When you’re sleepy and under-caffeinated, the last thing you want is a Keurig that it’s not working. It can happen though. Machines get a lot of daily use so they can develop clogs, leaks and that can cause the system to quit completely.
But, don’t worry – there are some common Keurig problems that can easily be solved. To help with that, I’ve compiled a list of Keurig problems we see most often, along with some effective solutions.
CLASSIC SERIES MODELS
No matter if you have a classic series Keurig or Keurig 2.0, the potential issues are usually the same: Keurig won’t turn on, won’t brew, it’s not brewing a full cup, not dispensing water, it won’t heat, the machine shuts off for no reason or you’re getting grounds in the cup. How to fix a Keurig? Let’s start with classic series models:
1. Brewing a partial cup, not dispensing water, grounds in the cup
If a Keurig is brewing a partial cup, you’re getting grounds in the cup or it’s not brewing at all, cleaning and descaling can help bring your machine back to life. This includes cleaning/ descaling the unit and cleaning both exit needles.
Here’s a detailed guide on how to clean a Keurig. If you have 2.0 model, here’s how to clean Keurig 2.0.
2. Keurig won’t brew
When Keurig says descale but won’t brew, you should descale the brewer.
If you’re not getting the descale message but Keurig still won’t brew and it’s not pumping water try these fixes:
1. Unplug the brewer and plug it back in.
2. Lift and put back the water tank to make sure it’s placed properly.
3. If it still won’t work, the tank is placed properly and there’s enough water in the reservoir, try cleaning the reservoir. Hand wash with mild soap and non-abrasive cloth and rinse thoroughly. Check and clean the hose/ valve at the bottom of the tank and on the machine where the tank goes. This valve can sometimes get clogged and cause problems.
3. Clean top and bottom exit needle using a paper clip to make sure they are not clogged with grounds.
4. Try the tap method: remove the tank, turn the machine upside down and tap the bottom a few times.
If nothing helps, it’s time to call Keurig Customer Service.
3. Keurig shuts off or turns on for no reason
Check the Auto ON/OFF option and make sure that the timer has not been set. Keurig Mini will normally shut off when not working for longer than 90 seconds. To restart press Power button.
For Keurig Elite: If the green Auto off light is illuminated, the brewer will turn off two hours after the last brew. To disable, press the black Auto off button (the green light will turn off).
Special Edition and Platinum: To turn off the auto-off feature, press menu twice to enter auto off programming mode. Press small cup button (left button) several times until it says “off”.
If the brewer shuts off in the middle of a brew, please contact Keurig Customer Service.
4. Add water Keurig issue
If there’s enough water in the water reservoir, the reservoir is placed properly, but you’re still having “add water” issues, try cleaning the reservoir.
Remove the water reservoir and discard the water. Hand wash it with mild soap and non-abrasive cloth and rinse. Check and clean the valve at the bottom of the tank and on the machine where the tank goes. The valve can sometimes get clogged and this can cause problems. Fill the tank again to the MAX fill line (you can use tap, bottled or filtered water, do not use softened water) and return to the unit.
Make sure to clean both exit needles as well.
5. Keurig won’t stop pumping the water
If Keurig won’t stop pumping the water from the moment you turn it on until you turn it off, try this fix: unplug the machine, remove the reservoir, turn the machine upside down, shake slightly and tap the bottom a few times. I know it sounds silly but it often helps.
If you’re using distilled water, switch to tap, filtered or bottled water – this should fix the problem. It’s not recommended to use distilled or softened water in Keurig coffee makers.
6. keurig descale light
If the red descale light on K50 turns on, you should descale it.
7. Keurig won’t turn on
If a Keurig won’t power on, here’s what you need to test: make sure that the brewer is plugged in correctly. Plug in a different appliance to make sure it works in the same outlet. If it doesn’t work, it could be an issue with the outlet. Plug in the brewer into a different kitchen outlet to see if it will work. Ensure that the power button is pushed to turn on the brewer. On Keurig 2.0, tap the power icon on the lower right of the screen once.
If the brewer still won’t power on, you need to call Customer service to help you troubleshoot your machine.
8. Keurig leaking while heating
When Keurig leaks while preheating, the machine might be clogged. Try cleaning both exit needles and the k-cup holder. Also, check the valve at the bottom of the water tank to make sure it’s clean and looks fine. You can also try the tap method: turn off it off, remove the water tank, turn the machine upside down shake it a bit and tap the bottom a few times. Put everything back. If nothing is clogged but the machine still leaks, it’s probably the hose or valve inside the machine and you will need to call Keurig customer service.
9. keurig leaking from the bottom
When there’s water leaking from the bottom, the problem is usually either the rubber band at the bottom of the water reservoir (just under the water filter) or the tear on the hose or seal inside the machine. If it’s an o-ring, you can easily replace it with a new one (here’s a tutorial on how to replace o-ring on Keurig machine). If it’s the hose or the seal inside the machine, you must disassemble the machine which I don’t recommend. In that case, please call Keurig customer service for further assistance.
KEURIG 2.0 TROUBLESHOOTING
1. How to set up Keurig 2.0 brewer
You will find a step-by-step guide in the manual and it’s important to follow all the steps correctly.
1. plug in the brewer
2. lift the handle and remove the shipping disk
3. rinse the water reservoir, fill with water and return to the unit
4. press the Power button and wait to preheat (needs approximately 3 minutes)
5. now, you need to run a cleansing brew. place a mug on the drip tray, open and close the handle without inserting the k-cup, select 6-ounce setting and press brew. when finished, get a clean cup and use your brewer to make coffee.
2. Keurig 2.0 won’t brew / Keurig 2.0 not dispensing water
First, make sure to wait long enough. The heating process may last about 3 minutes, so be patient. If nothing happens after this time, then make sure that:
1. The water reservoir is placed properly and there is enough water in the reservoir;
2. The handle is lowered completely and you have the brew setting screen.
If everything seems fine, the water reservoir is in place, brew button has been pressed and nothing happens for more than 5 minutes, call customer service to help you troubleshoot your brewer.
3. Keurig 2.0 won’t turn on
To turn on Keurig 2.0 plug in the brewer, then press and hold the power button (the power icon will appear in the bottom right corner of the touchscreen). You should see a welcome! note. If it doesn’t turn on you can do few things: Check to make sure that the brewer is plugged securely, unplug and plug in the brewer, plug the brewer into a different outlet. As the last step, Keurig even recommends resetting your home’s circuit breaker just in case. If nothing works, then you should definitely call Keurig customer service.
