How to choose a thermos
A thermos is a special vessel in which a certain temperature is maintained. It is used to store food and liquids in a hot or cold state. It is compact and portable. The main components of the product are the flask and the inner container.
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Basic parameters for choosing a thermos
Purchasing a product begins with determining the purpose for which it will be needed. If the model is needed for use at home, then it is better to purchase a large-volume product with a universal stopper and a wide neck.
For hiking or picnics A light and compact model is better suited. Let's take a closer look at each of the characteristics:
Volume liters
Modern manufacturers offer a wide variety of models by displacement. There are small models with a volume of 0.25, and there are also industrial options up to 40 liters, they are called thermal containers. Models are divided into several categories:
- Small displacement is 0.2 - 1 liter. These models are called thermal mugs.
- Standard option – 1 – 2 liters, this is a universal model that you can take with you, it easily fits into a backpack;
Large thermoses have a volume from 3 liters, for large companies.
Important: The product's functionality is checked at home. To do this, boiling water is poured into the thermos for approximately two hours, after which the condition of the model’s body is checked. The outside should be cold, and the contents of the thermos should be hot, as if it had just been filled.
Thermos body
This element of the vessel is made of stainless steel or plastic. Metal has advantages over plastic in terms of resistance to external influences, so such a product can be easily transported without worrying about the integrity of the thermos.
Flask
This is an important detail in the design of a thermos. Available in one of three material options: stainless steel, plastic and glass.
The stainless steel flask has a high level of strength, holds the temperature inside the product well. Among the disadvantages, one can note the sufficient weight and difficult care of the interior, since food or liquid residues stick tightly to the metal.
The plastic version of the part is much lighter than the metal one, and it is quite resistant to external influences, such as falls. A significant disadvantage of this material is its good absorption of odors that are released under the influence of temperature.
The glass flask is fragile and not suitable for travel. But it holds the temperature well and preserves the beneficial properties of the products.
It is important to know: Before purchasing a product, it is advisable to check the thermos for its integrity. To do this, you need to pick up the product and shake it.If there is a rattling sound inside the thermos, it is better to refuse the purchase.
Which thermos is better: with a glass flask or a metal one?
This question often interests consumers. The advantages of glass flasks are good performance characteristics, they retain heat well and are easy to clean. But they are very fragile, so using a thermos It is impossible to travel with a glass flask - this is exclusively a household appliance for home use.
As for the metal flask, it is shock resistant, but it holds heat a little worse, and particles of food or tea remain on the metal. But this product is ideal for tourism. Based on the facts, choosing the best option depends on the application of the product.
Popma (release valve)
Manufacturers of modern models equip thermoses with a special pump. This is usually a small thermos with pneumatic pump. It is activated by pressing the lever-key. More expensive models have a dispenser, through which a certain volume of liquid is set at a time. This thermos holds up to 3 liters; it is important to know that the larger the volume of the product, the slower the water in it cools.
Types of thermoses
There are a large number of product varieties available on the modern market. Before purchasing, you should decide on the scope of application of the model, for example, it will store food or water. According to this, all models are divided into separate types:
Food
This model has a wide neck, which makes it comfortable for the consumer to use it as a container for eating food.They are purchased for first courses and second courses; they are available in volumes of up to 2 liters with a folding handle for easy portability;
For drinks
This model has a narrow design and a small neck for easy drinking of tea or coffee from a thermos. Produced in various volumes;
Pump-action
Such products are ideal as a work option. They are easy to carry, simple to use, and the protective pump prevents possible inconvenience when pouring tea into mugs;
Thermal mugs
This model has a small volume of up to 1 liter. Suitable for use by athletes, it is compact and fits into a backpack without any problems;
Universal thermoses
These vessels differ in their functionality. Depending on the chosen model, they can be used to carry food on hiking trips, take it to work, or use it at home.
All varieties have their pros and cons.
Which thermos to choose for food
Very often, buyers are lost in choosing a thermos designed for storing food. The function of this product is to provide normal nutrition to a person during working hours. There are two types of products:
- The model with containers allows you to place several dishes in a vessel. These containers can later be used to heat food in a microwave oven;
- The option with a solid flask is a classic thermos model, which has a wide neck for ease of use for its intended purpose.
When choosing a thermos, you should base it on its characteristics. You should take into account who the product is intended for, for example, a schoolchild will not need a two-liter thermos, and an adult man will not need a small-volume model.When purchasing, you can pay attention to the presence of additional elements - cutlery and a thermal bag.
When purchasing a thermos for food, you should carefully examine its inside for odors. If it is present, then you should refuse to purchase this product, since it is unlikely that you will be able to get rid of the “aroma.” In addition, you need to take into account the presence of a handle, paying attention to its convenience in the process of carrying a thermos.
Which brand of thermos keeps heat better?
Every buyer is interested in the question of which manufacturer is better. It is worth noting that when choosing a thermos, it is better to pay attention to well-known brands that have already established the technology for producing goods.
There are several companies on the modern market that produce high-quality thermoses:
- Arktika and Biostal are Russian companies;
- LaPlaya and Thermos are manufacturers from Germany.
These companies produce modern models that are distinguished by ergonomics, aesthetics and safety for the body. European companies specialize in producing products that have isothermal properties. Russian companies focus on the production of thermal cookware and its components. The last option is affordable and high quality.
Not many people are ready to choose the right thermos, often buying because they want to. In fact, purchasing should be based on needs. If it is needed for tourist trips, then the characteristics must match. The thermos must be resistant to external influences; the volume is selected according to personal capabilities.
It is better for athletes to purchase a thermal mug for training, a compact and ergonomic product.For tea drinking at work, it is advisable to buy a pump-action thermos that will close securely and look stylish on your desktop. A universal model is perfect for home use.
If you still have questions about choosing a thermos for personal use, we recommend watching a detailed video recommendation on purchasing the product and the differences between models according to their characteristics.