Gaggia Accademia and Babila: Empty Drip Tray or Grounds Drawer Error
by Whole Latte Love
2 min read
Updated: May 7, 2025
Learn what to do when you get an “empty grounds drawer” or “empty drip tray” message on your Gaggia Accademia that will not go away. The sensors will be in the same location on the 2022 version of the Accademia, but may have different part numbers.
Gaggia Accademia and Babila: Empty Drip Tray or Grounds Drawer Error
The prompt to empty the internal drip tray or grounds drawer can potentially be caused by the following:
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Capacitive Water Level Sensor
- Senses water in the internal drip tray using continuity test. Water completely free of mineral content may not be detected. It is inside of the actual front door itself.
- Excess water in the brew unit area may prompt a false reading. Ensure the brew unit area is clean and dry.
- If necessary, prop the door open overnight to allow the machine to air dry.
- If you're getting excessive water in the brew unit area, please see our information on how to Fix Door Issues, Leaks, and Excess Water.
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Magnetic Sensor with Wire
- Senses magnet on the dump box to ensure dump box is in place. It is located behind the back wall of the brew unit area.
- Check your dump box to ensure the magnet is in tact and no buildup or debris is preventing the magnet from making a clear path to the wall.
- If you have excessive ground coffee in the brew unit area, or problems with your pucks, please see our information on how to fix Bad Flavor or Puck Problems.
With any sensor issues, it may be that replacing the sensor will resolve the problem, but we cannot make that guarantee. It may be a problem with the wiring or power board that is causing the problem. Parts are not returnable.
Gaggia Accademia Interactive Parts Diagram
Gaggia Accademia 2022 Interactive Parts Diagram
Gaggia Babila Interactive Parts Diagram
Warranty Disclaimer: Failure of normal wear and tear items such as group gaskets, seals, and shower screens are not covered under warranty. Issues due to scale build-up, coffee oil build-up, or lack of maintenance are not covered.
