Capresso digital coffee maker will not start a brew cycle and displays E1 on the screen.

Safety first: Unplug the coffee maker before removing parts or accessing internal components. Allow the unit to cool completely.

Step-by-step:

• Check water tank level and seating: Remove the Capresso water reservoir, fill it at least halfway, and firmly reseat it. Make sure it clicks or sits flush on the base and that the bottom valve opens when pressed.
• Inspect the float/magnet: Many Capresso reservoirs use a small floating magnet inside. Gently tilt the tank and verify the float moves freely. If it is stuck due to scale, rinse with warm water and a mild descaling solution, then flush thoroughly.
• Clean tank contacts/area: Wipe the base area where the tank sits with a dry cloth. Remove any coffee grounds, scale, or debris that might block the sensor area.
• Reset the unit: With the tank properly seated and filled, unplug the machine for 5 minutes, then plug it back in and try a brew cycle.
• If E1 persists: The internal reed switch or wiring harness to the main control PCB may be faulty. At this point, replacement of the water level sensor assembly or control board is typically required and is best done by a qualified technician.