A:Answer Hello - Thanks for your question! The Beverage pad is sensor operated, and is designed to heat all kinds of beverages such as coffee, tea, hot chocolate, etc. There isn't a specific time programmed for this feature. It uses the auto cook sensor to sense the steam from the beverage or water whether it is a room-temperature beverage, tap water or even refrigerated beverage as it is heating and heats it to a "hot" temperature. This "hot" temperature is similar to a coffee temperature just brewed from a coffeemaker and is a satisfactory "hot" temperature for the dissolving of instant coffee, hot chocolate, use of a tea bag or the use of the new coffee singles, etc. To operate it, simply depress the BEVERAGE pad and START. If you have any additional questions, please let us know and we'll be happy to help. Thank you! - Sharon@GEA