How to Check the Thermostat & Element in a Coffeemaker
If your coffeemaker stops working or your coffee is cold, don't run out and buy a new one. The thermostat, which regulates the temperature, and the heating element, which heats your water, can be easily tested and replaced.
Checking the Thermostat
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Unplug the coffeemaker. Empty all the water and coffee grounds from the unit.
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Unscrew the base of the unit with a screwdriver. Make sure to note where each screw belongs.
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Use a multitester with two probes on the thermostat, placing a probe on both ends of the terminal. A multitester can be purchased at any hardware store. If the reading is zero, the unit is fine.
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Replace the thermostat if it is defective. Make sure to get the same make and model as the coffeemaker you have.
Checking the Element
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Unplug the coffeemaker. Empty all the water and coffee grounds from the unit.
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Remove the base of the appliance, using a screwdriver.
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Place the probes from the multitester on both sides of the element terminal. It should read between 100 and 300 ohms. If not, the entire heating element will have to be replaced.
Writer Bio
Offra Kaim has been writing since 2001. She has authored staff training-and-instruction manuals, as well as advertising copy for retail and hotel management, real estate and taxation. Kaim holds a real-estate license, and is a member of the National Association of Realtors and a licensed and bonded tax preparer. She has an Associate of Arts in small-business management from Chaffey College.
Photo Credits
- Closeup of white coffee cup next to coffee machine image by Olena Talberg from Fotolia.com
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