Symptoms
- Water pooling under the machine
- Water dripping from the bottom during or after brewing
- Water overflowing from the filter basket
- Steam or water escaping from the top
Likely causes
- CommonReservoir overfilled past the max lineExcess water can overflow internally and drip out the bottom.
- CommonCracked or warped water reservoirPlastic reservoirs can crack from age, heat, or being dropped.
- CommonClogged filter basket causing overflowGrounds or a wrong-size filter can back up water until it spills over the top.
- PossibleWorn rubber seal or gasketSeals around the reservoir or brew basket harden and shrink with age.
- Less commonCracked internal tubingHeat cycling over years can crack internal hoses.
What to do
- Unplug the machine and empty the reservoir completely.
- Check that you're not filling past the maximum fill line printed on the tank.
- Inspect the reservoir for hairline cracks by filling it with water over a sink and looking for drips.
- Make sure the filter is the correct size and not overfilled with grounds, which can cause backup and overflow.
- Check the rubber gasket or seal around the reservoir base for hardening, cracking, or a poor fit.
- If the leak comes from underneath the base rather than the reservoir, internal tubing has likely failed and the machine should be replaced.
Tools and parts
- Towel
- Flashlight
Replacement coffee maker water reservoir (if model allows)Search: “coffee maker replacement carafe or reservoir”
Rubber gasket/seal kitSearch: “coffee maker gasket replacement”
When to call a pro
If the leak is from a cracked internal part rather than the removable reservoir, replacing the whole machine is usually more cost-effective than repair.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.