Your coffee machine is likely not producing water because it needs to be descaled due to hard water build-up.
The Primary Reason: Hard Water Build-Up and Descaling
When your coffee machine stops pumping water, the most common culprit is often scale accumulation. This is a direct result of hard water build-up inside the appliance. Hard water contains minerals such as calcium and magnesium, which deposit over time, especially when heated.
This mineral build-up can clog internal components, like the pump and heating elements, affecting your coffee machine's ability to pump water through it efficiently to make coffee. The flow pathways become restricted, preventing water from reaching the brew head.
The Simple Solution: Running a Descaling Cycle
Fortunately, this is typically an easy fix. To resolve the issue and clear the build-up, you simply need to run a descaling cycle. This process uses an acidic solution to dissolve the mineral deposits, restoring the machine's functionality.
Here's a general approach to descaling:
- Prepare the Descaling Solution: Use a commercial descaling agent designed for coffee machines, or a diluted white vinegar solution if your manufacturer's instructions approve.
- Fill the Reservoir: Pour the descaling solution into the machine's water reservoir.
- Run the Cycle: Follow your specific coffee machine's instructions to initiate a descaling cycle. This usually involves running the solution through the machine as if you were brewing coffee, but without coffee grounds.
- Rinse Thoroughly: After the descaling cycle is complete, run several cycles of clean, fresh water through the machine to flush out any remaining descaling solution and loosened deposits. This ensures no residue affects the taste of your next brew.
Understanding Hard Water
Hard water is prevalent in many regions and is characterized by a high concentration of dissolved minerals. While harmless for consumption, these minerals can cause significant problems for appliances that heat water. Regular descaling is essential maintenance to prevent blockages and extend the lifespan of your coffee machine, ensuring it continues to brew delicious coffee.
