ERR4
KitchenAid Overheat / Thermal Cutoff Tripped

Display shows ERR4 and the coffee maker will not brew; sometimes accompanied by beeping.

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Safety Warning

This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.

If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.

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Possible Causes

Dry-fire of heating element (no water in reservoir), Failed thermostat stuck closed, Blocked water path causing localized overheating, Open thermal fuse on heater

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Immediate action: Turn the coffee maker off and unplug it. Allow it to cool for at least 30–45 minutes.

Basic checks:

  • Verify water level: Make sure the water reservoir is filled above the minimum line before starting a brew cycle.
  • Inspect for blockages: Remove and rinse the brew basket, gold-tone filter, and any removable showerhead or brew head screen. Coffee oils and grounds can restrict flow and cause overheating.
  • Descale the machine: Run a full descaling cycle with a 1:1 vinegar and water solution to clear internal scale that can trap heat.

Advanced checks (if error remains):

  • With the unit unplugged and bottom cover removed, inspect the heating element, thermostat, and thermal fuse mounted to the heater plate or boiler.
  • Look for burnt spots, melted insulation, or a visibly blown thermal fuse.
  • Test continuity of the thermal fuse and thermostat with a multimeter. Replace any open components.

If the thermal cutoff has opened due to severe overheating, it must be replaced; do not bypass it. If the unit repeatedly overheats, the control board or thermostat may be misregulating temperature and should be evaluated by a technician.

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Repair Difficulty

Hard 4/5

Required Part

Thermal Fuse / High-Limit Thermostat
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