If your coffee-making exploits have you searching for the best coffee maker for hard water, then you’re most likely trying to purchase a coffee maker that’s less susceptible to mineral buildup. Possibly you live in a region with hard water, or you simply want to go longer between descaling sessions. Whichever the reason, you’re most likely going to prioritize coffee makers with built-in water filters, a cleaning function, and a cleaning indicator light.
While you’ll still need to perform routine descaling, a good water filter can help to block the bulk of mineral buildup, which normally clogs water lines and damages your coffee maker’s heating element. Likewise, picking a coffee maker that’s designed for hard water means that you’ll also enjoy a more flavorful cup of coffee.
Of course, you’ll want to think about other common considerations, such as how many cups your brewer can make if it supports automated programmability, and how easily you can clean the components.
Keep reading our guide to learn about choosing the best coffee maker for hard water.
Top Coffee Makers for Hard Water
#1 Ninja CE251 12-Cup Coffee Maker
Award: TOP PICK
WHY WE LIKE IT: This coffee machine offers Classic and Rich brew styles, providing flavors for a wide variety of people. It has a large pot and supports both single-serve and whole pot serving sizes.
- Built-in cleaning cycle
- Flexible brew sizes
- 24-hour delay start timer and warming plate
- Dripping brewing basket
- Permanent filter not suitable for finely ground coffee
The Ninja CE251 12-cup coffee maker has a large glass carafe ideal for preparing family-sized coffee portions. This coffee machine uses an advanced boiling system to heat water fast, providing efficiency. With a 24-hour delay start timer, this model supports programming the brewing process. It has a 60-oz removable water reservoir to enable simple filling and cleaning. This device has dishwasher-safe parts that will come in handy in places with hard water. However, the brewing basket drips a bit when the carafe is removed.
A permanent filter supports simple operation, while an intuitive control panel enables hassle-free management. This coffee system has presets for Classic and Rich coffee, enabling simple customization. A small batch preset enables generating single-serve portions and batches as big as four cups. It has a number of cleaning features that stand up to hard water. A cleaning cycle removes debris, helping to prevent build up of scales. This coffee machine has a mid-brew pause function that lets users pour out a cup mid-brewing.
#2 Hamilton Beach Easy Access 46310 12-cup Coffee Maker
Award: HONORABLE MENTION
WHY WE LIKE IT: This coffee system posts regular cleaning reminders, helping users to stay on top of the maintenance chores. It has intuitive presets that enable the one-touch operation and has a convenient forward-filling design.
- Handy cleanup reminder
- Programmable design and keep warm function
- Front-filling design
- Lacks self-cleaning cycle
- Doesn’t have an end-of-cycle beep
Featuring advanced cleaning features, the Hamilton Beach Easy Access 46310 12-cup coffee maker is a good pick for places with hard water. This coffee maker has a front access system, allowing users to fill the water tank without moving the machine. A swingout brew basket also offers easy access. This coffee system has a nonstick hot plate to keep coffee warm after brewing. Although this machine displays a cleaning reminder, it doesn’t have a built-in self-cleaning cycle.
With a 2-hour automatic shut off, this device turns off the warming plate to save power. The machine has a programmable design with a clock for setting the brewing time. An automatic pause and serve function lets users pour out coffee without completely terminating the brewing cycle. This coffee system supports bold and regular strengths. It has a flexible serving system that allows brewing a full 12-cup pot and 1-4 cup batches.
#3 Cuisinart PerfecTemp DCC-3200P1 14-Cup Coffee Maker
Award: BEST FILTERS
WHY WE LIKE IT: This machine has gold tone and charcoal filters that will clean up the water to help prevent the accumulation of scale. With a delayed start timer and presets for bold and regular coffee, this device supports precise customization.
- Intuitive controls
- 24-hour delay start timer and 4-hour auto-shut off
- Goldstone and charcoal filters
- Emptying the carafe is difficult
This Cuisinart PerfecTemp DCC-3200P1 14-cup coffee maker has high-precision systems that allow controlling the temperatures and other parameters, delivering flavorful coffee. The machine has intuitive controls that enable customizing the brewing process. It has several one-touch controls for effortless operation. This device enables customizing the flavor, featuring controls for bold and regular coffee. We like this model’s gigantic 14-cup glass carafe that is suitable for families and work. However, the carafe on this model is difficult to fill and empty.
