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How to fix the Nespresso Vertuo capsule not recognised error
In This Article
The Nespresso Vertuo system is one of the best capsule systems, particularly as it adjusts the brew based on the barcode on the side of a capsule.
It’s all very clever, but can lead to a problem where a Nespresso machine can’t recognise a capsule. It’s happened to our Nespresso Vertuo Next machine.
Fortunately, it’s usually not too difficult to fix and highlights the importance of regular maintenance, such asdescaling a Nespresso machine.
What you’ll need:
The Short Version
Step1
Diagnose the problem
The first thing to do is diagnose the problem. If you’ve got a Nespresso Vertuo Next machine connected to Wi-Fi, the Nespresso app will tell you what the error message is. If you have a different type of Vertuo machine that’s not internet connected (or you haven’t hooked your Vertuo Next up to your Wi-Fi), you’ll only get a red light flashing on top.Make sure that your machine has water in it and that the lid is securely locked into position. If you’ve done this and still get the red light, it could be a problem with the capsule recognition system.
Step2
Clean the barcode reader and capsule holder
To make coffee, the Vertuo system has to read the barcode written on the bottom of the capsule. The barcode reader is the clear plastic surround around the capsule holder. We found that using a damp microfibre cloth worked best, cleaning thoroughly around the capsule holder and just outside of it.The capsule holder is on a spring, so it can be pushed down gently to clean. Make sure that all traces of coffee have been removed.
Step3
Rinse the machine
Next, you should run the rinse programme. To do this make sure there’s no coffee pod and then close your coffee machine’s lid. Place a container 1-litre or bigger underneath (we found that the rinsing programme has enough gaps that we could switch mugs out instead), then press the button on top three times. This will turn the status light orange.The Nespresso machine will then rinse water through the system. When finished, the light will turn white. We found it useful to press and hold the button to turn the machine off.
Step4
Make coffee
Now, try making coffee again. If you still have a problem, you may need to give the capsule holder and barcode reader another clean. A toothbrush can help remove very stubborn coffee build-up, but we found that a microfibre cloth was good enough.
Troubleshooting
The Vertuo system only works with Nespresso capsules, so only use these. If your capsule is damaged, particularly around the barcode printed around the pod’s rim, try a different one.
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Starting life on the consumer PC press back in 1998, David has been at the forefront of technology for the past 20 years. He has edited Computer Shopper and Expert Reviews, and once wrote a book on ho…
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Founded in 2003, Trusted Reviews exists to give our readers thorough, unbiased and independent advice on what to buy.
Today, we have millions of users a month from around the world, and assess more than 1,000 products a year.
Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
