Black & Decker Home Cafe Feedback

Kristina writes in about her Black & Decker HCC100 Home Café Single Serve Coffee Brewing System. Looks like a very positive review.

"I have this system... received it as a gift and thought i wouldn't like it, but i do. It is a pod system which I like because i only drink 1 cup of coffee every other day or so. As for Millstone coffee they carry it at the Jewel and it's really delicious. They also have a connection to Folgers (which is not great). They are supposed to have "specialty coffess" to go with it, to make the faux cappaucino drinks... but i have yet to see those in stores."

Buy the Black & Decker HCC100 Home Cafe Single Serve Coffee Brewing System

Read More in: Home Cafe | Reviews

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Posted by Jay Brewer at May 25, 2004 10:13 AM

Question; how many permanent filters do you get in one order - that just hasn't been clear to me.
Posted by: Theresa at June 29, 2004 6:05 PM

i bought your coffee pot. it leakes and sputters all over the counter. can't get the pod out easily followed directions to no avail!! need to replace or something. thank you m.wright
Posted by: m wright at September 3, 2004 3:57 PM

I have now purchased 4 Black & Decker Home Cafe units model HCC 100. The first one made one cup of coffee and the second cup caused the unit to smoke and sputter. Unit No 2 would not let any water come out. Units 3 & 4 had the problem with opening the lid to put the pod in. The lid is sticking on a metal piece to the rear of the pod. This appears to be a really bad design. I also purchased an HCC 75 which makes great coffee and the lid pops up for easily insertion and disposal of the pod. Sadly, I still need another unit and cannot find HCC75 in the Phoenix area.
Posted by: phyllis at September 13, 2004 5:15 PM

hi i'm a big fan too of the senseo coffeemachine.. i purchase my coffeepods for great prices at www.senseopods.com ... they sell all sorts of pods from Holland. I recommend this (dutch) company..! frances
Posted by: frances at September 23, 2004 5:22 AM

I purchased the B&D Home Cafe a few months ago because I thought it would be a nice unit to have and convenient as well. I bought it mostly because of the name brand, I have had B&D units that have lasted for years. Much to my dismay this has not been the case with this product. The model I purchased was the HCC 100. From day one we noticed a problem, first the machine sounded excessively loud and steam and water leaked from every available area. The top of the unit would not open or close well. The first unit made it to about three weeks unti we noticed a strange burning smell similar to something electrical about to catch fire, this was accompanied by white smoke coming from the area under the top. In both of fhe two parts where the coffee dispenses from, you could tell the plastic had gotten brittle and was cracked. The second unit took about three weeks to arrive, it was a different color and it was manufactured differently as well. We noticed the parts were not interchangeable as well. The loud noises the first unit made were no longer there and the leaking seemed to stop, the fitment was much better. This one lasted a month before we noticed the plastic catch where you place the pod was melted towards the rear, there were also visible areas where the plastic was fractured and brittle due to the heat most likely. The same damage was noticed in the area where the coffee is dispensed from, fractured, brittle and melted. Unit three arrived in only a week, they sent me a black one this time so at least now we were back to the color of the unit I originally bought. The design appears to be the same. This unit was another of the noisy airboat designs that sputtered and steamed from all places. This unit made a grand total of two cups of coffee before it broke. We will see how unit four handles, by reading some of these posts, I may make it all the way to version ten before I finally give up.
Posted by: Darth Vader at October 4, 2004 2:01 PM

Very unhappy with the Black & Decker HOME CAFE. It leaks, sputters, the container for the pods cracked and even with 2 pods the coffee comes out very weak. Contacted the consumer service department they referred me to parts service and the number I was given is not in service. I am very upset to pay $60.00 for a unit that will not work!
Posted by: Angela at November 19, 2004 11:11 AM

This product is a fire hazard. Today mine turned itself on and started to smoke. I had to put it outside and through water on it to stop it from burning. Good thing I was in the kitchen when this happened or who knows if I would have has a house left.
Posted by: jacquie at December 1, 2004 9:00 PM

I have had to purchase two systems as well. THE first one worked for exactly three days and then burned up and sparked. REplaced it and have had no trouble with this one. Would like the specialty pods they keep talking about. Went on line but cant find.
Posted by: cindee at December 15, 2004 8:37 AM

I too purchased the B&D home cafe and it spewed out boling water unto my hand when I went to remove the coffee cup. I then attempted to remove the pod and was burnt with the steam. This is a horrible product and dangerous design. Ithough black and decker made quality products... apparently not!!!
Posted by: Andrea at January 13, 2005 12:54 AM

Upon first Info about your home cafe, I thought this would be the Ideal coffee maker for me, as no one else in my home drinks coffee but me. I only drink around two cups a day sometimes three, I have now owned the home cafe for about two weeks and hate to tell you, It is a great disapointment! The coffee Is Just too strong If made by the instructions, I am up to 12 0z. of water with one pod, and it is still very strong, You have to be very careful when loading the pods, are they will not seal, and you have coffee every where!! Sorry but I will be going back to my old drip maker.( One used home cafe for sale, used very little!! ) PS> It also has a (strong stale coffee smell, while sitting on the counter not in use! this as per my Wife!
Posted by: Dwight A. at February 21, 2005 4:17 PM

I have found the coffee from the home cafe to be excellent. I have taken to purchasing all of the different flavors in threes so that I don't run out. We love the stout flavors and switch it up depending on our mood or what we are eating. I did have my first one ignite itself, but I took it back to Walmart and exchanged it for one that did not. I also learned that by putting a tuna can on top of the grate to set my cup on, I eliminated the natural tendency for it to spatter and spew. Then I place a folded paper towel on top of the tuna can, so it can catch the residual drips. I also shake Watkins Cinnamon on top of the coffee pod so we can have the health benefits and flavor. But the plastic of the holder is not the quality that is needed to withstand the above 212 degree heat, and broke on us. So we are looking to find replacement parts. If the company would simply make their heat affected parts from stainless steel, I think they would have a winner.
Posted by: rich bowlby at March 14, 2005 8:51 PM

I received a B&D Home Cafe system for a Christmas gift. Since it was a gift, I never did any research or product comparisons, I just started to use the product. Okay it was a little steamy from the top and made a little noise, I could live with those items as it does seem to make a fairly decent cup of coffee. Yet after only a couple of months use, and not even daily use at that, the plastic that makes up the locking ring on the lid and the plastic nozzle piece under the pod holder starting becoming brittle and breaking. Now the pod sits at a funny angle and the top seals even less that it did before. Logical step? Look for replacement parts and fix it. Well, seems logical until you find that neither B&D or Home Cafe Systems lists any reference to any replacement parts whatsoever on either of their sites. If I was to have $50 in my hand and be looking to buy another machine, I would definitely be looking in another direction. The lack of quality or of customer support for this product is appalling in this day and age of consumerism.
Posted by: Kenny at March 27, 2005 12:41 PM

where do you buy parts for the home cafe ? The pod holder for one or two cups, it came apart like it was under pressure or stress. but its no good without it.
Posted by: gary at April 12, 2005 1:02 PM

I count myself fortunate that I have not had most of the problems described here. I love my HCC100. It does splater a little - I solved that by using a taller mug. I have had it several months and am now replacing the splash guard and pod holder because some of the plastic broke. Minor issues - parts do on occassion break. And these were fairly inexpensive to replace - the shipping was going to be more than the parts. When I pointed that out, the company selling me the replacement parts reduced the shipping cost. Sometimes you just got to ask. I read a review that criticized the units reservoir as being hard to tell how much water was in it. That must have been a different model from mine, as mine is well marked and easily read. Good luck to the rest of you. I hope you have better luck with a replacement, same or different brand.
Posted by: Tammy at April 12, 2005 1:42 PM