A 24-hour delay start timer allows users to set the machine to start brewing at a specified time of the day or night. This machine allows brewing whole pots but also enables users to make 1 to 4 cup portions as needed. A water window on the reservoir enables accurate filling and keeping tabs on the water level. This coffee maker has a durable reusable gold-tone filter and charcoal filters that will come in handy in places with hard water.
#4 Mr. Coffee 2097827 12-Cup Coffee Maker
Award: BEST DISHWASHER-FRIENDLY COFFEE MAKER
WHY WE LIKE IT: Dishwasher-safe parts and a two-stage sieve system support easy cleanup. This machine has a 24-hour programmable design and 4-hour keep warm function. It has a pause-and-pour feature that allows sampling.
- Innovative dishwasher-safe design
- Advanced two-stage water filtration system
- Delay start and keep warm functions
- The warmer is not customizable
Equipped with warming late, this Mr. Coffee 2097827 12-cup coffee maker keeps brewed coffee at serving temperature for up to 4 hours. This coffee maker uses an automatic drip system to extract great flavors. It has a large 12-cup glass carafe that prepares coffee for whole families in one go, although it also supports serving portions as small as 20 oz. With a large filter basket, this device provides simple maintenance. However, the keep warm system on this machine is not customizable.
A programmable system with a delay start function allows users to set brewing to start at any time of the day or night. This coffee system features a Grab-a-Cup auto pause function that enables pouring out a cup before resuming brewing. Equipped with a two-stage water filtration system, this coffee maker reduces the amounts of calcium and chlorine in the water, so it’s a good choice for hard water. This model has dishwasher-safe parts and it’s easy to take apart and reassemble for cleaning.
#5 BUNN GRB Velocity Brew 10-Cup Coffee Maker
Award: BEST FAST COFFEE MAKER
WHY WE LIKE IT: With an always hot water system, this coffee maker brews fast, making it a good choice for preparing coffee for breakfast. It has an innovative spout that ensures drip-free dispensing.
- Incredibly fast brewing
- Drip-free spout
- Premium construction
- Limited customization options
Brewing a 10-cup pot in under 3 minutes, the BUNN GRB Velocity Brew 10-cup coffee maker is ideal for families and workplaces that require fast brewing without compromising the flavor. This machine has an always-hot system that keeps water at brewing temperature, providing fast results. A drip-free carafe with an ergonomic handle and innovative drip-free spout that pours out coffee without spilling. However, this device doesn’t offer much in terms of customization options.
This coffee system has a multi-stream spray head that distributes hot water evenly over the coffee ground for effective extraction. The device brews whole 10-cup pots but it also supports preparing coffee in batches as small as four cups. It has a large flat-bottom filter and funnel that provide a large surface area for effective extraction. It has simplistic controls with a front-facing on/off warmer switch and it features premium parts that stand the test of time.
#6 Braun BrewSense KF6050WH 12-Cup Coffee Maker
Award: BEST COFFEE FLAVOR
WHY WE LIKE IT: This coffee machine enables users to brew coffee in sizes ranging from a single cup to 12 cups. It has a stunning stainless steel finish that will add a touch of sophistication to any kitchen.
- Excellent coffee extraction
- Brew pause function
- Adjustable auto off and delay start functions
- Lacks brew strength settings
With Braun’s proprietary pure flavor technology, the Braun BrewSense 12-cup coffee maker optimizes the brewing temperature and duration, unlocking aromatic coffee flavors. This device is suitable for brewing whole carafes as well as 1 to 4 cup options. It has a 24-hour timer, allowing users to program brewing, and a built-in clock enables users to keep track of time. A customizable auto shutoff feature turns off the warming plate automatically. However, this model doesn’t have brew strength settings.
This coffee system has a brew pause function, enabling coffee enthusiasts to simplify without dripping or completely stopping the brewing cycle. A water level indicator enables users to brew any amount of coffee. This device has a sleek stainless steel appearance that adds a touch of refinement to the kitchen counter. It has a small footprint ideal for people with small kitchens. With easy-access controls, this device supports the intuitive operation. It has a cleaning cycle to prevent scales from building up.
Beginner’s Guide to Coffee Makers for Hard Water
What is a Coffee Maker for Hard Water
A coffee maker for hard water can mean several different things, depending on who you talk to. While all coffee makers are at risk of limescale buildup, those used in regions with hard water are particularly vulnerable. At a minimum, this means selecting a coffee maker with a good water filter that can remove excess minerals which might otherwise damage your machine by clogging water lines, impacting your heating elements, and even altering the flavor of your coffee.
