Diagnosis
Your Black & Decker coffee maker is displaying "CLEAN" because it has reached its programmed maintenance interval, typically after around 60 brew cycles. This is a descaling alert, not an error. The unit initiates a brewing sequence to prompt you to act, but using coffee grounds now will not work correctly and will foul the machine. Mineral scale from water has built up inside the internal heating element and tubes, which reduces brewing efficiency and can affect flavor.
How to Fix It
You must complete the Auto Clean cycle.
- Mix a descaling solution of 6 cups (48 oz) of white vinegar with 4 cups (32 oz) of cold water.
- Pour this mixture into the coffee maker's empty water reservoir.
- Ensure the glass carafe is clean, empty, and correctly positioned on the warming plate.
- Press and hold the On/Off button for 4 seconds until the display changes and the cleaning cycle begins. This cycle will run for 45-60 minutes automatically.
- Once it finishes, discard the vinegar solution from the carafe.
- Rinse the carafe thoroughly, fill the reservoir with fresh cold water only, and run a full 12-cup brew cycle to rinse the machine. Repeat this fresh water rinse a second time to eliminate any vinegar taste.
If That Didn't Work
If the "CLEAN" light persists after one cycle, the mineral buildup may be heavy. Run the vinegar clean cycle a second time. If the unit doesn't respond to the button hold, ensure it's plugged in and try unplugging it for 2 minutes to reset the control board before attempting the hold sequence again. For stubborn scale, you can use a commercial descaling liquid following its dilution instructions instead of vinegar.
Heads Up
Never use coffee grounds during a clean cycle, as this will cause a severe clog. Always use vinegar or a descaler formulated for coffee makers—never use harsh chemicals like bleach. Regular descaling every few months, regardless of the alert, prolongs your machine's life.