Catering urns are primarily used to boil large quantities of water quickly and then maintain that water at a hot, ready-to-dispense temperature for extended periods. They are ideal for serving hot drinks like tea, coffee, and instant hot chocolate at events, conferences, offices, cafes, buffets, and large gatherings. Some versatile models can also be used for warming thin soups or mulled wine.

Heating times vary significantly based on the urn's capacity and wattage. A smaller model (8-liter) urn might heat from cold to boiling in around 20-30 minutes. Larger (30-litre) urns could take 40-60 minutes or longer. It is recommended to fill and switch on the urn well in advance of when hot water is needed.

Yes, generally. While a kettle heats water very quickly for one or two cups, catering urns are more efficient for maintaining large volumes of hot water.

NO. It is extremely dangerous and not recommended to move a catering urn when it contains hot or even cold water. Always empty the urn completely, allow it to cool, and then unplug it before attempting to move it.

Modern catering urns come with several important safety features such as boil-dry protection, cool-touch handles, non-drip taps, and water level indicators.