How to choose an electric can opener
People learned to preserve food a couple of centuries ago. Metal cans were made by hand and, after placing food in them, they were closed by soldering. We opened sealed heavy metal containers using a hammer and chisel. By the 19th century, the method of making cans had changed; thanks to the use of tinned tin, engineers achieved automation of the process. At the same time, the first devices for opening canned food were invented. In modern realities, consumers of canned goods can use both mechanical and electric can openers.
What is an electric opener?
A conventional mechanical can opener requires certain human skills and effort to use, and there is a risk of injury. Most often, these are cuts to the fingers on the sharp edges of a can being opened. The use of an electric opener makes the process of opening canned food as easy as possible and saves the consumer from unpleasant injuries.
Electric opener Polaris PJO 3003
The device is a small case equipped with an electric motor, a knife mechanism and a can lock. The design and dimensions of the models of these devices differ significantly, but the principle of operation is the same:
- the bank is fixed by a specially provided holder;
- the cutting mechanism is launched, which opens the can;
- After uncorking the can, the user needs to remove it from the retainer.
The advantages of manual and tabletop machines for uncorking canned goods are obvious.
- Banks are opened quickly, without effort on the part of the user.
- A special knife system cuts the lid from the inside without scratches or nicks, so that the edges of the container remain smooth, which eliminates cuts.
- There is no need to hold the jar with your hands when opening it.
- A convenient latch that holds the lid in place after opening the jar allows you to easily access the contents.
Existing types of devices
Modern industry produces two types of electrical appliances for canned food.
- Portable automatic can opener, battery operated. This device is convenient to use in country and camping conditions.
- Electric can opener for tabletop placement, which operates from a household electrical outlet.
In terms of functionality, electric openers can be specialized: for opening cans, for example, or corkscrews for wine, as well as multifunctional.
Some universal electric can openers can be additionally equipped with a knife.
When deciding which electrical device to buy for uncorking canned foods and drinks, you should pay attention to the quality of the knife system and the body material. The devices are most often made of high-strength plastic; there are more expensive models in a metal case. It is desirable that the knife system be made of sharpened stainless steel. For a tabletop electric opener, it is important to have rubberized legs. A device with a hidden blade system, with an automatic shut-off mode and push-button activation is considered safer. It is important to consider the dimensions and weight of the device, motor power and functionality. You should also take into account consumer reviews to compare price with quality.
Review of rating models
In domestic stores you can rarely find electric can openers intended for household needs. Expensive professional models are more common
Popular tabletop appliances
Household models Tefal 8536 and Kenwood CO 600 are most often found in user reviews. Both desktop devices are similar in operating principle and differ slightly in design solutions and additional functions. The design of these electrical appliances is designed for quickly uncorking cans and bottles. They also have slots for sharpening knives. The body of both devices is white plastic, but Kenwood has a more expensive analogue in chrome-plated metal. The knife system is hidden and made of stainless steel.
Electric opener Tefal 8536
Both devices are equipped with rubberized elements for stability on a horizontal surface and an automatic shut-off function.
The uncorking process will begin after fixing the can in the device (a special magnet is provided under the raised lever). The user only needs to press lightly on the lever for the device to start working. The power of the devices is 35 W for Tefal 8536 and 40 W for Kenwood CO 600, accordingly the prices vary: the first model can be bought for 800-1000 rubles, the second will cost from 1200 rubles. Some models of the CASO (D 10) and Tristar (BO-2102) brands with prices from 1300 to 3000 rubles are similar in principle of operation.
Electric opener Kenwood CO 600
All these devices are designed for cans that do not exceed their own weight (up to 1.2 kg). In everyday life, you usually rarely have to open jars with a larger capacity. For such canned food, bars and restaurants use professional tabletop machines, the cost of which is much higher.
Interesting dacha and hiking solutions
Compact electrical appliances of the One Touch Can Opener brand are designed for opening small canned food. This is a convenient and safe option for uncorking canned food by pressing a button on the body. The automatic can opener runs on batteries, which are placed in a special compartment of the compact case. Brand models are equipped with a magnetic lock and an automatic knife system. To uncork a jar, you need to place the device correctly on the lid of the jar and press the button.
Some models may be equipped with an additional device for uncorking bottles.
The requirements for the uncorking procedure are as follows.
- The jar must be placed on a flat surface.
- Place the device so that the knife rests on the rim of the jar.
