How To Empty Nespresso Machines & Drain Water Tank

Last Updated on May 7, 2023 by Timothy Byron Smith

Many Nespresso machine owners may wonder how to prepare their machines for storage or shipping. It is important to empty the Nespresso machine before a period of non-use as water in the pipes inside the machine can cause limescale buildup, which can lead to blockages, leaks, or poor-tasting coffee.

In addition, water left in a Nespresso machine can freeze and damage the machine when left in a cold climate. Here we will discuss the steps on how to empty Nespresso machines.

We will then go through the emptying process for Nespresso Vertuo and the VertuoPlus series along with the Nespresso Original models like Essenza Mini, Inissia, CitiZ, Pixie, and many more.

How To Empty Nespresso Vertuo Models

The following steps apply to the Vertuo Next, Vertuo Pop, Vertuo, and Evoluo models:

1. Empty the water tank and replace it securely on the machine.
2. Place a container under the coffee outlet.
3. Unplug the power cord.
4. Open the head to eject any used capsule inside.
5. Close the head and turn the handle left to lock it.
6. Push and hold the button while plugging the cord back into the wall outlet. Release the button when the machine starts draining water into the container.
7. The button will blink orange while the machine is emptying, which should take about 30 seconds. When done, the machine will shut off automatically.

For the Emptying Vertuo Plus model, follow these steps:

1. Empty the water tank and replace it securely on the machine.
2. Open the head to eject any used capsule inside.
3. Push the lever down for 3 seconds to power off the unit.
4. Place a container under the coffee outlet.
5. Press and hold both the lever and the button at the same time for 3 seconds. A steady orange light will turn on to indicate that you are in the special functions menu.
6. Push the lever down two times to select the empty cycle. The light will start blinking orange. Press the button once to confirm and start the empty cycle. If you take longer than 2 minutes to push the button, the machine will exit the special functions menu, and you will have to repeat steps 3 and 5.
7. The orange light will blink while water is draining from the Nespresso VertuoPlus. It will shut off automatically when the cycle is over. You should not need to use your machine for 10 minutes after draining.

How To Empty Nespresso Original Models

The following steps apply to the Gran Lattissima, Lattissima One, Lattissima Touch, Lattissima Pro, Creatista Pro or Plus, Essenza Mini or Essenza Plus, CitiZ, Pixie, and Inissia models:

1. Turn the machine on and remove the milk jug and water tank.
2. Lift and close the lever to eject any used capsule.
3. Place a container under the coffee outlet.

Now, follow the specific instructions for your model:

• Essenza Mini or Essenza Plus, CitiZ, Pixie, Inissia: Place a container under the coffee outlet. Press both the lungo and espresso buttons together for five seconds. The lights will blink during the emptying process. The machine will shut off when the draining cycle is done. Close the lever.
• Gran Lattissima: Press the hot milk and flat white buttons at the same time. The descale and cleaning alerts will start to blink. Press the espresso button. The emptying should start. If it doesn’t, press the espresso button a second time. The lights will blink while it is draining. The machine will shut off automatically when done.
• Lattissima One: Press the milk button for 3 seconds to enter menu mode. The descale and clean alert lights will blink. Press the milk drink and lungo buttons at the same time. The milk drink button will start to blink. Press it to start emptying. The coffee buttons will blink until the process is done. The machine will shut itself off when done.
• Lattissima Touch: Press the warm milk froth and latte macchiato buttons at the same time for 3 seconds. The descale and cleaning alerts will start to blink. In a single continuous movement, press the cappuccino and then the espresso buttons. The warm milk froth button will start to blink. Press it once to start emptying mode. The coffee buttons will blink while draining is in process. The machine will shut itself off when done.
• Lattissima Pro: Press the gears icon on the menu. Scroll down and select “empty fluid system.” Follow the instructions that appear on the display.
• Creatista Pro or Plus: Enter the maintenance part of your menu on your display. Select the empty cycle option and follow the instructions displayed.

Other Steps To Take After Emptying Nespresso Machine

After emptying your Nespresso machine, follow these additional steps before leaving it in storage:

1. Unplug the machine from the wall outlet.
2. Wash the capsule container with soap and water, then dry it.
3. Empty the drip tray. Wash it with soap and warm water. Dry it completely.
4. Dump any remaining water from the water reservoir. Rinse the tank with fresh water and then dry it.

Tips for Properly Maintaining Nespresso Machines:

1. Regular Cleaning Schedule Cleaning your Nespresso machine regularly will ensure it remains in optimal working condition. You can clean the machine by wiping the exterior with a damp cloth. Additionally, descale the machine every three months to remove any mineral buildup. A descaling kit is available at the Nespresso store or online.
2. Descale the Machine as Needed The Nespresso machine has a descaling warning light that indicates when the machine requires descaling. If the light is on, you should descale the machine to ensure it continues to work correctly. The descaling process usually involves mixing the descaling solution with water and running the machine to flush the solution through the machine’s internal system.
3. Avoid Using Vinegar or Other Acidic Solutions While vinegar may be an effective cleaning agent for many household items, it can be harmful to the Nespresso machine’s internal system. It can cause corrosion and damage to the machine. Therefore, it is essential to use Nespresso’s recommended cleaning solution.

FAQs

Can I reuse Nespresso capsules?

No, Nespresso capsules are designed for single use only. Reusing the capsules can cause damage to the machine’s internal system and affect the coffee’s taste.

How often should I empty the Nespresso machine?

It answer is subjective and depends upon the size of the drip tray and capsule container that your Nespresso machine has. For example, the Essenza Mini capsule container can hold up to 4 to 6 capsules so it is recommended to empty Essenza Mini after every 5 uses. Additionally, the water tank should be emptied and cleaned every few days.

Can I use a dishwasher to clean the machine parts?

It is not recommended to clean the Nespresso machine parts in the dishwasher. The high temperature and water pressure can damage the machine’s internal system. Instead, clean the parts manually with a soft cloth and warm water.

What should I do if the machine doesn’t turn on?

If the Nespresso machine does not turn on, ensure that it is plugged in and turned on. If it still does not turn on, contact Nespresso customer service for assistance.

Final Thoughts

With these simple steps, now you know how to empty Nespresso machines and ensure that your coffee machine will be ready to use when you need it again.

Emptying a Nespresso machine is an essential aspect of its maintenance. This ensures that the machine continues to work correctly and produces high-quality coffee each day.

It is also important to store your Nespresso pods in a cool, dry, and dark place to preserve their freshness.

Read More:

• How To Descale Nespresso Vertuo Next
• How To Descale Nespresso VertuoLine
• What Does Nespresso Red Light Means