If you are a coffee lover, chances are you own a Keurig coffee maker. Keurig coffee makers are known for their convenience and ease of use, allowing you to brew a cup of coffee with just a touch of a button. However, like any other appliance, Keurig coffee makers require regular maintenance to ensure the best performance and longevity. One essential maintenance task is emptying the internal tank of your Keurig machine. In this article, we will discuss why it is important to empty the Keurig internal tank, the steps to do so, and the tools you will need for the task.
Quick Answer: How To Empty Keurig Internal Tank
To empty the internal tank of your Keurig coffee maker, follow these steps:
- Turn off and unplug your Keurig coffee maker.
- Lift the water reservoir lid located on top of the machine.
- Remove the water reservoir by lifting it straight up and away from the Keurig machine.
- Empty the water from the reservoir into the sink or drain.
- Rinse the reservoir with clean water to remove any impurities or residue.
- Wipe the reservoir dry with a clean cloth.
- Refill the reservoir with fresh water, ensuring it is properly seated on the machine.
- Reattach the water reservoir to the Keurig machine, ensuring it is securely in place.
- Plug in and turn on the Keurig coffee maker.
- Run a brewing cycle without a K-Cup to flush out any remaining water in the internal tank.
- Once the brewing cycle is complete, your Keurig machine is ready to use again.
Reasons To Empty The Keurig Internal Tank
Emptying the internal tank of your Keurig coffee maker is an essential maintenance task that should be performed regularly. Here are a few reasons why it is important:
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Prevent Build-Up: Over time, minerals and impurities from water can accumulate in the internal tank of your Keurig machine. These build-ups can affect the taste and quality of your coffee while also impacting the performance and longevity of your coffee maker. By emptying the internal tank regularly, you can prevent the build-up of these deposits and ensure optimal performance.
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Maintain Cleanliness: The internal tank of your Keurig coffee maker can provide a breeding ground for mold, bacteria, and other contaminants if not properly cleaned. By emptying the tank, you can remove any remaining water and prevent the growth of unwanted substances. This helps maintain the cleanliness of your coffee maker and ensures that you are brewing coffee in a hygienic environment.
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Fresh Taste: If water sits stagnant in the internal tank for extended periods, it can affect the taste of your coffee. By regularly emptying the tank and refilling it with fresh water, you can guarantee that your coffee will have a clean and fresh taste every time you brew.
Required Tools To Empty Keurig Internal Tank
To empty the internal tank of your Keurig coffee maker, you will need a few basic tools:
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Clean Cloth: A clean, lint-free cloth will be needed to dry the water reservoir after rinsing and cleaning.
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Water Source: You will need access to a water source, preferably a sink, to empty and rinse the water reservoir.
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Fresh Water: It is important to have access to clean, fresh water to refill the water reservoir after emptying.
By having these tools ready, you can easily and effectively empty the internal tank of your Keurig coffee maker.
Regularly emptying the internal tank of your Keurig coffee maker is a necessary maintenance task to ensure the optimal performance, cleanliness, and taste of your brewed coffee. By following the steps outlined in this article and using the required tools, you can easily empty the internal tank and maintain your Keurig machine effectively. Remember to perform this task regularly to prevent build-up, maintain cleanliness, and enjoy a fresh cup of coffee every time you brew with your Keurig coffee maker.
Step-by-Step Guide On How To Empty Keurig Internal Tank
Keurig machines are popular in many households all over the world because they brew coffee quickly and efficiently. However, many people tend to overlook one crucial aspect of maintaining these machines: emptying the internal tank. The internal tank is the part of the Keurig that holds water until it is used to make coffee.
Before we start, it is important to note that emptying the internal tank is not the same as descaling the Keurig machine. Descaling is a process where you clean the mineral buildup in your machine using vinegar or a descaling solution and water. Emptying the internal tank, however, is simply the process of removing all water from the water reservoir. If you are unsure if you need to descale your machine, refer to the instructions manual that came with your Keurig machine.
