How Long Do Coffee Makers Last?

I want a coffee maker to give me the best bang for my buck. That led me to write this guide on how long coffee makers last.

Here’s what you’ll find:

Let’s compare different machines.

Key Takeaways

• Most coffee makers last up to 15 years.
• Extend a coffee maker’s life through regular cleaning, descaling, & proper storage.
• Non-electrical makers (e.g., cold brew) last much longer due to a lack of mechanical parts.
• Factors such as material quality, frequency of use, & adherence to regular maintenance extends a coffee maker’s lifespan.

How Long Do Different Types of Coffee Makers Last

Let’s compare how long different coffee makers last:

Comparison of how long different coffee makers last.

Keep reading to learn what affects a machine’s lifespan and how to make your maker last longer.

How Long Capsule Machines Last

Average lifespan: 3–5 years

The lifespan of pod coffee makers depends on various factors like build quality, frequency of usage, and maintenance.

These machines rely on internal components such as pumps, heating elements, and electronic circuits. All which are susceptible to wear and tear.

Mineral deposits from water can accumulate inside the machine. Altering its performance over time.

How to Make Pod Makers Last Longer

To ensure your machine stays in excellent working condition, follow these steps to make pod makers last longer:

• Regular cleaning: Like drip makers, you must clean capsule machines after every use.
  • Remove & wash the drip tray & capsule container to prevent residue buildup.
• Descaling: Descaling every 3–6 months helps maintain optimal brewing performance.
• Use proper pods: Use pods designed for your capsule machine.
  • Using incompatible pods may damage the machine or produce poor-quality coffee.
• Store in a cool, dry place: When not in use, store your capsule machine in a cool, dry place away from heat & moisture.

How Long Espresso Machines Last

Manual espresso makers last much longer than super- and semi-automatic coffee makers due to a lack of electrical parts. So long as you take care of your coffee makers.

Don’t take my word for it. Compare different espresso makers and decide which is best for your use.

Manual Espresso Machines

Average lifespan: 10+ years

Manual espresso makers can last over a decade if well-maintained. Still, their lifespan depends on various factors. Including the quality of the materials, frequency of use, and adherence to regular maintenance.

High-quality, durable materials and sturdy construction contribute to a longer-lasting machine.

How to Make Manual Espresso Makers Last Longer

To make your manual espresso maker last longer, follow these tips:

• Clean after use: Remove coffee grounds & rinse the portafilter after every use.
  • Doing so prevents residue buildup that could affect the taste & quality of your espresso.
• Regular maintenance: Replace worn-out seals & gaskets as needed.
  • These small components play a big role in maintaining proper pressure for brewing.
• Use fresh, quality coffee: Grinding fresh, high-quality beans ensures a better extraction & helps minimize wear on your machine’s components.
• Store in a cool, dry place: Keep your manual espresso maker in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight & moisture.

Automatic, Semi-automatic, & Super Automatic Espresso Machines

Automatic Average Lifespan: 5–15 years

Super Automatic: 6–10 years

Semi-Automatic: 8–15 years

Factors such as the quality of the machine, frequency of use, and maintenance practices impact an automatic espresso maker’s lifespan.

Higher-quality machines with solid construction and premium materials typically have longer lifespan. While more frequent usage may cause wear and tear more quickly.

How to Make Automatic Espresso Makers Last Longer

Here’s how you make your automatic espresso maker last longer:

• Clean regularly: Clean the machine’s components, such as the brew group & drip tray, regularly to prevent coffee residue & oils buildup.
• Descale: Remove mineral deposits from the machine’s water system by descaling them as the manufacturer recommends.
• Use quality coffee beans: Fresh, high-quality beans ensure better extraction & minimize wear on the machine’s components.
• Replace water filters: Change the water filter according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
  • To maintain the machine’s water system & ensure better-tasting espresso.

How Long Drip Coffee Makers Last

Average Lifespan: 5–10 years [1]

Drip coffee makers have varying lifespans based on build quality, frequency of use, and maintenance habits.

Higher-quality machines generally last longer, while more frequent use may lead to faster wear and tear on components like heating elements and pumps.

How to Make Drip Coffee Makers Last Longer

To make your drip coffee maker last longer, follow these tips:

• Regular cleaning: Clean the carafe & filter basket regularly to prevent coffee residue & oil buildup.
• Descale periodically: Follow manufacturer guidelines for descaling, which helps remove mineral deposits & maintain the machine’s water system.
• Use quality coffee filters: Choose the appropriate filter size & material to prevent grounds from clogging the machine & ensure optimal extraction.
• Store in a cool, dry place: Protect your drip coffee maker from direct sunlight & humidity to protect its internal components.

How Long Percolator Coffee Makers Last

Average Lifespan: 10–15 years

Percolator coffee makers are known for their durability and long-lasting performance. Factors like build quality, frequency of use, and maintenance practices, impact the device’s lifespan.

A well-built percolator will serve you longer, but using it frequently may cause components to wear out faster.

How to Make Percolator Coffee Makers Last Longer

To make your percolator coffee maker last longer, consider these tips:

• Clean after every use: Rinse the percolator’s parts thoroughly to remove coffee residue & prevent buildup.
• Descale regularly: Remove mineral deposits by descaling your percolator according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
• Inspect parts: Check for worn or damaged parts, such as seals or filters, & replace them as needed.
• Store properly: Keep your percolator in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight & humidity.

How Long AeroPress Makers Last

Average Lifespan: 3+ years [2]

The longevity of AeroPress coffee makers depends on factors such as build quality and materials used. Many know AeroPresses for their durability, but like any other device, wear and tear over time will impact the coffee maker’s performance and lifespan.