I bought the HCC100 several months ago and the very first cup the water sprayed out from all angles! So, I tried it again, making sure the lid was shut correctly...the same problem. So, being somewhat of an engineer...I figured the "screen" holes were way too small for the amount of pressure coming out. SO I took an ice pick; poked some holes in the screen area, and VIOLA!!!! NO water mess!!! No leaks!!!! And the pressurized steam still passes through the coffee pods as it is supposed to, and I got GREAT coffee. I admit though...I have had to "super glue" my pod holder a couple of times due to cracking!
Posted by: Howard at April 23, 2005 5:07 PM

I was excited to receive the Home Cafe as a gift....however, the plastic ring that holds the screen on the pod holder began to crack and now is unusable. A bad design flaw. I hope that B & D makes these replacement parts available at a nominal cost. The convenience was great while it lasted.
Posted by: Pat at April 23, 2005 7:31 PM

For all that have had problems with the Black & Decker Home Cafe coffee maker, you may wish to submit a complaint to the Consumer Protection folks at: http://www.cpsc.gov/talk.html
Posted by: Larry Dickerson at April 25, 2005 12:15 PM

I have the senseo coffee pod system and love it. However the Black and Decker coffee pod machine has a funny taste from the machine. I don't like it at all.
Posted by: Eva Stern at April 28, 2005 7:26 AM

I purchased the B&D Home Cafe and returned it after two days. The coffee came out at barely 140 degrees! I can't believe these dud coffee makers are still being sold!
Posted by: hyacinth at April 28, 2005 4:34 PM

Hi - got htis 100 model as a Christmas gift, loved it! Today, went to make the morning, much need cup and it wouldn't shut - looked and sad to see a of little nubs on the side of teh filter piece and the locking assembly were cracked away. I have always been gentle in trying to close it - HELP!!!
Posted by: Lee Boylstein at April 30, 2005 10:24 AM

WORST COFFEE MAKER EVER. COFFEE ACTUALLY STINKS. ONLY GET HALF A CUP BEFORE HAVING TO START IT AGAIN. COFFEE HAS A BURNED TASTE AND ODOR. WILL GET MY MONEY BACK WITHOUT QUESTION! NOW POD HOLDER IS STUCK. I CANT BELIEVE THIS PRODUCT MADE IT TO MARKET.
Posted by: greg horner at May 9, 2005 9:15 AM

where do you buy parts for the home cafe ? The pod holder for one or two cups, the metal strainer is coming apart. My unit works really well but I need this part?
Posted by: Joey Garza at May 9, 2005 11:47 AM

My pod holder cracked and broke in two places after 12 cups of coffee. Not happy at all!
Posted by: Crystal Lampe at May 17, 2005 11:40 AM

where do you buy parts for the home cafe ? The pod holder screen on mine keeps trying to come out.The metal strainer is coming apart. My unit works really well but I need this part?
Posted by: Joe at May 23, 2005 6:18 PM

I know of two places - I sent email using this: http://www.homecafe.com/contactus.shtml And the number: 1-800-HOME-CAFE I called there when I had lost my Home Cafe specialty pod holder and they sent me a new replacement.
Posted by: Jay Brewer at May 23, 2005 7:07 PM

I was very happy with my Home Cafe, until the pod holder broke and I needed a replacement. The replacement info is in the blackanddecker.com site, but they send you to another company, Fox International. I ordered replacement pod holder, but never received them. After two months, I contacted the company and they told me, they were not available. I contacted Black and Decker and was informed that, the Home Cafe is not made or sold by Black and Decker. They sold off there Household Products business in 1998 and the new company, Applica Incorporated is allowed to use the Black and Decker name as part of the sale agreement. When you go to the Applica website and try to contact them, it sends you to Fox International, which is the company that has the replacement parts that are not available. I am still trying to work this problem out with them, but I don't have a lot of faith in the outcome. I just need the holder, my unit works fine. I am starting to think the whole unit is disposable, not just the pod holder.
Posted by: Kimberly at May 26, 2005 11:35 AM

I received the Home Cafe one-cup coffeemaker for Christmas, and I have to say it makes some of the worst-tasting coffee I've ever had. I tried both Folgers and Millstone brands and more than one of their varieties, and none of them were in the least palatable. The coffee made by this machine reminds me of the kind of coffee I used to get from vending machines--basically undrinkable. I've gone back to instant, which is far better than anything that's come out of this machine.
Posted by: Lane Wright at May 26, 2005 12:01 PM

I received the Black and Decker Home Café HCC100 as a Christmas present 2004. I didn't get around to using it until February. It worked fine but within a week it was only dispensing the smaller of the three possible cup sizes. Irritating but it was free so I just lived with, a few weeks later it began to work normally again, noisy but it worked. Well I should say it worked for a few more weeks. It began to be very noisy, the pod holder had apparently cracked from the heat and pressure. I called the 1-800 number to order a new pod holder and they told me they don't make them anymore and that they would send me out a replacement machine within 24 hours of receiving the appliance plug and five dollars. Silly me I sent them (Aplica the actual manufacturer) a $5 check and the cord return receipt. They received it on April 14,2005 and cashed the check. I called today and have been told that they are back ordered (hum maybe allot of people are having problems with this piece of technology) and they said it would be another 90 to 120 days before I could expect the replacement. now I'm out $5 and from what I've read here I can expect more of the same if I get a new one. In fact I think I'll just save it and use it for a present to an unsuspecting relative, you know the one that sends me hand knitted ski caps every year (did I mention I live in southern California). Anyway, This product should be recalled or banded.
Posted by: Richard at May 27, 2005 11:13 AM

I unwittingly purchased a B&D HC100 about a month ago and, like many respondents above, have already had the pod holder crack and come apart. My first reaction was to find a replacement on the Internet. But after reading the comments on this site I have decided to toss my HC100 and find a different manufacturer. Surely by now, B&D has realized what a huge mistake it was to put their name on such a poorly designed and manufactured appliance. It's bad enough that they put junk on the market but it's inexcusable that they make no effort to have replacement parts easily and readily available to their customers. I have purchased many B&D power tools and appliances all my adult life and had never been dissatisfied until now. However, they will not get any more business from me.
Posted by: William Morrison at June 14, 2005 12:01 PM

I really wish I had read the comments here before I bought one of these! Mine hasn't broken yet (I'm expecting it any day, after reading above), but the coffee isn't that good, and mine consistently dispenses 4oz. less than the button selection. I purchased this unit because I had pod-type coffee maker that had broken, that I absolutely loved. Wow, it's not even close to the quality or taste of the Senseo coffee maker!
Posted by: Mary at June 15, 2005 8:35 AM

I am also very disappointed with the Black and Decker Home Cafe. I would not recommend this unit to anyone. The pod holder disintergrates, making the unit useless until a replacement is received.
Posted by: Rick at June 30, 2005 3:55 PM

Where and how do I get a replacement part for my Home Cafe by Black and Decker? The pod holder for single pod is broken and coffeemaker is useless without it. Also, is there a remedy for all the sputtering and splattering of coffee all over counter top? Sarah Campbell scampbel@insightbb.com
Posted by: Sarah Campbell at July 5, 2005 9:59 PM

received the home cafe for Christmas 2004 loved it went to use it today and the coffee was cold and I went to make another cup and the buttons won't work so the machine won't turn on is it completly broken or is there something I could do, I'm really upset because I used it only twice aday you think it would last longer then that if its broke. d it
Posted by: janice at July 8, 2005 12:02 AM