4. Keurig 2.0 add water /more water please error
Refill the water reservoir to the max fill. You can also remove and place the reservoir back to the unit to make sure it’s placed properly. Press continue.
If there’s enough water in the water reservoir, the reservoir is placed properly, but you’re still getting this error here’s what you can do. Remove the water reservoir and empty the water. Clean the reservoir by hand using soap and non-abrasive cloth and rinse thoroughly (not dishwasher safe). Check the valve at the bottom of the tank and on the machine where the tank goes. The valve can sometimes get clogged and this can cause problems.
When done, fill the reservoir to the max fill and return to the unit, and make sure it’s seated properly. If it doesn’t work, it’s time for customer service.
5. Keurig 2.0 trickle while brewing
It has to do something with its new brewing technology, but it’s absolutely normal for a new Keurig 2.0 not to dispense water in a stream but to trickle coffee. As long as you get a selected beverage size at the end, it’s fine. If you’re getting only partial cups try cleaning exit needles and descaling the machine.
6. Keurig 2.0 shuts off for no reason
Make sure that there is enough water in the reservoir and refill if needed. If that seems fine, check the energy saver option for K350 or auto on/off option for K450 and K550.
For K350 go to settings, energy saver and turn off this option. Press save to confirm and then use back to return to the settings menu.
For K450 and K550 go to settings menu, then auto off or energy saving option, just uncheck the little box next to enable option. Don’t forget to press save to confirm.
If auto off/energy saving mode is disabled but brewer still turns off on its own, please contact Customer Service.
7. Water under pressure
The “water under pressure” issue usually indicates the problem with the exit needle. Carefully open the handle, take out the pod and clean the exit needle. You can clean exit needles using a paper clip or you can use Keurig maintenance accessory. If this happens more than once or twice in a row, or cleaning isn’t helping anymore (that’s possible too) please do not disassemble the unit and try fixing it on your own, but call customer service for assistance instead.
Here’s how to clean exit needle on Keurig 2.0.
8. How to use non-branded k-cups in Keurig 2.0
Keurig 2.0 brewers only work with Keurig branded k-cups or more precisely – the one with updated labels. Keurig 2.0 scanner won’t brew old Keurig branded k-cups (the one without an outer ring and Keurig brewed seal), non-Keurig brand packs or old type of reusable k-cups. However, there are few things that you can do to brew any k-cup brand in Keurig 2.0:
1. You can cut the top of updated Keurig branded k-cup or k-carafe and attach it on top of non-branded k-cup.
2. Cut the left side of the updated label and attach it to the left side of any k-cup you want to brew
3. You can even buy special stickers ($5.00) for this purpose
4. You can attach a part of the label over the scanner itself.
If you want to use your own coffee in Keurig 2.0 or you simply prefer eco-friendly options, you can purchase Keurig 2.0 reusable filter for $8.00. This filter works with all 2.0 series brewers and it’s optimized for brewing a k-cup size (4 – 12 ounce). If you want to brew your own coffee as a carafe, you can get a reusable carafe filter.
9. Keurig 2.0 stuck on preheating
The machine needs about 3 minutes to do an initial preheating. If the process takes longer, then it’s possible that something is wrong with the machine. Unplug and plug in the brewer again to repeat the process, just in case. Make sure that the water reservoir is in place and there is enough water in the tank. If everything seems fine but still nothing happens, it’s recommended to call Keurig customer service.
There is a fix that worked for some of my readers. You unplug the machine, fill the tank with hot water and turn the machine back on. The machine should recognize hot water and start working again. Please note, Keurig only recommends adding cold water in the tank, so while the fix usually helps please use it at your own risk.
10. Keurig 2.0 auto on won’t work
The brewer will not sometimes brew if there’s not enough water in the reservoir. Also, if you lift the handle or move a carafe after you turn on the auto ON, the auto brew will cancel. If you’ve done everything right, there was enough water in the reservoir, you didn’t move a carafe or lift a handle after you’ve set the auto on, the enable box was checked and you didn’t forget to press SAVE, but it still doesn’t work then it’s because of the machine and you can call Customer service
11. Keurig 2.0 screen problems
Unfortunately, screen issues are very common with new Keurig 2.0 brewers, and in most cases, the touch screen isn’t working or there’s a blank screen. There’s really not much you can do except to unplug and plug in the brewer. Also, here’s a good fix that often helps. But, please pay attention to how often this happens. If it’s just once or twice it’s not a big deal, but if you think it’s happening too often, call Customer service. It’s not something that will solve on its own and I don’t like the idea of turning the machine on and off all the time because the screen goes crazy.
If you’re on the market for a new coffee maker, classic series model like K55 is a better choice because it doesn’t have such a sensitive touchscreen.
Related: Best Keurig coffee maker 2019
general
1. Keurig trips circuit breaker
If you live in a newly constructed home with AFCI/GFCI breakers, and you just got the latest Keurig model, there is a big chance that your new coffee machine will cause problems. For some reason, Keurig K-Cafe and K-Elite (latest Keurig models) can cause problems in new homes. There’s no fix for this, most people just return the unit.
2. Grounds in the cup
Do not use softened water in Keurig machines. If you always get a messy result and coffee grounds in the cup, try switching to bottled or tap water. Keurig doesn’t recommend using softened water in their machines. Fill the reservoir with bottled/ tap water, run a few brew cycles without inserting the k-cup to rinse the machine and then make the coffee. This should solve the problem. Regular cleaning is also important. Make sure to clean the brew head from time to time and keep your machine nice and clean.
3. coffee tastes bitter or burnt
When Keurig coffee doesn’t taste good anymore, thoroughly clean the k-cup holder, exit needles and the area around the holder. If Keurig coffee tastes bitter or burnt or has an unpleasant aftertaste, oil buildups might be the reason. It’s really important to clean coffee grounds and dirt from all parts that come in contact with coffee on a regular basis. Here are a few tips on how to make Keurig coffee taste better.
Support
If this doesn’t solve the problem or you don’t see a specific issue listed here, please contact Keurig Customer Service for further assistance. Keurig warranty period is usually one year. Customer service help is available 7 days a week at 866-901-2739. You will also find some useful ideas in the comment section below, so make sure to check there too. I hope this helps!
