With many people relying on morning coffee and can’t imagine spending a day long without having a cup of coffee,a blinking Nespressois probably one of the most common problems encountered and is very much complicated to figure out the possible causes, especially when these coffee machines have so many sophisticated pieces.
Nespresso coffee machines have built-in light-based alerts. Blinking red or orange light in the Nespresso machine indicates that the Machine is not working correctly and needs fixing.
Light is red for the VertuoPlus or VertuoPlus Deluxe and is orange for Nespresso Vertuo Next, Vertuo and Evoluo.
Fortunately, there are a few common causes responsible for flashing orange lights. In this article, we will discuss in detail some of the most common methods that help you to fix your Nespresso machine flashing lights.
Want to buy a Nespresso Vertuo machine. Read our guide on Nespresso Vertuo Next Vs Plus
Why is my Nespresso blinking Orange light?
The most common reason for Nespresso blinking orange light is that your Nespresso machine is dirty and it needs to be descaled or cleaned properly. Other reasons might be that your machine is overheated, the water level in your machine is lower, or there might be a blockage of capsules on your machine.
For every possible reason, the Nespresso Vertuo next and Evoluo machine give different types of blinking alerts.
In the table below, you will find all the possible reasons causing your Nespresso machine to flash orange light.
Orange Light status | Meaning |
Blinking two times per second | The machine needs to be cleaned |
Blinking three times per second | The machine needs to be descaled |
Blinks 2 times for 1 second and then Off | Error in the capsule holder of the machine |
Pulse(off then on) | The machine is overheated and it needs to be cooled |
Blinkfor 1.5 seconds, then OFF for 0.5 seconds | The water tank needs refilling |
Blinking five times in 10 seconds | The machine needs a factory reset |
Blink orange and then turn white for 3 second | The machine needs to be descaled urgently |
NESPRESSO Vertuo blinking ORANGE LIGHT FOR VERTUO NEXT, VERTUO, AND EVOLUO | Solutions
As mentioned above in the table, there are seven different causes for Nespresso flashing orange light. Now let’s discuss how to solve these problems in detail.

1. How to fix Nespresso next flashing orange two times per second | Cleaning needed
When your Nespresso blinks orange light twice, then you must clean the machine thoroughly. Follow the below-mentioned steps and see if they solve your problem.
- Open the head of the Machine to eject any previously used capsules.
- Take a paper towel or piece of cloth, and gently slide it around the machine parts.
- Open the head of the machine and clean the area where coffee capsules are placed and also wipe all the moving parts of the machine with that cloth.
- Empty and rinse the water reservoir, then fill it with fresh water to minimize the chance of contaminants buildup.
- Wash the cup holder and place a larger cup under the coffee spout to drain left out.
- Empty the capsule container, and rinse it with water.
- Close the head and place it in the locked position by turning it to the left.
If your machine is blinking two times per second then your problem must be solved by following the steps mentioned above.
If it keeps blinking, hold down the button for approximately 7 minutes. If it doesn’t stop and keeps blinking, you should run descaling before calling Nespresso support.
Blockage of capsules in the machine
Sometimes, the Nespresso machine experiences blockage of capsules in its system. In this situation, the Machine cannot operate properly and alert the user by blinking orange light.
To tackle this situation you should adequately examine the capsule container to check whether there is any blockage of the capsule accidentally or not. If you find anything there that might be causing blockage of the capsule, the Machine will stop blinking.
2. How to fix Nespresso vertuo blinking orange three times per second | Descaling needed
If the Nespresso machine flashes orange light three times per second, then your Machine requires descaling. Descaling helps remove any mineral buildup of contaminants from the water used in brewing coffee.
While you can also use vinegar to descale the machine but it’s recommended to use Nespresso descaling solutions.
Skip to the end of the article if you want to know how to prepare a descaling solution and how to use it.
But sometimes the machine does not stop blinking even after descaling in that case you have to exit the descaling mode.
Nespresso blinking orange light after descaling
One of the most common causes that Nespresso machines experience flashing light is accidentally putting the Machine in descale mode.
If you find that your machine lights are flashing quickly and persist for a more extended period, then it is most probable that you have put your Machine in descale mode.
In that case, you should quit the descaling mode by following the procedure described below.
Press and hold the flashing buttons to report a problem for approximatelysix to eight secondsor until the Machine beeps clearly.
When this happens, you can release the button, and the system must exit the descaling mode on its own. If that doesn’t work, then there must be some other problem and you should seek professional help.
