently verified or adjudicated.