Last Updated on October 14, 2023 by Timothy Byron Smith
Is your Nespresso machine not working and being a brat? Are you unable to get your daily dose of caffeine fix? Well, your problems are about to be solved in no longer than a jiffy! We understand the coffee cravings. And not being able to satisfy these cravings can really put a damper on the mood.
So, to make sure no coffee lover goes without their usual caffeine doses we have listed down all your solutions. What do you have to do? Simply scroll and find the kind of tantrum your Nespresso machine is throwing and you’ll find the solution with it!
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Nespresso Machine Not Working: Potential Reasons for It
You know how every blog, every article, guidebook, manual, and whatnot emphasize the importance of coffee machine maintenance? That’s because it is super super essential! Frequently and timely descaling the Nespresso machine is crucial for its smooth functioning.
Many of the Nespresso machine issues stem from a lack of maintenance of the machine. Either it’s got a residue built up somewhere in the system or another such issue. Otherwise, it could be faulty wiring, a non-functioning power socket, or another technical issue. Regardless, you are concerned with fixing it and so are we!
Some common problems due to which your Nespresso machine might not be working are the following:
- Nespresso machine failing to properly pump water
- The machine turns on and abruptly stops
- Clogged up Nespresso coffee machine
- Failure to effectively heat up
- No coffee or too much coffee being dispensed
- Nespresso machine not piercing capsules or puncturing pods
- Nespresso Light flashing
How to Fix “Nespresso Machine Not Working” Problems?
For the most part, you can easily fix many of the problems in your Nespresso machine. Mostly because many of the problems arise from improper cleaning or disturbed settings, etc. All these can be easily fixed.
So, here are the solutions to the problems that might be causing your Nespresso machine to malfunction. Once you fix these, get ready to start brewing all the popular espresso drinks once again!
1. Nespresso Machine Failing to Properly Pump Water
If your machine isn’t pumping water it is likely because of two reasons. Either the water reservoir has run out of water or there are air bubbles in the machine. Air bubbles can form if you mistakenly let the machine run on a dry water tank or if it hasn’t been used for a long time.
It is super easy to fix this issue. All you have to do is run water through the coffee machine without any capsule or pod. This helps in pushing out the air bubbles. Typically, you only need to do it once. However, if there are a lot of air bubbles you will need to repeat the process a couple of times.
Here are the steps to pumping air bubbles out of your machine:
- Fill up the water tank and secure it in place
- Turn on the machine and leave the capsules lever open
- Once the machine warms up, press the lungo or espresso button.
- You will hear a pumping noise. Keep your eyes on the capsule compartment.
- You will notice water or steam come out of the compartment. If nothing comes out on the first try, repeat steps 3 and 4 a couple of times.
- After some tries, you will see water coming out into the capsule compartment.
- Close the capsule lever and purge your machine a couple more times and you are good to go!
2. The Machine Turns On and Abruptly Stops
If you are facing an issue where your Nespresso machine starts and abruptly stops, you could have a grinding problem. This problem can occur if the coffee has been ground too fine. Coffee beans for espresso are supposed to be coarse ground.
So, in order to fix this problem make sure you are correctly grinding your coffee beans. Additionally, descaling the machine can also help. However, if the problem persists do not hesitate to contact the support center.
Recommended Read: Best Espresso Beans To Satisfy Your Taste Buds
3. Clogged Up Nespresso Machine
Nespresso urges its users to descale their Nespresso machines after every 6 months or after brewing 300 Nespresso capsules. Whichever may come first. Failing to do so creates problems such as gunked-up Nespresso machines that just won’t function properly.
First of all, perform a thorough descaling of the Nespresso machine. Remove the pods and capsules, and fill the water tank with water and the descaling solution. Now start descaling your Nespresso machine.
Another thing you can do to ensure perfect unclogging is to manually unclog the openings. For instance, you can use a straightened-out paper clip or a pipe cleaner to scrub the inside of the spouts. Moreover, you can use an old toothbrush to scrub the capsule system as well. Once you do this, run water through the machine a couple of times to rinse it.
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4. Failure to Effectively Heat Up
First figure out the difference between the heating issues. Are all your coffees coming out cold or are they just not as hot as they used to be? In the case of the latter, the solution is our good old descaling.
Accumulation of sediment and coffee residue can cause heating problems. So, descaling a couple of times can clear up the machine and give it ample time to heat up. However, if the issue is the former where the coffee just doesn’t heat up then the problem is likely with the thermoblock or the thermostat.
You will probably have to get these parts replaced or looked up by an expert.
5. No Coffee or Too Much Coffee Being Dispensed
The extraction time for espresso is typically between 25 to 35 seconds. At this time the Nespresso machine should produce about 40 ml of coffee. However, if your machine is taking longer than 40 seconds or less than 20 or you’re getting differing volumes of coffee you might have mistakenly reprogrammed the machine.
A likely cause of this can be pressing the stop button before the machine has completed its pouring cycle. Simply factory reset Nespresso Vertuo machine and you’ll be back to the original extraction timings and volumes.
6. Nespresso Machine Not Piercing Capsules or Puncturing Pods
One of the gravest issues with a Nespresso machine is if it isn’t piercing those pods or capsules. If the machine does not puncture them then the coffee won’t come out. Or it will only come out in very small quantities so you will not be getting that cup of much-needed coffee.
If you are facing this problem firstly check the capsule system. Check for the puncturing needle because sometimes it can break or bend and you won’t notice till the pods are not being punctured. You will need to replace the needle in case it’s damaged.
Secondly, make sure you are using pods and capsules compatible with the Nespresso machine. Most recent models are only compatible with Nespresso pods and no other non-Nespresso brands. Plus there are some of the best Nespresso pods out there for your espresso drinks to try out.
7. Nespresso Light flashing
Nespresso blinking orange can mean many things. From indicating that the machine is heating up to alerting you to a much-needed descaling time, there can be many meanings. So, referring to the manual can immensely help you understand blinking.
However, one of the most common causes for the blinking is either a signal that your machine is in a descaling mode or it is alerting a decalcification warning. To stop this, hold the start button down for about 7 seconds and it should stop.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is my Nespresso not pumping enough water?
One reason for that could be an empty or almost empty water tank. Another reason could be the formation of air bubbles in your machine’s system. Run water through the machine a couple of times without any pods or capsules to solve this issue.
2. Why is Nespresso blinking orange after descaling?
Orange blinking light after descaling means your machine needs to cool down.. Simply press the power button for three seconds to turn it off and press it again to turn it on. Now, wait about 20 minutes to an hour to allow the machine to cool.
3. How long does a Nespresso machine last?
With proper care and timely maintenance, Nespresso machines can last up to 5 to 10 years. These machines are made of quality material and the best technology to last you a long time.
4. Why does my Nespresso machine stop working after a few seconds?
The common reason for this is either because they require descaling or they need to be reset to default factory settings.
Final Words
So, if you are struggling with a Nespresso machine not working, it is likely due to a lack of descaling. You have no idea the kind of problems a clogged-up and dirty machine can create. So, if you wish to avoid a malfunctioning Nespresso machine, descale it on time and use it with care. This way, you will not go a day without your usual caffeine fix!
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