Check out a detailed guide on how to descale Nespresso Vertuoline machines.
3. How to fix Nespresso next blinks 2 times in 1 second and then off | Error in the capsule holder
This mostly happens in 2 different conditions.
1. During coffee preparation
During coffee preparation makes sure that a new undamaged capsule has been inserted correctly. Make sure the machine is locked properly.
If the light is still on, try inserting a new coffee pod, lock, and press the button.
2. During the descaling process
During descaling or cleaning, make sure that the machine is locked properly and there are no capsules in the machine.
Press and hold the button for about 3 seconds to turn the machine off. Press the button again to turn it on. If the light is still flashing, unplug it from the wall outlet.
Wait 10 seconds before plugging it back in, then switch it on again.
4. How to fix pulsing orange light continuously | Machine is overheated
The pulsing orange light indicates that the machine is warmed up due to excessive use and just needs to cool down. In this condition, press the machine button for 3 seconds to turn it off.
Wait for approximately 20-30 minutes until the Machine cools down.
If it still pulses, then your machine might be in a descaling mode. In that case, press and hold the button for at least 7 seconds to check whether it stops or not.
5. How to fix Nespresso vertuo next blinks for 1.5 seconds and then off for 0.5 seconds
This condition indicates that the water reservoir of the Machine is empty. When the water level is lower, the Machine cannot operate function properly and start flashing orange.
To fix this, simply remove the water tank and then refill the water tank with water.
It is advisable to use filter water as it helps minimize the buildup of contaminants and further helps in the cleaning and descaling process.
6. How to fix Nespresso blinking orange light 5 times in 10 seconds | Machine needs a factory reset
The machine blinks five times in 10 seconds means you need to perform a factory reset. In such a situation,
- Open the head of your machine and eject the previously used capsule.
- Close the head of the machine.
- Make sure that the lever is in the unlocked position.
- Now press the button five times. It will flash slowly five times to confirm that the reset has been completed.
Here is a link to the complete guide on resetting Nespresso machines.
7. How to fix Nespresso blinks Orange light and then turns to white | Descaling alarm
This alert demands a descaling process. In that case, you can not use the machine without descaling it properly.
Once the descaling process is done, the orange light flashing is off, and the Machine will start working properly.
How to Descale NespressoVertuo line Machines?
Descaling Nespresso machines once every 3-4 months is necessary to keep Nespresso machines working smoothly, and brewing tasting coffee.
Descaling is also important because using hard water (If the water quality in your vicinity is not good) causes the mineral buildup, which further reduces the efficiency of the machine.
Nespresso Vertuo line machine has a descaling alert when the light blinks three times per second and then steady – indicating that your Machine requires descaling.
Descaling the Nespresso Vertuo line was carried out by following the simple steps described below. But before we start, you need to unplug the machine and then plug it in back.
1. Cleaning the Nespresso vertuoline machine
For preliminary cleaning of the Nespresso Vertuo line, you simply need to open the head and eject any used capsule. Once this is done, make sure that the lid is closed, and the lever is turned to unlocked.
The next step is to Remove the waste capsule tank, the drip tray, the water reservoir, and the cup support, and then empty them.
After that, it’s recommended to rinse all parts with water before putting them back, then designate slots.
2. Prepare a descaling solution
Pour around 500 ml of clean water into the Vertuo line water tank. Take out Nespresso descaling solution sachets from the kit, open them carefully, and pour them into the water.
If you have purchased a machine from the Nespresso brand, you will receive a descaling solution. Otherwise, you can buy it online, or you can use natural descale solutions such as citric acid or vinegar.
Image | Product | Details | Price |
---|---|---|---|
![]() | Descaler (2 Pack, 2 Uses Per Bottle) | Highly Effective at an Excellent Value Suitable for All Types of Machines | Check Price |
![]() | NESPRESSO DESCALING KIT INCLUDES 2 UNITS NEW VERSION | DESCALING KIT Set of 2 descaling kits Available at a lower price | Check Price |
![]() | Keurig Compatible Descaling Solution & Keurig Cleaner | Powerful & Versatile Compatible with Any Machine | Check Price |
3. Turn the machine ON and enter the descaling mode
Switch on the Nespresso Vertuo line by pressing the button at the top. Unlock and then close the Machine. While preheating, the button will flash and eventually turn off.
Press and hold the button for at least 7 seconds to enter descaling mode.
You will now have 45 seconds to start the descaling process.
- Lock the Machine by turning the lever towards the lock symbol and unlock it by turning it to the right.
