Glossary of Terms — Page 6

What is a Kettle's Wattage?

A kettle's wattage (typically 2,200–3,000W for UK models) determines how quickly it boils water — higher wattage means faster boiling for the same volume of water. UK homes on a standard 13A socket can run kettles up to around 3,000W, which is why most fast-boil kettles sold here cluster near that upper limit.

What is a Non-Stick Coating Made Of?

Most non-stick cookware uses a PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) coating, commonly known by the brand name Teflon, which creates a low-friction surface that food releases from easily with little or no oil. Ceramic non-stick coatings are a mineral-based alternative. Both wear over time and perform best with non-metal utensils and moderate heat.

What Is a TRV (Thermostatic Radiator Valve)?

A TRV is a valve fitted to a radiator that automatically regulates flow based on the room's temperature, letting each radiator in a home be set to a different comfort level independently of the main boiler thermostat. Turning a TRV down in unused rooms is a common way UK households reduce heating costs without adjusting the whole system.

What is a Warranty vs a Guarantee?

A guarantee is a manufacturer's promise that a product will work as described, often free and separate from your statutory rights. A warranty is typically a more formal, sometimes paid, contract covering repair or replacement for a set period. In the UK both sit alongside — and cannot reduce — your Consumer Rights Act protections.

What Is an Airlock and Why Does Home Brewing Need One?

An airlock is a small valve fitted to a fermentation vessel that lets carbon dioxide produced during fermentation escape while stopping outside air (and the airborne bacteria or wild yeast it carries) from getting in and spoiling the brew. Watching bubbles pass through the airlock is also a simple, low-cost way to visually track whether fermentation is still active or has finished.

What is BSP Thread?

BSP (British Standard Pipe) is the standard screw thread used on UK garden hose fittings, taps and connectors. Most outdoor taps and hose pipe fittings use 3/4" BSP, which is why hoses and adaptors bought in the UK generally fit straight onto garden taps without extra adaptors, unlike some imported garden equipment.

What is CCA (Cold Cranking Amps)?

CCA measures how much current a car battery or jump starter can deliver for 30 seconds at -18°C while maintaining a minimum voltage, indicating its ability to start an engine in cold weather. A higher CCA rating generally means more reliable cold-weather starting power, so jump starters and replacement batteries are commonly compared using this figure.

What is DK Yarn Weight?

DK (Double Knitting) is one of the most common yarn weights used in UK knitting and crochet, sitting between 4-ply and Aran in thickness. It's typically worked on 3.75-4mm needles and gives roughly 22 stitches over 10cm in stocking stitch, making it a versatile, beginner-friendly choice for jumpers, blankets and accessories.

What is EN131 Ladder Rating?

EN131 is the European safety standard that ladders sold in the UK must meet, covering load capacity, stability and construction. Professional-grade EN131 ladders (Class 1) are tested to higher loads than domestic-only versions, so checking for this rating helps confirm a ladder is safe for the weight and frequency of use intended.

What is EN71 Toy Safety Certification?

EN71 is the European safety standard covering toys sold in the UK and EU, testing for mechanical/physical hazards, flammability, and migration of certain chemicals. Toys with a CE mark and age recommendation have been assessed against these requirements, making the stated age range a genuine safety guide rather than a difficulty suggestion — especially important for sets with small parts.

What Is EN747 Bunk Bed Safety Standard?

EN747 is the European safety standard covering bunk beds, setting requirements for guard rail height, gaps that could trap a child, ladder stability and structural strength. Compliant bunk beds are generally recommended only for children aged 6 and over, reflecting the standard's focus on fall and entrapment risks rather than just weight capacity.

What is HEPA Filtration (Vacuums)?

HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters are designed to capture at least 99.95% of particles down to 0.3 microns, including dust, pollen and pet dander. Vacuum cleaners with a sealed HEPA filtration system are particularly useful for allergy and asthma sufferers, as they prevent fine particles being recirculated back into the room.