Frequently Asked Questions

Popular FAQ's

FAQs Coffee Makers

• What if I leave my coffeemaker unused for some time. What do I need to consider?

  We recommend emptying the water tank since the water looses oxygen over time. Oxygen-rich water is viable for a good aroma extraction. It is recommended that one cycle of water to be run through the unit without filling the filter with ground coffee.

• How do you recommend to store ground coffee?

  One should always store ground coffee in an air-tight container. Air (mainly oxygen) and moisture are the coffee's principle enemies. Also the container should be stored in a dark place as sunlight reduces freshness. While you can place coffee in a fridge, do never freeze ground coffee. There are two key problems here. One, the freezing will damage some of subtle tastes in the coffee and two, when the coffee is taken out the container will sweat, exposing your coffee to moisture. Best is only to buy so much, so it will be consumed within a week or to freshly grind beans according to needs.

• I have a permanent filter (gold-screen or nylon) to use for my coffeemaker. My friend tells me they are not as good as paper filters. Is this correct?

  Permanent filters are ideal solely for pure convenience reasons. You do not have to re-purchase any filters since they are washable and can be reused. However, permanent filters do not have meshes as fine as paper filters and therefore may let ground go let ground go through the meshes. As a result, you may find residue in the carafe that can burn on the hot plate leaving a burnt / acid side-taste to the coffee. Also, permanent filters need to be cleaned regularly as the coffee oils get stuck in the mesh producing a rancid side-taste.

• Which ground coffee or coffee beans are best to be used with Braun coffeemakers?

  Braun coffeemakers are engineered to deliver the purest, most authentic taste of the coffee being used. Consequently, it is up to you and what you prefer whether it is mild, strong, decaffeinated, or flavored coffees.

• How do I use the water filter?

  The filter should be soaked in cold water for 10 minutes before use. Before inserting it into the back of the water reservoir it is necessary to remove the space compensator. It is recommended that one cycle of water to be run through the unit without filling the filter with ground coffee.

• How often do I need to exchange my water filter?

  We recommend every 8 weeks. Although, this depends on your usage and water consistency, we have established that this exchange cycle is the most appropriate to ensure a your filter's effectiveness.

• I was told that good water is very important for the coffee aroma. Is this true?

  Absolutely. Around 98% of the coffee beverage contains water. For this reason the rule applies; the better the water, the better the coffee taste. Chlorine is amongst many other elements a taste killer. If your water from the tap is not tasty, you should not add the same water to your coffee. We recommend using Braun water filters that are made by the renowned Brita brand. They do not only filter undesirable substances such as chlorine, but also reduce the water hardness being important for prolonging the life of your coffeemaker.

• To decalcify my coffeemaker what agent do I need to use?

  You can either use commercially available decalcifying agents, which do not affect aluminum or white distilled vinegar (available at your grocery stores). Important: If you have a Braun coffeemaker that features a water filter, replace water filter with the space compensator for any decalcification procedure. Repeat the procedure as many times as necessary in order to reduce the brewing time per cup to a normal level. Allow the maximum amount of fresh cold water to run through at least twice to cleanse the coffeemaker.

• Do I need to decalcify my coffeemaker and how often?

  Yes, you need to decalcify your coffeemaker since calcium and magnesium can clog the heating element which results in decreased performance and in the worst case could also cause it to break down if never decalcified. If you have very hard water and the coffeemaker is in regular use, we recommend decalcifying it at least once a month. Refer to the instructions for more details. We highly recommend the use of the Braun water filters since they not only improve the coffee taste significantly, but also reduce the water hardness considerably.

• How should I decalcify my coffeemaker?

  If you have hard water and you use your coffeemaker without a water filter, it should be decalcified regularly. The frequency depends on the hardness of the water and how often you use your coffeemaker. When using the water filter cartridge and exchanging it regularly, you normally will not need to decalcify. However, if your coffeemaker takes much longer than normal to brew, the appliance has to be decalcified. Important: Replace the water filter with the space compensator for any decalcification procedure. Follow the instructions of the manufacturer of the decalcifying agent. Repeat the procedure as many times as necessary in order to reduce the brewing time per cup to a normal level. Allow the maximum amount of fresh cold water to run through at least twice to cleanse the coffeemaker.

• How can I prepare the most delicious coffee?

  For the very best coffee use fresh-ground beans. As the major ingredient, water plays a crucial part in the coffee's taste. We suggest good quality water with low calcium levels that's neutral in taste. All Braun AromaSelect and FlavorSelect coffeemakers can be equipped with water filters that help bring out the best in your coffee.

• What is the Flavor Select Feature?

  The dial on the top of your coffeemaker allows you to reduce the amount of bitter oils and acids that are released in the brewing process. You can, therefore, vary the taste from mild (fewer oils and acids) to robust (more oils and acids) while always achieving full-strength coffee.

• What is the best procedure for frothing milk for my KF190?

  Using very cold skim milk and a stainless steel receptacle should give you the best results. Fill the pitcher no more than half full. Froth the milk by holding the pitcher vertically and slightly moving it up and down for no more than 20-45 seconds. This will draw air into the milk, which should then froth. You should hear a snorting noise, which indicates that you are using the proper technique.

• How do I clean the permanent gold coffee filter?

  The permanent gold coffee filter should be cleaned after each use as acid in coffee grounds left sitting in the gold filter may build up and cause deterioration of the gold plating. The filter is dishwasher safe and can also be cleaned with a soft sponge

• How do I clean my coffeemaker?

  Always unplug the unit before cleaning. The unit must never be cleaned under running water and must never be immersed in water. The glass carafe, the lid and the filter basket can be washed in the dishwasher. Clean all other parts with a damp cloth only.