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cheap k-cups
While they are super convenient, k-cups aren’t always the most affordable option. Here’s where to buy cheap k-cups.
Karen
Thank you. My Keurig 2.0 was constantly pumping water after a power failure it’s never done this before but I couldn’t get it to stop after all the normal resets thank you so much for the tip on turning it upside down I wasn’t clear from your directions whether to turn the reservoir upside down or the machine upside down so I did both anyway I have coffee this morning thank you very much
Courtney
My commercial Keurig with the digital display, only allows me to brew 8 oz cups as of today. I should be able to do 4,6,8 and 10 oz.
Kendall Cooper
Hi i just got a 2.o Hot k250 plus..i cant get menu to come up for clock or tempature settings
Danijela
Hi Kendall, unfortunately, this model doesn’t have clock or temperature setting.
Anthony
I think that it is insane that Keurig sales a product that they can’t tell you how to correct an issue. My display screen is upside down which prompted my call to customer service. The lady that answered was completely helpless and told me that my product was considered “end of life” and that they could not help, she recommend that I use google to research an answer. it was my third and last Keurig. The call was a total waste of my time.
Michael
I haven’t seen my problem listed. My Keurig 2.0 brews a full brew, but has stopped blowing out the K-cup at the end of the brew cycle. I basically get a K-cup that contains some water and makes a mess when I empty the Keurig. Any thoughts to fix?
Danijela
Hi Michael, please try cleaning the k-cup holder and both exit needles thoroughly. Take out the k-cup holder, remove the funnel, wash everything, clean top and bottom exit needle with a paper clip and wipe the area around the holder (here’s a step by step guide). If anything is clogged or there are coffee grounds stuck in the machine this should help. Also, wash the water tank and make sure to check the valve at the bottom of the water tank and on the machine to make sure it’s not clogged or anything, this can also cause problems. You can maybe also try the tap method: turn off your machine, turn it upside down after you have removed the tank and tap the bottom a few times.
Put everything back and run a few brew cycles without inserting the k-cup to check if it will blow the air at the end of the cycle. If it still doesn’t work, I recommend calling Keurig customer service.
Tyler
I have this exact same problem and I’ve cleaned it up. Has no issue brewing, it just leaves hot water in the k-cup at the end, no hot air or steam sound.
Jackie
My Keurig is doing the same thing. Did you find a solution to this?
Kat
Just as an FYI (oh, and thanks for the great article!) I couldn’t find this answer anywhere on the web, so I resorted to the user’s manual (*gasp*, yes, I know). On a K-Compact, if the lights are all on at the same time, lift and close the handle, place a cup on the tray, and press the power button once. A little bit of water might come out, and then it will brew again. Thanks again :)
Sherry Hughes
I could not find any thing like my problem either but your post was just what I was looking for thank you
Angela
Kat! You are my hero! I have coffee again!
Chris R
I don’t know why but your solution to problem 5 worked perfectly today. Panic has been averted and coffee is now made. Thank you for the troubleshooting information.
Bill Beckert
My Keurig 2.0 was left in camper last winter and I did not empty the internal reservoir. Now leaks while heating.
Danijela
Hi Bill, there is a chance that the water in the machine was frozen and that can sometimes damage the hoses. But, maybe it’s just clogged. Please try cleaning both exit needles and the k-cup holder. Also, check the valve at the bottom of the water tank to make sure it’s clean and looks fine. You can also try the tap method: remove the water tank, turn the machine upside down shake it a bit and tap the bottom a few times. If everything is clean, the valve on the tank looks fine and it still leaks, I recommend calling Keurig customer service.
Luis
Just got a Keurig K Elite and it keeps tripping my home breaker. It’s a new house, less than a year old. Is anyone else having this issue? I had a Ninja coffee machine and it never tripped a breaker.
Danijela
Thank you, Luis! I knew that K-Cafe had this problem, but it appears that K-Elite can cause the circuit breaker to trip as well. That’s really disappointing, especially since these are the latest models. Thank you so much for your feedback!
John
I just purchased a K-Elite and have the exact same issue. The search for a fix has brought me to this thread. I live in a newly constructed home with AFCI/GFCI breakers and this coffee machine will trip any of them even being the only thing plugged into a circuit. No other appliance I have tried trips these breakers including space heaters.
PAT
My machine would start pumping water soon as I turned it on, called the co. They had no idea. Finally emptied water kept turning it upside down and shaking water tank and added more water and it worked, only thing I can think that fixed it was the float in water tank was stuck. Hope this helps someone. Try this before pitching it in garbage. Try running a magnet on outside of water tank and move float manually.
Danijela
Hi Courtney, please try cleaning the pod holder and both exit needles because they are usually the problem. Here are instructions on how to clean them . Let me know how it went.
Michael Chen
We use distilled water too, because I don’t want to be a slave to descaling-on-demand! So, when it goes beserk, I add a cup of tap water, and it behaves for many weeks after. My guess is maybe every 2 months or so.
Clay Morrow
Your suggestion was 100% spot on:
KEURIG WON’T STOP PUMPING THE WATER
If you’re Keurig won’t stop pumping the water from the moment you turn it on until you turn it off, try this fix: unplug the machine, remove the reservoir, turn it upside down, shake slightly and tap the bottom a few times.
Deb
We found the fix to the continuous stream of water was to discontinue the use distilled water. This from Kerrigan customer service rep. We switched and now it works.
Estelle Cope
That worked! Stopped using distilled water and it was fixed immediately! Who knew!!
Jo Ann
Mine suddenly started leaking from th bottom and I replace the reservoir. After I replaced it, it still continued to leak. I finally realized it hadn’t leaked before I started using the water filter. I removed it from the reservoir and it immediately stopped leaking. Problem solved!
Chris Wheeler
I found this article because I was having the non-stop water pumping issue and I have to say that the suggestion worked. It sounded silly, but I removed the tank, emptied the water, removed the filter tube, filter, didn’t see anything out of place, tapped the bottom, reassembled it and it started working correctly again. Thank you.