Now, let us dive into the steps to empty the internal tank of your Keurig machine:
Preparing Your Keurig For The Internal Tank Emptying Process
Before we start the process of emptying the internal tank, you will need to make sure that your Keurig machine is cool and unplugged. Also, make sure to remove any remaining coffee pods from the machine.
Shutting Off Your Keurig Machine To Get Ready For The Task
Once you have prepared your machine, the next step is to shut it off completely. To do this, locate the power button on your Keurig machine and press it until the machine shuts off completely.
Removing The Water Reservoir
After you have shut off your machine, the next step is to remove the water reservoir from the Keurig machine. The water reservoir is a detachable part that sits at the back of the machine. To remove it, gently lift it off the machine and set it aside.
Emptying The Water Reservoir
With the water reservoir removed, you can turn it over and pour out the remaining water. Make sure to pour the water away from any electrical components of your Keurig machine. It is also a good idea to rinse the water reservoir with warm, soapy water to ensure it is completely clean.
Reattaching The Water Reservoir
Once you have emptied the water reservoir, it is time to reattach it to your Keurig machine. To do this, simply slide the water reservoir back into the Keurig machine until it clicks into place.
Turning On Your Keurig Machine
Finally, it is time to turn your Keurig machine back on. To do this, locate the power button on your machine and press it until the machine powers up. Once the machine is turned on, it will begin heating up, and you will be ready to start brewing your next cup of coffee.
Emptying the internal tank of your Keurig machine is an easy process that should be performed regularly to avoid any potential issues. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you have learned how to empty the internal tank of your Keurig machine quickly and easily. Remember to only empty the water reservoir, not the entire machine, and to always refer to your instruction manual to learn about any additional maintenance tasks that your machine may require.
Removing The Keurig Internal Tank
The internal tank of a Keurig coffee maker holds and heats the water for brewing. Over time, mineral deposits, coffee oils, and bacteria can accumulate in the tank, affecting the taste and quality of the coffee. Therefore, it is crucial to empty and clean the internal tank regularly to maintain the performance and flavor of your Keurig machine.
Before you begin, make sure to gather all the necessary supplies including a dishrag, soap, and a small brush, such as a toothbrush, as well as white vinegar, and a clean, dry cloth. To start the process of emptying the Keurig internal tank, follow these steps:
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Unplug the Keurig: To ensure safety, unplug the Keurig coffee maker from the power source before attempting to remove the internal tank.
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Remove the Water Reservoir: Lift and remove the water reservoir from the Keurig coffee maker. Ensure that it is empty, and set it aside for cleaning later.
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Open the Lid: Lift the lid of the Keurig coffee maker to access the internal components.
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Locate the Internal Tank: Inside the Keurig, you will find the internal tank at the bottom of the machine. It is a rectangular or circular compartment where water is stored.
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Empty the Internal Tank: Carefully pour any remaining water from the internal tank into the sink. Tilt the machine to ensure all the water is drained out.
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Inspect the Internal Tank: Take a moment to inspect the internal tank for any visible mineral deposits or debris. If there are any significant deposits, they will need to be cleaned using the appropriate methods outlined in the next section.
Cleaning The Keurig Internal Tank
Once the internal tank is empty, it’s essential to thoroughly clean it to remove any accumulated mineral deposits and bacteria. Here’s how you can effectively clean the Keurig internal tank:
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Prepare a Cleaning Solution: Mix a solution of one-part white vinegar to one-part water. The acidic nature of vinegar helps to dissolve mineral deposits and remove bacteria.
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Soak a Cloth or Sponge: Dip a clean cloth or sponge into the vinegar solution and wring out any excess liquid.
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Wipe the Internal Tank: Gently wipe the interior of the internal tank with the vinegar-soaked cloth or sponge, paying special attention to areas with visible mineral deposits or discoloration. Allow the vinegar solution to sit in the tank for a few minutes to break down any stubborn deposits.