I bought the Home Cafe HCC100 as a gift for my husband and we are very disappointed in it. Over half the time the coffee comes out either to weak or to strong. We have tried all three settings, 1-2 pods, etc and nothing seems to help. Plus, it is a big surprise at the amount of coffee you get. One time it is right, the next it is only a 1/2 cup. It also comes out with a strange taste some times even though we put fresh filtered water in each time. I also used the cleaning process thinking the taste was because it was new. What is the problem here? After reading about the fire possibility, I think this coffee pot is history. Too bad! It is an excellent idea obviously not researched or tested properly by Black and Decker.
Posted by: Brenda Krejci at July 14, 2005 9:22 AM

I too have had a difficult time with my HCC100- my pod holder has cracked after 20 cups of coffee and the machine now works better as a scalding sprinkler than a coffee maker. After reading the above notes i won't got through the hassel of getting a replacement part and will NEVER buy from Black and Decker again
Posted by: michael at July 25, 2005 10:38 AM

We also have had problems with the Black & Decker Home Cafe. The first one I brought back to the store where we purchased it, because it cracked. This one I have used a few months & the pod holder cracked. We called the company. It is the 800 # in booklet. Still waiting for a replacement. They said it would take 5 days & it has been weeks. Really upset over this product. It was not a cheap price, but works like a piece of junk
Posted by: Roberta at July 27, 2005 4:05 PM

I bought a B&D Home cafe today and got it home....Surprise, it doesn't even work, water does not come out?? There is even a little flyer in the box with an 800 number to call before you return it to trouble shoot. That should have told me everything right there. After reading these posts, I am going to exchange it for another brand. Any ideas in the same price range?
Posted by: Jessica at July 27, 2005 8:24 PM

The following is my complaint email to B&D and thier response. Pathetic! Appendum, It broke once more and I finaly through it in the trash. From: William Smith Email: Telephone: TX Address: City: El Paso State: TX Zip: Model Number: Home Cafe coffee pod maker Date of Purchase: Nov 2004 Date Code: Message: The hard plastic basket that holds the pods cracked and would cause the pods to burst during use. I found another Home cafe sitting by the dumpster at my apartment complex and it had a cracked locking ring also plastic, so I took the basket and all other spare parts I could get for mine. My friend at work has had two different of these break. His first one and the replacement you sent him. Also aparently one of my neighbors has had thiers break and my sister inlaws broke in a simular manner. So counting mine I personnaly know of five that the hard plastic has cracked or broken. I believe the plastic is not working well in the steam area. I thought you might want to know. Thier Response: Thank your for contacting Applica Consumer Products, home of Black and Decker, Littermaid, Weitech, Sonic Web and Belson Hair and Personal Care Products. We value you as a customer and appreciate your patronage. Our products are built to high industry standards and function as designed. However, we are constantly striving for better quality and ways to improve our products. In this endeavor, our Engineering and Quality Control team are regularly informed of consumer feedback regarding any difficulty encountered during the use of our products. We have forwarded your comments and suggestion to our Engineering and Quality Control team. If we can be of any further assistance, we ask that you please contact our Consumer Service Department at 1-800-738-0245. Our hours of operation are Monday thru Friday from 7:00am ET to 11:00pm ET and Saturday and Sunday from 9:00am ET to 5:30pm ET. You can also elect to e-mail us at applicaconsumeraffairs@fox-international.com, or you can go to http://www.foxgourmet.com and fill out a contact form. A representative will be happy to assist you. Applica Consumer Service
Posted by: William Smith at July 29, 2005 9:41 PM

Same here Jessica. I called the 800 number and they said to just take it back to the store I bought it from. Jeeze, I was so ready to use it too! Regardless of the setting it would only produce about 4 OZ of coffee each time it ran. Plus it was not very hot at all. (and the latch never felt quite right) All in all a very big disapointment. Now I have all these pods I bought (about 5 bags worth) and no machine to make them with because I took it back. Any suggestions from the readers out there on a GREAT machine would be appreciated. Price is not really a concern, I just want something good.
Posted by: Steven Bearden at July 30, 2005 9:35 PM

I too have the issue of the shattered pod holder. In fact ALL of the plastic parts involved with brewing have broken and/or shattered. I stumbled upon fox international and have also not been able to get parts from them. Actually I can't even get an order status. What a piece of crap this machine is. I think it's time to just throw it away and move on. Dan
Posted by: Dan Clement at August 3, 2005 11:00 PM

I received one Black and decker Home Cafe HC100 for a present about 6 weeks ago. The coffee maker was defective right out of the box. It would only dispense about 2 oz of water instead of the 7-9-or 14 oz it is supposed to. I called their repair line and was advised to try resetting it by pressing the cancel button and that didn't work. They then wanted to send me a replacement that was backordered, so I just got the receipt from my daughter and took it back to Target and had it exchanged. The 2nd one worked OK, other than the coffee could have been hotter, but I solved that by using lukewarm water in the water container rather than cold. I decided to purchase a 2nd machine for my office, and this 2nd machine lasted approximately 2 weeks and went totally dead. Prior to the it made alot of noise when the pump would run, more than the one at home which is also noisy. The latch on both of these units is very poorly designed and feels like it is one step from breaking. I like the idea of the pod and the one cup at a time, but they will have to come up with a better machine that won't have to be replaced or repaired a dozen times a year..
Posted by: Bob Cardone at August 5, 2005 4:34 PM

Wife has had one of these for a few months, and the plastic has become brittle and broken as well. Called the repair center tonight and told them it caught fire. They are sending a replacement. Based on these comments, I don't expect anything spectacular. We won't be purchasing another unit. Its bad enough that the pods are so expensive, and the coffee maker is more than a 12 cup version that lasts much longer.
Posted by: Nick at August 13, 2005 3:01 AM

The Black and Decker Pod Coffee machine is a decroded piece of crap! We liked it initially, but like EVERY other person on here, our pod holder fractured after about 50 cups of coffee. I also ordered a replacement "pod holder" from Fox International, but the part they sent was the metal basket, not the wire-mesh pod holder. If somebody sharp would retool a stainless steel wire-mesh pod holder for this thing, they'd become a millionaire.
Posted by: Paul at August 18, 2005 6:10 AM

I too have had very similar problems as described above. Fortunately, no fire related issues. Just the plastic melting and water going everywhere. Has anyone that posted here receive ANY satisfactory solutions from Black & Decker? It's unfortunate companies easily get away with "cheap" workmanship.
Posted by: Brian at September 1, 2005 10:39 PM

same problems as above product lasted two weeks glad to learn that b & d stands behind products bearing their name guess i will stay away from their products
Posted by: jerry at September 3, 2005 10:46 PM

I too which I'd read all of the above before my daughter spent so much on the B&D Home Cafe unit. This coffee-maker is what my kids and I refer to as "CPC" - cheap plastic crap!!! I guess I won't hold my breath waiting for them to respond to my e-mail regarding a replacement pod holder, however, I won't be purchasing any products with the Black and Decker name in the future, as so many people before me have also stated.
Posted by: Karen at September 7, 2005 9:19 PM

My Home Cafe was working well for the first 3 months, but the part that holds the orange rubber seal came off 2 weeks ago. Basically, that piece was held together by 4 plastic pegs being melted to the top of the lid. (If you melt plastic together and use in in an area of the coffee maker that gets very hot, wouldn't it come apart by the heat?) I tried several times to contact B&D but they haven't responded. I even tried taking it back to sears (where I bought it from) but my warrenty was up. One of the Sears reps told me that users have been complaining about the coffee maker.
Posted by: Eldrick Ellsberry at September 9, 2005 8:12 AM