Andrea Fiondo
I tried turning it upside-down, cleaning all the parts, refilling it, unplugging it and doing it all again, still pumping. Adding boiling water (almost boiling) worked. I’m now descaling and it’s working like a champ. This little one is nearly six years old. It happens every time we lose power, for some reason. Usually just unplugging it and plugging it back in worked, this time the hot water trick worked. Have filled it with cold water and it is preheating with no shooting water. Thanks all!
Brittney
I just received a K-Compact as a housewarming gift on Saturday and when I filled the water reservoir up I realized that it was leaking w/ a slow drip. Is that normal? I have tried 3 different kinds of coffee b/c they all came out watery thinking that I was doing something wrong. Is that leaky reservoir causing it to be watery? I was looking forward to being able to make me some coffee quickly before work.
Danijela
Hi Brittney, the K-compact needs about 60 seconds to brew an 8-ounce cup, so if it’s significantly slower than that, then something might be wrong with the machine. Please also check the used pod to make sure the machine is puncturing the pods properly, from the top and bottom side. However, the leaking reservoir is not good and I would definitely call Keurig customer service at 866-901-2739 to help you troubleshoot your machine even if everything else seems fine.
Kathy wright
I have bought 4 2.o Keurig makers. Same problem with alln4. Will not preheat at all. Water runs cold until.umpluhhef or runs out of water I thought Keurig was suppose to be so great. I wish I knew how to get a commercial one or you tell me what kind of. K cup brewer is fit to buy I’m not rich it’s hard to keep replacing it every little bit
Maureen
Help I woke up to water all over my counter from under my Keurig coffee maker do you know what the problem may be and how to fix it?
Thanks
Maureen
Danijela
Hi Maureen, I’m sorry for the late reply. The problem is usually either the rubber band at the bottom of the water reservoir (just under the water filter) or the tear on the hose or seal inside the machine. If it’s an o-ring, you can easily replace it with a new one (here’s a tutorial on how to replace o-ring on Keurig machine). If it’s the hose or the seal inside the machine, you will need to disassemble the machine. In that case, I would rather call Keurig customer service for assistance first, before trying to fix the machine on my own. Keurig Customer service help is available 7 days a week at 866-901-2739. I hope this helps!
Debby Thompson
We put our Keurig in a tote for about 6 months while we were in the process of moving. There must have been some water in the reserve I couldn’t see because when I opened the tote there was a little water in it. I rinsed the reserve, took out the filter(in it’s holder) and rinsed it well and put it back together. I turned it on and it said to add water. I did that and now for the past 16 hours the little circle has been spinning and it says filling. I can’t find out how to troubleshoot this any where. It won’t let us do anything except turn it off. HELP
Danijela
Hi Debby, that is correct, all Keurig machines have an inner tank which cannot be emptied, that’s where the water came from. There is a possibility that the hose or the valve got clogged for some reason and that’s why it doesn’t work. You can try several things. First, the tap method – remove the water tank, turn the machine upside down shake it a bit and tap the bottom a few times. Next, wash the water tank once again thoroughly and refill with fresh water. Make sure to check the valves at the bottom of the reservoir (right where the filter goes) and on the machine (when the tank goes) to check if it’s not clogged and there’s no dirt or buildups. This usually causes problems. Let me know how it went!
Lisa Barlerin
I may have a differen model, but my machine manual says to wet the filter by soaking before installing in the reservoir. I wonder if when you allowed the filter to dry out, this caused your issue. Try replacing the filter with a newly primed/soaked one.
Tim
have a keurig 2.0 it brews but doesnt finish. ive descaled it and it still doesn’t. Ive also cleaned the dispense needle. It used to make the sound of pushing air at the end but it diesnt now and the kcups have water left in them any suggestions are welcomed
Danijela
Hi Tim, clogged bottom needle and oil buildups in the k-cup holder can cause this. Have you cleaned both exit needles? Please make sure to thoroughly clean the k-cup holder, bottom exit needle, and area around the k-cup holder. Take out the holder, clean the needle and rinse the holder really well. Here’s a video showing how to do it. Also, wipe the area around the k-cup holder to make sure there are no oils and coffee grounds. Place everything back and run few rinse cycles. This should help. If the problem persists, please call Keurig customer service.
Alll
I have a 2.0 Series. Never had a problem with it until today. Lifted the handle to dispense hot water, but now the handle/ lid won’t go back down. It’s stuck in the up position… Any suggestions?
Danijela
Hi, there is helpful video I found on YouTube you might want to try it https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lenlr8zAOKQ . If the problem persists or you think that something is broken, you may also call Keurig customer service to help you troubleshoot your machine. Let me know if this works for you. I hope this helps!
dennis kimsey
If you decide to purchase the K575 expect, in the first couple years, to have the lid begin to get stuck and you have to reach up inside to get it down per other posts which works. This is caused by two flimsy flaps that have been broken off by the constant use of the metal bar using them to raise to the next level when going in towards the back!! You can watch the mechanism while looking inside and following the metal rod and see where its sticking I was able to fix mine by creating a ramp out of a plastic lid 1/4 X 3/8 long with a taper in the long direction and gluing it in place of the missing flaps!!!
Serena
I just purchased a 2.0 Hot. The coffee is delicious but it’s not as hot as it was with a regular coffee maker. It gets cold in my cup before I’m able to finish it.
Is there a way to change the temperature setting?
Danijela
Hi Serena, you can change the temperature on K475 and K575, but only between 182° F and 192° F for k-cups and between 187° F and 197° F for other pod types. To do this, go to settings/ temperature and use arrows to move settings to the right. The default brew temperature on other 2.0 models is 192° F for k-cups and 197° F for other pods. Some prefer k-mugs and k-carafe pods because their brew temperature is a bit higher and closer to the optimal brewing temperature (195°–205°F). You can also try this: run one cup without inserting the k-cup to heat up the machine really well. Discard the water and insert the k-cup to brew your coffee. Rinsing your cup with hot water before you brew will also keep your coffee hot a bit longer. I hope this helps.
David Recendez
The fix for “Keurig Won’t Stop Pumping the Water” worked. I use distilled water in my Keuig. I later purchased a Keurig water filter and enabled the “filter reminder”. Thanks for the help
Carole Williams
I’ve had the 2.0 model only 2 years. Use only purified water or reverse osmosis water – never use our hard tap water. Changed filter, reservoir is full. Put vinegar in reservoir, it but it won’t dispense liquid anymore. When I press the “i” on button, it shows preheating but there is no machine noise and it won’t dispense liquid. Does not make the preheating noise, but display shows “preheating” and the reservoir light works, clock works, etc. Unplugged it for a few days. The unit is still ice cold. Will try the upside down “spanking” method. If that does not work, unit goes to recycling site.
