“CLEAN” or “CLEAN” indicator light stays on or flashes and the coffee maker beeps but will not start a normal brew.

Safety first: Ensure the unit is on a stable surface. Do not open covers while hot.

Run a full cleaning cycle:

• Empty the carafe and remove any coffee grounds or filter.
• Fill the reservoir with a 1:1 mixture of white vinegar and water up to the MAX line.
• Start the CLEAN cycle: On Hamilton Beach models with a CLEAN button, press and hold CLEAN until the light stops flashing and the cycle begins. If there is no dedicated button, start a regular brew cycle with the vinegar solution.
• Pause halfway: After about 10–15 minutes of brewing, turn the unit OFF and let it sit for 30 minutes to allow the vinegar to dissolve internal scale.
• Complete the cycle: Turn the unit back ON and allow the rest of the vinegar solution to brew through.
• Rinse thoroughly: Run 2–3 full reservoirs of fresh water through the machine to remove vinegar taste and any loosened debris.

Resetting the CLEAN light: On many Hamilton Beach models, the CLEAN light will turn off automatically after a full cleaning cycle. If not, unplug for 5 minutes, then plug back in. Some models require holding the CLEAN or BREW button for 3–5 seconds to clear the indicator.

If the CLEAN light remains on after proper descaling, the internal flow or temperature sensor may be scaled or failing and may require service.