If is cordless first check power supply on the base plate,if is ok. open the bottom plate on the kettle to check heater with digital multimeter and connection between power connector,switch and heater element.
alexandar, February 2010
Wall socket - plug - fuse - cable - base contacts (if you have them) - kettle element - auto off switch.
Any of these may be the cause - some kettles have lights - if the light is on then the element is broken - buy a new kettle.