KnewJersey
My 2.0 was also stuck in preheating mode after a power outage. It kept dispensing cold water while displaying this message. I ended up pouring a quart or more of BOILING water into the reservoir. The cold water it was dispensing eventually turned hot and the preheating message stopped. The machine has been fine ever since.
Reggie
I got up this morning, hit the “i” button and it immediately started pumping cold water out, I had to rush, put a coffee cup under the stream, and it continued draining until I had filled 2 and a half coffee cups. No matter what I tried, plugging it in and out several times, it always kept doing the same, pouring out a lot of cold water, The screen would only display the power “i” button, I could never get a menu. Now I am at work and my wife is going to try turning it upside down as mentioned by several posters. We’ll see in a little bit if it helped.
Dave
I have the same problem. I can’t find any solutions other than use it as a door stop next to my windows computer…
Ajh
I had this problem this morning after having a power outage yesterday. Finally after unplugging the machine removing the reservoir and saying a little prayer it decided to work again. Not sure if it worked due to the prayer or to being unplugged for a few minutes.
wes wojtowicz
I have a Keurig 2.9 350 model and 90% of the time if I use a Green Mountain (any type) or Donut type K cup the system with deliver only 1/2 cup of coffee which is full of coffee ground, with a warning that my system is clogged and needs cleaning, I then clean the needle and run clean water through the system only to have the same problem again after 2-3 cups of coffee. If I use other brands of cups the problem goes away. I am NOT using a water softner.
I am at a long time user and NEVER had this problem , as a test I gave my daughter all my Green Mountain K Cups and she has no problem using a old 1.0 brewer.
Help
Wes
Danijela
Hi Wes, cleaning both exit needles is always a good idea. I would try descaling the system with commercial descaler to make sure there are no build-ups. However, some of my readers had the same problem even after descaling and the reason was actually a defective unit. Maybe it’s not a bad idea to first call Keurig customer service at 866-901-2739, before you spend any money on cleaning supplies.
Michelle
I had to Google this problem early on when we first bought our Keurig 2.0. It’s because the cups are pressurized and so when you put them on and shut the lid it pushes coffee grounds up into the needle which plugs it. So when you’re putting your k cup in actually push it onto the bottom needle in the cup holder to puncture it before you shut the top lid. You should not have any problems after that. It works somehow by releasing the pressure out of the cup.
dennis kimsey
This is a fix that actually worked for me:)
Jessica
I also just purchased this same machine yesterday at Kmart. The book says Keurig Hot K200 plus. When i open and close the lid with no pod, i get the brew screen not the hot water screen. I also did not get the brewer maintenance accessory that Keurig claims comes with all 2.0 series.
I can get hot water by simply brewing without a pod but for $125 i think it should work as indicated and the screen should ask if i want to brew hot water just like the manual says. I will be returning it.
I just went through two K55s in 3 weeks because they had issues and wouldnt draw water from the reservoir to brew. I may give up on Keurig all together at this point. I need coffee and i dont expect such issues each and every morning being so unpredictable.
Gerald
I recently had an issue with the Fill Water light always coming on, and the poor machine sounded like it was going to die while trying to load to water. It also only would pour our about 2 Oz’s or water at a time, not nearly to required 10 Oz’s for my morning coffee. But I figured it out, and wanted to post here so you could ADD this to your list.
The problem was the reservoir. At the bottom of the reservoir at the exit point, is a very small metal mesh filter to keep particulates out. This little mesh filter had a build up (assuming from the water) and after cleaning it, it allowed the water to flow again and Everything is working as New!!
I hope that helps some people.
Barbara Peckham
We have an older Keurig that has a reservoir and two cup sizes that we received from my brother when he purchase a new one. No books or anything. Anyway, we’ve used it for a couple of years with no problem. NOW, all of a sudden, water is pouring out of the bottom of the machine and all over the counter. Is this fixable, or will we have to do without until we can get anew one.
Danijela
Hi Barbara, the reason is usually either the rubber band at the bottom of the water reservoir (just under the water filter) or the tear on the hose or seal inside the machine. If it’s an o-ring, you can easily replace it with a new one (here’s a tutorial on how to replace o-ring on Keurig machine). If it’s the hose or the seal inside the machine, you will need to disassemble the machine. In that case, I would rather call Keurig customer service for assistance first, before trying to fix the machine on my own. Keurig Customer service help is available 7 days a week at 866-901-2739. I hope this helps!
Rheba
Help!!! I can’t get my new Keurig 2.0 Hot 475 plus to switch from cups to carafe. I have gone through settings and saved the carafe setting but it won’t work!
Danijela
Hi Rheba,
have you placed the carafe and the k-carafe pod in place? With K475 you need to first remove the drip tray, place the carafe in its place and insert the k-carafe so the machine can switch the screen to carafe screen. You can’t manually switch the screen from cups to the carafe. If you have placed the carafe in its place and it won’t work, try removing the carafe and inserting again to make sure it’s placed properly. Make sure the k-carafe is in the machine and that the handle is completely closed. If you already did all this but it still won’t work, I recommend calling Keurig customer service because then something might be wrong with the machine. I hope this helps!
Anne Powell
My Keurig 2.0 (nearly 3years old) recently would not brew a carafe. I use filtered water from my refrigerator, and descale it soon after the descaling message appears. After descaling the brewer today, the carafe setting worked again. You might give descaling a try to see if that works for you, too. Good luck!
Rheba
Thanks, Anne! My Keurig was brand new, straight out of the box. I was able to get it to work by using the recommendation to cover the outer part of the carafe pod lid with a piece cut from a used cup size pod. Works now! ?
Liz 718
My machine would not stop dispensing water – cold from Time I turned on till time I turned off… couldn’t even use the MENU nothing would work!
I cannot believe it but after 20 minutes of having ZERO luck with my 2.0 I read above it said to turn upside down and shake and bang on bottom…. YES SOUNDED CRAZY AND SINCE IM CRAZY AND ITS THANKSGIVING MORNING I DID IT!!!!