- To ensure the correct position, you need to press the “return to original position” button. If the device is placed correctly, the motor will not start to work with this action. Otherwise, the button must be held until the motor stops completely and the position of the device must be corrected.
- In order for the device to start working, you need to press the “Power on” button. When the process is completed, the device automatically turns off.
The main disadvantage of this solution is its dependence on the battery charge level. Their capacity may not be enough to complete the operation during operation, and the device may freeze on the can. The extraction process is labor intensive and requires careful handling. The cost of models on the market varies from 300 to 800 rubles, depending on the equipment and engine power.
Review of rating models
In domestic stores you can rarely find electric can openers intended for household needs. Expensive professional models are more common
Popular tabletop appliances
Household models Tefal 8536 and Kenwood CO 600 are most often found in user reviews. Both desktop devices are similar in operating principle and differ slightly in design solutions and additional functions. The design of these electrical appliances is designed for quickly uncorking cans and bottles. They also have slots for sharpening knives. The body of both devices is white plastic, but Kenwood has a more expensive analogue in chrome-plated metal. The knife system is hidden and made of stainless steel.
Electric opener Tefal 8536
Both devices are equipped with rubberized elements for stability on a horizontal surface and an automatic shut-off function.
The uncorking process will begin after fixing the can in the device (a special magnet is provided under the raised lever). The user only needs to press lightly on the lever for the device to start working. The power of the devices is 35 W for Tefal 8536 and 40 W for Kenwood CO 600, accordingly the prices vary: the first model can be bought for 800-1000 rubles, the second will cost from 1200 rubles. Some models of the CASO (D 10) and Tristar (BO-2102) brands with prices from 1300 to 3000 rubles are similar in principle of operation.
Electric opener Kenwood CO 600
All these devices are designed for cans that do not exceed their own weight (up to 1.2 kg). In everyday life, you usually rarely have to open jars with a larger capacity. For such canned food, bars and restaurants use professional tabletop machines, the cost of which is much higher.
How to choose an electric can and wine opener
A convenient electric can opener will be an effective replacement for mechanical devices for the same purpose.
Design and principle of operation
Regardless of the type, an automatic opener usually consists of four main components:
- plastic case;
- electric motor located inside;
- fixing device under the cover;
- knife mechanism for opening it.
In all cases, the work scheme is approximately the same:
- the jar is secured with a latch in the lid area;
- opening mode is activated;
- After the process is completed, the container is released from the clamp.
An electric opener allows you to open any canned food without any physical effort. The whole procedure takes no more than a minute, the lid opens without dangerous nicks, which minimizes the threat of cuts.
Types of electric openers
Devices of this type differ in their placement method, purpose and type of power supply. In the first case, portable and desktop designs are distinguished. The main difference is that a portable electric can opener is held by hand during operation and is small in size. The desktop version has a larger body with a wide sole, which ensures a stable position on the table. Some models are equipped with an anti-slip layer or suction cups that prevent slipping from the surface. There are three types of devices according to their purpose:
- electric can opener;
- devices for uncorking wine;
- multifunctional devices.
The difference between an electric wine opener is that its locking device is designed for a wine bottle, and instead of a cutting element, there is an electric corkscrew . In addition to the listed types, an electric can opener may differ in the type of power supply. There are devices with a power cord and their analogues with a battery. The last power source is usually equipped with portable devices that are used as travel devices.
Although relatively safe, these devices are equipped with a cutting device that can cause injury. Therefore, the instructions for them require careful handling and basic safety precautions.
Top best models
This type of household appliances is produced by almost all well-known brands, but most of them are made according to two similar schemes. These are portable devices for canning and universal stationary devices.
Electric can opener Polaris PCO
This is a compact, portable device. The optimal solution for trips to the country or a picnic, lovers of long country hikes. The opener is securely fixed to the can using a magnetic knife and easily opens the metal surface. Power from two AA batteries is enough for an hour of continuous operation.
Tefal 8536
The device is stationary with universal capabilities. In addition to opening cans, there is a bottle opening function. There is an electric knife on the back side. The device does not have an independent power source; it is connected to the network via a standard cord with a plug.
Caso D10 Mulit Opener
A more expensive analogue of the previous model Caso D10 Mulit Opener with the same functions. The machine allows you to open a can or bottle without physical effort. The features of the cutting tool and the design of the corkscrew are designed for caps and plugs of any diameter and configuration. The pyramidal geometry of the case and the presence of an anti-slip sole ensure reliable stability of the device.
