Black and Decker Coffee Maker How to & Troubleshooting Guide

When it comes to coffee machines, there are a few brands that can have built a reputation for themselves thanks to the reliability of their units. Black and Decker is one such coffee machine maker. Besides being of superior quality, the Black and Decker coffee makers are also reasonably priced.

But being a machine, your Black and Decker coffee maker can sometimes have issues. It may be due to a fault or as a result of wear and tear from long term use. Either way, it can be frustrating if you can’t be able to enjoy the hot coffee you are used to. If this sounds like you, then don’t worry. There are simple ways to fix some common problems with these units. The following guide shows you just how.

How Do You Reset a Black and Decker Coffee Maker?

Resetting your Black and Decker coffee maker can be an effective way to resolve some of the issues it may be having.

To reset your unit, first, you should turn off the machine, unplug it from the power source, and let the machine rest for a while. After 1-2 hours, plug the coffee maker back in and turn it on to see if it works. 

How Do I Unclog My Black and Decker Coffee Maker?

With regular use, minerals and hard water can clog your coffee maker. A full cleaning with vinegar is recommended once a month to descale and unclog the unit.

To descale your Black and Decker CM202B using vinegar, follow these steps:

  1. Pour white vinegar into the water reservoir up to the 5-cup mark on the water window. Add cold water up to the 12-cup mark.
  2. Put a basket shaped paper filter in the brew basket and close the cover. Set the empty carafe on the carafe plate.
  3. Push the ON/OFF button to start the brewing cycle. Let half the cleaning mixture brew into the carafe (until the level is around 6 cups). Turn OFF the coffeemaker and let it soak for at least 15 minutes.
  4. Turn ON the coffeemaker again and brew the remaining cleaning mixture into the carafe. Then, turn OFF the coffeemaker; empty carafe and discard the paper filter.
  5. Fill the water reservoir with cold water to the 12-cup line; replace empty carafe on carafe plate and then turn ON the coffeemaker for a complete brewing cycle to flush out the remaining cleaning mixture. You may want to repeat this step to completely remove the vinegar smell/taste.
  6. Wash the brew basket and carafe following the appropriate steps.

How Long Does a Black and Decker Coffee Maker Last?

Black and Decker coffee machine may last at least 5 years (if the unit is maintained and cleaned properly and regularly).

Black and Decker Coffee Maker Keeps Shutting Off

This may be due to the Auto Offsetting (units with timer only). On models with a glass carafe, the auto-off can be set to shut the coffee machine off from 1 – 5 hours after the brew cycle is complete. The factory setting is 2 hours. On models with a thermal carafe, the coffee machine shuts off after 20 minutes.

Black and Decker Coffee Maker Not Dripping

The practical solution is to always check that the amount of water you pour into the reservoir does not exceed the 12 -cup line. Always make sure that the carafe is placed and tightened in its proper position. If your Black and Decker coffee maker is not pumping water, this is a common fix.

Black and Decker Coffee Maker Not Hot Enough

A coffee maker’s heating element is a critical component. No one wants cold coffee. If the heating element is damaged or is not working properly, it could be the reason your coffee is not hot enough. The heating element is accessed through the base of the appliance. To test and replace a heating element:

  1. Make sure all liquids and grounds are emptied from the unit before turning it over to remove the base.
  2. Once accessed, the heating element can be tested using a continuity tester or a multitester as you would any conductor. Disconnect the unit from the circuit, then place a probe at each terminal and verify that the element can conduct electricity.
  3. If no electricity is being conducted, replace the heating element unit or assembly. With masking tape, mark the location of all wires and components you loosen so you will be able to reconnect them with ease.

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Black and Decker Coffee Maker Not Heating at All

The most likely reason why your coffee maker is not heating is because of either a blown fuse, a faulty thermostat, or a malfunctioning heating element.

If your coffee maker is not heating the water properly, it won’t let the water flow through the hot water pipe, and thus no hot water will be poured over your coffee grounds.

The heating element is the part that makes the water boil, and it lies right under the heating plate. It is not unusual for a coffee maker’s heating elements to get worn out over time. However, the heating element can also short circuit if water comes into contact with it.

The heating element can be accessed by removing the screws from the base of your coffee maker. Once you have found it, you can test its conductivity with a multimeter. If no electricity is conducted, then it means that the heating element is broken and needs to be replaced.

On the other hand, the thermostat controls the operation of your coffee maker’s heating elements. It automatically shuts off (opens the circuit) when it detects a higher than normal temperature. Depending on its age, a coffee maker’s thermostat can get stuck in an open circuit position, preventing the electricity from reaching the heating elements.