In some cases, this can also mean opting for a coffee maker with a self-cleaning feature. In most cases, you can add a cleaning solution to the water reservoir, press the clean button, and let the machine automatically descale the internal components. This is especially ideal for people that don’t want to manage this task manually.
Just remember that the self-cleaning feature still requires you to activate it, and you might still need to invest in the best coffee maker cleaner solution. In most cases, you won’t find a coffee maker that automatically cycles into self-cleaning mode without any prompting.
Coffee Makers for Hard Water vs Other Coffee Makers
In most cases, there’s no distinguishable difference between a coffee maker advertised as being ideal for hard water versus a “standard” coffee maker. This is because no matter how many water filters or self-cleaning modes are available, all coffee makers are susceptible to damage caused by sustained exposure to water.
This is because all water contains trace amounts of minerals. And with repeated exposure, mineral buildup can convert into limescale. Left untreated, limescale can clog water lines and buildup on your coffee maker’s heating element. This can create problems during the brewing process, such as coffee that never gets as hot as it should or a coffee maker that just stops working.
All coffee makers need to be periodically descaled — even if you live in an area with soft water. But if you live in a hard water region, your coffee maker may not last as long as the general advertised lifespan without routine maintenance.
How Coffee Makers for Hard Water Work
A coffee maker for hard water operates just like a standard coffee maker in terms of brewing coffee. Whether you have a drip coffee maker or an espresso maker, water is drawn in from a reservoir where it’s then heated and then sprayed over (or pushed through for espresso makers) coffee grounds to saturate and begin brewing coffee.
The two most significant issues hard water poses for coffee makers are functionality and flavor. With constant exposure to mineral deposits, you’ll damage your coffee maker’s heating elements, creating coffee that’s too bitter or causing the machine to stop functioning. Similarly, some hard water deposits can alter the taste of your coffee, also making it too bitter.
If you’re solely concerned about getting as much use out of your machine as possible, a coffee maker with a self-cleaning function is ideal. But keep in mind that there are a few different options for a self-cleaning machine. Some brands promote “self-cleaning,” but it’s nothing more than an indicator light telling you that your machine needs to be cleaned.
While a reminder light is nice, this isn’t exactly self-cleaning. More advanced machines may have an actual self-cleaning feature where, once a button is pressed, the machine begins to clean the water lines and heating elements. Note that you’ll need to use a descaling solution — either a dedicated solution or a water-vinegar mix — if you’re trying to remove mineral deposits. Otherwise, this step will simply push water through your coffee system.
For people that don’t want to ruin the flavor of their coffee, consider looking for a coffee maker with a good water filter. This type of coffee maker filters the water before it reaches your heating element. By removing the bulk of mineral deposits, you not only improve your coffee’s flavor but help to preserve the life of your unit. In some cases, you can find both a water filter and a self-cleaning mode in one machine.
Why You Should Buy a Coffee Maker for Hard Water
If you find that you keep burning through coffee makers due to mineral buildup, it may be time to look into a model with features that make it ideal for hard water. Even if you don’t live in an area with hard water, a coffee maker with more robust maintenance features can ensure that you’re getting the best return on your investment.
Is a Coffee Maker for Hard Water Worth Buying?
- You Have Hard Water: Hard water can take a toll on any appliance that regularly uses water. But it can dramatically reduce the lifespan of your coffee maker. A self-cleaning mode or water filter can help you get more life out of your brewer.
- You’re Concerned About Coffee Flavor: Compounds found in hard water can stick to compounds released by coffee grounds in the brewing process, and this can create a bitter flavor. But a coffee maker with a water filter can help remove those harmful compounds.
- You Want an Easier Maintenance Experience: Many coffee makers come with a self-cleaning function which can be a great way to ensure that your flow lines and heating element are regularly maintained.
Why Coffee Makers for Hard Water May Not Be for You
- You Don’t Drink Coffee: If you don’t drink coffee, you don’t need a coffee maker regardless of whether it’s made to withstand hard water.
- You Have Soft Water: To be clear, all coffee makers will experience mineral buildup regardless of whether you have hard or soft water. But, with soft water, that limescale will appear less quickly.
