No. A water-only flush cycle will not descale the brewer. It only rinses the system.
DIAGNOSIS: Mineral scale (calcium/lime) from hard water builds up inside the heater and tubes. Only acid (vinegar or descaling solution) can dissolve it.
FIX: You must run the full 75-minute clean cycle with a descaling agent.
- Use white vinegar or a coffeemaker descaling solution.
- Follow the fill instructions: 16 oz vinegar, then top with water to the Full line.
- Initiate with CLEAN then START BREW.
IF THAT DIDN'T WORK: If scale buildup is severe (indicated by a "CLn" message), one cycle may not be enough. Run a second clean cycle on the same mode. For hard water areas, you may need to descale monthly.
HEADS UP: The orange Intelligent Clean Cycle Indicator tells you when a clean cycle is recommended. Do not ignore it. If you cancel a clean cycle mid-process, the brewer will not be descaled and you must start over from the step to empty the carafe and clean it.