Water leaks are among the most common problems you’ll encounter while using your coffee maker. The next time it happens to you, don’t panic.
There are things you can do to fix this issue. You do not have to replace the entire coffeemaker just yet. You just have to understand the underlying reason behind the leak.
When hot water drips through a coffeemaker, the main cause is usually leakage issues from the water reservoir. Other things that may lead to this problem include scaling issues and a clogged valve pump.
This guide is going to elaborate on all the reasons why hot water may leak through your coffeemaker. We’ll also outline some of the ways you can fix it.
Why Does Hot Water Drip Through A Coffeemaker?
When hot water dispenses through your coffee maker, it may be because of a variety of reasons. Here are some of the most common ones:
1. Leaking Water Reservoir
This is one of the most common causes of leaking water in a coffeemaker.
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It happens when you put too much coffee in your coffeemaker. Hot water may come out through the bottom due to a lack of space.
2. Your Valve Pump Is Clogged
Sometimes, coffee beans may get stuck in the valve pump. Minerals may also build up there, affecting the rate at which water flows. This mineral build-up is one of the main reasons why piping clogs, even in sinks.
When the flow of water is blocked, it is forced to move in the opposite direction. This can make it leak through the coffeemaker.
You can check whether or not you have a clogged valve by checking your coffeemaker’s water flow. To do this, all you have to do is switch off the coffeemaker. Then check whether the water is flowing or not.
If it isn’t, you may have a clogged valve. Contact a professional to help you unclog it.
3. Scaling Issues In The Coffeemaker
When you do not descale your coffeemaker, the scale build-up may cause water to dispense through it. Ideally, you need to descale the coffee maker at least once every 3 to 4 months.
Scaling is caused by mineral buildup inside the coffeemaker as a result of frequent use. If left unchecked, the scaling can affect the efficiency of the coffeemaker, making water leak through it during use.
4. Faulty Water Hose
Sometimes, hot water may drip through your coffeemaker because of a faulty water hose.
The water hose is usually located at the bottom of the coffeemaker. When it gets damaged, you may get leakages every time you make your coffee.
The water hoses may be faulty as a result of looseness or if it needs to be replaced. The heat produced by the coffeemaker may also cause the water hose to become less efficient.
Fortunately, water hoses are readily available online. Be sure to search for a water hose that will match your exact coffeemaker model.
When you install the replacement, make sure everything is nice and tight using the screws provided.
Water Dripping Solutions
The key to fixing a coffee maker that is dispensing hot water is understanding the underlying cause of it. Knowing what’s causing this issue puts you in a better position to fix it.
Based on the causes of this issue outlined above, here is what you can do about each of them:
Leaking Water Reservoir
The water reservoir is the part of the coffeemaker where you usually place cold water.
This cold water is then heated during the coffee-making process. It becomes hot and is then mixed with your coffee beans.
If you notice that water is coming out of the base of your coffee maker, it is likely a reservoir problem. You can confirm this by filling the reservoir with water and then checking for leaks.
If the reservoir loses a similar amount of water as what is leaking, it is probably faulty.
To fix this issue, you will have to buy a new water reservoir. Confirm that you are getting the same make and model as your coffee maker’s original.
Clogged Valve Pump
First, you need to establish the reason why the valve pump is clogged. It may be blocked by coffee beans or due to mineral accumulation.
Because most valve pumps come fixed to the coffeemakers, you will need some professional assistance to fix it.
Alternatively, you can opt to replace the whole part, which will be slightly more expensive than simply repairing it.
Scaling Issues In The Coffeemaker
Sometimes, your coffeemaker may be clogged because of too much scaling.
The simple solution to this problem is to simply descale your coffeemaker. This will remove all the accumulated minerals from inside the coffeemaker.
There are many descaling solutions that you can buy to use. If you want a quick solution, though, simply use vinegar.
That said, you have to be careful when using vinegar. It is highly acidic and may damage your coffeemaker’s internal components.
Here is how to descale your coffeemaker with vinegar properly:
- Pour a 1:1 water and vinegar solution into the water reservoir.
- Put an empty coffee filter in the water reservoir and turn on the machine. Brew until the coffee collection area is half full.
- Let it soak for an hour. Then brew again until the coffee collection area is full.
- After another hour, pour out the water and vinegar solution and rinse out both containers with plain water. Side note: never dispose of your coffee grounds in your garbage disposal!
- Do several brew cycles with plain water until the vinegar smell is completely gone from the coffeemaker.
- Turn off the coffeemaker and wipe it externally with a kitchen towel. Ensure you remove all debris and sediments from the surface.
Dripping Prevention Tips
Here are some of the things you can do to ensure that your coffeemaker does not start dripping hot water through it in the first place:
1. Do Not Overfill It
Overfilling the coffeemaker is one of the main reasons why hot water may leak.
Never overfill your coffeemaker. Instead, always ensure that the water is slightly below the recommended level, a little below the line indicator. This will prevent leaking.
2. Use Filtered Water For Brewing
If you have been using tap water to make your coffee, stop. Tap water is loaded with minerals that speed up the process of scaling.
Switch to filtered water to prevent scaling and clogging.
3. Descale Your Coffeemaker Regularly
Always descale your coffeemaker at least once every two to four months. Do this even when there are no apparent scaling issues.
This will reduce the stress that the connectors and valve pump are under, reducing the chances of leaks.
4. Use Your Coffeemaker Regularly
When you let your coffeemaker sit idle for too long, it loses its efficiency.
Use your coffeemaker regularly (at least once a week). This will ensure that it always stays in tip-top shape.
5. Drain Your Coffeemaker When Not In Use
Do not let water sit too long in the coffeemaker when it is not being used.
When water sits too long in the coffeemaker, the minerals in it settle, resulting in scaling. Excessive moisture also increases the chances of mold, bacteria, and fungus buildup.
Final Thoughts
When hot water leaks through your coffeemaker, it is usually because there is something wrong with the machine. Understanding some of the underlying reasons behind this issue puts you in a better position to find a solution.
The earlier you take care of the problem, the less severe it will be. When in doubt, reach out to a professional. Contact the manufacturer if your coffeemaker is still in its warranty period.
We have also outlined some of the best practices you can use to ensure your coffeemaker never leaks. With these tips, you’ll get to enjoy your coffee every day without worrying about this common problem!