- Press and hold the button again for at least 7 seconds.
- Place a large cup (capable of holding at least 20 ounces) under the spout and allow the Machine to drain into the bowl.
Note:If the Machine does not start unloading, lock the Machine and press the button again to start the process.
The machine will continue to rinse until the water tank is empty.
Fill the tank again and press the lungo button, and the rinsing process will restart.
4. Turn off the descale mode
Simply press and hold the power button for about 7 seconds to exit the descaling mode. When the power light has stopped flashing, Vertuo Line has exited descaling mode, and you are good to go!
This is quite straightforward. Let the Machine dry for approximately 20 minutes before using it again.
If your Nespresso machine is leaking from the top or bottom. Read a detailed guide on Why is My Nespresso Machine is leaking and how to fix it.
Conclusion
I hope this article solves the flashing orange light problem of your Nespresso machine. We have discussed all the possible causes and their solutions in detail.
If the problem still persists, then you must contact Nespresso customer support.
Also Read: Quietest Nespresso Machine Review in 2022
Johny Morrisson
Hey,
I am Johny Morrisson! Founder of CoffeeAbout
My love for coffee dates back to my childhood. I love trying out different coffee machines and recipes.
As a coffee enthusiast, I decided to start my blog last year to provide users with useful information on brewing methods.
During this journey, I have discovered many new things and facts about coffee that I will share with you here.
FAQs
How do I get my Nespresso machine to stop flashing orange? ›
Orange Light Blinks Five Times over 10 Seconds
If you see your Nespresso machine blinking this way, that means you need to do a factory reset. This is a rather simple process: Open the machine head and remove the used capsule, then close it. Leave the lever in the “unlocked” position.
Reset to factory settings
Turn the machine "OFF" by pushing the lever down for 3 seconds. To enter "Factory settings" mode, push the button and the lever down at the same time for 3 seconds. ORANGE steady light indicates entry into the Special Functions menu.
Your Machine Is In Descaling Mode
One of the most common reasons why a Nespresso machine might be experiencing flashing lights is due to it accidentally being put into the descaling process.
On for 2 Seconds, Off for 1 Second
This one's a simple fix. When your light blinks on for two seconds and then off for one second, all it means is the water tank needs to be refilled. Make sure not to leave it empty for too long, or your Nespresso can overheat.
To exit descaling mode, press and hold the button and the lever at the same time for 3 seconds, or until the light becomes green. Allow the machine to rest for 10 minutes. The machine is now ready for use. The orange light will blink once every 2 seconds.
Why is my Nespresso Vertuo machine still blinking after descaling? ›If the machine is still blinking, exit descaling mode by holding the button for at least 7 seconds. If problem persists, call Nespresso at 877-964-6299.
Why won't the descaling light go off? ›If the descaling light is still on, the machine hasn't been rinsed with enough water after using the descaling agent. We recommend that you flush the machine with fresh water. Remove the water tank from the machine and fill it to the 'max' mark with tap water. Go to 'settings' and rinse the machine with water.
Why wont my Nespresso get out of descaling mode? ›The procedure can be stopped at any time by pushing the button. To exit the descaling mode, hold the button for at least 7 seconds. The button will stop blinking rapidly and become steady. Descaling is completed.
How do you turn off a descaling indicator? ›Calcium and scale are non-toxic, but left unattended, they can hinder your brewers performance. *To turn off the descale indicator light once you have completed descaling your brewer, press and hold down the 8oz & 10oz buttons together for 3 seconds.
How do I reset my Nespresso machine? ›Reset to factory settings
With machine being turned off, press and hold down the Lungo button for 5 seconds. LEDS will blink fast 3 times to confirm machine has been reset to factory settings.
How do you get the descale light off after descaling? ›
Calcium and scale are non-toxic, but left unattended, they can hinder your brewers performance. *To turn off the descale indicator light once you have completed descaling your brewer, press and hold down the 8oz & 10oz buttons together for 3 seconds.
How do I reset my Nespresso Vertuo after descaling? ›- Open the machine head and let the used capsule be ejected. Reset to factory settings.
- Close the head. Leave the handle in “UNLOCKED” position. Reset to factory settings.
- Push the button 5 times within 3 seconds. The button blinks 5 x orange and changes than to steady white.
-Once the tank is completely empty close the steam valve and the machine will turn itself off. -Refill the tank and turn the machine back on. The descale light will now be off and you will be able to make coffee again!
How do you override a Nespresso Creatista descaling machine? ›Creatista Uno - Descaling - YouTube