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Coffee Machine
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Coffee machine questions
Choose a question below and I’ll guide you through it. Audio is included for each answer.
How do I make a coffee?
Place your cup under the spout. Lift the lever fully, insert your pod, and close the lever gently.
Along the front of the machine, you’ll usually find a small row of buttons. The coffee button is often one of the first you’ll come across — and is sometimes marked with a small cup symbol.
Press the coffee button once, then wait while the machine runs. Your drink should begin to pour within a few seconds.
If you would like a larger drink, use the lungo button — often a little further along the row, if your machine has one.
A gentle pause before lifting the cup helps avoid drips.
How do I know the machine is on?
Most machines will show a small light when they’re on.
You might see a steady light, or one that flashes while the machine is warming up.
Once the light becomes steady, it’s usually ready to use.
Which way up do the pods go?
The pod usually sits with the flat side facing down and the rounded side facing up.
If it doesn’t feel like it fits easily, don’t force it — just turn it the other way and try again.
Where is the water tank?
The water tank is usually at the back or to one side of the machine.
You can gently slide it out, fill it with fresh water, and place it back so it sits securely.
How do I refill the water?
Remove the water tank from the back or side of the machine, depending on the model. Fill it with fresh cold water, then place it back firmly so it sits flat and connected properly.
If the machine does not respond straight away, check that the tank is pushed fully into place.
How do I empty the used pods?
Open the front or lift the lever so the used pod drops into the container. Then slide out the pod drawer or capsule tray, empty it into the bin, and place it back securely.
If the drawer feels full or stiff, it usually means a pod is resting awkwardly inside. A gentle shake is often enough.
What should I do if it stops or seems stuck?
First, check the basics: is there water in the tank, is the pod drawer full, and is the lever fully closed? If all looks fine, turn the machine off, wait a few seconds, and switch it on again.
If it still does not respond, it may need a reset or descaling, depending on the machine.