If you’re shopping for the best coffee machine, you may wonder what is an auto-fill coffee maker. Typically found in high-end Keurig K-Cup coffee machines, auto-fill keeps your water tank full at all times. While self-filling coffee makers require more maintenance and possible professional installation, they grant you instant access to hot water for your carafe of coffee. Read on to learn the necessary details about auto-water coffee machines.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- Auto-fill coffee makers with water line connectivity automatically refill your water reservoir.
- Specific devices contain the necessary hookups out of the box. Still, you can modify a coffee maker with a water line kit.
- Most models use easy-to-clean removable reservoirs and a water filter to keep your pot of coffee fresh.
Auto-Fill Coffee Brewer Basics
While an auto-fill coffee maker requires you to connect your coffee maker with water line connectors, you get fresh-brewed, delicious coffee without having to monitor the water levels in your machine. It might seem minor, but it makes your morning cup of coffee much more convenient. In addition, some users connect their direct water to the hot water line to make the brewing process faster.
Insider Tip
To ensure you get the best flavor from your coffee maker, clean and descale it at least once a month.
Keep in mind, there is some setup required for water on demand, but most products come with detailed instructions. In addition, even though the hot water dispenser works automatically, you still need to add ground coffee or a coffee pod.
If you want more control over the strength of your brew, consider learning what an automatic espresso machine is.
Is an Auto-Fill Coffee Machine Hard to Install
If you ever get stumped trying to install a new appliance, it’s never wrong to ask for help. Fortunately, though, most self-filling coffee machines are relatively simple to set up. Many people use the same water line they use for the kitchen sink, so it is easy to access. Just ensure you close off the water lines under the sink before disconnecting anything. Aside from that, all the parts should screw together quickly, especially if installing a ready-made self-filling device.
If you’d like a more hassle-free coffee brewer, check out our guide to cold brew coffee makers.
Warning
Remember to shut off the water line while you connect your direct-line coffee maker. If not, you will have a serious mess on your hands.
F.A.Q.S
How do I descale a plumbed coffee maker?
About once a month, you should clean your coffee maker. First, disconnect the water line connection, and if you have a removable water reservoir, remove it. Lastly, disconnect your machine from the water filter kit if you have one. Then, treat the coffee maker, tank, and water lines with a descaling product.
How much coffee is too much?
The Mayo Clinic and the US FDA recommend that you keep your coffee consumption under 4 cups of coffee per day, which amounts to about 400 milligrams of caffeine. If you’re a serious coffee lover, consider switching to a decaf version of your favorite coffee for part of the day if you drink more than that.
Plumbed coffee maker or plumbing kit?
Even if you have an old single-serve coffee maker, you can install a water line kit for auto-fill capabilities. While DIY is cheaper, buying a K-Cup pod coffee maker with a dedicated water supply is more straightforward. In addition, you can see all the necessary hookups for the coffee machine without making your own.
STAT: A recent survey from Gallup revealed that 66% of Americans with an income of $30,000-$74,999 drink an average of 2.7 cups of coffee per day. (source)
