5 Built-In Coffee Makers With Water Lines to Streamline Your Routine

What is a Built-in Coffee Maker With a Water Line?

A built-in coffee maker with a water line is a coffee maker with a link to a water supply. This eliminates the need to refill the water reservoir whenever you want to make coffee. It also means that filtered water makes your coffee safe to drink. 

There are two kinds of plumbed coffee makers: those that connect to a water line and those with an integrated water filtration system.

What to Look for in Plumbed Coffee Devices

You can consider the following when purchasing a plumbed coffee device:

Installation Requirements

A built-in coffee machine design blends in with the walls of your kitchen, freeing up valuable counter space. That means there is little room, if any, for measurement errors. It also implies that you must consider the location of your water line, depending on whether you purchase a plumbed or non-plumbed machine.

Additionally, a plumbed coffee maker connects directly to a water line. Once installed by a professional plumber, it provides a continuous water flow to the machine. A non-plumbed device, on the other hand, has a water reservoir that you must regularly fill for the coffee maker to function. 

Although this can be time-consuming, most built-in coffee machines have large water reservoirs, which are only necessary every few days. Also, you save a lot of money on installation with a non-plumbed machine because disconnecting a plumbed-in machine is difficult.

In either case, you must consider whether you have a filtered water source. You need filtered water to avoid ruining your plumbed machine. For plumbed options, you should probably look for reverse osmosis filtration. However, if that sounds complicated, disregard it and choose the non-plumbing option.

Beverage Types

Coffee makers that hook up to water lines function as in-house baristas, brewing various beverages. Most can produce basic coffee, espresso, and hot water for tea and cocoa. 

However, if you want more options, look for a machine like the Miele coffee maker built to make lattes, macchiatos, and other beverages. 

Customization Options

Similarly, some coffee makers allow you to change your coffee’s strength, size, and temperature and save it in a user profile to make “ordering” drinks easier. Remember that these features will almost certainly raise the price of a built-in coffee maker.

Cleaning and Rinsing Settings

Keeping your coffee maker in good working order will help it last longer. However, cleaning a built-in machine is a difficult task. 

Therefore, when shopping for a built-in coffee machine, consider the following: Is there an auto-cleaning function on the machine? What about an option for removing limescale (a hard, chalky deposit that can disrupt water flow, temperature, and taste over time)? Remember, the deeper the auto-cleaning, the less work you’ll have to do.

Safety Features

At first glance, a safety feature, such as locking or automatic shut-off, may appear unnecessary. However, hot water spilling unnecessarily onto the floor is a huge headache waiting to happen and can be dangerous. 

Also, consider a built-in coffee maker with safety features that make it a little more difficult to turn on if you have young children at home or want an extra security measure.

Standout Features

Coffee Pot Function

As its name suggests, a coffee pot function enables you to make a pot of coffee rather than preparing several cups individually. This is not the same as the double-cup setting, which enables the machine to brew two cups of coffee simultaneously. 

Beverage Setting Storage

You can create user profiles using the beverage setting storage feature. You can save your preferred drink orders within these user profiles and ask the machine to make them again. 

Therefore, people who live in households with multiple occupants, are frequently busy, and favor various caffeine sources will find this function extremely useful. We may refer to this process as programming, personalizing, or setting storage, depending on the machine that you are using.

Milk Frother

The quality of your coffee experience can improve if your machine has a milk frother. Even the most traditional coffee orders can benefit from adding a layer of flavor and texture thanks to this feature, which turns milk into foam. 

Also, certain beverages, like cappuccinos, lattes, and macchiatos, require a layer of foam milk. So it is essential to have a milk frother if these are the types of beverages you typically drink. The milk’s frothing function can also improve the taste of hot chocolate and hot tea.

Reasons to Trust Coffee Snobs Reviews

You can trust Coffee Snobs’ reviews because it has a great experience in coffee matters. It can provide all the information you need concerning coffee and coffee makers.