To fix this, you can also access this part from the base of the coffee maker (always remember to unplug your coffee maker before doing this). The thermostat is attached to the horseshoe-shaped heating element and can be distinguished by its cylindrical shape. With a multimeter, check if it is conducting electricity. If not, then remove and replace this part.

Black and Decker Coffee Maker Not Making Full Pot

In order to stop coffee grounds in your coffee, use a coarser grind, use less coffee, ensure that paper filters are wetted so that they stick to the sides of the holder, and avoid tamping the coffee unless you are preparing espresso. Make sure that your coffee maker is always thoroughly cleaned to remove lodged coffee grounds.

Black and Decker Coffee Maker Not Starting

If your coffee maker doesn’t turn on, this may be due to several reasons. To fix the issue, try these instructions:

  1. First of all, you must check that your appliance is plugged in properly. There can be a chance that you have a loose plug that is not allowing for smooth power flow through the appliance.
  2. You must check that you have a consistent power supply. If the appliance is fine, but there is a problem with the socket, it will not work either way. You will want to consider moving the appliance and connecting it to another socket.
  3. It is best to check whether the appliance receives adequate power or not before you decide to take it. You can check the power cord, and if you notice any fraying, it is probably due to wear and tear. This might be preventing the appliance from receiving power.
  4. In case of a damaged wire, you can get it replaced easily.

Black and Decker Coffee Maker Overflowing Brew Basket

The carafe is positioned wrongly. But, in some cases, it has been removed for more than twenty seconds through the Sneak-A-Cup feature.

To fix the problem, remove the carafe and then return it to its original place. Make sure you properly adjust it under the filter basket. While using the Sneak-A-Cup feature, substitute the carafe all through the brewing cycle. You must do it within twenty seconds.

How to Clean a Black and Decker Coffee Maker

CM1060

To clean your Black and Decker CM1060 coffee maker, follow these instructions below:

Make sure your coffeemaker is unplugged and cool.

  1.  Remove filter basket. Discard used paper filter and coffee grounds.
  2. Wash filter basket and carafe in dishwasher (top-rack) or by hand in hot, soapy water.
  3. Wipe outside of coffeemaker, control panel and carafe plate with a soft, damp cloth.

Note: Do not use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads. Never immerse the coffeemaker in water.

  • To clean the inside of the cover, open the cover and leave in the open position; wipe with a damp cloth.
  • To clean the Carafe Lid, Filter Basket, or Glass Carafe; wash by hand in warm soapy water, or in the dishwasher (top rack only).

Cleaning with Vinegar

With regular use, minerals and hard water can clog your coffeemaker. A full cleaning with vinegar is recommended once a month.

  1. Pour white vinegar into water reservoir up to the 6-cup mark on the water window. Add cold water up to the 10-cup mark.
  2. Put a paper filter in filter basket and close cover. Set empty carafe on the carafe plate.
  3.  Turn on coffeemaker. Let half the cleaning mixture brew into carafe (until level is around 5). Turn off coffeemaker and let it soak for at least 15 minutes.
  4. Turn on coffeemaker again and brew remaining cleaning mixture into carafe. Turn off coffeemaker; empty carafe and discard paper filter.
  5. Fill reservoir with cold water to 11-cup line; replace carafe on carafe plate and then turn on coffeemaker for a complete brewing cycle to flush out remaining cleaning mixture. You may want to repeat this step to completely remove the vinegar smell/taste.
  6. Wash filter basket and carafe following the instructions given earlier.

CM2025B

It is recommended cleaning your coffee maker after every use. To clean a Black and Decker CM2025B, follow these instructions below:

  1. Make sure your coffeemaker is unplugged and cool.
  2. Open the coffeemaker cover. Remove the brew basket. Throw away the used paper filter and coffee grounds.
  3. Wash the brew basket and carafe in the dishwasher (top-rack) or by hand in warm, soapy water.
  4. Wipe the outside of the coffeemaker, power cord and carafe plate with a soft, damp cloth.
  5. To clean the inside of the cover, open the cover and leave in the open position; wipe surfaces with a damp cloth.

Note: Do not use abrasive cleansers or scouring pads, and never immerse the coffeemaker in water.

How to Program a Black and Decker Coffee Maker

CM1060

To set auto brew time on a Black and Decker CM1060, do the following:

  1. Press PROG button. The AUTO light (small dot in bottom left corner of digital display) flashes several times. Digital clock displays 12:00.
  2. Quickly press HOUR button then MIN button to select the time you would like automatic brewing to begin (for example, 7:15 A.M. Make sure the P.M. light is not on.)
  3. Press AUTO button, holding it down until the AUTO light stops flashing. The digital display changes to time of day.
  4. To check preset auto time, press PROG button and preset auto time is displayed. Press AUTO button to reactivate the timer.
  5. To cancel Auto Brew function, press the ON/OFF button.

