Coffee tastes bitter or burnt.

Safety first: Avoid touching the hot warming plate.

• Adjust keep-warm time: If your model allows, reduce the keep-warm temperature or time. Do not leave coffee on the warming plate for more than 1–2 hours.
• Use proper grind: Use a medium grind; too fine a grind can cause over-extraction and bitterness.
• Clean carafe and basket: Oils can build up and contribute to bitter taste. Wash the carafe and brew basket thoroughly with warm, soapy water and rinse well.
• Descale: Perform a descaling cycle to ensure accurate temperature control.
• If coffee tastes burnt quickly after brewing: The warming plate thermostat may be running too hot and may need professional adjustment or replacement.