I, too, received a Home cafe as a gift. As stated previous, the coffee is barely lukewarm. I noticed this from the beginning and was disappointed, but figured I could manage that, but then it started to sputter and spray steam and hot water everywhere. Then the pod holder broke, and tiny pieces of black plastic was found all around the coffee maker. Then the lever that opens and closes the pod holder broke. After further examination, all these plastic parts seemed to have melted into unrecognized junk. I, like others, am very disappointed with this product, but more so that a company such as "BLACK&ECKER" would put such a piece of trash on the market. They have lost at least one customer. ME.
Posted by: Macy Hunt at October 1, 2005 8:36 AM

I have purchased 2 of the coffee makers. Each lasted about 3 months. One started smoking real bad. Both units basically fell apart piece by piece. I would find shavings in the cofee etc.... I want my money back.
Posted by: Robert T at October 8, 2005 6:58 PM

I recieved this product for a Christmas gift and since the nai do not use this every day, maybe i use it once every other day or some times once a week. Any way it sputters and it broke after three months later. I think this product needs to be improved from the orginal model. I think the single pods coffee pots are neat. But this model sucks, to my opinion and all the others i hhave read. So what do you plan on doing to replace my items!!!
Posted by: Jennifer Teter at October 17, 2005 10:20 AM

I recieved this product for a Christmas gift and since the nai do not use this every day, maybe i use it once every other day or some times once a week. Any way it sputters and it broke after three months later. I think this product needs to be improved from the orginal model. I think the single pods coffee pots are neat. But this model stinks, to my opinion and all the others i hhave read. So what do you plan on doing to replace my items!!!
Posted by: Jennifer Teter at October 17, 2005 10:21 AM

We purchased a Black & Decker HCC100 in November 2004.From the start, the unit seemed to be light weight and cheaply made. The pod holder lockup was sloppy and my wife was never sure it was totally locked. Several of the plastic parts broke and after the second pod exploded all over our kitchen, B & D replaced it with a "new and improved unit"(this took about 2 1/2 months). Almost from the start, water leaked out from the base of the new unit, so B&D told us to cut off the machine plug, return the plug to them and they would send us a new unit. The rest of the machine we were to discard. When the new machine arrived, it wouldn't dispense enough water to make even the first cup of coffee and water once again leaked from the base. After several discussions with B&D customer service, they have agreed to refund my purchase price. Good riddance to one of the worst consumer appliances we have ever owned.
Posted by: Bill Kieffer at October 25, 2005 9:21 AM

I was looking for parts for this lousy home cafe but after reading some of the comments I think I will cut my losses and throw it out. Thank you all
Posted by: Bob at October 25, 2005 9:10 PM

I'm looking for a replacement pod for my Home Cafe system; the one that came with it cracked; anybody know of someplace on line I can order one or perhaps a 800 number? I called the 800 # that came with the coffee maker but the part is not in stock and it will take 4 to 6 weeks to get in stock?
Posted by: April at November 2, 2005 3:55 PM

I like the Home Cafe because it is much easier than making a whole pot of coffee. I like the pods because cleaning up is so easy. The only problem is that the coffee is not hot enough....
Posted by: Jo Noder at November 8, 2005 1:26 PM

My wife bought me the Black and Decker home cafe coffee maker for my birthday. It is a piece of junk. I could make better coffee and less mess by wringing coffee grounds through a sweaty tube sock! The unit smokes and leaks water everywhere. I can't believe they are still selling this thing!
Posted by: Brian at November 12, 2005 9:11 PM

Wow, I'm glad I stopped by and took the time to read all of the comments posted previosly. I've been thinking about buying a pod type coffee maker for some time now. My wife was at Kohl's last night and found these Black & Decker HCC100 units marked down from $60 to $20. Since they were sold out, she put in for a raincheck. Needless to say, I couldn't get to the phone fast enough this morning to cancel it! I'm really sorry for those who bought this unit thinking that Black & Decker would produce something of quality. Maybe they should just stick to power tools...
Posted by: Barry Rutherford at November 19, 2005 11:56 AM

ditto to everyone no sense in me just repeating the same thing.i will neve buy another one.open left over pods and use in a drip coffee maker
Posted by: marlene at November 26, 2005 1:11 AM

I have had the Home cafe HCC100 for a year. I received it for a gift for christmas. I like the machine be I can't use it because after a year later the water/coffee comes out smelling and tasting like plastic. I have tried everything to clean and get the smell out but I will have to go to another machine because I can't use this one. It is like new. Is there a glass part I can get for the water to be in or am going to have to get a different machine???
Posted by: Carmella at December 4, 2005 6:14 PM

To eliminate that plastic smell and taste, don't use the plastic mug. Buy a stainless steel mug and use it instead !
Posted by: mathprof at December 4, 2005 7:30 PM

Which size pods do I use for my HCC75? Is the HCC75 an older (than HCC100) model? Can I use the pods for the HCC100? Sanseo?
Posted by: mathprof at December 4, 2005 7:35 PM

Received this product for Mothers Day '05. I am now on my forth one and all of them were awful!!! Never seemed to make the proper amount of coffee selected. Lucky to get 2-4 oz no matter what amout you chose. Seldom hot enough and of course there is always the problem of water all over the counter. If I see someone looking at this product in the store I will tell them NOT to buy this terrible product!!!!!!!! Was a little releived I guess to see that there are a lot of other people in the same boat.
Posted by: Jean at December 5, 2005 11:33 PM

Well, Walmart is running a special on this Home Cafe for $19.95, so I bought it last weekend. Unfortunately, I am having the problem of the funny taste. I thought it was because it was new, but I tried cleaning it out with plain water, vinegar water, and even soapy water. But the coffee still comes out with that toxic taste, and the first day I got a headache and felt like throwing up. I feel like I'm being poisioned with the thing, but I thought it was because it was new. Now after reading this, I am wondering if Walmart will let me exchange it for something else????
Posted by: Adrianne at December 9, 2005 5:37 PM

I cooked my pod holder when it fell through the rack in the dishwasher and ended up on the heating element. I have had my HC100 for about a year. It did sputter and leak in funny places for a while but it got over it after some usage. The new one I bought at WalMart for $20 is a different model. The pod holder seats with three points instead of just two. The programming seems to work better as the cup amounts are better calibrated. I get a rubber washer taste (probably from the rubber washer) if I don't run a cup of plain water through first, but I don't expect that to last too long. I have found the best coffee to be the Milestone. The regular Folgers and the Sensor just don't have enough uhmph. But I guess it depends on what you were brought up on. I am a guy so putting up with the sputtering was no big deal. I see the smoke to sometimes, but it doesn't have an odor and might just be water vapor. I will keep using mine, but I won't put the pod holder in the dishwasher anymore.
Posted by: Curtiss at December 27, 2005 5:40 PM

I received a HC100 as a christmas present. Upon setting it up for first use per instruction booklet I filled the water resevoir all the way to the max and inserted back in the machine. Went through this 10 times before I gave up. Water came pouring out of the bottom of the unit each time. Returned it to the store for another. Same problem. Called Black and Decker and they said they would gladly send me another unit (not able to promise me this one wouldn't leak either) for $9 shipping and handling. The closest store to where I live to purchase or return this is 50 miles round trip. After 2 trips I give up. I would never purchase another one. I also tried the Senseo Model manufactured by Phillips and had the same problem. I like fresh coffee and if its over 15 minutes old I won't drink it so I waste alot but I believe in the long run I'm saving money instead of spending it on these cheap machines that don't really work. I'll stick with my Bunn thank you.
Posted by: Linda Allen at December 27, 2005 10:28 PM

I bought an HC100 at Kohl's for $19.95, figured how could I go wrong for $20. Well, it lasted about 2 weeks of light use and now overflows the catch tray because more water is coming out of the overflow vent then the coffee maker. A piece of trash.
Posted by: Stephen Schaus at January 7, 2006 10:44 AM

