About this Video

• Video Title: HOW TO CLEAN / DESCALE Keurig K-Cafe Essentials Coffee Maker with Vinegar & DISABLE THE CLEAN LIGHT
• Channel: Just A Dad Videos
• Speakers: Just A Dad
• Duration: 00:09:19

Introduction

This video demonstrates how to descale a Keurig K-Cafe Essentials coffee maker using white vinegar and how to disable the descaling notification light. The speaker also mentions a future video on using Keurig's descaling solution.

Key Takeaways

• Descaling Procedure: The video details a step-by-step process for descaling the Keurig K-Cafe Essentials using a vinegar and water solution. This includes emptying the water reservoir, adding the solution, running the descaling cycle, and performing several fresh water rinses.
• Disabling the Descale Light: The video explains how to disable the automatic descaling notification light that illuminates after 250 brews. This involves a specific button combination while the machine is powered off but plugged in.
• Importance of Add Water Light: The video stresses the importance of waiting for the "add water" light to illuminate during the descaling process. Failure to do so could damage the heating element.
• Vinegar vs. Keurig Solution: The speaker compares using vinegar versus the official Keurig descaling solution, noting that vinegar is cheaper but may leave a lingering smell and require more rinsing. The Keurig solution is considered more effective and odorless.
• Additional Tips: The speaker provides additional tips, such as allowing the machine to cool before refilling and avoiding pressing any buttons during the cooling period to prevent overheating.

Based on the provided transcript, here's a step-by-step guide on how to descale a Keurig K-Cafe Essentials coffee maker and disable the descaling light, as shown in the video:

I. Disabling the Descale Light:

1. Power Off & Plug In: Ensure the Keurig is powered off but remains plugged into the outlet. Wait for the unit to power down completely (5 minutes).

2. Button Combination: Press and hold both the 10 oz and 12 oz buttons simultaneously for three seconds. The lights will illuminate and then turn off, confirming the descaling light is disabled. To re-enable, repeat this step.

II. Descaling with Vinegar:

1. Prepare the Machine: Empty any coffee grounds from the used K-Cup holder. Remove the water reservoir and any water filter.

2. Vinegar Solution: Add 14 ounces (approximately two cups) of distilled white vinegar to the water reservoir. Then, add another 14 ounces of fresh water.

3. Initial Wait: After opening the machine lid, wait for the flashing lights to automatically turn off (approximately 5 minutes). The machine must remain plugged in during this time.

4. Start Descaling Cycle: Press and hold the 12 oz and 8 oz buttons simultaneously for 3 seconds. Release when the descaling and 12 oz lights begin flashing.

5. Run the Cycle: Press the 12 oz button to begin the descaling cycle. The machine will dispense the vinegar solution. Keep an eye on the water level and refill as needed to prevent running the brewer dry.

6. Add Water Light: Continue pressing the 12 oz button until the "add water" light illuminates. This signals that the machine is ready for rinsing. If the light doesn't come on after a reasonable time, stop, unplug the machine, and restart the descaling process from step 3, using only water this time.

7. First Rinse: Remove the vinegar/water mixture from the reservoir and refill completely with fresh water. Reinsert the reservoir. The 12-ounce light should still be flashing. Press the 12 oz button to run a fresh water rinse.

8. Subsequent Rinses: Empty the reservoir and repeat step 7 until the descaling light goes off. This may require several rinses. The machine will automatically shut off when complete.

9. Final Rinse (Optional): After the descaling light goes off, you may want to run a couple more 12-ounce cycles of fresh water to remove any lingering vinegar taste.

Important Considerations:

• Cooling Period: Allow the machine to cool for 10-20 minutes after the descaling cycle. Do not touch any buttons during this cooling period to prevent damage to the heating element.
• Air Ingestion: Do not allow the machine to run out of water during any part of the descaling process. Air intake could damage the heating element.