It is also important to empty out the water tank if you are going to ship the machine, pack it in a box with your other belongings for a move, or for long term storage. Neglecting to drain the inner water reservoir may result in bacteria or mold growing which will then require a thorough cleaning with bleach or vinegar before the machine can be safely used again.

This tutorial was specifically created to assist owners of the Keurig Elite Brewing System model number "B40" coffee maker. It may also be useful for owners of other similar models such as the B50, B60, B70, B130, B140, B150, B200, K150, K45, K40, K65 and the K75.

The tools needed to complete this procedure include a Phillips head screwdriver and a small pair of scissors.

The first and most important step is to unplug the coffee machine.

Then remove the large external water reservoir by lifting it straight off the side of the machine. Also lift and remove the black plastic drip tray at the front of the machine where the coffee mug rests during the brewing process. Set those pieces aside in a safe place.

Rest the machine on its side with the metal base plate facing towards you. You may want lay down a towel first to protect the plastic on the machine and/or your counter top surface.

Please double check that you have unplugged the machine before moving on to the next steps.

Remove the 5 small screws on the bottom of the machine by turning them counter clockwise with the Phillips head screwdriver. Set the screws aside in a safe place.

Carefully cut the small white cable or "zip" tie with a pair of scissors. Try to avoid damaging the rubber hose.

You may need to turn the machine upside down and then over again several times while gently shaking the machine to get all of the water out.

Set the screws aside in a safe place.

Behind the triangular connector, you'll see a light blue rubber one way valve at the end of the tube that leads to the internal metal tank.

Insert a clean object such as a wooden skewer or toothpick to open the rubber one way valve and drain the water from the internal tank.

You may need to turn the coffee machine upside down and over a few times to drain out most of the water from the tank.

It is nearly impossible to empty out every last drop of water from the tubes and the internal tank, but the more you get out the safer your other belongings will be when you pack the machine for your move.

Getting as much water out as possible is also important if you are shipping the package via USPS, Fed Ex or UPS since those carriers may find you liable for damages or delays caused by a leaking box and levy extra fees or charges.

If you have a few days to spare, I'd recommend leaving the coffee machine out in a cool dry place with the bottom cover off and the tubes disconnected to allow time for more water to evaporate.

Tighten the 3 small Phillips head screws until they are snug.

Insert the front of the metal base plate in first and then slide it in place above the black plastic retaining tabs.

Tighten the five screws until they are snug with the Phillips head screwdriver by turning them clockwise.

Even though you have drained out most of the water in the tubes and internal tank of your Keurig machine, I'd still recommend flushing it out with vinegar or a mild bleach solution before using it again.

Be sure to rinse the inner workings of the machine after using a cleaning solution by "brewing" several large mugs of plain water before you drink your next cup of coffee.

For more, check out my Home Repair & Maintenance Guides.