Emptying Your Bunn Coffee Maker for Storage

Quick answer

• Unplug the brewer. Seriously, do this first.
• Locate the drain plug or valve. It’s usually on the back or bottom.
• Open the plug slowly to let water out. Don’t rush it.
• Let it drain completely. Patience is key here.
• Wipe down the interior and exterior. Get it nice and dry.
• Store it in a safe, dry spot. Away from the elements.

Who this is for

• Folks who are moving and need to pack their Bunn.
• Campers or RV owners storing their brewer for the off-season.
• Anyone with a Bunn coffee maker that’s not getting daily use.

What to check first

Brewer type and filter type

Your Bunn might have a few variations. Some have a drain plug, others a valve. Know which one you’re dealing with. And yeah, that paper filter or permanent screen needs to come out too. Get it all out before you start draining.

Water quality and temperature

This is less about draining and more about what’s left behind. If your tap water is hard, mineral buildup can be a pain. Ideally, you’d have drained it while it was still a little warm, but if it’s cold, that’s fine too. Just make sure it’s unplugged.

Grind size and coffee freshness

This doesn’t really apply to emptying for storage, but good to remember for brewing. Use fresh beans, ground right before you brew. Stale coffee makes sad coffee.

Coffee-to-water ratio

Again, not directly for draining, but a quick reminder. For most drip coffee, a good starting point is 1:15 to 1:17. That’s about 1 gram of coffee to 15-17 grams of water. Experiment to find your sweet spot.

Cleanliness/descale status

Before you pack it away, give it a good clean. If you haven’t descaled it in a while, now’s the time. Nobody wants to open up a dusty, grimy coffee maker later. Check the manual for specific descaling instructions for your model.

Step-by-step (brew workflow)

1. Unplug the brewer.

• What to do: Find the power cord and pull it from the wall outlet.
• What “good” looks like: The brewer is completely dead. No lights, no hum.
• Common mistake: Forgetting this step. It’s a safety thing, people. Don’t skip it.

2. Remove the brew basket and filter.

• What to do: Take out the basket where the coffee grounds go. Discard the used filter.
• What “good” looks like: The basket is empty and clean.
• Common mistake: Leaving the filter in. It’ll just get soggy and gross.

3. Locate the drain plug/valve.

• What to do: Look on the back or bottom of your Bunn coffee maker. It’s usually a small, round cap or a lever.
• What “good” looks like: You’ve found the drainage point.
• Common mistake: Not knowing where it is. Give it a good look-over.

4. Prepare a container for the water.

• What to do: Grab a bowl, pot, or bucket. Place it directly underneath the drain plug.
• What “good” looks like: The container is positioned to catch all the water.
• Common mistake: Using a container that’s too small. You’ll have a watery mess.

5. Open the drain plug/valve slowly.

• What to do: Gently turn the plug or lift the valve. Water should start to trickle out.
• What “good” looks like: A controlled flow of water into your container.
• Common mistake: Yanking it open. This can sometimes splash water everywhere.

6. Allow the brewer to drain completely.

• What to do: Just let gravity do its thing. Wait until no more water is coming out.
• What “good” looks like: The flow has stopped. It’s bone dry inside.
• Common mistake: Assuming it’s empty too soon. Give it a few extra minutes.

7. Close the drain plug/valve.

• What to do: Securely close the plug or return the valve to its original position.
• What “good” looks like: The drain is sealed. No leaks.
• Common mistake: Leaving it open. You don’t want water seeping out later.

8. Wipe down the interior.

• What to do: Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe out the water reservoir and any other interior surfaces.
• What “good” looks like: Everything inside is dry and free of residue.
• Common mistake: Not drying thoroughly. Moisture can lead to mold or mildew.

9. Wipe down the exterior.

• What to do: Use a dry or slightly damp cloth to clean the outside of the brewer.
• What “good” looks like: The outside is clean and dust-free.
• Common mistake: Leaving dust and grime. It’ll just settle back on later.

10. Store the coffee maker.

• What to do: Place the clean, dry brewer in a safe, dry location.
• What “good” looks like: It’s stored away, protected and ready for its next use.
• Common mistake: Storing it in a damp basement or garage. Bad idea.

