Statistics show that a coffee maker can last between 6 to 10 years. The lifetime of a coffee maker typically depends on the make and model as well as an array of different factors (upkeep, environment, use, etc.)
Standard drip filter coffee makers have the shortest lifespan at six (6) years, whereas the fully automatic espresso machine has the longest lifespan at ten (10) years.
You may think that 10 years is a really long time to stick with your coffee maker. But remember, that is the maximum lifespan of a coffee maker.
It does provide us with a baseline. So, if you have to replace your coffee maker after only a few months or a year, then it’s obvious that there may be something wrong going on.
The good news though is that most brands provide a warranty of up to two (2) years. But we also have to take into account the environmental impact of purchasing and discarding coffee makers after such a short time.
Coffee maker, after all, is an e-waste. Disposing of it is quite difficult. Doing it often is an environmental disaster.
That’s why it’s important to look after your coffee maker properly. Aside from saving you money, it also helps the environment (which ultimately, is where coffee is grown).
Here are some tips on how you can maintain your coffee maker and extend its lifespan to, who knows, maybe six to ten years? (Just kidding but why not?).
How to make your coffee maker last a long time
To make your coffee maker last a long time, basic maintenance is a must. Here are some things you can do to keep your coffee maker in top shape.
Clean your coffee maker regularly
Coffee makers must be cleaned on a regular basis. Otherwise, they can become a haven for various microorganisms. This not only affects coffee taste but also the quality of your coffee.
In fact, according to one study, molds and yeast can easily call kitchen appliances home if they’re not cleaned regularly. This includes coffee makers.
In addition, minerals in the water can subtly but surely accumulate in coffee makers. Thus, it is necessary to “decalcify” your coffee maker once in a while. You can do this through water and vinegar.
For more information on this, check out this article on how to clean and decalcify your coffee maker.
Alternatively, you can also use demineralized water. Not only will it improve the taste of coffee, but it will also prevent decalcification of minerals in your coffee maker.
But if you don’t want to, you can always buy a coffee maker that’s great for hard water.
Switching off your coffee maker
Are you the type to leave your coffee maker on all day? If you answered yes, then I totally understand. I was like that too.
But leaving your coffee maker on all day has grievous consequences. Not only does it waste electricity, but it can also damage your coffee maker in the long-term.
The continuous flow of electricity into your coffee maker can damage its circuitry. As a result, your coffee maker will wear faster than usual.
The good news though is that there are now coffee makers that have an automatic shutdown feature. If your coffee maker has this, then you have no cause for worry. But if it doesn’t, then remember to turn off your coffee maker.
I know it’s easy to forget this, especially early in the morning when you’re running late. But do it now and your coffee maker will definitely last longer.
Use the right grind of coffee
A number of coffee makers require a certain grind of coffee. And if you’re the wrong grind, it can damage your coffee maker.
It’s always better to find out which grind is suitable for your coffee maker. Not only will it result in better-tasting coffee, but it will also ensure that your coffee maker will last longer.
Don’t use oily beans
Coffee beans are oily. It’s a fact of life. But some coffee beans are more oily than others.
Darker ones are usually oilier and they have a shinier coating than the lighter ones.
When dark coffee beans are roasted, the oil accumulates on the surface. For certain coffee makers, like espresso machines, excess oil can damage the machine’s internal circuitry.
Excess oil can also accumulate and form a sticky substance that can damage the bean hopper or the brew unit of coffee makers.
Thus, it’s advisable to look into which coffee beans work best with your coffee maker. Check out also the roast type as this also affects the oil level.
Use the right capsule or pods
Whenever you’re buying coffee pods or capsules, be sure to check if it’s the right size for your coffee maker.
Using capsules or pods that are too large can damage your machine. If you happen to buy one, don’t cram it in your coffee maker. It won’t fit anyway. And you’ll just risk damaging your coffee maker.
Always check the water level each time you brew
I’m guilty of this. I sometimes forget to check if there’s water inside the coffee maker. Then I’ll wonder why no coffee is pouring out. LOL.
So don’t be like me. Always check if there’s enough water before you start brewing.
Without water, the coffee maker will still try to brew your coffee…with air. It will suck air, pretending it’s water.
And you can just imagine how frustrating, not to mention, damaging that is to your coffee maker.
The great news is that there are now “smart” coffee makers that can detect whether there is sufficient water to brew your coffee.
When to buy a new coffee maker
Alas. No matter how much we take care of our coffee makers, there will come a time when we do need to buy a new one.
Here are telltale signs that you truly need to upgrade or buy a new coffee maker.
Your coffee maker is broken
If your coffee maker can’t brew coffee anymore, then of course it’s time to go. Nothing complicated here.
But before you dump your coffee maker in the trash, remember that it is an e-waste. The electronic circuitry inside your coffee maker can pollute the environment, not to mention the plastic.
For more information, check out this article on how you can dispose of your coffee maker properly.
We also have reviews of coffee makers that suit your needs and budget.
Your coffee maker has a heating problem
We always expect hot coffee from our coffee makers. While coffee makers don’t boil water, we also don’t want our coffee lukewarm or worse, cold (is that even brewed coffee?).
When your coffee maker can’t heat the water, it can’t produce that great coffee taste. Heck, it may not even be sufficient to extract any caffeine out.
If your coffee maker consistently produces lukewarm coffee, it may be a sign that it needs to be checked, or maybe even replaced.
Lack of pods
Coffee makers that use pods are heaven-sent. They make brewing coffee easier. They also produce great tasting coffee.
Until you run out of pods. And the company that produces them suddenly decided to stop production.
It happened with Nespresso when it stopped producing four flavors of their single-origin blends.
If you don’t want any of these problems, why not try coffee makers that don’t use pods?
Or if you still want those pods, check out our recommendations on coffee makers that use pods.
Your coffee maker can’t meet the demand anymore
When you’re single, you may have bought a single-serve coffee maker.
But suddenly, you’re hitched. Or a roommate/friend moved in with you.
No matter the reason, your single-serve coffee maker just doesn’t cut it anymore.
Maybe it’s time for an upgrade, like getting a coffee maker for two people.
Or maybe a commercial coffee maker that’s still great for home use.
You just really want an upgrade
Maybe you’re just tired of your old coffee maker. And there are these new coffee makers on the market that have better features.
Well, it may be the time for an upgrade, like a programmable coffee maker or something. Whatever your reason is, don’t forget to dispose of your coffee maker properly. Or maybe you can even donate it to those who still can use your old coffee maker.
