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Nespresso Vertuo Plus Start Light Error

The Nespresso Vertuo Plus sometimes has different error light patterns blinking around the main coffee button. This is an indicator that the machine may need a reset, a refill of water, maintenance, or a component is not working properly. Follow these steps to translate what they mean and how to get your coffee machine working smoothly again.

Steady Blinking White Light 

The machine is still unlocked, or the capsule is not properly inserted.

Follow the following steps:

  • Remove any capsule from the capsule seat.
  • Visually inspect the capsule seat for debris or coffee grounds. If any, clear them out with a damp towel.
  • Visually inspect the capsule you are using for any deformation of the capsule that might cause the capsule to not be properly seated. If there is any deformation, replace with a new capsule.
  • Insert the capsule into the capsule seat.
  • Close the machine head by pressing the close/open button.
  • Inspect the machine head to ensure that it has fully closed.
  • If this blinking light persists, unplug the machine, wait 10 seconds, plug it in, and follow the steps again.
  • If this blinking light continues to persist after following the previous steps, refer to the following replacement pages.
    • Replacing the Broken Capsule Seat and Spring
    • Replacing the Opening Motor

Steady Half-Orange & Half-Yellow Light

Machine Requires a reset

The following steps are required

  • Remove any capsules from the machine.
  • Press the lever down for 3 seconds to turn off the machine.
  • Push the coffee button and lever simultaneously and hold them for 3 seconds. An orange light should display.
  • Push the lever down 3 times, and press the coffee button once.
  • The orange light should flash 3 times and turn steady orange.

Steady Half-Red & Half-Green Light

Descaling required

Follow the following steps:

To fix this, run the descaling cycle with the following steps:

  • Eject the used capsule and turn the machine off by holding the lever down for 3 seconds.
  • Empty and remove the capsule container and cup support for cleaning.
  • Add one unit of Nespresso descaling liquid and at least 17 fl oz. (0.5 L) of water to the tank.
  • While the machine is off, enter the special functions menu by pressing the button and the lever down simultaneously for 3 seconds.
    • This should result in an orange steady light.
    • Press and release the lever once to enter descaling mode.
  • Ensure there is a water receptacle that will hold a minimum of 27 ounces under the coffee spout
    • Press and release the button once to begin descaling.
  • The orange light will blink throughout the descaling process and the machine may run in stops and starts.
    • The machine will automatically stop when the cycle is complete.
  • Rinse the tank and cup support thoroughly.
  • Refill the tank with fresh water and press and release the button once to complete the machine’s rinse cycle.
  • Exit descaling mode
    • Press and hold the button and lever at the same time for 3 seconds or until the light becomes green.
  • Allow the machine to dry for ten minutes.

Christopher Teo

Member since: 08/31/26

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Cal Poly, Team 1-3, Song Fall 2026 Member of Cal Poly, Team 1-3, Song Fall 2026

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