- You Drink Espresso: If you’re a true espresso drinker, then you’re not relying on a traditional electric drip brewer to make your drinks. Alternatively, you’ll have a more intensive maintenance process to look forward to.
How Long Will Coffee Makers for Hard Water Last?
The standard lifespan listed for coffee makers can range from five to 10 years, depending on the overall quality of the appliance. But with hard water, you might experience shorter longevity — especially if you don’t engage in routine maintenance.
As is common for all coffee makers, constant exposure to minerals in the water can lead to buildup in the water lines and damage the heating element. To avoid this, experts recommend that you regularly clean your coffee maker. This includes descaling it either with a dedicated descaling solution or with a DIY combination of water and vinegar.
Remember that the descaling frequency you should use depends on how hard the water is in your region. People with soft water can go longer between descaling sessions, while someone with hard water might want to descale every two to three months. And, in severe cases, people with very hard water should descale their coffee makers every month.
How to Choose a Coffee Maker for Hard Water
For the most part, the actual brewing aspect of picking a coffee maker isn’t going to be any different whether you live in a hard or soft water region. But if you have hard water, you’ll want to look for preventative features that help you get the most use out of your coffee maker.
Best Coffee Makers for Hard Water Key Factors to Consider
1. Is it self-cleaning?
A self-cleaning feature can be a nice intuitive add-on that can help extend the longevity of your coffee maker. But remember that self-cleaning functionality can vary widely across brands. At the lowest level, this may be nothing more than an indicator light reminding you to clean your appliance.
In better brands, this is an actual operation where the brewer runs water or a descaling solution through the system. While you’ll need to add in the descaling solution, even a basic rinse through your lines can remove coffee grounds or other items that can also accumulate over time.
2. Do you want a water filter?
The biggest culprit behind premature coffee machine damage is the water source. Hard water (and even soft water) leaves deposits throughout the internal components, which — left unchecked — can irreparably damage your device.
For example, a charcoal filter is a great workaround that can extend the life of your appliance. While it won’t remove all minerals or eliminate the need for descaling, you’ll still get a better-tasting cup of coffee and can often go longer between maintenance sessions.
3. How many cups of coffee does it brew?
Even if you’re focused on longevity, you still want a coffee maker that’s functional for your needs. Consider how frequently you drink coffee and whether you’re the only java drinker in your home. Thankfully, you can find self-cleaning support and water filters on machines with a variety of brew cycles.
4. Can you program your coffee maker?
Do you want your coffee maker to begin brewing coffee at the same time every day automatically? Or, is this not an important function? Programmability is a fairly standard option these days, and even many budget coffee makers support it.
5. Is there a hot plate or a thermal carafe?
Especially if you pick a multi-cup coffee maker, there’s a good chance that you’ll make more coffee than you can drink in one sitting. Warming plates are a fairly standard option for a glass carafe and keep coffee hot, but at the expense of technically cooking it after it’s been brewed. As a result, your coffee could taste bitter or burnt.
In contrast, a thermal carafe is designed with insulation that keeps your coffee warm without cooking it. If flavor is of the utmost importance, opt for a thermal carafe.
6. Is it a pod or one-cup machine?
Traditionally, pod and one-cup coffee makers tend not to last as long when exposed to hard water. Most experts agree that more traditional multi-cup drip brewers are better at withstanding mineral deposits. Plus, these models tend to be easier to clean, too. Likewise, espresso makers usually don’t play well with hard water either. Unless you’re willing to invest in only using filtered or bottled water to fill your coffee or espresso maker, stick with drip machines as they’re the most durable.
Coffee Makers Vs Electric Kettles
Coffee makers and electric kettles serve different purposes. Coffee makers are specifically designed for brewing coffee, offering features for different brew strengths and styles.
Electric kettles, on the other hand, are versatile for boiling water, which can be used for tea, instant coffee, or other hot beverages. The choice between the two depends on the user’s preference for convenience and the variety of drinks they intend to make.
How to Clean a Coffee Maker with Lemon Juice
Cleaning a coffee maker with lemon juice involves a simple process.
- Mix equal parts water and lemon juice, then run this solution through the coffee maker as if brewing coffee.
- This helps to remove buildup and descale the machine.
- After the cycle, run water through the machine a few times to rinse out any lemon residue.
This method is a natural, effective alternative to using harsh chemicals for cleaning and maintaining a coffee maker.
