Why Does My Coffee Machine Make Strange Noise During Operation?

Are You Finding That Your Espresso or Coffee Machine Is Making Odd Sounds?

There could be many reasons why your coffee or espresso machine is making unusual noises while you are making your cup of joe. Below are a few reasons why you might be experiencing strange sounds and some solutions that may alleviate the issues.

Scale Buildup

Depending on where you live or what water you are using, it can have some effects on your machine. Some areas have harder water than others. Harder water has more minerals which can build up in your appliance over time. The most common areas where we see issues with scaling build-up are in the water reservoir or in the heating element of the machine. The easiest way to fix this issue is to descale your device. You can buy different kinds of descaling solutions online or make your own mixing equal portions of water and vinegar. After you have run a cycle of descaling or vinegar solution, make sure to flush out your system completely but run a few cycles of clean, fresh water to ensure that all descaling and vinegar solutions are flushed out. This will ensure that you will have a great-tasting cup of coffee the next time you use your machine. Descaling your device regularly will not only keep it clean, but it can avoid mineral build-ups and expand the lifespan of your device.

Air in the Water Line

If you are hearing gurgling or sputtering, you most likely are experiencing some trapped air bubbles in your water line. This happens when you do not have enough water in your reservoir. When your unit tries to pump water to make your cup of coffee and there is not enough water, air can get sucked into the tubes. You can quickly fix this by simply running a few cycles with only water to force the air out of the line. Make sure you fill your reservoir all the way up to the max fill line before running your cycles. 

Clogged Filters

If you feel like your device seems like it is working harder than normal, you may be experiencing an issue with a clogged filter. Cleaning or replacing your device's filters will ensure that all pipes and tubes are free of blockages. These filters should typically be replaced every 6 months. 

Pump Issues

If you are still having issues after having replaced the filter and have not found any blockages, you may have some issues with your pump. The pump is one of the most crucial pieces of your unit and is sometimes the first part to go bad. The pump is responsible for pushing water through your machine. If your pump is not exerting enough pressure to push the water through your coffee device, you may find that less water is being used or pushed out while it is running. Having too little pressure or too much water pressure might be the cause of your device sounding unusual. You will need to check if the pump itself is blocked or malfunctioning. Usually, these types of issues will make your device have a rattling, humming, or buzzing noise. You check your machine's manual for instructions on how to inspect and clean your pump. If you cleaned your pump and are still having issues, or you can’t get access to your pump to begin with, you should contact the manufacturer or a professional technician for further assistance.

Loose Parts

Sometimes pieces and screws can become loose with daily usage and the vibrations from normal operation. Loose screws or panels can lead to hearing vibrations and other sounds. Unplug your device and inspect it to see if there are any noticeable changes. Making sure all pieces of your machine are clean and securely put together will avoid an unwanted sound while it is running. 

Low Water Level

Are you hearing a sputtering noise or a gurgling sound? You may not have enough water in your unit. Properly care for your device by keeping the water at a consistent level so you never run the risk of running a cycle without enough liquid to pull. If you run your device and there is no water for it to pull, you can experience overheating issues that can damage your pump or internal heater. It is important to check the water level of your unit before every use. Keeping your water reservoir full will ensure that you won’t make the mistake of running your device without enough water. This can help the longevity of your unit and can help ensure that you won’t have any issues, need any replacement parts, or need a brand-new machine in general. 

Taking The Steps to Look At Your Unit Can Save You A Lot of Money!

Cleaning your coffee unit regularly is an important step to keep it running smoothly. If you are still having issues even after trying our tricks above, we suggest reaching out to your machine's manufacturer for further repair assistance. There are a few issues that may need expert assistance or even replacement parts. Working with your machine’s manufacturing company is the most guaranteed way to find out what is wrong with your unit. If the manufacturer is unable to help, you can also find a local professional who may be able to repair your machine.