does the inside accumulate deposits (white powder around the heating element at the bottom of the reservoir)?

There are white deposits at the reservoir along with the hardened coffee deposits. I do use a non metallic scrubber to get it clean every three months because it is used daily. It stays pretty clean from there for a while. It's a great pot and have been using it without trouble for almost three years now. I also let it soak for a few hours in dishwasher detergent (Cascade) and give it a mild scrub also. Keeps it clean also. Good luck with a great pot.

Can you make and serve Hot Chocolate with this - I want it to serve for parties but for hot chocolate or cider?

I just used ours for the first time for hot chocolate and the milk got scalded at the bottom reservoir, which ruined the taste. It took quite a bit of scrubbing with steel wool to get it clean. Next time I'll just heat the water with it and offer packets of cocoa mix for my guests.

How long does the coffee stay fresh after its ready to serve ?

Showing 1-3 of 3 answersThe same as every other coffee pot ever invented. My relationship with this pot is this. I fill it with water, put the ground coffee in. Then I plug it in. Magically it becomes coffee. Once that miracle happens I put a cup underneath and push the handle. To my surprise and delight actual coffee comes out. Then I drink it and terminate the relationship instantly unless I'm really tired then I string it along for another go. I'm a player like that. Turn I'm outta there. I more of a hit it and quit it kinda coffee drinker. I hope this helped I do recommend this coffee pot. Not only does it... » Read MoreDave Barckow answered on March 19, 2016Comment | Do you find this helpful? Yes No | Report abuseI don't know the answer to this. We only use these coffee makers for heating tea water. So sorry!Curious Customer answered on March 19, 2016Comment | Do you find this helpful? Yes No | Report abuseAbout 3 hoursSheila Wilson answered on March 19, 2016Comment | Do you find this helpful? Yes No | Report abusei hpoe this helpsEarl

This coffee urn uses coffee filter and if it does, which one?

This is a percolator system, so there is no coffee filter. A removable stainless steel rod sends hot water from the lower part of the urn to the top, and then it "filters" through a stainless steel coffee basket which has a lid. The coffee/water rod would put a hole through a filter. The coffee basket lid, and using a coarse grind of coffee, helps to keep any grounds from landing in the water/coffee being brewed below.

Brand	Hamilton Beach
Color	Polished Stainless Steel
Product Dimensions	12.3"D x 12.3"W x 18"H
Special Feature	Manual
Coffee Maker Type	Drip Coffee Machine
Style	Urn
Specific Uses For Product	Hot Chocolate, Hot Coffee
Exterior Finish	Metallic
Included Components	Coffee Urn
Operation Mode	Semi-Automatic
Voltage	120.0
Model Name	Hamilton Beach Commercial Coffee Urn
Number of Items	1
Human Interface Input	Buttons
Customer Package Type	Standard Packaging
Unit Count	1.0 Count
Global Trade Identification Number	10040094911636
Coffee Input Type	grounds
Is Dishwasher Safe	No
Manufacturer	Hamilton Beach
Power Source	AC/DC
UPC	040094911639 702597427788 004009491630
Item Weight	8.44 pounds
Department	Coffee Brewer
ASIN	B000ON9TKU
Item model number	D50065
Is Discontinued By Manufacturer	No
Date First Available	December 7, 2003

Hamilton Beach Commercial Coffee Urn & Hot Beverage Dispenser, 60 Cup Capacity, Polished Stainless Steel (D50065)

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