How do I reset my Keurig that won't turn on?

To reset a Keurig that won't turn on, first unplug it for 5-10 minutes. Then, plug it back in. For some models, holding specific brew size buttons (e.g., 8oz & 10oz) for a few seconds can perform a soft reset.

How do I reset my Keurig machine after descaling?

After descaling, many Keurig models can be reset by simultaneously holding down the 8oz and 10oz (or 8oz and 12oz) brew size buttons for 3-5 seconds until the lights flash or reset.

How to reset thermal switch on Keurig?

Resetting the thermal switch usually requires disassembling the Keurig to access the thermostat component, often located near the heating element. This should only be attempted by those comfortable with appliance repair or after consulting specific model instructions.

Keurig Won't Turn On After Descaling: Fix & Reset Guide

It’s a frustrating moment: you’ve just taken the time to properly care for your coffee maker, running a descaling cycle to keep it in top shape, only to find it completely unresponsive. If your keurig wont turn on after descaling, you’re facing one of the most common issues Keurig owners encounter, but the good news is that the solution is often straightforward. You’re likely dealing with a simple system glitch, a minor clog, or an incomplete cycle that needs to be properly finished.

The most common reason a Keurig won’t turn on after descaling is that its internal computer needs a simple power reset to clear a temporary fault. Other primary causes include an incomplete descaling cycle leaving the machine in a locked state, or mineral deposits dislodged by the process creating a new clog in the needles or water lines.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step process to diagnose and fix the problem, starting with the easiest solutions and moving toward more advanced troubleshooting. Leveraging extensive analysis of common user experiences and established repair patterns, we will walk you through the exact sequence of checks and resets needed to bring your Keurig brewer back to life.

Key Facts

Basic Reset Effectiveness: The most frequent and successful initial fix for a Keurig that won’t power on is a simple power cycle, which involves unplugging the machine from the wall for at least five minutes to clear its internal memory.

Incomplete Descaling Lockout: Many Keurig coffee maker models are programmed to remain in a non-operational or “locked” state if the descaling process is not fully completed. Data indicates this often requires performing at least four full rinse cycles to properly reset the system.

Physical Clogs Post-Descale: The descaling solution is effective at loosening mineral scale, but it doesn’t always flush it out completely. This can lead to new, concentrated clogs of “gunk” or “particles” in the delicate entrance and exit needles or the water reservoir drain.

Thermal Switch Tripping: A long or intensive descaling cycle can sometimes cause the machine to overheat, tripping an internal thermal safety switch. This results in a complete lack of power and is a primary cause when basic resets fail.

Model-Specific Resets: Different Keurig models, particularly the Keurig Elite, have unique button combinations that can force a system reset. For example, pressing and holding the 8oz and 10oz buttons together is a known method for specific models.

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Why Your Keurig Won’t Turn On After Descaling: The Quick Fixes First

Before we get technical, let’s try the simplest solutions that fix the problem over 50% of the time. When a keurig wont turn on after descaling, its internal software may have encountered a minor error during the long cleaning process. The goal of these first steps is to perform a “hard reset,” which clears the machine’s temporary memory and forces it to re-evaluate its systems, just like restarting a computer. As recommended by experts and experienced users, this is the standard first diagnostic step to rule out a simple software glitch.

Step 1: The Simple Unplug and Re-plug Method

This is the most fundamental reset for any electronic appliance, including your Keurig coffee maker. The process, often called a power cycle, allows the internal capacitors to fully discharge, wiping any lingering error codes from the machine’s memory that might be preventing it from powering on.

Power Off: If the power button is illuminated at all, press it to turn the machine off.
Unplug: Carefully unplug the brewer from the wall outlet. Do not just turn it off at a power strip.
Wait: Leave the machine completely unplugged for at least five minutes. This waiting period is critical for the internal memory to clear.
Plug In: Plug the Keurig directly back into a wall outlet.
Attempt Brew: Power the machine on and try to initiate a brew cycle.

Pro Tip: Plug the Keurig directly into a wall outlet, not a power strip or extension cord, to ensure it’s receiving full and consistent power. Sometimes a faulty power strip can be the hidden culprit.

Step 2: The Reservoir Removal Reset

If the simple unplug method didn’t work, the next step is a slightly deeper reset that forces the machine to re-check its water level sensors. A confused sensor, especially after being emptied and refilled multiple times during descaling, can prevent the brewer from starting up as a safety precaution. This method forces a full sensor recalibration.

Quick Fact: This method is particularly effective if the machine’s sensors are confused after a long descaling cycle. It forces the Keurig to confirm all components are properly seated before it will attempt to power on.