An Overview of Our Top Picks

1. Keurig K155 Officepro Commercial Coffee Maker, Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Brewer, Silver, Extra Large. Water Reservoir : Best overall built-in coffee maker with water lines
2. Keurig K2500 Plumbed Single Serve Commercial Coffee Maker and Tea Brewer with Direct Water Line Plumb and Filter Kit : Best direct plumbed coffee maker
3. La Pavoni Bar-Star 2V-R 2-Group Volumetric Commercial Espresso Machine, 14L Boiler Water Capacity, Red : Best programmable built-in coffee makers
4. ​Keurig Direct Water Line Plumb Kit Reservoir for models B150, B155, K150 and K155 : Best direct water line plumb kit reservoir
5. Filtered Water Refill Do-It-Yourself Kit, For Non-Commercial Keurig Coffee Brewers by PureWater Filters : Best water refill kit for a coffee maker 

Reviewing the Best Coffee Devices With Water Lines

If you are a person who enjoys coffee, then you are aware of how important it is to have a good coffee maker. However, not all coffee makers are equal in terms of quality. Some are much more excellent than others! Below is a rundown of the best-plumbed coffee makers currently on the market:

Keurig K155 Officepro Commercial Coffee Maker, Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Brewer, Silver, Extra Large. Water Reservoir : Best Overall Built-in Coffee Maker With Water Lines

Amazon’s Choice in Single-Serve Brewers by Keurig

Brand: Keurig 

Weight: 6 pounds (2.7 kilograms)

Dimensions: 14 x 10.38 x 13.8 inches (35.6 x 26.4 x 35.1 centimeters) 

Installation type: Plumbed

Double cup setting: No

Timer: Yes

Material: Plastic

Color/s: Silver

Capacity: 2.9 quarts (2.7 liters)

Number of beverages: 4

Coffee device type: Pour over

About This Item

Plumbed coffee makers can brew coffee much faster than those requiring filling a reservoir. This is ideal for busy offices or homes where individuals consume coffee daily.

Keurig K155 Officepro Commercial Coffee Maker has a touchscreen interface that allows you to program the auto on/off settings and adjust the brew temperature.

Additionally, this Keurig with a water line has four brew sizes to choose from, and you can customize each cup to your liking. It is also simple to drain and store. Therefore, if you want to make coffee quickly and easily, the Keurig K155 Officepro Commercial Coffee Maker, Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Brewer, is the best option.

Key Features

• Full-color LCD touchscreen.
• Programmable features such as language and clock time.
• Auto on/off feature.
• Adjustable brew temperature.
• Extra large water reservoir.
• Quiet brew technology.
• Easily drains for transport and storage.

Benefits

• The reusable filter allows you to use your ground coffee.

Pros

• It offers you a quick brewing time.
• It has a large reservoir of water, making its use easier.
• The touchscreen interface is simple to use.
• With the reusable filter, you can use your own ground coffee.

Cons

• The brew strength feature is not available on this coffee machine.

Keurig K2500 Plumbed Single Serve Commercial Coffee Maker and Tea Brewer with Direct Water Line Plumb and Filter Kit : Best Direct Plumbed Coffee Maker

Amazon’s Choice in Single-Serve Brewers by PureWater Filters

Brand: PureWater Filters

Weight: 18.5 pounds (8.4 kilograms)

Dimensions: 17 x 14 x 23 inches (43.2 x 35.6 x 58.4 centimeters)

Installation type: Plumbed

Double cup setting: No

Timer: No

Material: Plastic

Color/s: Black

Capacity: 5 Cups (1.2 liters)

Number of beverages: 4

Coffee device type: Single-serve

About This Item

Looking for a high-quality commercial coffee maker and tea brewer that will last? Consider the Keurig K2500 Plumbed Single Serve Commercial Coffee Maker and Tea Brewer with Direct Water Line Plumb and Filter Kit. This model is best for small to medium-sized businesses. 

Additionally, this machine is also ideal for any office setting thanks to its touchscreen interface, durable design, and quiet brew technology. It also meets NSF-4 quality and safety standards. 

Key Features  

• Touch screen interface.
• Quiet brew technology.
• Durable design.
• NSF-4 certified.

Benefits

• It has a touchscreen interface that is easy to use.

Pros

• It is durable and long-lasting.
• It offers a quiet brew technology for a distraction-free office environment.

Cons

• This machine cannot make lattes or cappuccinos.

