Melitta machines automatically rinse the coffee system during start-up and shutdown, sending water into the drip tray. If the tray becomes full or is not pushed fully into position, water may overflow or appear underneath the machine.

Check:

• Empty and rinse the drip tray.
  
• Ensure it is fully inserted.
  
• Check for cracks or damage.

If the water tank is not fully located on its valve, water may leak around the rear or side of the machine.

Check:

• Remove and refill the tank.
  
• Inspect the valve and seal for debris.
  
• Refit the tank firmly.

A dirty or partially blocked brew unit can prevent water flowing correctly through the coffee system, causing excess water to escape into the drip tray or grounds container.

Check:

• Remove the brew unit.
  
• Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
  
• Allow it to dry before reinstalling.
  
• Clean the brew chamber regularly.

Coffee oils and fine grounds can partially block the dispensing system, increasing brewing pressure and causing water to divert internally.

Check:

• Clean the coffee outlet.
  
• Run the machine's cleaning programme.
  
• Avoid using oily coffee beans.

Over time, seals around the brewing system can wear, allowing water to escape during extraction.

Signs include:

• Water inside the machine.
  
• Water appearing around the service door.
  
• Leaks only while brewing.
  

These seals may require inspection and replacement if cleaning does not resolve the issue.

If the leak only occurs when preparing milk drinks, residue inside the milk circuit or milk valve can prevent the system sealing correctly.

Check:

• Clean the complete milk system.
  
• Run the automatic milk cleaning programme.
  
• Inspect milk hoses for damage.

Yes. Melitta machines deliberately discharge water into the drip tray during automatic rinsing cycles. Small amounts of clean water are completely normal.

However, investigate the machine if you notice:

• Water underneath the machine.
  
• Water continuously filling the drip tray.
  
• Water leaking while coffee is brewing.
  
• Water inside the service compartment.
  
• 
  Coffee only dripping slowly before leaking elsewhere.
  

Regular maintenance greatly reduces the chance of leaks.

• Empty the drip tray daily.
  
• Clean the brew unit weekly.
  
• Clean the coffee spouts regularly.
  
• Run the automatic cleaning and descaling programmes when prompted.
  
• Keep the milk system clean after every use.
  
• Check the water tank is correctly fitted before use.