Kitchen Timers
A kitchen timer is a convenient way to keep track of how long something is cooking. Beyond that, though, kitchen timers can be used in timing many other things for fun or otherwise. With both simple and complex versions, theres a kitchen timer out there for almost any conceivable need in the kitchen and beyond.
How long can a kitchen timer be set for?How long a kitchen timer can be set for depends heavily on the timer you own. For many basic analog timers, their maximum timekeeping ability tops out at 60 minutes. Simplistic digital timers often have the capacity to track for up to 99 minutes and 99 seconds, as the space on their display is only four digits long. There are other more advanced clocks, however, that can be set for long periods of time, with some models being able to count down continuously for up to seven days in a single use. Some will also let you set different alarm times for different items that youre making.
How are kitchen timers powered?Most of these gadgets run on batteries. Which kind will depend on the model you own, though AA or AAA replaceable batteries are common, with some more compact timers using small lithium button batteries. Larger timers with more settings might even plug into a wall outlet to draw power directly from your homes kitchen.
What are some uses for kitchen timers?Beyond just timing your food, kitchen timers can be helpful in a number of settings. Most basically, kitchen timers can time all sorts of things, including toddler time-outs or workouts. Some kitchen timers also double as functioning clocks with advanced timer functions. Others, in addition to plugging into wall sockets, might even contain sockets themselves, essentially making them an extension block for powering other devices.
What formats are available for kitchen timers?Kitchen timers can come in both digital and analog formats. Digital timers are often controlled with button presses, giving you a greater degree of control over the countdown you set. Analog kitchen timers operate using a mechanical dial, letting you set the timer by twisting the face of the device up to a set limit (usually an hour). Additionally, people have also used small hourglasses set for only a few minutes worth of time in the kitchen to keep track of things that cook quickly and need precise countdowns to finish cooking at specific levels of doneness, such as boiled eggs or pasta.