Kenwood CO 606
Another universal model for use at home, Kenwood CO 606. Serves as an opener for cans of most sizes, and is used as an electric opener for wine bottles. Equipped with a reliable magnetic holder. On the reverse side there is a knife holder for kitchen knives. The design includes an auto shut-off function.
Knife Home Club
Budget versions of various types are offered by the Chinese manufacturer Home Club; its electric knives combine acceptable workmanship with good functionality and an affordable price. The advantages of this brand are confirmed by user reviews, although they also note disadvantages typical of Chinese manufacturers.
Electric knives for opening cans
The process of food preservation is due to the preservation of seasonal products for a long period of time or is associated with their subsequent transportation to other regions and countries. It is not known for certain when people started canning. But a person also faces another task - how to open a jar without damaging the product or ruining the container.
You can open the container using mechanical means or use an improved method - use an electric can opener. Opening with a mechanical device requires effort. a can opener requires some skill and effort. In addition, there is a risk of injury. The process is simplified if you use an electric opener.
What is an electric opener?
In essence, this is a fairly simple device consisting of a plastic shell with a motor inside. Additionally, the device is equipped with a lock and a mechanism with small knives.
Advantages of using automatic opening type:
- Ease, simplicity and speed of opening cans;
- There is no need for special knowledge and skills to use;
- The lid/stopper can be removed by simply pressing a button;
- The existing knife system cuts the lid evenly, which eliminates injury to human fingers;
- There is no need to hold the container with your hands when uncorking;
- The existing latch holds the lid in place after opening the container, making it easier to remove the contents.
The existing knife system cuts the lid evenly, which eliminates injury to human fingers.
The mechanism of the manual device is based on the fact that it firmly clings to the edges of the lid and literally makes a circular cut along the edge.
The multi-functional electric can opener is generally suitable for use at any angle, taking into account different can geometries. In addition, electric openers are adapted to fit lids and plugs of different diameters.
Existing types of devices
There are two types of electric knives for opening cans on the market today. The portable model does not require additional storage space. It runs on rechargeable AA batteries. Suitable as a traveling option due to its compact and small dimensions. The portable opener must be held with your hand during the process.
Automatic type of desktop placement, operating from a household network. Tabletop-mounted devices have a larger, massive body with an anti-slip layer, which makes them convenient for home use.
Review of rating models
Electric knives for opening cans vary in design and size, but the principle of operation is the same. The can is secured using a holder. The opening process starts. After the process is completed, the container is released from the clamp.
Before purchasing an electrical appliance, you should pay attention to the following points:
- The material from which the body is made;
- Knife mechanism;
- Device dimensions;
- Functional support;
- Customer reviews about this device.
Similar devices are produced by many global brands, so the range of the modern industrial market is extensive.
- Tefal 8536. A stationary device with universal functions - opening cans, opening bottles. Equipped with an electric knife, with a rubberized base that ensures stability on the surface, and also has an automatic stop function. Device power 35 W.
Popular tabletop appliances
The frame of any type of structure can be either plastic or metal, with a stable rubberized base. An anti-slip layer or suction cups prevent the device from sliding off the surface. Convenient options are devices that have a closed stainless steel opening system, as well as an automatic operating procedure. The device itself can turn on and off as needed.
Ease of use is ensured by the presence of a magnet in the form of a mechanism that holds the lid, which does not allow it to sink to the bottom of the jar. Some models are equipped with an electric sharpener and a corkscrew. Electric versions of such devices, as a rule, have sufficient power (50 W). It is quite sufficient for household use. More powerful devices are used in the professional field, where there is a large flow of cans and bottles and a fast speed of opening containers is required, for example, in bars and restaurants.
Interesting dacha and hiking solutions
For opening small cans, compact electrical devices are available that are powered by two AA batteries. Such devices are equipped with a magnetic pin and a knife system that is fully automated. Some models of camping devices additionally have a simple built-in mechanism for opening bottles. The price of options for camping electric openers varies and depends on the availability of additional functions, service life, power and manufacturer.
Opening any canned container is as easy as shelling pears. No special strength or skill is required here:
- The container should be placed on a surface without bevels or flaws so that the knife mechanism is on the rim of the container.
- Turn on the device by pressing the corresponding button.
