My grandparents used these, but my parents went high-tech with the electric plug-in version of the percolator. At least with a thermostat to shut off, it wouldn't percolate until the end of time and burn down the house if one fell back asleep while waiting for the first cup. Another advantage of the percolator: it lasts for years and years and didn't have to be cleaned with vinegar every couple months. My preferred method, however, is cold immersion. It takes 24 hours and has less acid. Downside the lack of aroma of coffee wafting through the house, but grinding the coffee beans compensates.