If you own a Nespresso machine, you may need to store it for some time due to various reasons such as renovation, relocation, or travel.
However, many users report that their Nespresso machine is not working after storage. That’s a common problem with an easy fix, so don’t worry, you can fix it easily at home.
This guide covers two main things:
- Common Issues caused by storing your Nespresso machine
- How to prevent Nespresso machine storage problems.
The most common problem that comes from Nespresso machine storage is Nespresso airlock, or Nespresso not pumping water.
And to prevent this problem next time you want to store your Nespresso machine for a long time, you’ll want to perform ‘Emptying the System’ procedure, which works on pumping out every bit of water inside your Nespresso machine (And not the reservoir).
Nespresso Not Working After Storage – Common Issues
After storing your Nespresso machine for a while, you are most likely to face these issues:
- Nespresso machine not pumping water
- Nespresso descaling indicator blinking
Nespresso Airlock Problem (Air Bubble in Nespresso)
This issue is also know as ‘Nespresso Air Bubble’ or Nespresso Not Pumping Water.
Storing your Nespresso machine for a long time without use can affect its performance in several ways. The most common issue is the machine’s inability to brew coffee pods.
If you press the brew button, and you hear the pump starting but no water or coffee comes out, you are experiencing a Nespresso Airlock problem.
Nespresso Airlock is trapped air in the pipes which prevents water from flowing through the machine.
Nespresso Descaling Problem
Another issue that can arise is Nespresso machines after storage is descaling light turning on even after descaling the machine before storage.
Here are some of the most common problems that you may face with your Nespresso machine after storage:
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Machine not turning on | Check if the machine is plugged in and the power switch is turned on. If the problem persists, contact Nespresso assistance. |
| Weak or no coffee output | Run water through the machine without a coffee pod to remove air from the pipes. If the problem persists, descale the machine. |
| Incomplete descaling | Run water through the machine without a coffee pod to remove air from the pipes. Then, descale the machine again. |
There are ways to avoid these issues when storing your Nespresso machine. But let’s first fix these common Nespressso storage issues.
How To Remove Airlock From Nespresso Machine
If you haven’t used your Nespresso machine in a while, you may encounter a Nespresso airlock problem. The Nespresso Airlock Problem is caused by an air bubble inside the machine that prevents water from being pumped through the system.
Identifying a Nespresso Airlock Problem
Identifying a Nespresso airlock problem is quite easy.
When you try to make coffee, you will hear the sound of the pump, but no water will be dispensed from the spout. This is a clear indication that there is an air bubble inside the machine.
Airlock in Different Nespresso Models
Different Nespresso models may have different airlock issues. Here are some solutions to fix the airlock problem with different Nespresso models:
Nespresso Vertuo Airlock Problem
If you have a Nespresso Vertuo machine, you can try the following solutions to fix the airlock problem:
- Run a full cleaning cycle: Running a full cleaning cycle can help remove the air bubble from the system. To do this, fill the water tank with water and run a full cleaning cycle.
- Use boiling hot water in the reservoir: Another solution is to fill the water tank with boiling hot water. This can help remove the air bubble from the system.
- Blow air through the reservoir valve: If the above solutions do not work, you can try blowing air through the reservoir valve. This can help remove the air bubble from the system.
Other Nespresso Models
I have a full guide that you can refer to on Nespresso Airlock Problems and how to fix it in each machine. Check the guide to find the steps to fixing your own machine.
How To Prevent Nespresso Storage Problems
If you’re planning on storing your Nespresso machine for a while, there are some steps that you need to follow to minimize or prevent Nespresso storage issues all together.
Empty Nespresso System Before Storage
This is a procedure recommended by Nespresso. What it does is get rid of any water trapped inside the system, therefore, minimizing any possible moisture or air bubbles forming inside the machine.
Empty Nespresso Vertuo Next System Before Storage
- Empty the water tank and put it in place.
- Place a container under the coffee outlet.
- Unplug the power cord.
- Open the machine head and let the used capsule be ejected.
- Empty capsule container, the drip tray and the cup support.
- Close the head and turn handle left until “LOCKED” position.
- Push and hold the button while plugging the power cord. Release the button when the machine starts the emptying procedure. The button will blink orange quickly while the machine is emptying.
It will take approximately 30 seconds for the machine to complete the emptying. Machine turns “OFF” automatically when machine is empty.
Empty Nespresso Vertuo Plus System Before Storage
- Empty the water tank and put it in place.
- Open the machine head and let the used capsule be ejected. Close the machine. Empty the capsule container.
- Turn the machine “OFF” by pushing the lever down for 3 seconds.
- Place a container under the coffee outlet. To enter “Emptying the system” mode push the button and the lever down at the same time for 3 seconds. ORANGE steady light indicates entry into the Special functions menu.
- Choose function by pressing the lever down 2 times for “Emptying the system”
- Push the button. The ORANGE light will blink during the entire procedure. The machine turns “OFF” automatically when machine is empty.
Empty Nespresso Original (Essenza Mini, Pixie, Citiz…) System Before Storage
- To enter the emptying mode, press both the Espresso and Lungo buttons to turn the machine off.
- Remove the water tank and open the lever. Place a container under the coffee outlet.
- Press both the Espresso and Lungo buttons for 5 seconds. Both LEDs blink alternatively.
- Emptying process begins. Machine switches off automatically when procedure is finished.
- Close the lever. Empty and clean the used capsule container, the drip tray and the drip base.
Additional Nespresso Troubleshooting Tips
If your Nespresso machine is not working after being stored for a while, there are a few additional troubleshooting tips you can try before seeking professional help.
Regular Maintenance
One of the best ways to keep your Nespresso machine working properly is to perform regular maintenance. This includes cleaning the machine, descaling it, and replacing worn or damaged parts.
Cleaning the machine involves wiping down the exterior with a damp cloth and cleaning the drip tray and capsule container.
Descaling the machine removes any mineral buildup that can affect the taste and quality of your coffee. You should descale your machine every three months or as recommended by the manufacturer.
Replacing worn or damaged parts can also help keep your Nespresso machine working properly. This includes the water tank, drip tray, and capsule container. You can find replacement parts online or through the manufacturer.
When to Seek Customer Service Help
If your Nespresso machine is still not working after performing regular maintenance, it may be time to seek professional help. This can include contacting the manufacturer for assistance or taking your machine to a repair shop.
Before seeking professional help, make sure to check the power cord and outlet to ensure they are working properly. You can also try factory resetting Nespresso machine.
If your Nespresso machine is still not working, it may have a more serious issue that requires professional assistance. Don’t attempt to repair the machine yourself, as this can be dangerous and may void the warranty.
