What is a Shabbat Kettle or Shabbat Urn?

A Shabbat kettle (also called a Shabbat urn or hot water urn) is designed to provide hot water on Shabbat while complying with Jewish law (halacha). Here’s how it works both mechanically and halachically:

Mechanically

Constant Heating
- The kettle has a heating element that keeps the water at a steady temperature (usually below boiling, around 85–90°C / 185–194°F).
- It does not turn on or off automatically based on temperature changes during Shabbat.
No Thermostat Activation
- Regular electric kettles have thermostats that turn the heating element on and off when the water cools.
- Many Shabbat kettles disable this feature so that opening the spout or adding water won’t trigger electricity.
Manual Water Dispensing
- Some urns use a pump system or gravity-fed spout to pour water. This avoids using an electric pump that might be activated when dispensing.

Halachically

1. Cooking (Bishul)

Boiling water is considered cooking (which is prohibited).
The urn is filled and turned on before Shabbat so no cooking happens on Shabbat itself.
The water stays hot but does not cook anything further.

2. Adding Water (Shehiya and Chazara)

Some models allow adding pre-heated water, but this must be done carefully to avoid violating cooking laws.
Some authorities say adding even warm water to a hot urn is forbidden.

3. Electricity (Molid and Grama)

A regular electric kettle turns on and off automatically, which is a problem on Shabbat.
A Shabbat kettle has a setting that keeps the heat constant to avoid activating electricity.
Some models use a Shabbat mode that ensures any electrical changes happen indirectly (grama).

4. Pouring Hot Water (Mechzi K’mevashel)

Pouring from the urn into a cup is usually allowed, as long as the cup is not used to cook additional items.
Some halachic authorities require pouring into an intermediate cup first (kli sheni) to avoid concerns of cooking.

A sleek stainless steel Shabbat urn with a black handle and spigot sits elegantly on the kitchen countertop, proudly labeled "Shabbat Urn.

The kettle is filled and heated before Shabbat.
The heat stays constant without activating switches or thermostats.
Water can be dispensed manually without triggering electricity or cooking violations.
Some models allow adding water but only under specific conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a Shabbat kettle to keep food warm?

Typically, Shabbat kettles are not intended for keeping food warm, as they are designed for hot water specifically. Using a dedicated warming tray or similar device for food is preferred, ensuring adherence to halachic guidelines regarding food preparation and heating on Shabbat.

Can I use a Shabbat kettle for cooking?

No, a Shabbat kettle is specifically designed to keep water hot for drinking and other non-cooking purposes. Cooking on Shabbat is generally prohibited, and using a Shabbat kettle adheres to halachic guidelines by providing hot water without violating the laws of Bishul.

How much water should I prepare in advance?

It is advisable to fill the Shabbat kettle with sufficient water before Shabbat begins to avoid the need to add water or adjust the kettle during Shabbat, which could potentially violate halachic restrictions.

What types of liquids can I heat in a Shabbat kettle?

Shabbat kettles are designed primarily for water. While boiling water is permitted, adding other ingredients or liquids that can cook (like tea or instant soup) is not generally recommended, as this may lead to a situation where you might inadvertently be cooking on Shabbat.

Is it permissible to adjust the temperature settings on a Shabbat kettle during Shabbat?

No, adjusting temperature settings or manipulating any controls on the kettle during Shabbat is not permitted, as it may violate the prohibition on operating electrical devices. It is important to set the kettle properly before Shabbat starts.