Coffee makers are a daily essential for many people, myself included. There’s nothing quite like waking up to the smell of fresh brewed coffee in the morning. One of my favorite coffee makers is the Bunn Speed Brew Elite. It’s sleek, efficient, and makes a delicious cup of coffee every time. However, like any appliance, it requires regular cleaning to ensure optimal performance and longevity. In this article, I will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to clean your Bunn Speed Brew Elite coffee maker effectively.
Gather Your Cleaning Supplies
Before we get started, it’s crucial to gather all the necessary cleaning supplies. You’ll need white vinegar, water, a soft cloth or sponge, and a toothbrush. The white vinegar will serve as a natural cleaning agent that helps to remove mineral deposits and build-up inside the machine.
Empty and Rinse the Carafe and Brew Funnel
First things first, make sure your Bunn Speed Brew Elite coffee maker is unplugged. Begin by removing the carafe and brew funnel. Empty any remaining coffee from the carafe and give it a good rinse with warm, soapy water. Set it aside to air dry.
Next, remove the brew funnel from the machine. It’s located right under the brew head. Rinse it thoroughly with warm water to remove any coffee grounds or residue. Take your time to ensure it’s completely clean before setting it aside.
Prepare the Cleaning Solution
Now it’s time to prepare the cleaning solution. For this, we’ll be using a mixture of white vinegar and water. Fill the carafe with one part white vinegar and two parts water. The exact measurements will depend on the size of your carafe and the amount of solution needed. Mix the solution well.
Clean the Internal Components
Once the cleaning solution is ready, it’s time to clean the internal components of the coffee maker. Start by pouring the solution into the water reservoir. Make sure to fill it up to the brim.
Next, find the spray head, which is located underneath the brew funnel. Use the toothbrush to scrub the spray head gently. This will remove any build-up or clogs caused by mineral deposits. Be thorough but gentle to avoid damaging the delicate components.
Descale the Coffee Maker
Mineral deposits can accumulate over time, affecting the performance of your coffee maker. To combat this, it’s essential to descale the machine regularly. The cleaning solution we prepared earlier will help with this process.
Now that the cleaning solution is in the water reservoir, plug in your coffee maker and turn it on. Allow it to run through a brewing cycle as usual. The vinegar solution will help dissolve any mineral deposits or build-up inside the machine. You may notice a strong vinegar smell during this process, but it’s normal and will dissipate once you rinse the machine thoroughly.
Rinse and Cleanse
Once the brewing cycle is complete, it’s time to rinse and cleanse the machine. Empty the carafe and brew funnel, discarding the vinegar solution. Rinse them thoroughly with water to remove any traces of vinegar.
Fill the water reservoir with clean water this time, and run it through another brewing cycle. This will rinse out any remaining vinegar and ensure that your next cup of coffee doesn’t taste like vinegar. Repeat this step until there’s no trace of vinegar smell or taste in the water or carafe.
After rinsing, wipe the exterior of the coffee maker with a soft cloth or sponge dampened with warm, soapy water. This will remove any grime or residue that may have built up on the surface.
Regular Maintenance Tips
Cleaning your Bunn Speed Brew Elite coffee maker doesn’t end with a deep cleaning. To keep it performing at its best, there are a few additional maintenance tips you should follow:
– Regularly clean the carafe, brew funnel, and spray head after each use to prevent the buildup of oils and residue.
– Consider using filtered water instead of tap water to minimize mineral deposits.
– Periodically check the spray head for clogs and clean it as needed.
– Replace the brew funnel if it becomes damaged or worn out.
Conclusion
In conclusion, regularly cleaning your Bunn Speed Brew Elite coffee maker is essential for maintaining its performance and prolonging its lifespan. By following the step-by-step guide in this article, you can ensure that your coffee maker consistently delivers delicious cups of coffee every morning. With a little care and maintenance, your Bunn Speed Brew Elite will continue to be your trusted companion for years to come.