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Scrub the Tank: If there are stubborn mineral deposits or coffee oils, use a small brush, such as a toothbrush, to scrub the interior of the tank, applying gentle pressure to remove the buildup.
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Rinse the Tank: After the tank has been thoroughly scrubbed and wiped with the vinegar solution, rinse it with clean water to remove any remaining vinegar and debris. Ensure that all traces of vinegar are thoroughly rinsed out to prevent any residual taste in your coffee.
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Dry the Tank: Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe the interior of the tank and absorb any remaining moisture. Ensure that the tank is completely dry before reassembling it into the Keurig coffee maker.
Reassembling The Keurig Internal Tank
Once the internal tank is clean and dry, it’s time to reassemble it into the Keurig coffee maker. Follow these steps to securely place the internal tank back into the machine:
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Position the Internal Tank: Carefully position the clean and dry internal tank back into its designated space within the Keurig coffee maker, ensuring it fits securely and snugly.
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Replace the Water Reservoir: The water reservoir can now be placed back onto the Keurig, ensuring it is properly seated and secured.
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Close the Lid: Lower the lid of the Keurig coffee maker to secure the internal components in place.
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Plug in the Keurig: Once the internal tank is securely positioned and the water reservoir is in place, plug the Keurig back into the power source.
Regularly emptying and cleaning the internal tank of your Keurig coffee maker is crucial for ensuring the quality and performance of your machine. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can effectively remove, clean, and reassemble the internal tank, ensuring that your coffee is always fresh, flavorful, and free from any unwanted tastes or odors. With proper maintenance, your Keurig coffee maker will continue to provide delicious beverages for years to come.
Restoring Your Keurig To Its Normal Functioning After Emptying The Internal Tank
The Keurig coffee machine has become a staple in many households and offices for its convenience and ability to brew a delicious cup of coffee or tea in a matter of minutes. However, over time, the internal tank of the Keurig can accumulate mineral deposits, coffee residue, and other impurities that can affect the taste and quality of your beverages. In order to maintain the performance of your Keurig, it is important to periodically empty the internal tank and clean it thoroughly.
Emptying the internal tank of your Keurig machine can be a straightforward process, but it does require some careful steps to ensure that it is done correctly.
Step 1: Power Off The Machine And Unplug It
Before you begin emptying the internal tank of your Keurig, it is crucial to turn off the machine and unplug it from the power source. Safety should always be your top priority when working with electrical appliances.
Step 2: Remove The Water Reservoir
The water reservoir is the removable container on the back or side of your Keurig machine that holds the water. To remove it, simply lift it out of the machine. Be careful not to spill any water that may be inside the reservoir.
Step 3: Empty The Water Reservoir
Once you have removed the water reservoir, carefully empty its contents into the sink. This water may contain impurities and should not be reused. After emptying the reservoir, rinse it with clean water to remove any remaining residue.
Step 4: Remove The Water Filter (if Applicable)
If your Keurig machine is equipped with a water filter, it is important to remove it before proceeding with the next steps. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to remove the water filter safely.
Step 5: Remove The K-cup Holder
The K-cup holder is the part of the Keurig machine where you insert the coffee or tea pod. To remove it, lift the handle on the front of the machine and carefully pull out the K-cup holder. Take note of how the K-cup holder is positioned so that you can easily put it back in later.
Step 6: Empty The Internal Tank
Now that you have removed the water reservoir, water filter, and K-cup holder, it is time to empty the internal tank of your Keurig. This is where the water from the reservoir is stored before it is heated and brewed. To empty the internal tank, simply turn the machine upside down over a sink or a large container. Gently tap on the bottom of the machine to release any trapped water.
Step 7: Rinse The Internal Tank
After emptying the internal tank, it is important to rinse it thoroughly to remove any leftover residue or impurities. You can do this by filling the tank with clean water and swirling it around to dislodge any debris. Repeat this process a few times until the water runs clear.
Step 8: Dry The Internal Tank
Once you have rinsed the internal tank, allow it to air dry completely before reassembling your Keurig machine. It is important to ensure that no moisture is left behind to prevent the growth of mold or bacteria.