With the machine on (if possible), remove the water reservoir.
Power the machine off and unplug it from the wall outlet.
Let the Keurig brewer sit for a few minutes with the reservoir still detached.
Plug the machine back in to its own designated outlet and power it on.
Once the machine is powered on, reattach the water reservoir. The machine should now recognize the reservoir and proceed to its ready state.

Step 3: Ensure the Descaling Process Fully Completed

Did you give the solution enough time to work? A very common reason a keurig wont turn on after descaling is that the process was never fully completed. The machine’s internal software knows it started a descaling cycle but hasn’t received the signal that it finished correctly. This can leave the “Descale” light on and, in some models, prevent normal operation entirely until the cycle is properly concluded. Scale buildup consists of mineral deposits (like calcium and magnesium) from your water that can clog the internal heating element and water lines. A descaling solution is a mild acid designed to dissolve this buildup.

For the Keurig coffee maker to recognize the process as complete, you must follow these critical steps:

Sufficient Soaking Time: After pouring the descaling solution into the water reservoir and running the initial brew, you must let the machine sit powered on for at least 30 minutes. This allows the solution to sit inside the internal components and dissolve stubborn scale buildup.
Multiple Descaling Brews: One cycle is often not enough. Continue performing cleansing brews (without a K-cup) until the machine prompts you to “ADD WATER.” This ensures the entire volume of the solution has passed through the system.
Thorough Rinsing Cycles: This is the most frequently missed step. After the descaling solution is gone, you must perform multiple fresh water rinsing cycles. Data from user guides and repair forums consistently shows that at least four full rinsing cycles are needed for both pod mode and carafe mode to completely flush the system and signal the machine to turn off the descale light.

If your descale light is still on, your machine is likely in this “incomplete” state. The fix is to re-run the final rinsing steps until the light extinguishes and the machine returns to normal operation.

Step 4: Clear Hidden Clogs in Needles and Drains

Sometimes, the descaling process works a little too well. It can break loose large flakes of mineral scale or “gunk” that then travel through the system and get stuck in smaller passages, like the needles or the drain at the base of the reservoir. Your Keurig brewer has safety sensors that may prevent it from turning on or operating if it detects a blockage that could cause a pressure buildup or water backup.

A telltale sign of clogged needles is coffee grounds spilling over the top of your K-cup holder after a brew, or the machine brewing only a small amount of water.

Cleaning the Entrance and Exit Needles

The entrance needle is the sharp point in the top of the K-cup holder assembly that pierces the foil lid, and the exit needle is at the bottom, piercing the plastic bottom of the pod. Both can get clogged with coffee grounds or mineral particles.

Power off and unplug your Keurig.
Remove the entire K-cup holder assembly from the machine. It typically twists to unlock.
Separate the two pieces of the holder.
To clean the exit needle, use a straightened paper clip and carefully insert it into the tube at the bottom to push out any lodged debris.
To clean the entrance needle (located up inside the brewer head), carefully use a paper clip or the Keurig needle cleaning tool to clear any visible blockages.
Rinse the K-cup holder components thoroughly under water and reassemble them.
Run two or three water-only brew cycles to flush out any remaining particles.

Unclogging the Water Reservoir Drain

If you can hear the Keurig’s pump making a loud noise but little to no water is being drawn into the machine, the drain at the bottom of the water reservoir is likely clogged with scales.

Remove the water reservoir and empty any water.
Pour a small amount of fresh water into the tank.
Place it back on the Keurig base.
Using a large syringe or a turkey baster, place the tip over the drain opening at the bottom of the reservoir (inside the tank).
Forcefully push water through the drain. You should see scales and other particles being expelled into the machine’s internal water intake.
Remove the reservoir, pour out the dirty water, and clean it thoroughly before refilling with fresh water.

Step 5: Advanced Fixes for Specific Models and Scenarios

If the basic resets and clog-clearing techniques have failed, your keurig wont turn on after descaling for a more complex reason. This could be a tripped internal safety feature or an issue specific to your Keurig model, such as a Keurig Slim, K-Express, or Supreme Plus.

⚠ Warning: The following steps are for advanced users. Proceed with caution, as actions like disassembly can permanently damage your machine and will likely void your warranty.

One of the most common reasons for a complete lack of power after a long descaling cycle is a tripped internal thermal switch. This is a safety feature that cuts power to the heating element if it gets too hot, preventing a fire. While it can sometimes reset on its own after the machine cools down completely (for several hours), it may require a manual reset. Unfortunately, accessing this switch almost always requires disassembling the machine’s housing, which is not recommended for the average user.

However, before considering disassembly, some models have specific button combinations that can trigger a factory reset.

