Espresso Machine Maintenance & Cleaning
After a long day of making espresso after espresso, your machine will need to be thoroughly cleaned and maintained to ensure its longevity. We can help teach you the proper way to maintain your espresso machine as well as get it sparkling clean with the proper supplies before your next breakfast rush.
What Maintenance is Required for an Espresso Machine?
When it comes to maintenance tasks you can perform to keep your espresso machine running smoothly, there are quite a few steps to take, but don’t worry. We’ve broken it down by the frequency in which these tasks need to be done:
Daily Tasks
- Scrub loose coffee out while running the grouphead.
- Using espresso machine detergent, clean the blind filter and insert into the group.
- Turn it on for ten seconds and then turn it off for ten seconds. Repeat four times.
- Clean the steam wands and portafilters with a mild detergent.
- Remove the detergent and use fresh water to flush the group until the water runs clean.
Every Three Months
- Check and replace group gaskets.
- Test the switches to ensure they work properly.
- Replace, or upgrade, the shower screens.
- Test the group temperature and flow rates.
- Check the boiler water quality and grouphead.
Every Six Months
- Inspect the steam assembly.
- Check the anti-suction valve and replace if needed.
- Clean the boiler level probe.
- Rebuild the water tap.
- Take the body panels off and clean out any built-up dust or debris.
Yearly
- Check and replace the pressure safety valve.
- Upgrade/replace the portafilter baskets.
- Replace the sight glass if needed.
- Service or replace the non return valve.
- Replace the capacitor on the pump motor.
- Replace the waste pipe if damaged.
- Inspect for water leaks.
As Needed
- Replace the pump.
- Descale the machine.
- Reset the pressure gauges.
- Change all water filters.
- Replace any broken switches or solenoids.
- Replace the pressure regulating valve.
- Replace any damaged or worn bells on the group heads.
How to Clean an Espresso Machine
Keeping your espresso maker clean on a daily basis will not only help it run like new for years but also improve the flavor of the coffee you make. Here are some tips on how to clean an espresso machine for a sparkling unit in no time:
- Step 1. Clean the portafilters, filter baskets and drip tray.
- Step 2. Clean the steam wand by removing the tip and letting it soak in a solution for at least 20 minutes.
- Step 3. Clean the draining hose to avoid any buildup that could block the lines.
- Step 4. Scrub the group heads to remove stuck on coffee grounds.
- Step 5. Complete a backflush with coffee machine detergent and a blind filter. Repeat the process until the water runs clear.
- Step 6. Wipe down the exterior of the machine.
Deep Cleaning Tips
Every now and then it’s recommended that you deep clean your espresso machine to help prevent any build up or damage to internal parts from continuous use. Here are the deep cleaning steps you’ll need to take:
- Step 1. Make a cleaning solution with water and a small amount of espresso machine cleaner.
- Step 2. Use a specialized brush or a nylon brush to scrub the portafilters, baskets and gaskets. Then rinse with water.
- Step 3. Remove the screen from the group and be sure to scrub both sides of it.
- Step 4. Sanitize the steam wand by wiping it thoroughly after flushing it out with hot water.
- Step 5. Take out the drip tray and scrub it clean.
- Step 6. Wipe down the exterior of the unit with a clean cloth and warm water.
With certain models, it may be recommended to deep clean the unit after making a certain amount of espresso shots. Check your owner’s manual for more instructions.
How To Descale an Espresso Machine
Some espresso machines have an automatic descaling cycle. If yours doesn’t then you’ll need to do this manually. Luckily, the process is simple. Follow these steps to descale your espresso machine:
- Choose your descaler - You can use citric acid, lemon juice or even vinegar. There are also descaling tablets available.
- Follow the directions - If you’re using a natural solution, you’ll want to dilute it a bit. If it’s a tablet, be sure to check if you need to add water or simply toss it in.
- Rinse the system - Fill the reservoir with water and the cleaning solution as if you were making a cup of coffee and let it run.
- Rinse the machine - Once the process ends, refill the reservoir with clean water and let it run again. This will clear out any remaining cleaning solution.
- Check the water - Make sure the water comes out clean and clear. If it has a funny smell or looks foggy, run more clean water through the machine to get clean water.