PS - Also their (B&D) 1-800 number doesn't work. After you go through several and select B&D coffee makers you get cut off. Go figure.
Posted by: Stephen Schaus at January 7, 2006 11:26 AM

I received a Home cafe for X'mas in 2004 and after about 6 months the pod holder cracked and broke. I called B&D which refered me to Applica, and they said they would send a replacement pod holder, got the pod holder and to my surprize they changed the design to a 3 notch holder and it would not fit into my machine. So I called back and they had me cut the cord and send it in for a new machine. Got the new machine and it seemed to overflow at the bottom from day one but stopped after a day or so and seemed to work fine for about 4 months, then today it just started leaking almost all the water that should have went into the cup in the bottom tray, I agree what a piece of crap. I love the coffee it produces, but they should make it out of stainless steel or something more durable. Now i found out they have a Home Cafe II which is supposed to better,. I cut the cord again and sent it off to APC and we will see what they send me back, if I get the new and improved Home cafe II or the old piece of crap. Hoping to get the new and improved one since I do like the coffee, and believe in the product.
Posted by: William at January 27, 2006 7:14 PM

about 8 months ago I bought my girlfriend a home cafe brew coffee pot and it splatter the coffee every where when the coffee came out to fill the cup. We ended that by throwing it in the dumster, now at x-mas time my daughter gave her a home brew for x-mas and now that one leaks the water in the (holding tank) all over the counter top so guess where that one is going and i am going to get her a real coffee maker
Posted by: gene bishop at February 6, 2006 7:10 PM

Purchased an HCC100 a few months back and loved it... they were affordable enough, so I bought two more - one for my work and one for my girlfriend's work. Within about 2 weeks (about 3 weeks ago) they all three started spending more time dumping their water thru what appears to be an overflow tube into the catch tray and onto the tabletop than making coffee. I started to disassemble one coffeemaker and found that at least one screw in each section that needed to be disassembled was a screw that needed a 3-SIDED BLADE! I can't even find one of these at Home Deport, so I used a drill and drilled a couple of them out. I tried reworking and a thorough cleaning, and that worked for about a week, but it's happening again to my "sacrificial" one, so, this weekend, it's more drilling... and this time, more disassembly and re-engineering. If all of this works, I'll post what I did and how I did it. -- Steve
Posted by: Steve Klotz at February 16, 2006 12:45 PM

I have the hcc100 and the holder that holds the pods broke and I need to know where to find another one so I can use the coffeemaker again. I live in Raleigh, NC and hope I can find the part locally.
Posted by: Nancy Jarman at February 20, 2006 10:13 AM

I have had the hcc100 for about six months now and have had NO problems, even with daily use. Occassionally the lid doesn't want to open, but this is due to a "safety feature" that won't allow the lid to open if the pressure is still too high inside the unit. I haven't had a single one of the problems described above. Granted, the drip tray could be better designed so that the coffee doesn't drip directly onto the plate, but that's not a big deal. Good coffee (hey, I LIKE Folgers!), good machine.
Posted by: Jon C at February 23, 2006 6:11 PM

got the 100 model for christmas, first of all it was very difficult to get the lid closed. After a few brews that became less apparent though(i may have just gotten used to closing it, i dont know). it worked great for a while, though the coffee was very strong. It also splatters all over the counter. I realized recently that it wasnt making as much coffee as it used to. With every brew it makes stronger coffee and less of it. I solved this problem by adding a little water into the cup every time but this is an inconvenience in that i can just grab it and leave(kind of the point of having it for me). also recently smoke has been coming out from the cracks around the lid, i forsee this to develop into a problem in the future so im going to start unplugging it while not in use. overall, this machine pisses me off. Dont buy it, its a waste of your time, money, and energy.
Posted by: Bradley Tarbutton at February 26, 2006 12:40 AM

I also received the Black & Decker coffee maker as a Christmas present. I really didn't need it and wasn't thrilled with all the counter space it took up. But then once I learned how to use it I liked it. NOT ANYMORE!!! Now, two months later, everytime I use it water goes all over the place. I make a cup of coffee right before I leave for work and when I get home my counter has flooded. I have messed and messed with it trying to figure out what is causing it to leak. Once it started going right when I plugged it in and the lid was open. Now I'm worried that it might just start running when I am not even home. I'm really ticked that I can't use it anymore and I have spent all that money on those expensive pods.
Posted by: Susan J. at March 2, 2006 10:49 PM

POSSIBLE LEAK FIX - I promised to get back to this list after I tried to "re-engineer" the massive leak problem coming from water going directly into the drip tray instead of it making coffee. I made this fix a few days back, so, keep in mind that these are merely preliminary results. The usual disclaimers apply - this fix was only what I did, and, if you do it, you are solely responsible for whatever may happen. First, I acquired a roughly minimum 4" ziptie (something similar would work), and I definately needed a #2 tri-wing screwdriver or screwdriver bit. Here's what I did: First - I removed the four little "feet" - they're simply short pieces of rubber tubing stuffed lengthwise into screwholes. Second - I removed the phillips screw near the power cord, and the 3 phillips screws in the holes where the feet used to be. Third - ONE of the screwholes has a funny-looking screw - this is a #2-size Tri-Wing screw. It needs the appropriate screwdriver or bit. These are typically known (as a class) as "security screws" Sets of bits are available online for around $7.00, with the full-fledged screwdrivers starting at about $15.00. If opening the coffeemaker up beyond this fix point, I'd want to go for the screwdriver, as the screwholes beyond this fix get really deep, and are smaller than the commercially-available tri-wing bit holders... but for this fix, the bits work. Another option would be to drill out the screw. Fourth - I pulled off the bottom cover - it's basically a flat plastic plate, revealing the lower "plumbing." Fifth - From the water container, there is a plastic hose that comes to a "T" connector. One side of the "T" has a little round value, and then heads up to the drip tray. This appears to be some sort of an overflow hose, and is "looped" in about a 120-degree curve before it heads to the tray, allowing a considerable amount of slack. The hose on the other side of the "T" is very short, and goes up to the heating element. What I did was to take the (longer) overflow hose, crimp it (so the "loop" became more of a "fold" - like you'd do to stop the water in a garden hose), and wrap it with a ziptie and pull the ziptie tight. Sixth - I reassembled the coffeemaker. I did this several days back and have experienced NO leaks, however, as I say, I have done NO long-term tests yet. Obviously the overflow hose was there for SOMETHING - and crimping it COULD result in side-effects - perhaps too much pressure inside could be explosive or something, I don't know. We'll see. I'll keep ya posted - and, if long-term testing works, I'll post pictures. -- Steve
Posted by: Steve Klotz at March 9, 2006 9:39 AM

The Black and Decker Home Cafe HCC 100 IS ABSOLUTE GARBAGE! The first one I purchased had broken parts straight out of the box. It made coffee but leaked out of the machine all over the place. I would also add that the unit did not even come with the free pods that were advertised on the box! I returned this first unit and the second unit worked reasonably well for about 2 months. Now it leaks coffee tainted water all over the place when in use. Worst of all it leaks 3-4 cups of the reservoir water all over my counter WHEN NOT IN USE. On both units the handle was difficult to operate and even though I tried to be delicate, I felt like I was going to break the machine every time I opened or shut the lid! This week little pieces of black plastic started showing up in my coffee! I have discovered now that the pod holder is disintegrating and the screen is falling out. I wanted to file a complaint with the Consumer Product Safety Commission but discovered that I need to have been injured first. Well...I guess I am smart enough to stop drinking my plastic seasoned coffee before it results in injury! I contacted Black & Decker consumer affairs, which apparently is handled by a company called Applica Consumer Products. I sent detailed descriptions of this problem and even included close-up photographs of their defective product that is putting plastic in my coffee. They would not replace my pod holder without my purchase receipt even though I submitted a warranty registration card at my time of purchase! They did not even apologize. The bottom line is that the Black & Decker Home Cafe HHC 100 is absolute crap. In terms of the coffee pods it seems like a good idea and I may purchase a different brand of machine. However, the large cappuccino type pods have a disgusting flavor and make my coffee maker leak even worse than the regular pods. I am really disappointed with Black and Decker and my experience with these two machines will certainly influence my future purchase decisions regarding their products.
Posted by: Elton at March 10, 2006 10:34 PM

