Keurig is among the leading coffee machines worldwide. However, there is a common issue that these coffee machines encounter that will lead to the descale light staying on.
Why Is the Descale Light On?
A descale light is a standard feature on coffee machines. When the descale light switches on, it signifies the coffee maker needs cleaning. The descale light can come on when calcium particles or dirt accumulate on the internal parts of the coffee maker which can block the machine. Often, when this occurs, the machine will stop running. Packing refillable K-cups too tightly can also cause the descaling light to come on. This will limit the water flow within the unit and might trigger the descaling light to turn on. In short, the Keurig descale light comes on when something blocks water flow. So, if the light still stays on, you have to identify what is blocking the flow of water through the machine. Perhaps a bad pipe, a strong buildup, or a cup in your machine that’s too large could be the reason.
What to Do If Keurig Descale Light Stays On
Scale develops as calcium and mineral deposits in the water dry up. Using water with high mineral content in a Keurig can cause this buildup and prevent the machine from working properly. It affects the taste of your coffee as well. The following are different methods to descale a Keurig.
Steps when using Keurig Descaling Solution:
If you own a Keurig 2.0 and 1.0 K-cup coffee maker, you are in for a treat because Keurig created their own descaling solution.
Turn off and unplug the coffee maker
Use one part water and one part Keurig Descaling Solution to fill the water container
Place a mug under the dispenser and brew a cup of hot water
Drain the water from the mug
Repeat step 3 until no water is left of the container
Rinse the container and fill it with fresh water
Brew one more mug of fresh water and pour it out once done
Steps when using vinegar and water
Turn off and unplug the Keurig coffee machine
Wash and clean removable parts of the coffee maker
Ensure to use warm and soapy water when cleaning the pod holder and drip tray.
For some Keurig models, accessories such as the cup filter and water container are dishwasher safe, so you can sanitize them in the dishwasher
Clean the surface of your coffee machine by using a damp microfiber cloth. Ensure that all parts are dry when you reassemble everything. Once done, you may plug in the machine.
Mix equal parts of water and white distilled vinegar and fill the container of your coffee machine. Using this solution will eliminate any scale buildup in your machine. Continue brewing until the container is empty.
For the last step, use water to fill in the container and brew again to wash out the vinegar completely.
Steps when using citric acid
Similar to vinegar, citric acid is commonly used to sanitize Keurig coffee makers.
Simply mix 1-2 tbsp of citric acid and 4 cups of water.
Fill the water reservoir with the citric acid solution
Start brewing until the container is empty
When done, fill in the container with water and brew once again until empty
How Often Should I Descale My Keurig
In order to prevent mineral deposits or scale buildup in your Keurig Coffee Maker, descale it every 3 to 6 months. Apart from descaling, it is also advisable to keep all other parts of the machine clean. If you are a coffee lover and use your machines every day to brew a K-cup, then make it a habit to clean it at least once a week. Regular cleaning of your Keurig will extend its life and ensure you can enjoy fresh-brewed coffee any time of the day.
The Bottom Line
Keurig’s descale light is an important feature to remind you to clean your coffee maker. It also tells you it is safe to use the machine. Remember to clean your coffee maker when the descale light turns on. If the light stays on, there might be some dirt left, so do a deep cleaning and try again.