It worked!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! THANK YOU!
Samantha
It was either throw it in the garbage or try hitting it a couple times upside down. I can’t believe it actually worked!!! Thank you!
Damammah
We had this same problem. No heat, and water pouring out until reservoir emptied, and no menu. We unplugged it for five minutes and turned it upside down and shook and tapped it. Still, nothing. I read this review to my husband and he turned it upside down and shook it and banged on it (much harder than it did). Would you believe it? Plugged it in, and voila, just like new. Menu works. Brews coffee. Cold water doesn’t run thru.
Joseph
I purchased a 2.0 from the Good Will with the same exact problem for $8.25. I’m guessing whoever owned it didn’t know about this site because its in really good condition. I did the turn up side down method and tapped it a few times and now it works!! This site is awesome, great info, thanks.
Pat S
What canI do, my 2.0 works great when we use the carafe but when we try to brew just a cup it shuts off within a second or two.
Danijela
I’m sorry that you’re having issues with your machine Pat. It sounds like there is something wrong with the program. Just to make sure you can try these steps: Please make sure that there is enough water in the reservoir and refill if needed. Next, check the energy saver option/auto ON OFF option. For K350 go to settings, energy saver and turn off this option. Press save to confirm and then use back to return to the settings menu. For K450 and K550 go to settings menu, then auto off and energy saving option, just uncheck the little box next to enable option. Don’t forget to press save to confirm. If auto off/energy saving mode is already disabled but your brewer still doesn’t work with k-cups, I recommend calling Keurig customer service at 866-901-2739.
Lindsey
Turning machine upside down and banging on it abd shaking it really works for other not working keurig issues too! Unplug it. Rediculous!
Thomas
My Kerrigan was stuck in preheating mode and would simultaneously spew water. (Literally using all of the water in the tank. I called. The lady told me clean the prongs with a paper clip. It did not work. She offered to sell me another. While mailing a cleaning device. I searched for answers…found the solution her!!! I turned it upside down and hit it like 10 times. Works perfectly. I wish I knew why but it doesn’t really matter. Thanks!!
Thankful
I had exactly the same thing happen but luckily I found you before wasting my time on the phone. I can’t believe that worked!
Thank you!
Justin
The same thing worked for me too.
Kelsie
Mine says filling as soon as I turn it on and drains all the water out. Turn the water reservoir over? Or turn the entire machine over and tap it 10 times?
Danijela
Hi Kelsie, correct you need to turn the entire machine. Unplug the machine, remove the reservoir, turn the machine upside down, tap the bottom and shake it a little bit. Then put the reservoir back and turn the machine on to see if it will work normally. If it doesn’t, I recommend calling Keurig customer service at 866.901.2739.
Darla
I am on Keurig #2 and not their cheaper ones. Ice been more proactive with the 2.0 (i.e. cleaning it with their solution, changing the filter, etc). After a cleaning, it still kept dripping water seemingly endlessly. This time I decided to use my portable steamer. Yeah! It brewed a nice cup without the endless drip, drip, drip.
Pia Gravador
Hi. We have the Keurig 2.0 as a gift from my grandmother. So it’s been a week since we used it and now it wont turn on everytime we’d plug the transformer ( since we’re not from the US.) Might need some help or suggestions in how to fix our keurig! My mom needs coffee right now!! haha
Jerry
I had a Keurig that was just pumping water from the moment I turned it on, until it was empty. I had tried all of the above suggestions (expect turning over and tapping it) before I checked this page. I am glad I did. It worked like a charm
GLORIA J GALBERTH
I had this problem it was supposed to be heating but the water kept coming until I turned the power off. I had been using aquafina for several years customer support asked me to fill the reservoir with regular tap water instead it worked.
John Newman
I can only get the 4 oz and 6 oz options to work, the others do. It show up at all.
Katie
We have our Keurig 2.0 for maybe 4 months.
Its now not reading my carafe when we put it in to brew. Tells me the pod isnt compatible… but its a carafe pod.
If anyone has any idea about this please lemme know! :) thank you
Heather
That is the same exact issue we are having. I’m researching now.
Danijela
Hi Katie, as far as I know, the Keurig has a sensor that recognizes if the carafe is in place. Maybe that sensor isn’t working anymore, but I can’t say for sure. I recommend to call Keurig Customer Service at 866-901-2739 or via email, in both cases – if the machine doesn’t recognizes the carafe or doesn’t read the original k-carafe pod. Please let me know how it went. Thank you in advance!
KT
My KEURIG consistory clogs when I try a “Donut Shop” decaf pod. Consistently. It works well when I use regular coffee pods (either Donut shop or Starbucks). Is there a brand of decaf that works or is something amiss with this machine? Again, regular coffee works fine but decaf never works. Any help would be appreciated.
Kim
We have the SAME exact issue…. I’m going to try to descale the machine to see if that helps
Amy
Same problem for me!!! Decaf Donut Shop only causes the problem. It’s infuriating!!!!!!
Carol Davis
My Keurig will not pump from the heated resavore to make the coffee. Everything else works, it pumps the water from the exterior resavore to the heated resavore but that nothing.
Hope you can help.
Thanks
Aubrey White
My Keuring 2.0 K200 plus will not power off.
Sandee Simon
I am having the same problem.. I have tried to reset the factory setting and unplugging but can’t find a solution so far. Any more suggestions
Dale
Hi we have the k150 model at work and it is our second one. It continues to display press continue but nothing is happening.
Danijela
Hi Dale, I don’t know a lot about commercial Keurig brewers. Please call Keurig Technical Support team at 888-287-2739 to help you troubleshoot your machine. Thank you.
Gary Maddox
I have a key Keurig 2.0 model 500. My problem seams to be just the opposite of all of these. My machine won’t stop brewing now. No matter what number of oz’s I set it for, it will pump the reservoir dry. I have to stand there and cancel the brewing when the cup gets close to full. Any ideas?
Danijela
Hi Gary, this used to be a no fix problem. I think it’s best to call Keurig customer service and see if they have some new instructions or can replace your machine. You can try this though: unplug the machine, remove the reservoir, turn the machine upside down, tap the bottom, and shake it a little bit. Then put the reservoir back and turn the machine on to see if it will work normally. If it doesn’t, then it’s definitively broken and I would give them a call at 1.866.901.2739.