My Home Cafe system lasted 7 months until the pod holder finally gave way and broke. However, the coffee for the whole duration was very week. Furthermore, after just a few months the desired amount of coffee was not made, it made just 5 - 6 oz every time, even when I would request more. Do not buy this product.
Posted by: Mike at March 30, 2006 6:35 PM

My coffee pod holder finally broke. I've had it less than a year. I'm searching for a new brand since they do not sell replacement parts.
Posted by: kelly at March 31, 2006 9:33 PM

The Home Cafe is junk. Beware. From the get-go, mine only makes about 2 oz of coffee and leaks 14 oz over the countertop. Do Not purchase this appliance.
Posted by: stephanie at April 3, 2006 7:53 PM

Look at the bottom, it explains everything that is the problem with these units (MADE IN MEXICO). I have 3 HCC-100 units that have all been replaced twice now and when you call for a replacement you have to pay $7.00 shipping and handling for the replacement unit. What a rip off, first you buy what you think is a good name brand then in order to obtain warranty service you have to pay for the shipping. I have 3 units that are hitting the trash can and being replaced with Bunn units. Tired of the hassle trying to get units that work. I will never purchase or recommend purchasing another Black & Decker item.
Posted by: Dan Bishop at April 4, 2006 3:36 PM

I recieved the cafe system as a birthday present, and was excited about the idea of one cup at a time. About four months into using it, it turned itself on and almost caught fire. I was never happy with the taste of the coffee, or the brew cycle. It always made inconsistent cups. Crap crap and more crap
Posted by: Brandon at April 15, 2006 2:57 PM

I've had my HC100 for about 1 1/2 yrs and I have loved it. We love the taste. Never any bad taste or plastic taste. It did, however, sometimes make about 2 oz. less than it was supposed to. It started leaking around the top and onto the counter but I just figured it was getting old. Then I opened it up to put a pod in (I like Senseo brand) and the pod holder cracked and broke in 3 pieces. I called 1-800-HOMECAFE and they said they would honor the warranty anyway and for $7.50 shipping and the end of the cord cut off, they would send me a new machine. I think I will do it and see what they send me. I don't think I will buy another one. They also said it would take 2 weeks to receive it. Based on previous posters experiences, we'll see!
Posted by: Jay Cee at April 26, 2006 4:48 PM

All the negative comments about the Black & Decker Home Cafe are absolutely true. From the first time I used the unit the plastic started to break off in little pieces and it was a struggle to get the top to clamp shut. Finally after a little over a year the unit stopped working completely. Customer service said that this unit is no longer sold and that a new replacement would cost $90.00. I'm surprised that Black and Decker would even consider putting their name on such a piece of junk. In the future I'll research other brands and read comments like those listed here before buying. And my next one cup brewer won't be a Black and Decker.
Posted by: Paul A. Buechler at May 3, 2006 11:42 AM

Recieved the Black & Decker Home Cafe HCC100 for Christmas 6 months ago, but never opened the box until now. Let's cut to the quick. Coffee has a plastic smell and taste. Also, it's barely warm. Reading all the reviews above me, it sounds like my coffee maker won't be around too long. Might end up in smoke along with the house! Sorry, B&D, you will hear from me soon!
Posted by: RJ at May 20, 2006 9:49 AM

I bought my HomeCafe HCC100 in December, and it worked fine for about a week. Then, it started leaking water from somewhere underneath the machine onto my counter. I contacted B&D via email.. no response. Then, it was a daily surprise to see just how much coffee would be in the cup when it finished brewing... sometimes it was on target, sometimes it was 2 oz... sometimes it was a half cup. We 'fixed' that by hitting 14oz for every cup of coffee and it would usually give us about 9-12 oz. This morning, it wouldn't turn off. It emptied the entire reservoir several times (because I kept refilling it trying to figure out what the problem was) and I couldn't get it to cancel or turn off other than unplugging it. I didn't have a problem with the pod basket. I sent another email about 10 minutes ago to see what their illustrious response will be, if I get one at all. I absolutely refuse to pay a company anything for a replacement product, especially when they're well aware that this is an issue (and a fire hazard.) My next step is to complain to the Federal Trade Commission, and I suggest you all do the same.
Posted by: Danielle at May 23, 2006 9:32 PM

This is the letter I sent to them when they asked for the shipping and handling: While I agree that the unit should be replaced, I do not agree with the additional charge for the shipping and handling. I have read more than fifty complaints about the faulty workmanship of the HomeCafe machine, nearly half of them stating that the unit smoked and created a fire hazard (several of which allegedly caught fire.) All of the complaintants had the same mechanical defects previously mentioned in my original email. This is an issue that Applica is well aware of, and has been aware of for quite some time. I expect to receive a new model, since several people stated that they received upward of four of the same units and each one was defective. I will send the cord that was asked for, via certified mail, and I expect a replacement shipped to me without any additional charge. If this is not done to my satisfaction, I will not hesitate to contact the Better Business Bureau, the Pennsylvania State Attorney General, and the Federal Trade Commission. I will also advise the other complaintants to do the same. (they waived the shipping fee.)
Posted by: Danielle at May 25, 2006 11:20 AM

Like others I need to find a pod for model HCC100 Anyone know where to find them? ps - cofe is not hot and does taste funny
Posted by: dave mccoy at June 10, 2006 12:15 PM

I've had the same broken plastic parts problem as many have listed above and now need a second replacement. I'll never buy a B&D product again! Jim
Posted by: Jim Taylor at June 12, 2006 5:11 PM

I just called for my second parts replacement but they told me that parts were no longer available. So I pressed them further by saying you certainly know you've got a big problem with a bad product so now your saying I have to just go out and buy another? She said let me put you on hold to check something and when she returned she gave me a transaction number that I can use to call back (I wanted to check prices and think about it) and recieve the new version for $29.95 including shipping shipped out the same day. Not too bad I guess as Walmart has them listed for $50. Jim
Posted by: Jim Taylor at June 12, 2006 5:45 PM

Great site! If you have read this far and you still wonder if this might be the product for you, read no more. Everything above it true. While my coffee tasted good it did sputter water, it doesn't make as much as it claims, it eventually cracks and then splinters plastic everywhere. I love the comments from Steve who re-engineered his coffee maker. I did find that the maker did better with Senso brand coffee. I think the pods that you are supposed to use actually have too much coffee in such that it is more likely to overflow around the pod, sputter water, and make weak coffee. My maker did last a year and a half and I used the Senso brand very early in its product life. I was very annoyed when it finally broke but after reading all of the comments above I should feel glad that I got the life out of it that I did. B&D makes some bad products. I former coworker of mine worked for them and filled me in on the cheap crap they produce and don't support.
Posted by: Kevin at June 13, 2006 9:53 PM