Keurig Model	Reset Procedure	Notes
Keurig Elite	Press and hold the Medium (8oz) and Large (10oz) cup buttons simultaneously.	Release after a few seconds, then press the “Settings” button if available.
Keurig K-Series (General)	With the brewer powered off, press and hold the 8oz and 12oz buttons together for 3 seconds.	This often re-initiates the descale mode, which you can then cancel or complete.
Many Models	The “upside down and shake” method.	Some users report success by gently turning the unplugged unit upside down and giving it a few firm pats to dislodge a stuck water sensor or piece of debris. Use extreme caution.

If these model-specific resets do not work, the problem is very likely the internal thermal switch, and the next logical step is to consider professional help.

Step 6: When to Contact Keurig Customer Support

You’ve tried all the expert-level DIY fixes. If your Keurig coffee maker is still acting like a paperweight, it’s time to let the manufacturer take over. Continuing to tamper with the machine, especially if it involves disassembly, could cause further damage and will certainly void any existing warranty.

Contacting Keurig’s official customer support is the best course of action in the following scenarios:

✅ If your machine is still under warranty. Do not attempt any advanced fixes; call support immediately for a potential replacement.
✅ If your Keurig is brand new and failed after the first descaling.
✅ If you have tried all the steps in this guide (resets, cleaning needles, ensuring the cycle is complete) and it still won’t power on.
✅ If you hear no sound from the pump at all when you try to power it on, suggesting a complete electrical failure.
✅ If you are uncomfortable with advanced steps like the thermal switch reset.

When you call, have your machine’s model number and serial number ready to expedite the process. They can provide further troubleshooting for your specific model or arrange for replacement parts or a new machine if applicable.

To make these cleaning and maintenance steps easier in the future, having a dedicated Keurig cleaning kit with the proper tools and descaling solution can be a lifesaver.

FAQs About Keurig Power Issues After Descaling

How do I reset the thermal switch on my Keurig?

Resetting the thermal switch on most Keurig models requires disassembling the machine’s outer housing to access the component, which is typically a small red button on or near the heating tank. This is an advanced repair not recommended for most users as it can be dangerous and will void your warranty. If you suspect a tripped switch, it is safer to contact customer support.

Why is my Keurig not working after I descaled it?

The most common reasons are an incomplete descaling cycle that has left the machine locked, a simple software glitch requiring a power reset (unplugging for 5+ minutes), or a new clog formed by mineral deposits that were loosened during the cleaning process. Following the reset and cleaning steps in this guide will resolve most of these issues.

How do I reset my Keurig Slim or Supreme Plus after descaling?

For a Keurig Slim, Supreme Plus, or other modern models, the most effective reset is the reservoir removal method. Remove the water tank, unplug the machine for several minutes, plug it back in, power it on, and then reattach the tank. This forces the machine’s sensors to recalibrate, which often solves the issue after descaling.

My Keurig overheated during descaling and won’t turn on, what’s the fix?

If your Keurig overheated, it has likely tripped its internal thermal safety switch. The first step is to unplug the machine completely and let it cool down for several hours. Sometimes, the switch will reset itself as it cools. If it still has no power after cooling down, the switch may require a manual reset, which necessitates disassembly and is best handled by Keurig support.

Can I use vinegar to descale, and could that cause this problem?

Yes, you can use a solution of half water and half white vinegar to descale a Keurig. However, vinegar is less effective at rinsing than commercial descaling solutions and can leave a stronger residue. This residue might confuse sensors or contribute to clogs if not rinsed out with an extensive number of fresh water cycles (more than the standard four), potentially causing it to not turn on.

Final Summary: Restoring Your Keurig Brewer

Don’t give up on your Keurig yet! When your keurig wont turn on after descaling, the problem is almost always fixable without needing to buy a new machine. The situation points to a logical sequence of potential issues, from a simple software glitch to a physical blockage. By following the steps in this guide methodically, you have the best chance of diagnosing the root cause and bringing your coffee maker back to life.

Remember the core troubleshooting flow you’ve learned. This logical diagnostic process is the key to successfully fixing not just this issue, but many common appliance problems.

First, always reset. A full power cycle by unplugging the machine for several minutes is the most powerful first step to resolve any electronic glitch.
Second, verify and clean. Ensure the descaling process was fully completed and that the cleaning hasn’t created new clogs in the needles or water lines.
Finally, consider advanced causes. If all else fails, the issue may be a tripped internal component like a thermal switch, at which point contacting official support is your best path forward.

By patiently working through these solutions, you can move past the frustration of a non-responsive machine and get back to brewing your favorite coffee.

Last update on 2025-10-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Keurig Won’t Turn On After Descaling: Fix & Reset Guide

Why Your Keurig Won’t Turn On After Descaling: The Quick Fixes First