Learning how to fix a coffee maker hot plate isn’t the easiest task to undertake. In most cases, you’re better off buying a new model of the best coffee maker in your price range.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- If your hot coffee is turning into cold coffee in the pot, it isn’t conducting heat. First, try cleaning the rust using an oxalic acid solution following our step-by-step guide.
- To reapply paint to a coffee maker hot plate, invest in heat-resistant spray paint. Uninstall your coffee maker hot plate, and go through the process detailed in this article.
- Keeping your coffee maker clean is the best defense against needing common repairs. While you can hire an appliance repairman, it’s easier to just replace the model.
If you’ve ever removed rust before, that part will be easy. A coating repair on the heating elements is where things start to get tricky. If you’re up for the challenge, we’ll explain the entire process in our repair guides below.
Guide to Fixing Your Hot Plate
Removing rust from coffee maker hot plates is fairly easy. On the other hand, repairing a coffee maker hot plate with peeling paint can be a hassle.
For busy people, hiring an appliance expert is a better option. The most cost-effective is learning how to dispose of an old coffee maker and purchasing a new model.
Insider Tip
If you want fresh coffee maker brews that are coffee shop-worthy, invest in a thermal carafe. Coffee lovers looking to get the most out of their coffee machine and best whole coffee beans love their carafes.
Removing Rust from Your Coffee Maker
STEP 1
If your coffee pot warming plate is no longer keeping coffee warm, it might be due to rust accumulation. A dirty warming plate won’t transfer heat. First, make a solution of water and oxalic acid. Use hand protection for this since the acidic properties of the solution can be harmful.
STEP 2
Thoroughly clean any coffee residue off the warming element using a damp and lint-free cloth with soapy water.
STEP 3
Next, apply the oxalic solution to the warming element. You should allow this to sit and soak for a little bit so it can soften the rust.
STEP 4
Remove the warm water solution carefully using a dry cloth. Wipe the warming element down with a damp cloth and soap once more, rinse it off, and then dry it thoroughly.
Reapplying Heat-Resistant Paint
- Difficulty: Hard
- Time Required: 20 minutes
- Total Steps: 5
- Tools Needed: Heat-resistant paint, coffee maker hot plate, basic tools, cleaning supplies
STEP 1
If you haven’t, clean the heating element unit of your coffee machine thoroughly using hot water and vinegar.
STEP 2
Next, take off your coffee pot warming plate by following the directions provided by coffee machine manufacturers. This will keep other components in coffee makers safe, such as the brew basket.
STEP 3
Set up a safe area for the painting process. Make sure you use heat-resistant spray paint, or you could end up with a dangerous situation and noxious fumes. Automotive engine paint works well.
STEP 4
Allow the coffee machine plate to dry completely. Then reinstall it, brew coffee, and enjoy a cup of coffee from your freshly repaired machine.
STEP 5
If you’re diving into the repair revolution, learning how to fix a spring in a coffee maker is a great next step.
Warning
Be careful about your destination for tech repair news. Always check with your manufacturer for official information before investing in a selection of precision tools.
F.A.Q.S
How do coffee makers work?
That depends on the type of model you purchase. There is a wide selection of styles out there beyond drip coffee makers. A popular style for those with little time is pod coffee makers.
Is repairing my coffee maker worth it?
Unless you have an exceptional appliance, it’s almost always better to just purchase a new model. Most of the time, the repair cost is higher than a new unit would be.
Should I try to repair a dangerous coffee pot?
Absolutely not. They don’t cost enough to justify taking a chance on a dangerous coffee pot. If the glass carafe is compromised, it’s time to look into selecting one of the drip coffee makers on the market.
What are the best cleaning instructions for a coffee appliance?
Most of them will include ingredients like baking soda, white vinegar, and lemon juice. You can also use a commercial product made by the manufacturer.
STAT: From our survey, we found that an average college student spends $12 on coffee a week. (source)
REFERENCES:
- https://scholarsmine.mst.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=3195&context=masters_theses
- https://sustainability.mit.edu/article/stuff-versus-stuff-battle-coffee-makers
- https://u.osu.edu/568202team3/pod-style-coffee-making/functions-and-components-of-the-k-cup/r
- https://www.artcons.udel.edu/mitra/Documents/MITRA_Mediums_and_Additives.pdf
- https://www.rustoleum.com/~/media/DigitalEncyclopedia/Documents/RustoleumUSA/TDS/English/CBG/Automotive/ATO-15_Automotive_High_Heat_Paint_TDS.ashx