La Pavoni Bar-Star 2V-R 2-Group Volumetric Commercial Espresso Machine, 14L Boiler Water Capacity, Red : Best Programmable Built-In Coffee Makers

Brand: La Pavoni

Weight: 139 pounds (63 kilograms)

Dimensions: 22 x 31 x 22 inches (55.9 x 78.7 x 55.9 centimeters) 

Installation type: Plumbed

Double cup setting: No

Timer: No

Material: Glass

Color/s: Red

Capacity: 14.8 quarts (14 liters)

Coffee device type: Espresso machine

About This Item

The La Pavoni Bar-Star Volumetric Commercial Espresso Machine is ideal for coffee shop use. It is an automatic and programmable espresso machine ideal for restaurants.

Furthermore, this machine has a striking red housing that complements its exceptional performance perfectly. Its controls allow you to choose the appropriate brew strength and the number of espresso shots. Therefore, use the front gauges to monitor water fill and boiler pressure for perfectly brewed espresso.

Also, you should connect this machine directly to a water line. In the package, the plumbing kit required for installation is not available, but you can purchase these separately with the help of your professional plumber.

However, you will realize that this is one of the most expensive machines we have looked at. While this espresso machine is specifically for commercial use, you can also use it at home if you are a coffee enthusiast who likes enjoying a perfect cup of espresso.

Key Features

• Programmable/automatic coffee dosing.
• Manual override of all functions.
• Electronic automatic water level control with sight glass.
• Water softener to reduce hard water build-up included.
• Dual pressure gauge monitors constant group and boiler pressure.

Benefits

• Its controls allow you to choose the appropriate brew strength and the number of espresso shots.

Pros

• It has a programmable/automatic coffee dosing that is simple to use.
• Dual pressure gauge monitors ensure consistently perfect coffee brewing.
• A water softener reduces hard water build-up, resulting in a longer lifespan.

Cons

• This machine is somehow pricey.

​Keurig Direct Water Line Plumb Kit Reservoir for models B150, B155, K150 and K155 : Best Direct Water Line Plumb Kit Reservoir

Brand: Keurig

Weight: 0.01 ounces (0.3 grams)

Dimensions: 12.9 x 7.1 x 15.9 inches (32.8 x 18 x 40.4 centimeters) 

Installation type: Plumbed

Double cup setting: No

Timer: No

Material: Plastic

Color/s: Silver

Coffee device type: Compatible with single-serve brewers

About This Item

Refilling your Keurig brewer can be a real pain if you drink several cups of coffee daily. With the ​Keurig Direct Water Line Plumb Kit Reservoir, you can connect your Keurig to a direct water line and never have to fill it again.

In addition, this kit is compatible with Keurig B150, K150, B155, and K155 brewers and includes everything needed to connect to a 1/4′′ (1.9 cm) water line. It also comes with a lifetime warranty on all parts, so you can be confident it will last. The PureWater Filters Direct Water Line Plumb Kit Reservoir will make your mornings easier and eliminate the need to refill your Keurig.

Key features

• It has a lifetime warranty on all parts.
• It is compatible with Keurig B150, K150, B155, and K155 brewers.
• It has everything you need to hook your Keurig to a 1/4″ water line.

Benefits

• It is durable and compatible with many Keuring brewers.

Pros

• It is simple to set up.
• It is durable and long-lasting.

Cons

• It is quite pricy.

Filtered Water Refill Do-It-Yourself Kit, For Non-Commercial Keurig Coffee Brewers by PureWater Filters : Best Water Refill Kit for Coffee Maker 

Amazon’s Choice in Reusable Coffee Filters by PureWater Filters

Brand: PureWater Filters

Weight: 1.39 pounds (0.6 kilograms)

Dimensions: 10 x 4 x 6 inches (25.4 x 10.2 x 15.2 centimeters) 

Installation type: Non-plumbed

Double cup setting: No

Timer: No

Material: Plastic

Color/s: Black

Coffee device type: Compatible with single-serve brewers

About This Item

This filtered Water Refill Do-It-Yourself Kit is simple to install. It refills its reservoir with fresh filtered water, providing crisp, delicious coffee. Also, it integrates with your brewer reservoir to remove chlorine, off-flavors, odors, lead, and heavy metals.

Because coffee contains over 98% water, if your water tastes bad, so will your coffee. Therefore, to ensure you’re always drinking the best coffee possible, use the Filtered Water Refill Do-It-Yourself Kit. 

Furthermore, this Kit includes everything you need for a quick and easy installation, including simple instructions and graphics. So, with it, you’ll always have the best-tasting coffee.