How to Make an AeroPress Last Longer

To ensure your AeroPress coffee maker lasts longer, here’s a list of tips:

• Clean after every use: Rinse all AeroPress components under warm water to eliminate coffee residue.
• Inspect seals: Check the rubber seal for signs of wear or damage, & replace if necessary.
• Avoid over-pressing: Applying too much pressure during brewing may damage the device. Use gentle, even pressure for best results.
• Store properly: Keep your AeroPress in a cool, dry place to prevent warping or damage from exposure to heat & moisture.

How Long Stovetop Coffee Makers Last

Average Lifespan: 10–15 years

Factors such as the quality of materials, frequency, and proper maintenance influence a stovetop maker’s lifespan.

Durable materials like stainless steel or aluminum contribute to their long-lasting performance. However, components like gaskets and filters may wear down over time, affecting the device’s lifespan.

How to Make Stovetop Coffee Maker Last Longer

Here’s how you could make your stovetop coffee maker last longer:

• Regular cleaning: Clean your coffee maker after each use to prevent buildup of coffee residue, which might lead to corrosion.
• Replace gaskets: Inspect & replace worn or damaged gaskets, which ensures a proper seal during brewing.
• Use medium heat: Avoid using high heat, as it can cause warping or other damage.
• Store properly: Keep your coffee maker in a dry, cool place to prevent damage from moisture or heat.

How Long French Press Makers Last

Average Lifespan: 5–10 years [3]

The longevity of French press coffee makers depends on factors like the quality of materials and proper maintenance.

However, their glass or stainless steel influences their durability. The plunger and mesh filter are more prone to wear and tear, affecting the device’s lifespan.

How to Make French Press Last Longer

To make your French press coffee maker last longer, follow these tips:

• Gentle use: Plunge slowly & evenly to avoid damaging the glass or filter.
• Clean thoroughly: Regularly clean the plunger & filter, removing coffee grounds & oils.
• Store safely: Keep your French press in a secure, dry place, away from potential falls or moisture.
• Replace parts: Monitor the condition of the plunger, filter, & gasket, replacing them as needed.

How Long Siphon Coffee Makers Last

Average Lifespan: 7–12 years

Factors such as the quality of materials, frequency of use, and proper maintenance impact a siphon maker’s lifespan.

They often have glass components that are more susceptible to breakage. Additionally, the cloth or metal filters, seals, and gaskets may deteriorate over time, impacting the device’s lifespan.

How to Make Siphon Coffee Maker Last Longer

To ensure your siphon coffee maker lasts longer, consider these suggestions:

• Handle carefully: Gently handle the glass components to avoid breakage or damage.
• Clean regularly: Properly clean the entire unit, especially the filter, after each use.
• Replace filters & seals: Periodically check & replace filters, seals, & gaskets as needed.
• Store safely: Keep your siphon coffee maker in a safe, dry location, away from potential hazards.

When You Should Replace a Coffee Maker

Knowing when to replace your coffee maker isn’t always easy, but there are some telltale signs that it might be time for an upgrade.

Here’s what to watch out for:

1. Your Coffee Tastes Different

If your coffee starts tasting off, even after cleaning your machine, it might be time to replace your coffee maker. Over time, coffee makers accumulate mineral deposits and other residues that affect the taste of your coffee.

If descaling and thorough cleaning don’t improve the taste, it indicates that your coffee maker’s nearing its end.

2. Water Does Not Heat Anymore

A coffee maker that doesn’t heat water properly isn’t doing its job. The maker should heat the water to around 195 °F–205 °F (91 °C–96 °C) for optimal coffee brewing [4].

If your coffee maker struggles to reach the right temperature, it’s likely the heating element has worn out. And you should consider replacing the machine.

3. It’s Difficult to Find Pods for Your Capsule Maker

If you own a capsule coffee maker and find it challenging to find compatible pods, it’s time to look for a new machine.

Manufacturers may discontinue models or reduce the variety of capsules available for older machines. This limitation will impact your coffee choices and could signal that it’s time to upgrade.

4. It Doesn’t Brew Coffee

If your coffee maker fails to brew coffee altogether or takes a long time, it’s a sign that something’s wrong. This issue could result from a clogged water line, a malfunctioning heating element, or other internal problems.

In most cases, replacing the machine is more cost-effective than attempting repairs.

By paying attention to these signs, you’ll know when to say goodbye to your old coffee maker.

How to Keep Your Coffee Maker Clean

Follow these simple tips to keep your coffee maker in great shape:

1. Descale regularly: Minerals from water build up inside your coffee maker over time, which affects its performance.
   1. Use a descaling solution or white vinegar to remove mineral deposits every 1 to 3 months.
2. Clean removable parts: Wash the carafe, filter basket, & any other removable components in warm soapy water after each use.
   1. Rinse thoroughly to ensure no soap residue remains.
3. Wipe down exterior: Use a damp, lint-free cloth to wipe the exterior of your coffee maker, removing any spills or stains.
4. Perform a deep clean: Every few months, disassemble your coffee maker as much as possible, & give each part a thorough clean using warm soapy water or a coffee maker cleaning solution.

Let’s move on to the best coffee makers.

Best Coffee Makers to Consider

Here’s a list of some of the best coffee makers to consider:

Use the warranties to help gauge how long coffee makers last. Those numbers aren’t definite, though. I had a Keurig I used daily, and it lasted over 3 years. And one of my brothers has had a Toddy Cold Brew System for over 5 years.

FAQs

Keep reading to find frequently asked questions about how long coffee makers last.

Conclusion

I prefer manual coffee makers (e.g., cold brew or manual espresso), since they have fewer parts. And many of them are better for traveling/camping. Whatever coffee maker you choose depends on your preference.

Before picking a coffee maker, compare all the options available. Read my guide here.