A red light generally means trouble of some kind, so it’s understandable if you are concerned that your Nespresso Vertuo is blinking a series of red lights. What does this light mean, and how can you fix it?

When a Nespresso machine displays a series of blinking red lights, it signals that there are issues with how the machine is functioning. Most of the time, the issues are simple to resolve. Nespresso offers 24/7 support if you can’t resolve the issue after troubleshooting. 

Don’t let a lack of caffeine cause you to see red! Keep reading to learn more about why your Nespresso Vertuo is blinking red and how to solve the problem.

Why is My Nespresso Vertuo Blinking Red?

There are several reasons why your Nespresso Vertuo may be showing you a series of blinking red lights. Luckily, most are fairly simple to resolve.

A blinking red light on your Nespresso Vertuo may tell you:

  • The machine is too hot
  • Special functions are engaged
  • The machine head is in the wrong position
  • The machine is experiencing an error
  • Descaling is needed immediately

Although a blinking red light can be annoying, it is generally not a huge problem. Below, we’ll discuss what each blinking sequence means and how you can fix it.

The Machine is Too Hot

If your Nespresso machine displays a red light that slowly fades in and out, it is telling you that it needs to cool down after being used.

To solve this issue, push the Nespresso button for three seconds to turn the machine off. Then, wait around 15 – 20 minutes before turning the machine back on.

If the machine does not shut off after three seconds, it may be in descaling mode. In this case, you need to hold the button for seven seconds to exit this mode.

Once the machine has properly cooled down, it should function normally.

Special Functions Are Engaged

When the Nespresso machine displays a red light that flashes two times and then turns a steady orange color, it means that one of the machine’s special functions is engaged.

Special functions include the following:

  • Cleaning mode
  • Descaling mode
  • Empty system mode
  • Factory reset mode

If there is an issue with one of the special functions, the orange light will blink after the red lights flash and continue until the issue has been resolved.

The Machine Head is in the Wrong Position

If you notice the red light flashing three times every two seconds, the machine head is not in the correct position.

The machine head is the top part of your Nespresso. Opening the machine head will allow you to insert your Nespresso pod.

If the machine head is not sitting correctly, it can’t function properly.

To resolve this issue, push the lever down until the light on the head stops spinning.

There is an Error with the Machine

When the Nespresso displays a continuous red light, it means there is an error with the machine.

Generally, you will need to turn your machine off and unplug it from its power source for around 15 minutes to solve this issue.

After 15 minutes, plug the unit back in, push the lever down, and allow the machine to warm up until it’s ready to use.

If you notice that a red light blinks then remains a steady green light, the machine is telling one of the following things: 

  • The pod needs to be replaced
  • The pod is not sitting correctly in the machine
  • The water tank is empty

Once you have adjusted or replaced the pod and checked that there is enough water, the machine should operate as it should.

Descaling is Needed Immediately

Descaling your Nespresso machine is essential to ensure good functioning. It also prevents bacteria from building up.

If you notice that your machine is displaying a light that is half red and half green, it means you need to descale it immediately.

The machine will not continue functioning until it has been properly cleaned and descaled. Once you have completed the descaling process, you can enjoy another cup of coffee.

In Conclusion

A Nespresso Vertuo machine will blink red to indicate different problems with the machine.

Each series of flashes indicates a different issue, so you must pay attention to know what steps to take.

If you have tried the steps above and are still experiencing issues with a blinking red light on your Nespresso machine, contact the Nespresso support department for additional assistance.