The Nespresso Vertuo series was created to provide you with an easy way to enjoy your favorite espresso and coffee drinks at home, but sometimes the blinking yellow light can be more than a little annoying. If you’re dealing with that light right now, don’t worry—I’ve put together information on what the Nespresso yellow light blinking means and also a step-by-step guide to help you fix your machine quickly and easily so you can get back to enjoying your morning cup of joe!
What Does Nespresso Yellow Light Mean?
When the yellow light on your Nespresso Vertuo machine starts blinking, it means that the machine is not functioning properly. This can be caused by many different issues and will require troubleshooting to determine what the problem is. In some cases, this can be as simple as changing the water tank or unplugging the power cord from the wall outlet. Other times, the issue might be serious.
Nespresso Yellow Light Status & Troubleshooting
If the Nespresso yellow light is blinking, this can be caused by seven different reasons, and the first step to fixing your machine is identifying which one it is. These errors show up on Nespresso Vertuoline models such as Vertuo, Veruo Next, and Evoluo. The yellow light will tell you what to do to fix your machine based on its number and timing.
| Yellow Light Status | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Blinks twice per second | Machine needs to be clean |
| Blinks three times per second | Requires emptying or descaling. |
| Flash twice rapidly, then long OFF | Error occurred |
| Pulsing light (Continuous ON & OFF) | Machine is overheated |
| ON for 1.5 seconds then OFF for 0.5 seconds | Running out of water tank. |
| Five times blinking in 10 seconds | Reset to default settings |
| Blinks then white for 3 seconds | Needs descaling immediately |
Fixing Blinking Yellow Light Twice
If your Nespresso Vertuo machine’s yellow light is blinking 2 times, it means that there is an issue with the water pump. To fix this, simply run a cleaning cycle on your machine. You can do this by running water on your machine. This can be done by following these steps:
- Make sure to eject any used capsules out of the unit.
- Rinse the water tank, cup support, and drip tray with water. Then fill the water tank with fresh water.
- Place 1 liter or larger container under the coffee outlet. Close the head and turn the lever to the lock position. In order to start the cleaning cycle, press the button 3 times within 2 seconds. It begins flashing, the water will begin to trickle out. Three cycles of water will be released in total.
- After completing this, wipe down all surfaces with a damp cloth and let air dry for 5-10 minutes before using again.
After this process, if the machine continues to blink yellow, you may want to hold the button down for at least 7 seconds before you contact Nespresso customer support.
Fixing Blinking Yellow Light 3 Times
The yellow light on your Nespresso Vertuo machine indicates that the machine needs descaling. Descaling removes mineral buildup from the water tank and prevents damage to the heating element. To descale your machine, you’ll need to purchase a Nespresso Descaler Solution. In order to descale your nespresso machine, read my Nespresso Descaling instructions.
Fixing Blinks Yellow Light Twice Rapidly Then OFF
If your Nespresso Vertuo machine is flashing yellow twice quickly and then shutting off, there are a few things you can try to do to fix it.
First, make sure that the water tank is full and that the machine is properly plugged in.
Moreover, double-check that you put the coffee pod in the container correctly and that it is undamaged.
Next, try turning off and unplugging for about ten minutes. Then plug it back in, wait another 10-15 minutes and turn it on again. It should work properly from there. If you’re still having issues with your machine, please contact the Nespresso customer service team to help troubleshoot any remaining issues.
Resolve Pulsing Yellow Light
When your Nespresso machine displays a pulsing yellow light, it means it’s overheated.
To resolve this, simply turn off the machine and wait for it to cool down. Press the power button for 3 seconds to turn off the machine and wait for 30 – 45 minutes to cool it down. Once it has cooled down, you can turn it back on and resume using it. If the problem persists, you may need to hold the button down for at least seven seconds (don’t let go) in order to stop it.
Fixing When Yellow Light ON for 1.5 seconds OFF For 0.5 Seconds
If you’ve been noticing that the blinking yellow light on your Nespresso machine is turning on and off erratically, the issue may be with water. It’s possible that the water tank is empty or low. To solve this problem, simply fill up the water reservoir with fresh water. Be sure to insert enough water so that it fills to the ‘max’ line. Now press the ON button and wait for the yellow light to turn OFF.
Fixing Flashing Yellow Light Five Times
If your Nespresso Vertuo machine flashes yellow light five times, it means that the machine needs to be reset to factory settings. To do this, check my guide on how to reset Nespresso machines.
Fixing Blinking Yellow Then White
This blinking pattern indicates that you will only be able to use your machine a few more times before descaling is needed. Descaling is an important part of coffee maker maintenance and ensures that your machine will continue to work properly. To descale it, you’ll need to purchase a descaling kit. Once you have the kit, follow the instructions to descale your machine.