CM2025B

The programmable Auto Brew delay start feature on a Black and Decker CM2025B allows you to set the 24-hour timer to brew coffee at the selected time, day or night. To activate the Auto Brew timer, follow these steps:

  1. After the digital clock is set, press the PROG button. The programmed clock time will begin to flash.
  2. Press the HR button and then MIN button to select the time you would like automatic brewing to begin (for example: 8:00 AM). Make sure the PM light is not on, unless desired.
  3.  The timer display will flash several times then switch back to the current time of day.
  4.  Press and release the AUTO button to activate the delay start time that was just programmed. The timer icon will remain solid, indicating Auto Brew is activated.
  5. When the time of day matches the programmed Auto Brew set time, your coffeemaker will activate the brew cycle.
  6. To cancel the Auto Brew function, press the AUTO button until the timer icon disappears.

Note: To check the preset Auto Brew time, press PROG button to display the preset Auto Brew time. Press AUTO button to reactivate the timer.

Using the 1-4 Cup Setting

This brew setting optimizes the brewing cycle so you can make a smaller batch of coffee without giving up any of the flavor. To brew 1-4 cups, simply push the 1-4 Cup button until the corresponding symbol is displayed on the LCD display.

Setting the Brew Strength Selector

The Brew Strength Selector customizes the flavor of your coffee by selecting from three brew strength settings.

  1. Press the STRONG button to cycle through the different Brew Strength settings (3 levels).
  2. No bars = regular (default setting)
  3. 1 bar = strong
  4. 2 bars = bold

How to Set Time on a Black and Decker Coffee Maker

CM1060

Set the clock on your Black and Decker CM1060 as per the instructions below:

  1. Plug appliance into standard electrical outlet.
  2. The digital clock display flashes 12:00 A.M.
  3. To set the time: Press HOUR button until correct time appears on display. Small dot in top left corner of digital display indicates P.M.
  4. Press MIN button to select minutes.

Note that if the coffee maker is unplugged or power is interrupted even momentarily, the time will need to be reset.

CM2020B

To set the clock on a Black and Decker CM2020B:

  1. Plug appliance into standard electrical outlet.
  2. The digital clock display flashes12:00.
  3. To change the time: Press HOUR button until the correct time appears on the display. When the time passes noon “PM” illuminates to let you know you are in PM time. If the “PM” is not illuminated it is AM time.
  4. Press the MIN button to select the minute

CM2035B

To set the digital clock on a Black and Decker CM2035B:

  1. Plug the coffeemaker into a standard electrical outlet.
  2. The digital clock display flashes “12:00”.
  3. To set the time, press the HR button until the correct hour appears on the display. The “PM” symbol will appear in the upper right corner of the digital display for PM time settings.
  4. Press the MIN button to select minutes.

Note: If the unit is unplugged or power interrupted, the time will need to be reset, as will the Auto Brew delay start time.

Programming a Black and Decker Coffee Maker CM2020B

SETTING THE CLOCK

  1. Plug appliance into standard electrical outlet.
  2. The digital clock display flashes12:00.
  3. To change the time: Press HOUR button until the correct time appears on the display. When the time passes noon “PM” illuminates to let you know you are in PM time. If the “PM” is not illuminated it is AM time.
  4. Press the MIN button to select the minutes.

Note: If the appliance is unplugged or power is interrupted even momentarily, the time may need to be reset.

BREWING COFFEE

  1. Open cover.
  2. Fill water reservoir using the carafe with desired amount of cold tap water. Do not exceed the 12-cup (MAX) level on the water reservoir.
  3.  Insert removable filter basket into filter basket holder.
  4. Place an 8-12 cup basket-style paper filter into the removable filter basket.
  5.  Add desired amount of ground coffee. Close cover.
  6. Make sure carafe lid is properly attached to the empty carafe. Close the lid. Note that Coffee may overflow if carafe lid is not properly placed.
  7. Place empty carafe on the carafe plate.
  8. Plug power cord into an outlet.
  9. If regular brew strength is desired, your coffeemaker is set to brew coffee.
  10. If strong coffee is desired, press the brew strength button to select the strong brew. The word STRONG is displayed.
  11. Press ON/OFF button and brewing begins.
  12. When coffee stops flowing into carafe, the brew cycle is complete. Coffeemaker beeps when brew cycle is finished. The time since brewing will be visible at the bottom of the digital display.
  13. Once coffee grounds have cooled, carefully open cover and, discard used grounds. Close cover.
  14. The coffeemaker will keep brewed coffee hot for 2 hours and then automatically turn off.
  15. To turn off the coffeemaker at any time press the ON/OFF button. The ON/OFF light goes off. Unplug appliance when not in use.