Bought Home Cafe for my Mom 'cos she had trouble measuring due to poor vision. This seemed better than the other brand which allowed 2 cups on at once. With only one cup we knew there would be less chance for her to miss the opening. We returned the 1st one because it would spill more water into the splash guard than it poured into the cup. She has had the replacement one for about 3 months or so and now it has started cheating on how much coffee it makes. The 7 oz makes 5 oz, the 9 oz makes 7 oz and the 14 oz makes 10-12 oz. This could have been so great. It would help if they had a troubleshooting link. I'll bet there is something users could do to reset the amount. We are also disappointed in B&D for branding this terrible item. On a positive note, when we called CustSvc they were VERY polite.
Posted by: Renee at July 12, 2006 1:58 AM

I was given home cafe model GT300. I made 3 cups of coffee and now it is difficult to get the pod lid open. The stop light comes on when you plug it in and in a minute it goes off and two blue lights flash. No matter what button you push nothing happens. It will not make coffee. I guess it will have to go back to store today. The idea is wonderful but not successful yet.
Posted by: carol steele at August 23, 2006 10:54 AM

Ditto, ditto, ditto. The plastic phlange broke today on the pod holder. It seems that there should be some sort of action taken against Black and Decker for the defective equipment they have marketed. If they expect me to ever buy another one of their products, they are sorely mistaken. Is this exciting enough for one of the news magazine shows to make a story? Would love to see it air.
Posted by: Becky at September 2, 2006 10:38 AM

DO NOT BUY THE B&D HOME CAFE. I received it as a gift. At first use, it sputtered and splashed coffee all over the counter. Then, water started leaking in many different places that were not supposed to leak. Finally, I started noticing little black specks in my coffee. Upon close examination, I saw they were little black plastics parts from the maker itself. Then the specks became larger and larger chunks ultimately ending with screws falling out. The whole thing came apart by what looked like melting the plastic parts on the inside and the lever came out in my hand while trying to simply close it. It is a total waste of money!! B&D, you should be ashamed putting some cheap manufactured product like this on the market.
Posted by: Blake Payne at September 12, 2006 8:19 PM

I hate this product as it sounds like other do as well. Worked ok for about 4 months. Then one day I pushed the brew button, and the thing flat out doesn't work. Just broke. And like other say, it leaks everywhere and sputters out coffee all over your countertop. Horrible design.
Posted by: Steve Grimm at September 16, 2006 9:53 PM

I have two Black and Decker coffee makers that do not work. I called your 800 number today and I must have all this information before I can even talk to one of your reps. Both of these stopped pumping and I went out and bought another coffee maker today for 1 fourth the price I paid for the name I believed was a good buy. With the luck I have had with your products I am sure I will not even look at your products ever again. The coffee makers did not pump and lasted less than one year. I gave you the benefit of the doubt but will not even consider your products again. A weaker but wiser consumer. I am a 79 year old widow with a fixed income and I certainly will pray for you each day that you will consider giving good service to those of us who think that your products sell themselves. They do not. I was taken two times but will not be so stupid again. Yours truly Jean McFadden jeanwmcfadden@bellsouth.net 1213 Druid Drive Mobile, Alabama 36618
Posted by: Jean McFadden at September 27, 2006 10:25 PM

I bought one of these today. After about 20 minutes of it not pumping water we boxed it up and took it back to the store. Exchanged for a 2nd one. It would not work either. Neither of these ever pumped a drop of water out of the reserve. So I started reading on the internete about this unit and found this web site. It sounds like I got lucky that they didn't ever work. Black and Decker doesn't generally make junk. My wife says Black and Decker needs to stick to making tools for the garage.
Posted by: Ken James at October 13, 2006 9:30 PM

I used a B & D Home Cafe for the first time in our RV. I thought this would be great as I could make only enough coffee for me, one cup at a time and the pods would be very convenient for storage. A good idea but the coffee is LUKEWARM!!!! I am very disappointed. I plan to go back to my original coffee maker as soon as the pods are used up.
Posted by: Cheryl Peek at October 18, 2006 7:37 AM

I've purchased two B&D Home Cafe GT300 products in as many days. Each one produced two cups of coffee before becoming problematic. The first would not stop trying to make coffee despite being out of water and having completed the 7oz creamy coffee I had selected. I unplugged it hoping it would 'reset' but when I plugged it back in, it continued to make the rumbling sound of brewing. The second one freaked out when I tried to make the third cup of coffee. Two blue lights would flash and didn't stop. I wasn't able to open the machine to take out the pod. Unplugging and plugging back in did not help. The red lights went through its cycle then the same two blue lights came on making the system 'freeze'. I'm going back to the old tried and true coffee maker with loose ground coffee and filters. I'm surprised B&D is associated with this product.
Posted by: Michelle at October 29, 2006 11:55 AM

Bought the Black & Decker CT300 Home Cafe in Feb.'06. Worked great until Oct. Suddenly lights started flashing. It leaked & would not make coffee. Company asked me to cut off plug & send to them & they would send replacement. After waiting over a month, it came. Would not make even one cup of coffee. I cut off plug & sent it back. They sent me a third machine. It made one cup each day for 8 days and stopped making any coffee again. I want my money back plus shipping & handling charges I paid. Coffee maker plus tax ($64.24), S&H ($7.50), cost to send 2 plugs ($2.16) for a total of $73.90.
Posted by: James A. Pauly at November 24, 2006 2:20 PM

Correction to my post which I just sent. I realize that the model number of my machine is not CT300. It is GT300.
Posted by: James A. Pauly at November 24, 2006 2:34 PM

Just got the GT300 for a Christmas gift... I've wanted a single cup coffee maker for some time now, and though I was a little wary of the "pod" system, I figured 'Hey, it was free!' Well, I plugged the unit in, filled the reservoir with water, pushed the button, and watched the blue lights blink. Nothing. Tried again...nothing. Different outlet...nothing. Looking at the manual, the troubleshooting section says the unit isn't getting any water. So I checked the reservoir, the spout at the bottom, and the intake on the unit. All seem to be fine. One more try to no avail and I began wonder if this was really a coffee maker? Or was it just a toy so my kids could "pretend" to make coffee. Company offered to replace it, but they want money for shipping. After reading this post, I think I'll just ask for the receipt from my parents and exchange it for a different brand.
Posted by: Adam at December 27, 2006 2:23 PM

This thing is a piece of junk. Recieved one as a Christmas present, and the contact between the reservoir and main body leaked like a sieve. Put it in a pan to catch the water and managed to get 1 cup out of the thing, which tasted pretty blah. Returned the unit for an exchange and the new one is DOA. Push whatever button you like, all the damn thing does is blink at you. It's the code for 'no water'. Well you know what? The damn reservoir is full and I tested the nozzle at the bottom - yes water does come out. I will be taking this POS back and getting an actual coffeemaker, not an overpriced lump of useless electronics.
Posted by: Brian at December 30, 2006 5:26 PM

You just sent me the GT300 Home Cafe.It doesn't work.The blue light keeps blinking. There's water in the reservoir. My other one I couldn't close the lid. So you send me another one and that one isn't working either. Black@Decker used to have good products. What Happened? Since I got 2 in a row that don't work I think I'll ask for my money back as soon as I get a hold of someone from consumer affairs. Also the Folger Coffee Pod coupons expired June 30,2006.....I almost got the Senseo. Now I think maybe I should have.
Posted by: Dorothy Adams at December 30, 2006 7:26 PM

I received my HCC100 for my birthday two years ago and have really enjoyed it. I have had no problems with it until recently,when the bottom of the container cracked on one side that holds the pod container, it popped off during the steam of water being pushed through. I would like to purchase that part only one, but can't find where too buy one. Can you help me! A friend gave me a box of pods and I hate for those to go to waste.
Posted by: Kathy Futrell at January 1, 2007 8:44 PM

