Cuisinart 12-Cup Programmable Coffeemaker Hot Water System Manual

The Cuisinart 12-Cup Programmable Coffeemaker with Hot Water System is a versatile appliance featuring a 24-hour programmability, auto-shutoff, brew-pause function, water filtration compatibility, and a dedicated hot water spout for instant hot water for tea, soups, or oatmeal. It includes a charcoal water filter, a permanent gold-tone filter, and a measuring scoop. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Setup 3. First-Time Use 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Programming Instructions 7. Using the Hot Water System 8. Cleaning & Maintenance 9. Water Filter Replacement 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 12-Cup Glass Carafe, Hot Water Spout, Control Panel with LCD Display, Charcoal Water Filter, Permanent Gold-Tone Filter, Measuring Scoop.

FeatureDescription
24-Hour ProgrammabilitySet the coffeemaker to brew automatically at a selected time
Auto Shut-OffAutomatically turns off the warming plate after brewing is complete (0-4 hours adjustable)
Brew PauseAllows you to pour a cup of coffee before brewing is finished
Hot Water SystemDedicated spout for dispensing hot water independently of the coffee cycle
Water FiltrationIncludes a charcoal water filter to reduce chlorine, calcium, and odors
LCD DisplayShows time, program status, and alerts
Adjustable Warming PlateKeeps coffee at the perfect serving temperature
Audible SignalSounds when brewing is complete and when hot water is ready
POWER ButtonTurns the coffeemaker on and off
HOT WATER ButtonActivates the hot water dispensing system

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect all contents. Place on a clean, dry, level, and heat-resistant surface away from edges.

  1. Insert the Charcoal Water Filter: Soak filter in cold water for 15 minutes, then place it into the filter holder in the water reservoir.
  2. Prepare the Permanent Filter: Place the permanent gold-tone filter into the filter basket.
  3. Position the Carafe: Place the empty glass carafe on the warming plate, centered under the brew basket and hot water spout.
  4. Plug into a standard 120V AC outlet.

WARNING! Do not use the appliance without water in the reservoir. Ensure the carafe is in place before starting any cycle.

First-Time Use

Before first brew, run a cleaning cycle with water only (no coffee).

  1. Fill the water reservoir to the 12-cup mark with fresh, cold water.
  2. Ensure the filter basket is empty (no coffee grounds).
  3. Place the carafe on the warming plate.
  4. Press the POWER button to turn the unit on.
  5. Press and hold the BREW button for 3 seconds to start the cleaning cycle.
  6. Discard the water from the carafe after the cycle is complete.
  7. Your coffeemaker is now ready for programming and brewing.

CAUTION! The warming plate, carafe, and dispensed water will be hot. Handle with care.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access all functions via the front control panel. LCD Display shows time, program status, and alerts.

Buttons: POWER, PROGRAM, HOUR, MIN, AUTO ON, AUTO OFF, BREW, HOT WATER, STRENGTH (Bold/Regular), CUP SELECT (1-4 cups).

Clock/Program: Set the time of day using HOUR and MIN. Use PROGRAM, AUTO ON, and AUTO OFF to set the automatic brew time. Brew Settings: Use STRENGTH for bold or regular coffee flavor. Use CUP SELECT for optimal brewing with 1-4 cups. Hot Water: Press HOT WATER to activate the independent hot water system. Auto Shut-Off: Set duration (0-4 hrs) via MENU settings.

Programming Instructions

To program the coffeemaker to brew automatically at a set time:

  1. Set the Clock: Press and hold HOUR and MIN to set the current time.
  2. Set Auto Brew Time: Press PROGRAM. Use HOUR and MIN to set the desired brew time. Press PROGRAM again to confirm.
  3. Prepare for Auto Brew: Fill the reservoir with water and add coffee to the filter basket. Ensure the carafe is in place.
  4. Activate: Press AUTO ON. The "Auto On" icon will illuminate on the display.
  5. The coffeemaker will now brew automatically at the programmed time.
  6. To cancel, press AUTO OFF.

Tip: For best results, use fresh, cold water and grind coffee beans just before brewing.

Using the Hot Water System

The hot water system provides instant hot water (not boiling, approximately 200°F) for beverages or instant meals.

  1. Ensure the water reservoir is filled.
  2. Place a cup or carafe under the hot water spout (left side).
  3. Press the HOT WATER button. The indicator light will illuminate.
  4. Wait for the audible signal (beep), indicating the water is ready.
  5. Press the lever on the hot water spout to dispense water. Release to stop.
  6. The system will keep water hot for approximately 30 minutes before automatically shutting off.

WARNING! Dispensed water is very hot. Keep hands and face away from the spout. Do not use for infant formula.

Cleaning & Maintenance

Unplug the unit and allow it to cool completely before cleaning.

Exterior: Wipe with a soft, damp cloth. Do not immerse in water or use abrasive cleaners.

Carafe & Lid: Wash with warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly. The carafe is dishwasher safe (top rack).

Filter Basket & Permanent Filter: Remove and wash with warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly.

Descaling: Perform every 3-6 months or as needed if you have hard water. Use a descaling solution or white vinegar (see manual for detailed steps).

CAUTION! Do not use harsh chemicals, steel wool, or scouring pads. Never immerse the base, cord, or plug in water.

Water Filter Replacement

The charcoal water filter should be replaced every 60 brew cycles or every 2 months for optimal performance.

  1. Remove the old filter from the reservoir holder.
  2. Soak the new filter in cold water for 15 minutes.
  3. Rinse under cold running water for 10 seconds.
  4. Insert the filter into the holder in the water reservoir.
  5. Reset the filter indicator: Press and hold the PROGRAM and STRENGTH buttons for 3 seconds until the display resets.

Note: You can brew without the filter, but water quality and taste may be affected.

Regulatory Information

This appliance complies with FCC Part 15 Rules for Class B digital devices. Operation is subject to interference limits for residential installations. Copyright © Cuisinart. All rights reserved. For support, visit www.cuisinart.com or contact customer service at 1-800-726-0190.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Coffeemaker won't turn onNo powerCheck that the unit is plugged in. Check outlet with another device.
No coffee brews / water doesn't flowClogged filter/water linesClean the permanent filter and basket. Descale the unit.
Hot water not dispensingSystem not activated/reservoir emptyPress HOT WATER button and wait for beep. Ensure reservoir is filled.
Auto brew doesn't startProgram not set correctly/carafe missingVerify AUTO ON is lit. Re-program the brew time. Ensure carafe is in place.
Coffee tastes badOld coffee/old water filter/dirty carafeUse fresh coffee grounds. Replace water filter. Clean carafe and basket thoroughly.
LCD display is blankPower interruptionUnplug for 10 seconds, then plug back in. Reset the clock.

Reset: Unplug the unit for 10 minutes to perform a full system reset.

Service: For repairs not covered in this guide, contact Cuisinart Customer Service: 1-800-726-0190 or www.cuisinart.com.

Cuisinart 12-Cup Programmable Coffeemaker Hot Water System Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025