BREWING 1 TO 4 CUPS

This feature slows down the brewing to extract the best flavor when brewing a small amount of coffee.

  1. Add the appropriate amount of water for the number of cups to be brewed (from 1 – 4).
  2. Fill paper filter with desired amount of coffee grounds.
  3. Press the 1-4 CUP button. 1-4 CUP is displayed.

Note that when using this feature coffee will be brewed at regular strength only.

  • Press the ON/OFF button, its light illuminates and the brewing cycle begins.

Note: Press the ON/OFF button to cancel this function.

SNEAK-A-CUP FEATURE

Remove the carafe and brewing is paused. The carafe must be placed back on the carafe plate in 30 seconds to prevent overflow. Brewing begins again.

AUTO BREW

  1. Follow steps 1 through 10 under BREWING COFFEE.
  2. Make sure clock has been set to correct time of day.
  3. Press the program (PROG/AUTO) button and hold until the 12:00 display flashes.
  4.  Start to change the delayed brewing time as desired within 2 seconds.

Note that if the coffeemaker has not been unplugged the last delayed brewing time will appear on the digital display.

  • To change the time: press HOUR button until the desired correct time appears on the display. Press the MIN button to select the minutes

How to Use Auto Clean on Your Black and Decker Coffee Maker

Over time, calcium deposits or “scale” may build up in your brewer. Scale is non-toxic but if left unattended can hinder brewer performance and cause premature failure. Regularly descaling your brewer helps to maintain quality coffee as well as the lifespan of the heating element, and other internal parts that come in contact with water throughout the brewing process.

To make the de-scaling process as effortless as possible, an Auto Clean system has been programmed into your CM1251W coffeemaker.

After every 60 brews, “CL” will be displayed and blink. This notifies you it is time to run the Auto Clean system. “CL” will be displayed until you run the Auto Clean system. If you would like to clean your coffeemaker prior to 60 brew cycles, you may do so by following the steps below.

Note that If the unit is unplugged, the counter that keeps track of reminding you to clean your coffeemaker will reset to 0.

If you have unplugged the coffeemaker, or if there have been power outages, it is recommended cleaning the unit once a month.

To use Auto Clean on your Black and Decker CM1251W, follow the steps below. Your coffeemaker will take care of the rest.

  1. Combine 6 cups of white vinegar and 4 cups of cold water in carafe. We recommend filtered water.
  2. Pour into water reservoir.
  3. Place an 8 to 12 cup basket style paper filter in the removable filter basket. Insert filter basket into filter basket holder and close cover.
  4. Make sure the lid of the carafe is in place and place empty carafe on the carafe plate.
  5. Plug power cord into an outlet.
  6. Press CLEAN to activate cleaning cycle; “CL” is displayed and the Start/Power button illuminates. The word, “CLEAN” scrolls across the display.
  7. Part of the mixture will brew through. The remaining mixture will be held in the coffeemaker for 30 minutes before completing its brew through.
    Note: The entire cleaning cycle will take 45–60 minutes to complete.
  • When the coffeemaker completes the AUTO CLEAN cycle, it shuts off automatically.
  • Brew fresh water through appliance before brewing coffee again.

Black and Decker Coffee Maker Turns On but Won’t Brew

The first thing that you need to check is whether your coffee maker is plugged into a working outlet. Make sure that the switchboard or power supply is stable.

Check also that the ON/OFF button has been pressed. Ensure that the wire is not damaged. If it is, then have it replaced.

If your unit turns on but doesn’t brew, check the heating element found at the bottom of the coffee maker. Usually, the heating element short-circuits because the coffee maker has been turned on for a long time or when it always gets wet because of drips when the reservoir is filled to the brim.

Another reason your Black and Decker coffee maker is not working is wear and tear over a prolonged period of time. Over time, the effectiveness of your coffee maker is going to decrease, and you will notice that the power light will turn on, but the coffee maker won’t brew.

If you are a DIY person, here is what you can try to fix the issue:

  1. You must first remove your coffee maker’s base and find the heating element. Make sure to disconnect the power before doing these steps.
    The base can be unscrewed easily and does not require any expert assistance. Once you do that, you will have access to the heating element.
  2. You must use a multimeter or continuity tester to check whether the heating element is receiving the current.
  3. If you find out that your heating element is not working properly or is damaged, repair it or replace it with a new one.

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Sometimes the coffee does not brew at all, and there’s a chance that your water reservoir is empty. For that, you must make sure that the water reservoir has sufficient water.

This is obviously just a simple check; open up the lid to check whether there is enough water in the reservoir before moving on to other issues.