Coffee machines have become very popular in the home appliance market. With many people working long hours and constantly on-the-go, the need for quick, convenient coffee is growing.
The Keurig system has become one of coffee machines’ most popular brand names. They produce both regular and espresso-style coffee as well as several color options for cups!
With such popularity comes a lot of attention. Unfortunately, this attention is not always good. Many Keurig users have reported having problems with their machines after a few months to years of use.
Some problems noted are leaking, rusting, and failure to brew a full cup of coffee or any coffee. Luckily, there are ways to tell if your machine is having these issues before it completely stops working!
This article will talk about all the different types of issues that can occur with Keurig machines and how to fix them. For the most part, these fixes are free and easy to do yourself.
Maintenance
After you have picked your model, the next step is to learn how to maintain it. Specifically, you will need to know how to clean and descale your Keurig.
Cleaning the exterior is as easy as wiping it down with a damp cloth. You can also use a baking soda scrub if there is any dried coffee residue. Once that is done, letting it dry is all that is needed!
Descaling requires using a special solution to clean the internal parts of the machine. You can buy this solution from Keurig or online depending on which model you have. The process can be a bit time consuming, but once completed, your machine will be back to new!
Other tips include making sure not to overfill the reservoir, not using overly dense k-cups, and rotating your beverages every few weeks to prevent mold or mildew build up.
How Long Do Keurig Coffee Machines Last?
The longevity of a keurig depends on how often you use it and how well you take care of it. As with any appliance, some care tips are universal while others are dependent on the model you own.
Universal tips include always making sure your water is warm enough and that you clean your keurig every few uses. Depending on the model, you will need to disassemble parts to fully clean them.
Depending on the model, your Keurig may have a maximum capacity for water. If so, make sure to fill it up enough to reach that capacity so that it can brew correctly.
Another tip is to keep an eye out for signs of wear and tear. If your Keurig is having problems brewing correctly or at all, then it may be time to replace it.
Brewing Systems
Another thing to consider when buying a Keurig is what kind of brewing system you want. There are two main types: pod-based and capsule-based.
Pod-based units include the Keurig Classic Series and Plus Series machines. These machines use proprietary pods that contain the coffee filter, grounds, and filter bag or pod. You must purchase the compatible coffee makers from Keurig to use these machines.
Capulet-based units include the Keurig 2.0 Machines. These units use standardized coffee capsules with a plastic filter and ground coffee inside.
Maintenance
Even if you buy the best Keurig coffee maker, it will not last if you do not take care of it. One of the main ways to care for your machine is to maintain it.
Many people make the mistake of only cleaning their Keurig when there is a problem. However, this can lead to more problems down the road.
You should perform a complete cleaning and maintenance of your machine at least once a month. More if you use it frequently!
Some steps in the maintenance include washing out the water reservoir, wiping out any leftover water, and putting in new water to dry out the machine. You also need to dust off any internal parts and re-fill the water reservoir with fresh water.
Another key part of maintenance is making sure to replace the water filter.
Cartridge Replacement
One of the most common issues with Keurig machines is cartridge replacement. Many users have reported that the machine will not accept older cartridges or claims it is not a genuine Keurig cartridge.
While this may be due to expired cartridges being used, most cases are that users buy compatible or third-party cartridges. While these are almost always of comparable quality, the machine sometimes has difficulty recognizing them.
The other problem is that many people have tried using refilled cartridges and found that the machine would not work at all. It is advised to use only brand new, official Keurig cartridges to avoid these problems!
Many people find it expensive to keep buying new cartridges every few weeks, so there are various ways to save money on the replacements. Buying in bulk or shopping for specials or discounts is a good way to do this.
Water Filter Replacement
One thing people worry about when it comes to Keurig machines is how often they need to replace the water filter or cartridge. Many people were shocked to find out that you needed to purchase a replacement cartridge every couple of months!
This is due to the fact that the cartridges are made with a charcoal filter that filters out unpleasant tastes and smells from the water. These cartridges need to be replaced occasionally due to this filtering feature.
Many people find this costly and excessive, as you literally have to buy a new cartridge every time you run out of water. There is no way to re-use the cartridge or refill it, making it an expensive continuous supply purchase.
However, there is no better way to keep your Keurig machine running smoothly and producing quality drinks than having fresh cartridges. So, it is up to you whether you want to invest in these or not.
Good Coffee Begins with A Good Machine
If you are looking to buy a new coffee machine, you should consider buying a Keurig. While there are many brands of coffee machines, few produce the quality drinks that a Keurig can.
Many people who have tried both attest to this fact. Plus, with the vast array of K-Cups available, you will always find one you like.
As mentioned before, there are several reasons why people dislike the Keurig. The main reason is that people feel that the quality of the coffee is not as good as making it traditionally.
Others feel that it is too expensive to use it since the K-Cups are priced higher than regular coffee packets. Some people also do not like having to stick with one brand or size of cup for the brew.
Tips for Using a Keurig
While keurig machines are easy to use and convenient, there are a few tips to be aware of when using them. The first is to watch how much water you put in the reservoir.
Many people make the mistake of filling the reservoir all the way, but this can lead to problems. Because the pod contains coffee grounds and dried coffee beans, if there is too much water, it will wash out the flavor.
Make sure the water level is low enough to allow for optimal brewing time– if your keurig is taking longer than that, then it may have too much water in it!
Another tip is to make sure you clean your machine regularly. Like most appliances, built up residue can lead to problems down the road. Make sure to check your user guide for how to do this accurately.
For coffee-lover Justin, writing for the Cappuccino Oracle magazine is a dream come true. He gets to explore the nuances of different coffee styles and share his insights on the best ways to enjoy them. From a classic espresso to Kenyan beans, Justin knows that each cup holds something special for everyone – connecting them with culture and history, as well as being an invigorating pick-me-up. Through his writing, Justin wants everyone to appreciate their cup of coffee for all its wonders!