Gary Maddox
Are you serious? Don’t know if you are or not but hey otta try something.
Danijela
Hi Gary, I know it sounds funny but can help with leaking machines but also with short cup problems. Of course, you don’t need to shake it or tap it really hard, just turn it upside down, shake slightly and tap the bottom few times. You can Google it and see what others have to say about this method. It doesn’t work all the time, but it often helps.
I forgot to ask, have you cleaned your machine recently?! Descaling your machine can help too. You will find descaling instructions on the blog, here’s how to descale classic series Keurig brewers and how to descale 2.0 Keurig brewers. I hope this helps.
Again, sometimes the only option is to send a request to Keurig support and ask them to help you troubleshoot your machine. All the best.
tom
Keurig said prime. Tried everything short of taking it apart piece by piece. Finally, while still plugged in, I turned it upside down over the sink, shook it vigorously, lots, banged on it good all over, lots. Stuff came falling out. I could hear the water connecting with the heater (little spits and spurts of steam sounds from inside). Turned it back upright, the blue ‘needs water’ lights blink, I attach a full reservoir of water, says I can brew, I push the button and vwalla! it worked. Removed and emptied the reservoir , turned the machine over one more time, shook it, and banged it all around few more times then set it up and ran a reservoir of 50/50 vinegar/water into it, when the blue “needs water” lights blinked I left the machine, now full of 50/50 vinegar/water, to sit and descale for the next four hours. After 4 hours, ran two reservoirs of water through till vinegar taste gone and we’re back in business. Shakin and bangin the thing upsidedown worked. Doing this while plugged in I can’t helped heal it but I was able to hear water hiss on the heater and that let me at least know that my heating element still worked. Before, during the “prime” time, the only water it would put out was cold so I thought my heater had failed. Apparently the coils were hot all that time but the water line to the heat was clogged and the shakin and bangin knocked out the clog and boom! done. I almost threw the thing out!
Evie
Tried the same thing with mine and nothing! It was hurt running cold water thru constantly by just hitting the power on button! Tried the upside down shake and bang and nothing so I call customer service and they said it couldn’t be fixed and offered a discount on a new one! No thank you! Me being the stubborn Mom I am decided to give the old shake and bang or tap one more try and bam it works like a charm!!! So glad I didn’t listen to them lol
Jennifer
My LCD screen has gone out and it’s out of warranty. I rarely drink coffee and have it for guest, so it has been used very little. It is out of warranty so they are offering to sell me one at a very small discount. If they know there is an issue with the LCD screen why have they not recalled the product. For what we pay for the machines and coffee you should stand behind your product. Very disappointed! This is my third machine and probably my last!
Scott
The same thing with us Jennifer. Just called customer service talk with somebody that didn’t communicate very well there’s nothing I can do butt buy another one 35% discount. We have used ours less then 30 times for coffee. Very disappointed to spend a lot of money to get a nice stylish coffee maker for guests for the holidays and it’s crap! Sincerely Scott Shafer
Debbie
I have had similar experiences with their customer support. They are very willing to sell a new machine, but can’t help fix this one. I will not buy another.
Lyle
Same thing happened with the screen to us, just out of warranty too.
Sounds like a class action suit to me especially if they know about the issue and refuse to fix the problem.
Any lawyers out there that could take this case on?
The wife is pissed after spending a lot of money on our second machine for our retirement home.
Jennifer Campbell
My 2.0 splashes coffee everywhere. It trickles into the cup so slowly and ramdomly rthat I have to clean the counter every day. Plus now, the auto on doesnt work after less than a year. Anyone have any idea how much electricity it uses if I just leave it on all the tieme?
Denise Lay
I have the issue! Help!
Falynne Michelle
When descaling my 2.0 it doesn’t ever say to “add more water” ?? I follow the directions to the T and still nothing. This is my replacement keurig I’ve had for a year
Michelle
I’m having the same issue!
Mike Blaschum
I spent 30-40 min on phone with cust service. Tried everything, and finally got it to work. After 2nd cup brewer wouldn’t work. Called cust service again and they sent me new replacement. Got it in 2 days and it works better than original.
Chelsea Cupp
I’m having this same problem!
Bill Dickerson
I have always used bottled water – a filtered drinking water in my 2.0 I can’t recall the first descaling I did last year but the one last week did the same thing described here. It sucked the water from the tank and never did say “more water please”. I was confused by the instructions as I don’t have a 10 ounce choice, only 6 or 4 when not using coffee. For plain hot water – when descaling it’s only those two choices, 6 or 4 so I used the 6 or course. It kept putting out black chunks and crud and after descaling and pumping itself dry I noticed it now won’t stop dripping for at least a full minute after saying “enjoy”. It used to stop dripping the instant it said enjoy and started the next preheat cycle. I wonder if there’s mold and crud plugging things as it acts weird since descaling.
I noted two things during descaling – it doesn’t say more water please, it doesn’t stop dripping now like it used to. When I do normal coffee making it DOES ask for more water, but still drips almost a stream for a good minute after brewing and the sound is different. I even spend another TWELVE BUCKS for another bottle of cleaner/descaler and did it again, still no joy but am extremely concerned about all of of the black odd shapes coming out of it and wonder if that’s plugging up valves or something causing the dripping now. Maybe cleaning broke things loose!!
Tiffany
We had the exact same problem so mu husband unplugged the machine, removed the water tank, and repeatedly pushed the button for about a minute in attempt to reset/remove any stored energy from the machine. After that it worked perfectly. We think when we came home the night before, the power had gone out for just a few minutes in a storm while we were gone. We have always babied our Keurig 2.0 and only use distilled bottled water in it. It costs 88 cents per gallon versus buying a new $120 machine, so to us it is absolutely worth it. It seems like this is not a common problem for Keurigs, but I hope it is as easy of a fix for others as it was for us!
Sally Callahan
My Kureg screen is blank. Tried plugging it in in another socket like recommended. It did not take care of the problem. Called the customer service and they told me there was nothing they could do for me. It was past the warranty period. But offered a new machine for “discounted” price of over $116. That’s about what I paid for the one I have. Discounted my foot. The machine should have lasted longer than a year not being used every day. Definitely not satisfied. Rethink your thoughts on purchasing!
Danijela
Thanks so much for your feedback Sally.
