How to Remove Scale From a Commercial Coffee Maker
Coffee pot "scale" refers to the lime and mineral deposits left behind as water circulates through a commercial or domestic coffee maker. Scale can be a significant problem for commercial coffee makers that use hard water for brewing. Hard water has a much higher mineral content than soft water. Scale buildup is not only unsightly, it alters the taste of your coffee. De-scale your commercial coffee maker at least once a month to prevent scale buildup. You may need to remove scale from high-output, frequently used machines twice a month. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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1
Remove the coffee maker's spray head according to the manufacturer's instructions (most models require you simply to unscrew it). If there is any scale buildup inside the spray head, remove it with a toothpick. If your commercial coffee maker comes with a de-liming tool, use it to clear the scale from the spray head (usually by inserting the de-liming tool into the spray head's opening and sliding it in and out a few times). Replace the spray head.
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2
Mix 1 quart of a half water, half vinegar solution.
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3
Place the coffee decanter on the warmer under the coffee spout.
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4
Pour the vinegar/water solution into the coffee machine's reservoir as you would when making a pot of coffee, according to your commercial coffee maker's instructions.
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5
Turn the coffee maker on and "brew" the vinegar water solution. As the vinegar circulates through your machine, it will remove the scale.
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6
Pour the used vinegar/water solution out of the decanter and into the sink.
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7
Repeat steps 1 through 6 until there is no more visible sediment in the water.
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8
Repeat steps 1 through 6, this time using plain water instead of a vinegar solution. Taste or smell the water that comes out of the machine. If it still tastes or smells of vinegar, flush the machine with fresh water again until the vinegar taste and smell are gone.
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References
- Photo Credit Anthony-Masterson/Photodisc/Getty Images
