How To Exit Nespresso Descaling Mode

As a Nespresso machine and coffee expert, I know that descaling is a crucial part of maintaining your machine.

But what happens when you’re stuck in descaling mode and can’t seem to get out?

This recently happened to me and I was able to get out of descaling mode and make a cuppa.

If you’re in the same spot, then check out my step-by-step guide below on how to exit descaling mode for all Nespresso machines. 

How To Exit Descaling Mode By Nespresso Machine Model

The specifics on how you actually get out of descaling mode varies by model of Nespresso machine.

So, take a quick look at your machine to determine what we’re working with here.

Exiting Descale Mode for Vertuo Plus, Vertuo and Evoluo

If you’re rocking a Vertuo Plus, Vertuo, or Evoluo model, here’s the lowdown on how to exit descale mode and get back to brewing some amazing coffee:

Vertuo Plus: A Simple Button Combo

For the Vertuo Plus, exiting descale mode is a piece of cake.

All you gotta do is hold the button and the lever down together for about three seconds, then let ’em go.

Once you do that, you should see a solid green light (though it might look yellowish to some folks).

Voilà! You’re out of descale mode and ready to brew.

Vertuo and Evoluo: Hold That Button

For the Vertuo and Evoluo models, you’ll need to take a slightly different approach.

After you’ve finished up the rinse cycle, press and hold the button for a solid seven seconds.

The light should then turn steady, signaling that you’ve successfully exited descale mode.

Give It a Little Break

Before you jump back into brewing, let your coffee maker chill out for about 10 minutes.

This little breather will ensure everything’s good to go for your next cup of java.

Getting Out of Descale Mode for Essenza Mini, CitiZ, Pixie, and Inissia: A Chill Guide

If you’re using an Essenza Mini, CitiZ, Pixie, or Inissia from the Nespresso Original line, I’ve got the deets on how to exit descale mode like a pro.

Essenza Mini: A Quick Button Hold

For the Essenza Mini, you’ll need to hold down both the espresso and lungo buttons to make your escape from descale mode.

Keep ’em pressed for five seconds, and then let go.

After releasing the buttons, the lights should eventually turn steady – and you’re good to go!

CitiZ, Inissia, and Pixie: A Slightly Shorter Hold

If you’re rocking a CitiZ, Inissia, or Pixie, the process is pretty similar to the Essenza Mini.

You’ll still need to hold down the espresso and lungo buttons, but this time for just three seconds.

Once you release the buttons, the lights will take their sweet time to turn steady – it might even take up to 25 seconds for some models.

But hey, patience is a virtue, right?

Why Your Nespresso Gets Stuck In Descaling Mode

There are a few different things that can cause your Nespresso coffee maker to get stuck in descaling mode.

I’ll walk you through those reasons below.

Reason One: Incomplete Descaling Process

Your Nespresso machine might get stuck in descaling mode because the descaling process wasn’t completed properly. 

When you’re descaling your Nespresso machine, it’s super important to follow the steps carefully and see it through to the end.

If you cut corners or skip steps, your machine might not get the message that descaling is done, and it’ll stay stuck in that mode like it’s waiting for you to finish the job.

To make sure you complete the descaling process, double-check the user manual for your specific machine and follow the instructions to a T.

If you’ve misplaced your manual, you can usually find it online on the Nespresso website. 

Reason Two: User Error

Let’s face it, we all make mistakes sometimes, even when it comes to descaling our beloved Nespresso machines. 

One common user error is pressing the wrong buttons during the descaling process.

It’s easy to mix up which button does what, especially if you’re new to Nespresso or haven’t descaled your machine in a while.

Make sure you’re pressing the right buttons in the right order, as outlined in your user manual.

Another user error that can lead to a stuck descaling mode is not following the steps in the user manual.

It’s super important to stick to the instructions and not skip any steps or try to improvise.

Trust me, your Nespresso machine knows what it needs, and the manual is there to guide you through the process.

If you’ve lost your manual, you can usually find a digital version on the Nespresso website.

So, if your Nespresso machine is stuck in descaling mode, double-check your user manual and make sure you’ve followed all the steps correctly.

If you’re still having trouble, reach out to Nespresso customer support or consult a fellow Nespresso enthusiast. 

Reason Three: Machine Malfunction

Alright, so you’ve double-checked your descaling process and you’re sure you’ve done everything by the book, but your Nespresso machine is still stuck in descaling mode.

Sometimes, it’s not you – it’s the machine itself experiencing a malfunction.

Electronic issues can occasionally cause your Nespresso machine to get stuck in descaling mode.

There could be a glitch in the machine’s software or a problem with its internal sensors that’s preventing it from recognizing that the descaling process is complete.