- After completing the action, the device will automatically stop.
Such devices are equipped with a magnetic pin and a knife system that is fully automated.
A wonderful example of such a portable device is the Moment electric can opener, made in China. It opens almost any container in seconds. True, some do when opening cans made of a thick layer of metal.
The knife is placed on the jar, after which the button is turned on. The ergonomic operation is also due to the presence of a magnet, which holds the lid in place upon completion of the process. Some varieties of the model have an auxiliary electric corkscrew.
The disadvantage of such devices is that they depend on the quality of the batteries, or more precisely, on their charging capabilities. To ensure that the charge does not run out during the process, you should always have spare AA batteries with you.
Recommendations for care and use
Like any equipment, an electric can opener requires care during and after use. The device is convenient and easy to maintain. After use, the household appliance should be rinsed and cleaned. Pay special attention to the knife. In models where the guide head of the knife is removable, cleaning the device is quite simple and easy.
Despite the fairly high safety indicators of such devices, electric openers have a cutting device in their design, so you should study the instructions for use and follow safety precautions during use.
Preferring a convenient automated device over a manual method will make life easier for a housewife. The electric method will greatly simplify the process of uncorking can lids and will become a universal assistant in the kitchen and on a picnic.
Video: Electric can opener in action
Current models of electric knives
It is difficult to choose a specific mechanism when an automatic mode is needed to open the container. However, some developments are worth considering in more detail.
Additionally, the device is equipped with a lock and a mechanism with small knives.
Can opener Endever Smart-25
During continuous cutting, the push function operates without interruption. When the lid is open, automatic stopping is ensured. Any can will fit in the Endever Smart-25 system with its long body.
There is no need for special knowledge or skills to use.
The kit comes with a reserve for sharpening the knife blade. It is also interesting if it has a place to store the cord.
The existing knife system cuts the lid evenly, which eliminates injury to human fingers.
“Moment” from “Leomax”
The name of the product implies the effectiveness of its use. Canned food is easy to open when the Leomax can opener has been selected competently.
There is no need to hold the container with your hands when opening it.
Advantages of this product:
- Adaptability. The design allows the moment of opening the can to be made the most enjoyable process for auditory listeners. Few people will like a product that makes loud noises when used.
- Minimum injury. When using the “Moment” electric opener, the edges of the container remain smooth. It is almost impossible to injure your hands on such edges.
- Practicality. The AA battery for this model, in two copies, will last a long time. It is not included in the kit, so it should be purchased in advance.
Such devices can be used as an opener for metal and glass containers, as an alternative to a corkscrew.
Signs of an ideal opener
A jar opener is an essential item for anyone who likes to indulge in homemade pickles or store-bought canned goods. Without it, you won’t be able to enjoy pickles or open a bottle of beer.
Types of openers
Openers are divided into several types according to the method of operation:
- Manual - the most common mechanical option, resembling a sickle with long and short horns. It is also called a can opener. With its help, you can open a jar or bottle using muscular effort.
- The semi-automatic opener works mainly for cans. In its upper part it has a screw and two hinges that rotate in opposite directions. To operate the opener, you need to hold the edge of the can between the hinges and tighten it with a screw, then rotate it, moving in a circle, until the can is opened. Often there is a “hook” on the handle for opening bottles.
- The automatic opener runs on batteries. It is fixed with a magnet and activated by pressing a button. It is very easy and convenient, but not cheap.
- Manual pocket bottle opener in the form of a ring with a tongue. It can be made in the form of a magnet or a keychain, often sold as a souvenir, and is inexpensive.
- A battery-powered manual can opener opens both cans and bottles. Equipped with an ergonomic handle and a special grip for lids.
- A stationary can opener is installed on the table, and the can is fixed in it. This device can also be equipped with a knife sharpening function. Powered by electricity from the mains or batteries.
Signs of a quality opener
If you like the idea of purchasing an electric can opener, then the main parameter you should pay attention to is power. For this device it should not be large: 30-35 watts is quite enough for domestic use; more powerful devices are installed in bars.
Regardless of the type of opener, it is better to give preference to metal options, and choose stainless steel as the metal. Aluminum openers will not last long; this metal bends and breaks easily. Stainless steel is more durable and, importantly, is not subject to corrosion.
A manual opener should have a comfortable handle that will not slip in the palm of your hand. And the electric one should be accompanied by instructions, which will indicate the options for the covers that it can open.