Keurig Won’t Turn On After Descaling – Here Is Why!

Last Updated on September 22, 2023 by Timothy Byron Smith

If you’ve ever encountered the frustrating issue of your Keurig coffee maker declining to spring to life after a descaling procedure, you’re not alone. Many Keurig users have reported this issue, and it’s just as perplexing as Keurig lights blinking. If you’re facing blinking lights, you can find helpful information in our guide on Keurig lights blinking.

This predicament has left many Keurig users perplexed, especially those relying on models such as the Keurig K-Supreme, K-Express, and K-Slim. However, worry not, for we have a clear and comprehensive solution. In this guide, we will meticulously walk you through the troubleshooting steps required to revive your coffee-making companion.

Recommended Read:

• Keurig Coffee Not Hot Enough
• Does Keurig Boil Water
• How to Make Espresso with Keurig

The Culprit: Malfunctioning “Add Water” Indicator

The crux of this issue rests with the misbehavior of the “add water” indicator. When this component malfunctions, the heating element becomes unable to draw water, resulting in overheating and the eventual tripping of the thermal switch. The solution? Resetting the thermal switch is the key to reviving your dormant Keurig. We’ll delve into the step-by-step process of achieving this.

For more detailed information on Keurig descaling and maintenance, you can refer to the Keurig Descaling and Maintenance Guide.

Part I: Disassembly – Unveiling the Keurig’s Inner Workings

To effectively address this issue, we must embark on a journey of disassembling your Keurig. While the disassembly process shares similarities across newer Keurig models, where the side cover attaches to the base using pins, we’ll provide specific disassembly instructions for the Keurig K-Supreme models.

Disassembling the Keurig K-Supreme: A Detailed Guide

Step 1: Prepare and Safeguard

• Unplug your Keurig and remove the water reservoir.

Step 2: The Pinpoint Mission

• Identify the six small pins securing the side cover to the base.

Step 3: Release and Lift

• Employ a screwdriver to unhook these pins while gently lifting the side cover.
• Occasionally open and close the lid to facilitate complete removal.

Disassembling the Keurig K-Supreme Plus: A Closer Look

Step 1: Preparations

• Unplug your Keurig and remove the water reservoir.

Step 2: Top Cover Liberation

• Employ a flathead screwdriver to detach the top cover, which is interconnected with the side cover through small pins. Carefully pry them apart.

Step 3: Side Cover Separation

• Lift the section of the side cover where the water tank typically attaches.
• Use a screwdriver to unhook the remaining pins securing the side cover to the base.

Part II: Resetting the Thermal Switch – Breathing Life into Your Keurig

Within your Keurig, seek out the small white cap adorned with a central hole and wires extending from each side. Typically nestled on the right side of the spiral heating element when viewed from the front, this cap holds the key to reawakening your coffee maker. If you’re curious about how long Keurigs last or the lifespan of various Keurig models, you can check out our article on how long do Keurig last. With a paperclip, needle, or toothpick in hand, gently push into the central hole. Although you won’t hear a distinct click, rest assured that the coffee maker is now reset and ready to ignite once more.

Part III: Testing the Waters – Is Your Keurig Ready to Brew Again?

With your Keurig plugged back in, press the power button. Ideally, your coffee maker should hum back to life. In such a scenario, reassemble the Keurig, and you’ll be savoring your favorite brew in no time. However, if the issue persists or if the Keurig powers off shortly after turning on, it could indicate a more profound issue that necessitates professional attention.

Part IV: Preventing a Recurrence – Taming the Descaling Process

Preventing the problem’s recurrence hinges on managing the descaling program, which occasionally drains water without activating the “add water” light, resulting in heating element overheating. Here’s how to ensure this doesn’t happen again:

Monitor Water Levels

Keep a vigilant eye on the water level during descaling.

Intervene When Necessary

When the water level drops to just below an inch, turn off the Keurig.

Restart Smartly

After a minute, turn the Keurig back on and commence the descaling cycle with a fully filled water tank.

Troubleshoot the Descale Light

Refer to our comprehensive guide on why is Keurig flashing lights if needed.

Conclusion: Savoring Your Coffee Anew

Facing a Keurig that refuses to power up after descaling can be a trying ordeal. The disassembly process, in particular, can seem daunting. However, with vigilance during the descaling process and the step-by-step guidance provided here, you can minimize the chances of this issue recurring.

In summary:

• The “add water” light malfunction can lead to heating element overheating.
• This results in the Keurig’s inability to draw water, causing the thermal switch to trip.
• By resetting the thermal switch, you can resurrect your Keurig, ensuring that your coffee always brews to perfection.

Here’s to your Keurig being back in action, and may your coffee always be brewed to perfection!

Timothy Byron Smith

Tim is the author and webmaster of this blog. He is a coffee aficionado who has always strived to succeed by simplifying the many facets of the coffee business into engaging and informative writing. In addition to helping readers discover their next brew, he intends to educate them about espresso and coffee.