Key Features

• This is an inline water filter kit.
• It comes with everything you need for installation.

Benefits

• Filters out chlorine, bad taste, odors, lead, and heavy metals.
• Easy to install.

Pros

• A low-cost and simple method for obtaining delicious coffee.
• Filters out impurities that can have an impact on taste.
• Simple to set up.

Cons

• It is pricey.

FAQs on Built-in Coffee Makers

How Does a Built-in Coffee Maker Work?

Built-in coffee machines function similarly to other coffee makers, but you fix them into your wall rather than on a countertop. The boiler fills with water from a water line (plumbing) or an attached reservoir (non-plumbing). 

When the boiler is full, it will heat the water and allow you to brew coffee, just like in a coffee shop. You’ll also be able to program your machine, allowing you to customize each cup to your liking.

Do Plumbed Coffee Machines Use Pods?

Most built-in coffee machines do not use pods. This is because most of them require coffee grounds or have a built-in grinder that grinds fresh beans every time you brew. However, manufacturers do provide other built-in machines that can use pods.

What are the Different Types of Plumbed Coffee Makers?

There are two kinds of plumbed coffee makers: those that connect to a water line and those with an integrated water filtration system.

Water Line Connection

The first type connects to a water line. This type is generally more expensive, but it has some significant advantages. Also, the most significant advantage is that you don’t have to worry about refilling the reservoir whenever you want to make coffee.

Built-in Water Filtration System

The second type has a built-in water filtration system. This type is generally less expensive than the other but has some significant advantages. The biggest advantage is that you don’t have to worry about buying coffee maker filters.

What are the Benefits of Using a Built-in Coffee Maker With a Water Line?

A coffee maker with a water line is convenient because it eliminates the need to refill the water reservoir manually. Because the coffee maker gets an automatic water supply, you will never run out of water during a brew cycle.

Furthermore, coffee makers have larger water reservoirs than non-water line coffee makers, allowing you to make more cups of coffee before refilling the reservoir.

Finally, many believe it produces better-tasting coffee because the water is always fresh and at the optimal brewing temperature.

Which is Better? A Plumbing Kit or a Plumbed Coffee Device?

A plumbed coffee maker or a plumbing kit are the two main ways to fix your coffee at home. Both have advantages and disadvantages, so you must decide which is best for you.

Plumbed coffee makers are convenient because they do not require any assembly or installation. Add water and coffee, and you’re ready to go. They are, however, costly and necessitate a dedicated water line.

Plumbing kits, on the other hand, are less expensive, and you can install them with your current water lines. However, they can be challenging to install, and you must ensure that all connections are secure and leak-free.

So, which is better? It is entirely dependent on your requirements and preferences. A plumbed coffee maker is probably the better option if you want a permanent solution. On the other hand, a plumbing kit may be a better option if you only need a temporary solution. It is ultimately up to you to determine what is best for your situation.

How Do I Use a Coffee Maker With a Direct Water Line Connection?

You should know a few things if you use a coffee maker with a water line for the first time:

1. Ensure you install your coffee maker properly.
2. Select the proper type of coffee filter.
3. Properly grind your coffee beans.
4. Determine how much water you intend to use.
5. Brew your coffee for the appropriate amount of time.
6. Enjoy your freshly brewed cup of coffee! 

How Do You Clean and Descale a Built-in Coffee Maker With a Water Line?

It is critical to clean a coffee maker with a water line. Bacteria and mold can grow if you do not clean your coffee maker. Here are some pointers on how to clean your coffee maker’s water line:

1. Remove any coffee grounds from the reservoir.
2. Run warm water through the reservoir.
3. Fill the reservoir halfway with water and halfway with vinegar.
4. Set aside the mixture for 30 minutes.
5. Rinse the reservoir thoroughly with clean water.
6. If necessary, repeat steps 2 to 5.
7. Wipe the coffee maker’s exterior with a damp cloth.
8. If necessary, repeat steps 6 to 7.

How to Install a Built-in Coffee Device With a Water Line

Follow the following steps to successfully install a built-in coffee device with a water line:

Find a Location for It

You’ll need to find a suitable location for the coffee maker, similar to where you’d put a built-in microwave. You’ll need to do some wiring and run a water line, so it’s best to prepare the space early.