Common mistakes (and what happens if you ignore them)

Mistake	What it causes	Fix
Not unplugging the brewer	Electrical hazard, potential damage	Always unplug before any draining or cleaning.
Leaving the brew basket in	Soggy, moldy filter/grounds, potential clogs	Remove and clean the brew basket and discard the filter.
Rushing the draining process	Water spills, incomplete draining	Be patient. Let gravity do its work until it’s fully empty.
Not closing the drain plug	Leaks, potential water damage	Ensure the drain plug is securely closed after draining.
Storing a wet brewer	Mold, mildew, unpleasant odors, corrosion	Thoroughly dry all interior and exterior surfaces.
Storing in a damp location	Mold, mildew, damage to electrical components	Choose a dry, climate-controlled space for storage.
Not cleaning before storage	Stale residue, difficulty in future brewing	Clean the brewer inside and out before packing it away.
Using a container too small	Water spills, messy cleanup	Use a large enough container to catch all the draining water.
Forgetting to check the manual	Incorrect draining procedure for your model	Consult your Bunn’s manual for specific instructions if unsure.
Ignoring mineral buildup	Clogged internal components, affecting taste	Descale regularly, especially if you have hard water.

Decision rules (simple if/then)

• If you’re storing the Bunn for more than a month, then empty it completely because moisture can cause damage.
• If the brewer feels unusually heavy, then it likely still has water inside and needs more draining time.
• If you see any signs of mold or mildew, then clean it thoroughly with a vinegar-water solution before storing.
• If you’re unsure about your specific model’s drain plug location, then check the user manual.
• If you’re moving, then make sure the brewer is fully dry before packing it in a box.
• If you’re storing it in a cold environment, then ensure it’s completely empty to prevent freezing damage.
• If you notice any leaks after closing the drain, then double-check that the plug is seated correctly.
• If you plan to use it again soon, then a quick rinse might suffice, but a full drain is better for long-term storage.
• If you have hard water, then consider a descaling cycle before storing to remove mineral buildup.
• If the power cord is frayed or damaged, then do not use the brewer and consider getting it repaired or replaced.
• If you’re storing it in a dusty area, then consider covering it with a clean cloth or plastic bag.
• If you’re ever in doubt about a step, then err on the side of caution and consult your brewer’s manual.

FAQ

How often should I empty my Bunn coffee maker if I’m not using it?

If you’re not using it regularly, it’s best to empty it completely before any period of inactivity, especially if it’s for more than a week or two. This prevents stale water from sitting inside.

Can I just leave a little bit of water in the reservoir?

No, it’s not recommended. Even a small amount of water can lead to stale odors, potential mold growth, or even damage if stored in freezing temperatures. Always aim for completely dry.

What if my Bunn coffee maker doesn’t have an obvious drain plug?

Some models might have a different drainage system or require a specific tool. Always refer to your owner’s manual for the exact procedure for your model.

How do I clean my Bunn coffee maker before storing it?

After draining, wipe down the interior and exterior with a damp cloth. For deeper cleaning, you can run a cycle with a vinegar-water solution (check your manual for the correct ratio and procedure), then rinse thoroughly with plain water.

Is it okay to store my Bunn coffee maker on its side?

It’s best to store it upright. Storing it on its side could potentially dislodge internal components or cause any residual moisture to seep into unwanted areas.

What’s the best way to store it for the winter if I live in a cold climate?

Ensure it’s completely dry and store it in a climate-controlled area, like inside your house, rather than in an unheated garage or shed where it could freeze.

Will storing it dry affect future brews?

No, storing it dry is actually beneficial. It ensures that when you do use it again, you’re starting with a clean slate and fresh water, leading to better-tasting coffee.

How long can I store my Bunn coffee maker after emptying it?

As long as it’s stored in a clean, dry environment, it can be stored indefinitely. Just make sure to give it a quick clean and flush with water before its first use after a long storage period.

What this page does NOT cover (and where to go next)

• Detailed troubleshooting for specific error codes or mechanical failures. (Check your Bunn warranty or contact support.)
• Advanced brewing techniques for Bunn coffee makers. (Explore coffee brewing blogs or forums.)
• Comparisons of different Bunn coffee maker models. (Visit manufacturer websites or reputable review sites.)
• Specific recommendations for water filters or descaling solutions. (Consult product manuals and reviews.)
• Cleaning instructions for other types of coffee makers. (Look for guides specific to your brewer type.)