“ADD WATER” appears mid-brew and the cycle stops before the carafe is full.

Safety first: Unplug the unit and allow it to cool for at least 30 minutes before servicing.

• Clean reservoir and inlet screen: Remove the reservoir and inspect the outlet at the bottom. Many Cuisinart reservoirs have a small mesh screen; rinse and brush it gently to remove debris.
• Descale the machine: Fill the reservoir with a 1:1 mixture of white vinegar and water. Run a brew cycle without coffee until the reservoir is half empty, then turn the unit off and let it sit for 30 minutes. Resume the cycle, then run 2–3 full reservoirs of fresh water to rinse.
• Check for kinks or pinched tubing (if accessible): On some models you can see the silicone intake tube from the reservoir to the heater. Ensure it is not kinked or pinched by the housing.
• Test again: Run a full brew cycle with water only. If the error still appears mid-cycle, the internal water level sensor or thermal cutoff may be opening due to overheating or restricted flow.
• Professional service: If descaling and cleaning do not resolve the issue, internal components such as the heater or sensor may need replacement. Seek a qualified appliance technician.