Add Power to Its Location

If you’re installing a built-in coffee machine in an area designed for this purpose, there should be a wall socket behind it for a microwave or other appliances. Unlike a dishwasher wired directly into the wall, most plumbed-in coffee makers use a three-pronged plug. 

Also, if you’re adding a new shelf or cabinet space, you will require some wiring behind the drywall. This will necessitate more in-depth electrical knowledge. 

However, if you’re uncomfortable working with electrical components, hiring a professional is best. Otherwise, visit your local hardware store and purchase 12-gauge wire, an outlet, a drywall saw, and an old work outlet box to add a wall socket.

Add the Water Line

You’ll need to run a water line now that the power is running. These are simple to connect with a splitter from your sink’s water line — or to your fridge if it’s nearby.

Furthermore, you can attach a brass piece to the copper pipe that delivers water to the sink. Instead of a single sink outlet, use this brass piece to split the pipe in two to provide water to the coffee maker. This may necessitate drilling holes in the back of the cabinet where you put the plumbed coffee maker, so have a spade drill tip on hand.

Set Up the Coffee Maker

At this point, installing the actual coffee machine is relatively simple. Drill the brackets that come with the device, then connect the water and power to it. Finally, secure the machine to the brackets.

Put It to the Test

When everything is in place, it’s time to have some fun. Perform a quick test to ensure it is working. Make yourself a delicious cup of coffee once you confirm it turns on and delivers water.

Do You Have Some Maintenance and Troubleshooting Tips for Plumbed Coffee Machines?

Here are a few maintenance suggestions to keep your plumbed coffee maker in good working order:

1. After each use, empty the reservoir and discard any coffee grounds.
2. After each use, rinse the reservoir with warm water.
3. Once a week, fill the reservoir with half water and half vinegar.
4. Set aside the mixture for 30 minutes.
5. Rinse the reservoir thoroughly with clean water.
6. Once a week, wipe down the exterior of the coffee maker with a damp cloth.
7. If necessary, repeat steps 3 to 6.
8. Enjoy your freshly cleaned coffee maker!

Troubleshooting

If you’re having trouble with your coffee maker’s water line, try these troubleshooting steps:

• Check that you install your coffee maker correctly.
• Check that you’re using the correct type of coffee filter.
• Check that you grind your coffee beans properly.
• Double-check that you’re measuring the right amount of water.
• Check that you’re brewing your coffee for the correct amount of time.
• If all else fails, consult your coffee maker’s user manual.

How Much Coffee Does a Plumbed Coffee Device Need?

The amount of coffee you require depends on how much coffee you consume and how many people you are preparing coffee for. Generally, use two tablespoons of ground coffee for every 6 ounces (177.4 milliliters) of water.

Can I Use Tap Water for a Built-in Coffee Machine?

Yes, you can brew your coffee with filtered tap water. If you do not use filtered tap water, it may contain impurities that interfere with the flavor of your coffee. Therefore, it is advisable to use filtered or distilled water.

How Do You Descale a Coffee Maker That Has a Water Line?

Mineral deposits can accumulate in your coffee maker over time, lowering the quality of your coffee. Descale your machine regularly to clean it and remove these deposits.

You can descale your coffee maker using a variety of methods, including using a commercial descaling solution, white vinegar, or lemon juice.

Also, you can follow the instructions on the package to descale with a commercial solution. Typically, you add the solution to the water reservoir and then flush the machine by running severally with only water.

On the other hand, if you’re using white vinegar or lemon juice, combine equal parts of acid and water. Then, run a cycle with the mixture, followed by several processes with only water to flush the machine.

Amazingly, running a descaling solution through your coffee maker once a month will keep it in good working order and ensure that your coffee tastes delicious.

In Conclusion…

Previously, people only used plumbed coffee makers in commercial or office settings. However, many people nowadays prefer the convenience of having a plumbed coffee maker at home.

Today’s options range from simple single-serve machines for the home and office to large-capacity commercial machines found in restaurants and other places where they serve a lot of coffee.

The Keurig K155 Officepro Commercial Coffee Maker, Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Brewer , our favorite plumbed coffee maker, is a versatile option allowing customizable coffee brewing at the touch of a button.

Additionally, this k-cup coffee maker with a water line only makes one cup at a time and works with a wide range of coffee pods. This machine is ideal for both residential and commercial use. Because of its versatility and ease of use, this is our pick for the best-plumbed coffee maker.