What To Know
- Mineral deposits, known as scale, can accumulate inside the Keurig’s heating element and plumbing system, causing a decrease in water flow and brewing efficiency.
- Descale your Keurig regularly using a commercial descaling solution or a mixture of vinegar and water.
- Fill the water reservoir to the “Max” line and run a brew cycle without inserting a K-Cup.
A malfunctioning Keurig coffee maker can be a major inconvenience, especially for coffee enthusiasts who rely on their daily caffeine fix. If your Keurig is not brewing, it can be frustrating and leave you wondering what went wrong. Fortunately, there are several common issues that can cause this problem, and most of them can be resolved with a few simple steps.
Causes and Solutions for a Keurig Coffee Maker That Doesn’t Brew
1. Insufficient Water
Cause: The Keurig may not brew if there is not enough water in the reservoir.
Solution: Check the water reservoir and fill it to the “Max” line.
2. Clogged Needles
Cause: Over time, coffee grounds and minerals can build up in the needles of your Keurig, leading to blockages that prevent water from flowing through.
Solution: Use a paper clip or a dedicated cleaning tool to gently remove any clogs from the needles.
3. Faulty Water Pump
Cause: The water pump is responsible for drawing water from the reservoir and into the brewing chamber. A faulty water pump can prevent the machine from brewing.
Solution: Contact Keurig customer support or a qualified repair technician to replace the water pump.
4. Descaling Buildup
Cause: Mineral deposits, known as scale, can accumulate inside the Keurig’s heating element and plumbing system, causing a decrease in water flow and brewing efficiency.
Solution: Descale your Keurig regularly using a commercial descaling solution or a mixture of vinegar and water.
5. Air Lock
Cause: An air lock occurs when air gets trapped inside the water lines, preventing water from flowing properly.
Solution: Fill the water reservoir to the “Max” line and run a brew cycle without inserting a K-Cup. This should help release any trapped air.
6. Electrical Issues
Cause: A loose or faulty electrical connection can prevent the Keurig from receiving power and brewing.
Solution: Check the power cord and make sure it is securely plugged into both the Keurig and the power outlet.
7. Resetting the Keurig
Cause: A software glitch or temporary malfunction can sometimes prevent the Keurig from brewing.
Solution: Unplug the Keurig from the power outlet, wait for 30 seconds, and then plug it back in. This will reset the machine and may resolve the issue.
Additional Tips
- Keep your Keurig clean by regularly wiping down the exterior and emptying the drip tray.
- Use filtered water to prevent mineral buildup.
- Contact Keurig customer support if the problem persists or you are unable to resolve it on your own.
Wrap-Up: Your Keurig Coffee Maker Rescued
By following these troubleshooting steps, you can diagnose and resolve most common issues that can prevent your Keurig coffee maker from brewing. With a little care and maintenance, you can keep your Keurig running smoothly and enjoy your favorite coffee every morning.
Frequently Discussed Topics
1. Why does my Keurig say “Add Water” even when it is full?
- The float sensor in the water reservoir may be stuck or malfunctioning. Try cleaning the sensor or contacting Keurig customer support.
2. How often should I descale my Keurig?
- Every 3-6 months, depending on the frequency of use and the mineral content of your water.
3. Can I use vinegar to descale my Keurig?
- Yes, you can use a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water to descale your Keurig. However, it is important to rinse the machine thoroughly afterward to remove any residual vinegar taste.
