Last Updated on July 1, 2023 by Timothy Byron Smith
Coffee lovers appreciate the convenience and quality that a Bunn coffee maker offers. However, when it comes to storing or transporting the machine, it’s important to properly empty and drain it to avoid potential issues. Leaving water inside the coffee maker can lead to limescale buildup, affecting the taste and temperature of your brew. Furthermore, water left in the machine can freeze in cold climates and cause damage.
In this article, we will guide you through the steps on how to empty drain a Bunn coffee maker to ensure its longevity and optimal performance.
Why Drain a Bunn Coffee Maker
Before diving into the step-by-step process, let’s understand why draining a Bunn coffee maker is crucial. There are several reasons why you should take the time to empty the machine:
1. Prevent Limescale Buildup
Water contains minerals, and when it sits inside the coffee maker for extended periods, these minerals can accumulate and form limescale. Limescale buildup can clog the internal parts of the machine, affecting the flavor of your coffee and its temperature. By draining the coffee maker, you remove any water that could contribute to limescale formation.
2. Ensure Proper Water Flow
Leaving water in the coffee maker can impede water flow during the brewing process. This can result in slow dripping or even prevent the machine from pumping water at all. By emptying the coffee maker, you ensure that there are no obstructions that could hinder the water flow and compromise your brewing experience.
3. Protect the Machine from Freezing
If you live in a cold climate or plan to store the coffee maker in a chilly environment, it’s crucial to drain it. Water left inside the machine can freeze, expanding and potentially damaging its internal components. By emptying the coffee maker, you eliminate the risk of freezing and safeguard its longevity.
Instructions for Draining a Bunn Coffee Maker
Now that we understand the importance of draining a Bunn coffee maker, let’s walk through the step-by-step process:
- Power down the machine: Begin by flipping the tank switch off to power down the coffee maker. This ensures that it’s safely turned off before proceeding.
- Allow the coffee maker to cool down: Unplug the brewer and let it sit for at least two hours to cool down completely. This cooling period is essential for handling the machine and avoiding any potential burns.
- Remove the brew funnel and spray-head: Unscrew the spray-head using your fingers and set it aside. Then, remove the brew funnel from the coffee maker. These components will need to be cleaned separately.
- Empty the coffee maker: Hold the coffee maker upside down over a sink. Water will start to come out from the top of the machine. Continue holding the machine over the sink until no more water flows from the spray-head tube and the coffee maker lid. This step ensures that all the water is drained from the machine.
- Dry off the coffee maker: Place the coffee maker upright on your counter and use a paper towel or a soft cloth to dry off any remaining water. Pay close attention to the surfaces and corners to ensure they are completely dry.
- Reattach the spray-head and brew funnel: Screw the spray-head back onto the coffee maker, turning it in a clockwise direction. Then, insert the brew funnel back into its original position. These components are essential for proper brewing and distribution of water over coffee grounds.
Following these steps will help you effectively drain and prepare your Bunn coffee maker for storage or transportation.
Additional Tips and Recommendations
To further assist you in maintaining your Bunn coffee maker, here are some additional tips and recommendations:
- When to drain a Bunn coffee maker: It’s recommended to drain the machine when you are moving it from one location to another, shipping it for repair or sale, or when you plan to not use it for an extended period of time. Draining the coffee maker in these scenarios prevents potential issues and ensures its longevity.
- Cooling the internal heating element: Before draining the coffee maker, unplug it and place an empty glass coffee decanter on the machine’s heater plate. Fill a second decanter with cold water and pour its contents into the reservoir. Allowing the machine to rest for 15 minutes after adding cold water helps cool down the internal heating element.
- Cleaning the glass coffee decanter and filter basket: After draining the coffee maker, remove the glass coffee decanter and filter basket. Dump the contents of the decanter and the filter basket into a sink and rinse them under hot running water. This ensures that any residue or coffee grounds are removed, maintaining cleanliness for future use.
- Waiting before turning the coffee maker: After draining and refilling the coffee maker, it’s essential to wait for at least 5 minutes before turning it back on. This allows the machine to stabilize and ensures proper brewing performance.
By following these additional tips and recommendations, you can ensure that your Bunn coffee maker remains in optimal condition.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Should I drain my Bunn coffee maker if I’m only going away for a short time?
While it may not be necessary to drain the coffee maker for short absences, it’s still recommended to empty the reservoir and remove any remaining water. This prevents any potential issues that may arise from stagnant water sitting in the machine.
Can I use any cleaning solutions when draining the coffee maker?
It’s not necessary to use cleaning solutions when draining the coffee maker. Simply emptying the machine and wiping it dry is sufficient. However, if you want to deep clean the coffee maker, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for recommended cleaning methods.
How often should I drain my Bunn coffee maker?
It’s recommended to drain the coffee maker anytime you are moving it, shipping it for repair or sale, or when you plan to not use it for an extended period of time. Regular maintenance and draining help ensure optimal performance and prevent potential issues.
Summing Up!
Taking a few minutes to properly empty and drain your Bunn coffee maker can save you from future headaches. By following the provided instructions, you can prevent limescale buildup, ensure proper water flow, and protect the machine from potential damage.
Remember to always consult the manufacturer’s guidelines for your specific model to ensure proper care and maintenance of your Bunn coffee maker. Cheers to enjoying delicious cups of coffee from a well-maintained machine!