Step 9: Reassemble Your Keurig Machine
After the internal tank has dried, it is time to reassemble your Keurig machine. Start by inserting the K-cup holder back into its original position. Ensure that it is securely in place before moving on. Next, reattach the water filter (if applicable) and place the water reservoir back into the machine. Make sure it is properly aligned and seated.
Step 10: Run A Cleansing Brew
To ensure that any remaining residue or impurities are flushed out of your Keurig, it is recommended to run a few cleansing brew cycles. Fill the water reservoir with clean water and brew without inserting a K-cup. Discard the brewed water and repeat this process a few times until the water runs clear.
Tips For Maintaining Your Keurig Machine
After emptying the internal tank of your Keurig and restoring it to its normal functioning, it is important to follow these tips to maintain the performance and longevity of your machine:
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Regularly clean your Keurig machine: In addition to emptying the internal tank, it is important to regularly clean the exterior and other removable parts of your Keurig. Wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth and clean the water reservoir, K-cup holder, and drip tray with warm soapy water. Rinse and dry them thoroughly before reassembling.
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Descale your Keurig: Over time, mineral deposits can build up inside your Keurig machine, affecting its performance and taste. Descale your Keurig every 3 to 6 months using a descaling solution or a mixture of vinegar and water. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for descaling your specific model.
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Use filtered or bottled water: Using filtered or bottled water can help reduce the buildup of mineral deposits and impurities in your Keurig machine. It can also improve the taste and quality of your beverages.
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Avoid using oily or flavored K-cups: Oily or flavored K-cups can leave residue inside your Keurig machine and clog the brewing system. Stick to regular coffee or tea pods to prevent any potential issues.
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Store your Keurig properly: When not in use, store your Keurig machine in a clean and dry place to prevent dust, dirt, and moisture from accumulating. Ensure that the machine is completely dry before storing it to avoid the growth of mold or bacteria.
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Follow the manufacturer’s instructions: Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning, maintenance, and troubleshooting specific to your Keurig model. They will provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Conclusion
Emptying the internal tank of your Keurig machine is an essential task to maintain its performance and ensure the quality of your beverages. By following the steps outlined in this guide and implementing regular cleaning and maintenance practices, you can enjoy many cups of delicious coffee or tea from your Keurig for years to come. Remember to always follow safety precautions and consult the manufacturer’s instructions for specific guidance on your model. Cheers to a clean and well-functioning Keurig!
FAQS
How Do I Empty The Internal Tank Of My Keurig Coffee Maker?
To empty the internal tank, first remove the water reservoir from the machine and discard any remaining water. Then, turn off and unplug the coffee maker. Open the lid of the machine and remove the K-Cup holder. You will see a small, circular opening on the bottom surface of the area where the holder sits. Simply tilt the machine over a sink or container to let any remaining water drain out through this opening.
Can I Leave Water In My Keurig’s Internal Tank?
It is not recommended to leave water in the internal tank for long periods of time. Standing water can promote the growth of bacteria or mold, which can affect the taste and quality of your coffee. It is best to empty the tank after each use.
Why Is It Important To Empty The Internal Tank Of My Keurig?
Emptying the internal tank of your Keurig helps to prevent the buildup of bacteria or mold and ensures that your coffee is always made with fresh, clean water. It also helps to maintain the longevity and performance of your machine.
How Often Should I Empty The Internal Tank Of My Keurig?
It is recommended to empty the internal tank after each use to prevent the growth of bacteria or mold. If you do not use your Keurig regularly, it is recommended to empty and clean the tank at least once a week.
Is There Anything Else I Should Do When Emptying The Internal Tank Of My Keurig?
After emptying the tank, it is a good idea to wipe down the inside of the machine with a damp cloth to remove any residue or buildup. You can also run a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar through your machine to help clean and descale it. Refer to your Keurig’s manual for specific cleaning instructions.
