What To Know
- While the vinegar solution is brewing, wipe down the exterior of your coffee maker with a soft cloth dampened with water.
- Run a few cycles of clean water through the coffee maker to remove any remaining vinegar or baking soda residue.
- Use a darker roast of coffee or increase the amount of coffee grounds you add to the filter basket.
Maintaining a clean coffee maker is essential for brewing delicious, flavorful coffee. If you’re wondering “how to clean GE drip coffee maker,” this comprehensive guide will provide you with everything you need to know. Follow these simple steps to ensure your GE coffee maker stays in tip-top shape and delivers the perfect cup of coffee every time.
Materials You’ll Need
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- Soft cloth
- Water
- Coffee maker cleaning solution (optional)
Step 1: Unplug and Decalcify
Before cleaning, unplug your coffee maker and allow it to cool completely. Then, remove the carafe and filter basket. Fill the water reservoir with equal parts white vinegar and water and run a brew cycle. This will help remove mineral buildup (scale) that can affect the taste of your coffee.
Step 2: Clean the Exterior
While the vinegar solution is brewing, wipe down the exterior of your coffee maker with a soft cloth dampened with water. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or sponges, as they can scratch the surface.
Step 3: Clean the Carafe and Filter Basket
Empty the vinegar solution from the coffee maker. Wash the carafe and filter basket thoroughly with hot, soapy water. Rinse well and allow to dry completely.
Step 4: Clean the Spray Head
Locate the spray head inside the coffee maker. Remove any loose coffee grounds or debris. If the spray head is clogged, use a toothpick or small brush to gently clean the holes.
Step 5: Clean the Water Reservoir
Empty the water reservoir and fill it with a solution of 1/4 cup baking soda and 1 cup water. Let the solution sit in the reservoir for at least 30 minutes. This will help remove any remaining scale or residue.
Step 6: Rinse Thoroughly
Empty the baking soda solution and rinse the water reservoir thoroughly with clean water. Run a few cycles of clean water through the coffee maker to remove any remaining vinegar or baking soda residue.
Step 7: Descale Regularly
To prevent scale buildup, descale your coffee maker every 1-2 months. Follow the steps above to run a vinegar solution through the machine. You can also use a commercial coffee maker cleaning solution for more thorough cleaning.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
- My coffee maker is not brewing any coffee. Check if the water reservoir is empty or if the filter basket is clogged. Ensure that the coffee maker is plugged in and turned on.
- My coffee is weak. Use a darker roast of coffee or increase the amount of coffee grounds you add to the filter basket.
- My coffee is bitter. Clean the coffee maker regularly to remove scale buildup. Use filtered water to prevent mineral deposits.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: How often should I clean my GE drip coffee maker?
A: Clean your coffee maker every 1-2 months to prevent scale buildup and ensure optimal performance.
Q: Can I use commercial coffee maker cleaning solutions?
A: Yes, you can use commercial cleaning solutions. However, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Q: What if my coffee maker is still not working after cleaning it?
A: If your coffee maker continues to malfunction after cleaning, contact GE customer support for assistance.
