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Nespresso VertuoPlus Leaking Coffee: Causes and Solutions [With Photos]

Nespresso Troubleshooting Oct 26, 2023

After using your Nespresso VertuoPlus day after day, problems such as leaks can happen.

Coffee leaks are not the same as water leaks. This post is about a coffee leak under your Nespresso Vertuo, specifically.

Summary of the problem
- After using your Nespresso Vertuo, you find a puddle of coffee under the machine. Sometimes it's a large amount of coffee spill, other times it's a smaller amount. 

- You'll also notice that you're not getting a full cup of coffee from your pod. 

Solutions
- First, we're going to identify what is causing the coffee leak. Use the photos I have posted below to see what parts you need to check and get an idea of the leak cause. 
- Once you have identified the leak cause, look at the fixes below and follow instuctions. 

Fixing a Coffee Leak Under your Nespresso Vertuo requires:
- Unclogging a dispensing pipe inside the machine
- Cleaning clogged parts  like pod holder. 
- Checking for seal breaks. 

Causes of Coffee Leaking Under a Nespresso Vertuo Machine

If you are experiencing leaks with your Nespresso VertuoPlus, there are several potential causes.

Here are some of the most common reasons why your machine might be leaking coffee. Check for the place of the coffee leak and manually check for parts to try and identify the problem.

Internal Pipe or Pod Holder Clog

Nesspresso VertuoPlus leaking Coffee

A coffee leak means one thing: there’s a clog somewhere inside the machine that is not allowing the coffee to fully go through the nozzle and build up somewhere else then eventually come out the wrong side of the machine.

Nespresso Vertuo Leaking Coffee

Sometimes, there’s a clog in a pipe inside the machine. Other times, it’s the pod holder inside the lid.

Pod Holder Seal Issues

Nespresso Vertuo Leaking

Leaks can also occur due to issues with the rubber seals or valve seal. If the seals are worn or damaged, they can cause coffee or water to leak out of the machine. Check the seals for any visible damage, and replace them if necessary.

Residue and Mineral Buildup

Residue and mineral buildup can also cause coffee leaks in your Nespresso Vertuo. Over time, coffee residue and limescale can build up in the machine, causing blockages and clogs.

To prevent this, regularly clean and descale your machine using a descaling solution to remove any mineral deposits.

Full Drip Tray

If you’re getting a full cup of coffee from your Nespresso machine but notice very small coffee leaks, usually at the front under the drip tray, this could indicate that your drip tray is full and it’s not a coffee leak from inside the machine.

By addressing these common issues, you can prevent leaks in your Nespresso VertuoPlus and improve your overall coffee-making experience.

Steps To Fix a Nespresso Vertuo Leaking Coffee

I will walk you through several things to check for in your coffee machine that can be causing the coffee leak.

I am using Nespresso VertuoPlus as an example because it’s the machine I own. But it can apply to any Nespresso Vertuo model.

Unclogging the Internal Pipe

The number one reason for a Nespresso Vertuo leaking coffee is a clogged pipe.

Internal blockages in the pipework can also cause leaking. To unclog the pipe that can be causing the coffee leak, you’ll need a straw, a syringe or any small tool that you can use to push air inside the pipe.

Follow this video tutorial…

Clean and Unclog the Pod Holder

Using a damp cloth or a soft brush and some water, brush off the pod holder on the inside and all around it. Then, wipe it clean with a cloth or a napkin.

It’s recommended that you run a cleaning cycle after you do these steps so the machine washes off any other residues.

To run a cleaning cycle: with a full water tank and a bowl under the spout, press the brew button three times until it turns orange. It will take a minute for the machine to start dispensing water.

This cycle can be interrupted without any problems by pressing the brew button again.

Coffee Spout Clog

While in the case of a coffee like, it’s unlikely that the coffee spout is clogged (where the coffee comes out into the cup), but it’s a common reason why Nespresso Vertuo machines don’t brew full cups of coffee.

So it’s worth checking if your Nespresso’s coffee spout is clogged.

Using a paper clip, slowly insert it inside the spout and move it to dislodge any possible coffee residues.

Descaling the Machine

If the machine is not descaled regularly, limescale and coffee residue can build up and cause blockages in the pipework.

Descaling requires that you use a special descaling solution. You can use Nespresso’s or a solution from any brand. This descaling solution by Impresa is affordable and effective.

Just avoid using vingear because it’s not acidic enough to clean your machine.

Checking and Replacing Seals

Faulty or worn-out seals can also cause leaking. If you’ve confirmed that it’s a seal issue (from the photo above), then it’s time to call Nespresso customer care.

Unfortunately, a seal is not something you can replace or buy yourself.

Professional Repair and Warranty

If your Nespresso VertuoPlus coffee machine is still under warranty and you experience a leak, you should contact Nespresso’s customer support. They will guide you through the troubleshooting process and determine if the machine needs to be repaired or replaced.

If the machine is no longer under warranty, you can still contact Nespresso’s customer support for assistance. They may be able to provide you with a list of authorized repair centers in your area or offer you a discount on a new machine.

Preventing Future Coffee Leaks

To avoid future leaks with your Nespresso VertuoPlus or any other Vertuo model, there are a few preventative measures you can take.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your machine continues to function at a high level and that you get the most out of your coffee experience.

Regular Cleaning and Descaling

One of the most important things you can do to prevent future leaks is to clean your machine regularly. This includes wiping down the exterior, emptying the drip tray, and cleaning the brewing unit.

Additionally, you should descale your machine at least once every three months using a descaling solution. This will help to remove any buildup of minerals or other substances that can clog the internal components of your machine.

Regular Inspection of Components

To catch any potential issues before they turn into leaks, it is important to inspect your machine regularly. This includes checking the rubber seals and valve seals for any signs of wear and tear. If you notice any cracks or other damage, you should replace the seals immediately.

Avoiding Hard Water

Finally, one of the most common causes of leaks in Nespresso machines is hard water.

Hard water can cause mineral buildup in the machine, which can lead to clogs and leaks. To avoid this, you should use a water softener or filtration system to remove minerals from your water. Alternatively, you can use bottled water or distilled water in your machine.