Chuck Johnson
Call them back and don’t take no for an answer. They will send you a new machine free, but you have to get past the first levels of customer sevice. We’ve had to do this 3x between ours, my sister in law, and my daughter.
Shell
OMG! Why didn’t I read this website before I bought mine today! It hasn’t even got through the set-up stage without problems. I just wanted a simple cup of coffee, not a new problem to deal with!
Amy Hewitt
Help! Getting really frustrated!!!
As of recent when brewing my coffee, my cup is full of grounds. I’m not talking just a few.. I’m talking the entire bottom is thickly covered!
We’ve cleaned both top and bottom needles when it first started to happen.
Forgot to mention we have the 2.0 I believe the 400 series?
Doug-las Wag-goner
Hi Amy, we have gone through 3 different 400 series 2.0 machines in the last few months. All of them are doing the same thing yours is doing, leaving ALOT of grounds at the bottom of the cup. I was wondering if you have found a solution? The problem seems to happen mostly when we use the McCafe kpods purchased from SAMs club or Walmart. Although it has done it several times with other brands also.
Would love to hear if you have found a solution. Thank you
Amy Hewitt
We found out that the piercing needle inside was full of grounds. Took a paper clip and cleaned it out, no problems since!!
Kelly
I bought the same Keurig and Mcafe pods from Sams and had the issues! I took mine back as I had it for only a few days..it kept saying “too much water pressure” or it would be full of grounds. Ugh I really like the idea of the keurig brewers..just unsure if I should try it again..
Gaylon McCorkle
I did this and mine is working fine now.
Josee Joly
Did what?
Gaylon McCorkle
I took a paper clip, opened one end and clean around the exit needle. The thing you put the k cup in puts out. Twist the botton and it comes a part there is a needle there I cleaned it with paper clip end. The other needle I was talking about is where you push the handle down to start the K cup.
Kelly Mills
My keurig when I go to brew only the large cup button will blink then it won’t brew I have to unplug it and plug back in.
Mike Murphy
I have this same problem. After unplugging then reinserting the elec cord plug into outlet it makes one cup perfectly but will not make another until it has been unplugged from electrical power and the plugged back in again. This all started occurring after descaling because it was pitting out very small servings.
Thomas Schroeder
Similar problem. The Keurig must be either turned on and off, or unplugged to the all three cup sizes to blink. But if I select the smallest or the middle nothing happens except that cup size stays lit and does not blink. But if I select the large cup size the coffee maker provides 1.5 to 2.5 cups of hot water. At the same time, the tiny spout at the top of the Keurig puts hot water back into the reservoir. I don’t know if that is normal or not. After the large cup is finished its light remains lit but nothing can be done until it is turned on and off again (or unplugged) in which case I can repeat the large cup only process.
Rob
Same exact problem! I would love a fix for this not just call customer service.
Peter Abec
I’ve had an issue with mine that was easy to solve: don’t use the doughnut shop flavor. My machine leaked coffe grounds and clogged up repeatedly, but with only that flavor. I noticed that the used cup had a crease up the side of it right where the outlet hole is punched (just on that flavor). I measured the cups with a micrometer and found that the doughnut shop k cup is just a bit wider than the others, causing the outlet hole to distort and allowing it to pass coffee grounds and clog up the outlet.
Roseann Sullivan
I have noticed that some brands of k cups seem to be prone to grounds in coffee..have limited my selections to the few that work well
Laura
I had almost the same problem. My whole screen looked like white noise on a tv, but it still brewed coffee. So I unplugged the machine and turned it upside down and after getting about 2 cups of really warm water out of the reservoir, then after about 15 minutes, I turned it back over. Then I opened up the part where you put the K-cup and took a napkin and started drying out the very back where the wires come into the top. I also dried other spots I saw water being very careful not to pierce my fingers with the puncture points. Afterwards I plugged it back in and after a few minutes of hearing it fill the reservoir and heating up, the computer part worked beautifully. I then realized that I had been turning it off after every brew. So now I leave it on sometimes with the top open so it can draw out. Hope this helps. Good luck!
BD
Worked like a champ, drained the remaining water and used a hair dryer on the insides (wires) and after a few minutes of drying, plugged it back in and worked perfectly! Thanks for the tip!
Glenda Goss Boddie
I received my Keurig 2.0 450 as a C’mas gift. It has done great up until a couple of days ago. This morning it would hesitate, spit out a few drops, hesitate, spit out a few drops then stop. I really can’t afford to buy one as they are rather expensive, so this has been a wonderful gift to have. I use Sam’s Choice Purified water but noticed that it does have flavor enhancing minerals in the water. Could this have stopped it up or does this particular Keurig stop working after almost five months?
Julie Holdsworth-Williams
I just had this same problem. My husband was ready to throw it in the trash. I did a little research and there are two needles, one that pumps the water into the pod and one that pushes the water out of the pod to your cup. I have found that if you run a cup on strong, sometimes the grounds will back wash and you will see grounds in your cup. If you had a cup with grounds in it then all of a sudden the next cup just trickles, you might just have some grounds stuck in the needle at the top of the lid. There are two sides to this needle and you need to make sure your cleaning both sides out with a paperclip. I cleaned the bottom one as did my husband prior to letting me try to fix. Then I cleaned the upper needle and I had grounds in the needle. I cleaned it and the machine is up and running like new again. Hope this helps.
Russell Slevin
Water runs back into holding tank. Only get half cups unless unless I put finger over tube draining back into reservoir . Any fixes ?
Danijela
Hi Russell, and sorry for waiting. I’ve found some useful things here http://www.fixya.com/support/t4007130-keurig_b60_spitting_water_into_reservoir . It seems that air compressor or some pump can help. You can try if you like. Of course, you can also contact Keurig customer service for instructions at 1.866.901.2739. , maybe they can help too. Good luck!
ps. Happy New Year!
Debby Smith-McGinnis
I have the special edition model and when it keeps shutting itself off it is a prime problem. The machine loses prime. My machine does this sometimes after I fill the tank. Take the tank off the machine and suck air thru the clear tube on the side of the machine replace the tank and presto works every time.
Hilda Langegger
I tried it and it worked!!!! Thank you
thank you Debby…. I tried everything and was on the computer the whole afternoon… I read your post and could not believe that it worked. I’m so pleased and thankful to you…Once again Thank you :) :)