Well it hasn't even been a year since the last break down with the black and decker Home Cafe. I have gone through 4 of these units since 2004, all differant model numbers though. My last replacement was in Feb 2006, I think I posted Jan 27 2006 on this issue. Well Applica replaced that old unit with the new improved GT-300 unit which worked daily making great coffee until today, it just started leaking in the back of resovoir area, and would not make 2 oz of coffee and flashing the blue lights. Looks like I will call them for my 5th unit, cut the cord, mail it back to them. You would think they would get it right by now 3 years later and still leaking and dripping water everywhere. It is a great concept but I think I may have to invest in the Krupps Unit. For $150 If i could get my money back I would defintely do that, and no one will let me exchange the unit for the Krupps :( Bummed out Again with NO Coffee :(
Posted by: William at January 3, 2007 9:25 PM

My Home Cafe has finally died. Although it worked for about 1 1/2 years, I can not say I thought it was any better than fair. Its demise was the pod holder crumbling apart because of the very cheap plastic it was made out of. I will not purchase another. I find it very disappointing that B & D has continued to tarnish their reputation by not significantly improving this product since its rollout.
Posted by: Craig at January 20, 2007 12:18 PM

Received my B&D coffee maker as a Christmas gift. It works sporadically. I plug in, install water, coffee pod & cup and press 14 oz. and stop/clean red light comes on, then goes off and then the blue blinking 14 oz./creamy lights come on. You can unplug, wait and wait and nothing happens. When it does this, you cannot open the coffee pod lever. The next morning, I can press 14 oz. and it works fine! Go figure?
Posted by: Belinda at February 20, 2007 12:14 PM

I thought this was the greatest thing for my office cubicle.....one cup at a time. For the last week, it has been heaven...coffee when I want it. I did notice the coffee wasn't very hot.....then today, the bottom two blue lights blink (14oz & creamy) and nothing happens. So I unplug and plug back in and red stop light goes off. I repeat this using every button even the clean which worked, but spewed out over 14oz of water...into the overflow. Not the normal amount of water for cleaning. Then I tried last resort a creamy pod and the creamy button....it worked. The coffee tasted like crap and was lukewarm...but I was desperate for coffee at this point....so I will try it again anbd then return it. I;ll get another brand for sure. Seems like no one here has had much luck with the replacements.
Posted by: KELLY at February 27, 2007 9:26 AM

I got one of these coffee makers last year for Christmas, it worked for about a month then just quit on me. I returned it and got a new one, that one wouldn't even let me prime it. I read the directions, filled the reservoir, put in a pod, pushed the clean button and...nothing. It made a noise like it was going to start, the blue light was blinking, then nothing at all. I tried this a few times and same thing. I'm done, what a horrible product, and after reading all of the other problems that people have run into, it makes you wonder what Black and Decker are thinking?
Posted by: Derek at February 27, 2007 9:32 PM

I have a Black and Decker single cup coffee maker and I can't find the pods anywhere from Toronto to North Bay, Ontario, Canada. I have looked in Walmarts in that same vicinity and they are either always out of stock or they simply do not have it. When inquiring as to where we can buy these pods in Canada, Walmart is the only place that supposedly carries them. I also have another B&D coffee maker, for more than one cup. It worked twice and then it quit and doesn't work anymore. I attempted to return it to Walmart and they wouldn't even take it back because I had lost the bill. I do quite a bit of wood working and have not ever had a problem with any of my workshop items. I am so put off right now by B&D that I will think twice about ever purchasing another product from your line of products. This is simply not fair when you put coffee makers out there that are eithet not worth the card board box they have been sold in or you cannot find appropriate coffee to fit in these machines. If I get a response to this note, then I will have renewed faith in your products. If I do not, then good bye to you and your products forever. Please tell me where I can purchase the pods without having to search an entire country for them or by putting the price so high on internet buying that it is cheaper to go to Tim Hortons to buy yourself a cup of coffee! Thank you for listening, I hope, and please answer my questions!
Posted by: Tana Arthurs at March 6, 2007 12:44 PM

Well let see it has been almost 3 months since my last post on here, and guess what? My B&D GT300 blew again. This time Applica is offering a refund, and they want me to mail the unit in for their research dept to look at it. Maybe finally they will get to the bottom of this unit crapping out from a couple months for some and I think the longest one lasted for me was almost a year. I love the unit and coffee but have had it with cutting the cord and mailing that in for a replacement unit that just gives out after a certain amount of time. Maybe this unit is designed for people that only have ONE cup a week, or a day. I have over 6 cups a day and don't get much life out of the unit. I think I will buy the Krups Home cafe system as the reviews seem to be good, or the Mr.Coffee unit. Oh and by the way I think Target also carries the Home cafe Pods in Canada. Thanks
Posted by: William at April 10, 2007 12:41 PM

My B&D HomeCafe is just starting to mess up after having it about 4 months. It keeps brewing at times, if I leave water in the back, it will pump all the water out making a big mess. The blue lights on the buttons will flicker at times, and at times my coffee is watered down. Is there not a recall on these makers? I love it, when it works, and thats becoming less and less.
Posted by: Gary McCulloch at April 28, 2007 10:52 AM

this was great for a few time ,now the clip broke, cant find anything on line to replace the part i need ,,,
Posted by: Janice Bristow at July 18, 2007 9:31 AM

Got the B&D Home Cafe for a Christmas present and thought it would be just the thing for my coffee at the office. Brought it in three weeks ago and started having a cup in the morning and one in the afternoon--sure beats instant! The catch to seal the pod in place was difficult to maneuver and did not close tightly. It was very noisy, so I had to use it only when the Boss was on break. It sputtered and spit coffee and steam, so I used a taller container for my coffee and kept the machine isolated. Now, three weeks later the gizmo that holds the pod won't let go and the plastic catch has come off. It is unusable. Went back to the store where it was bought, but they no longer carry them.
Posted by: Sharon Zink at July 25, 2007 3:49 PM

I purchased this b/c I always thought B&D as a good brand. The water container doesn't always seal. The back of the unit between the water container and the unit itself has warped. It sprays hot water everywhere, I haven't had it long, maybe 3-4 months. I'm hoping I can return it, but not expecting much. This is the worst B&D product on the market. I called B&D and they said to try to return it, if not call them back for service. DON'T RECOMMEND!!
Posted by: Renee at August 12, 2007 10:57 PM

GOT THE HCC100 LAST CHRISTMAS FROM A FRIEND. AFTER USING FOR THE FIRST TIME TODAY, I GOT 1 CUP OF I WOULD SAY 7OZ OF COFFEE EVEN THOUGH I PRESSED THE 14OZ BUTTON. TO ADD TO THAT, IT WAS NOT EVEN HOT. TO ADD MORE, I TRIED TO MAKE ANOTHER CUP, THE DAMN LIGHTS STARTED BLINKING AND NOTHING WOULD HAPPEN. I CALLED THE 800 AND LADY TOLD ME TO UNPLUG MACHINE, FILL UP RESERVOIR TO TOP AND WAIT FIVE MINUTES. I DID IT AND STILL THE MACHINE DOES NOT WORK. I CALLED THE 800 # AGAIN AND THEY TOLD ME THAT THE MACHINE NEEDS TO BE REPLACE, I ASKED IF THEY WOULD SEND ME A NEW ONE AND THEY SAID THEY WOULD AT A COST OF 29.99 PLUS SHIPPING AND THATS IF THEY EVEN HAD THEM IN STOCK. SO I NOW HAVE A COFFEE MAKER AS A PAPER WEIGHT. SOMEBODY SHOULD DO A VIDEO ON HOW CRAPPY THIS PRODUCT IS AND POST IT ON YOU TUBE.
Posted by: SGT. Hildalgo at September 21, 2007 2:43 PM