In these cases, you might want to try resetting your machine by unplugging it, waiting a few minutes, and then plugging it back in.

If that doesn’t work, it’s time to call in the pros – Nespresso customer support or a qualified technician can help you diagnose and fix the issue.

Believe it or not, mechanical issues can also be the culprit when your Nespresso machine is stuck in descaling mode.

Parts can wear out over time or become damaged, leading to problems with the machine’s function.

Keep an eye (and ear) out for any unusual noises or signs of wear and tear.

If you suspect a mechanical issue, it’s best to reach out to Nespresso customer support or a qualified technician for assistance.

Remember, even the best machines can have hiccups from time to time. 

Reason Four: Faulty Buttons or Controls

If your machine’s buttons or controls are damaged or unresponsive, it can be tough to exit descaling mode, but don’t worry – we’ve got some tips to get you back in the coffee game!

Troubleshooting Unresponsive Buttons

If you’re trying to exit descaling mode but the buttons on your Nespresso machine aren’t cooperating, there are a few things you can try.

First, give the buttons a gentle clean with a damp cloth to make sure there’s no gunk or buildup causing them to stick.

If that doesn’t work, you might want to try resetting your machine by unplugging it, waiting a few minutes, and then plugging it back in. Sometimes, a good ol’ reset can work wonders.

Replacing Damaged Controls

If your buttons or controls are visibly damaged, it’s time to take action.

You can start by contacting Nespresso customer support to see if they can offer any guidance or assistance.

They might be able to send you replacement parts, walk you through a repair, or direct you to a certified technician who can help.

Keep in mind that if your Nespresso machine is still under warranty, you might be eligible for a free repair or replacement, so make sure to have your warranty information handy when you reach out to customer support.

Reason Five: Power Supply Issues

So, you’ve tried everything and your Nespresso machine is still stuck in descaling mode?

Problems with your power supply, like intermittent power or voltage fluctuations, can mess with your machine and keep it stuck in descaling mode.

Intermittent Power

Intermittent power can be a real buzzkill when you’re trying to descale your Nespresso machine.

If your machine loses power during the descaling process, it might not be able to properly exit the mode once it’s done.

To avoid this, make sure your machine is plugged into a reliable power source, and if you’ve been experiencing power outages or flickering lights, you might want to call an electrician to check things out.

Voltage Fluctuations

Voltage fluctuations can also cause your Nespresso machine to get stuck in descaling mode.

When the voltage in your home’s electrical system fluctuates too much, it can interfere with your machine’s ability to complete the descaling process and exit the mode.

To fix this issue, you might want to invest in a voltage stabilizer or consult with an electrician to ensure your home’s electrical system is up to snuff.

Reason Six: Water Tank Issues

A problem with your water tank, like it not completely emptying during the descale or rinse cycle, can keep your machine from returning to its normal brewing state.

If your water tank didn’t empty all the way during the descaling or rinse cycle, your Nespresso machine might not recognize that the process is finished, and it’ll stay stuck in descaling mode.

Here’s what you can do to fix this:

1. First, make sure your water tank is properly seated and that there are no blockages or kinks in the tubes or connectors. Sometimes, a simple adjustment can get things flowing again.
2. If everything looks good but the water still isn’t draining, try running another descaling or rinse cycle. Sometimes, a second go-round can help clear out any remaining solution and get the machine back on track.
3. If all else fails, reach out to Nespresso customer support for help. They might have some tricks up their sleeve to get your machine back in working order, or they might be able to direct you to a certified technician for a more in-depth look at the issue.

Water tank issues can be a hassle, but they don’t have to keep your Nespresso machine stuck in descaling mode forever. 

Reason Seven: Too Much Time Between Descaling Steps

If you’re finding your Nespresso Vertuo machine stuck in descale mode, it might be because you’re taking too long between descaling steps.

I’m here to help you understand this common issue and how to fix it.

Vertuo Next, Vertuo, and Evoluo Time Limits

When you’re descaling these Vertuo machines, you gotta be quick!

After putting the machine in descale mode by holding the button for seven seconds, you only have 45 seconds to lock and unlock the lever, and then press the button again for another 7 seconds.

If you don’t make it in time, the machine will exit descale mode and you’ll see that pesky alert light come on again.

No worries, though—you can just re-enter descale mode and give it another shot.

Vertuo Plus Time Limit

If you’ve got a Vertuo Plus, you’re in luck—you get a bit more time to complete the process.

After the orange light comes on when you’ve entered descale mode, you’ve got two whole minutes to press the lever down once to start the actual descale process.

But, if you don’t hit that deadline, the machine will exit cleaning mode, and you’ll see the half red and green light or red and yellow light again.

Just like the other models, simply re-enter descale mode and try once more.