A jammed or leaking DeLonghi brewing unit often causes the coffee machine to refuse to brew a drink or cause a puddle to form under the device. Owners of this brand of equipment regularly encounter situations where the mechanism stops moving smoothly, begins to creak loudly during operation, or even gets stuck in the middle position. The cause of such symptoms is almost always the accumulation of coffee oils, dried plaque and microparticles of cake inside the moving elements of the unit. Timely and proper cleaning of the DeLonghi brewing unit allows you to restore the functionality of the device without contacting a service center.
Regular maintenance of this unit directly affects the quality of espresso and the service life of the entire coffee machine. Ignoring the need to remove and wash the mechanism leads to the fact that the remaining coffee begins to sputter, worsening the taste of the drink and creating a favorable environment for the growth of bacteria. In addition, a contaminated seal loses its elasticity, which inevitably leads to depressurization of the system and water leaks during the brewing cycle. Proper care brewing unit is a prerequisite for long-term operation of your coffee maker.
Symptoms of contamination and maintenance requirements
You can understand that it’s time for deep cleaning by a number of characteristic signs that appear during the operation of the coffee machine. The first signal is often a change in the sound of the engine: instead of the usual smooth hum, a strained hum, creaking or crackling appears. This indicates that the mechanical parts become difficult to move due to increased friction caused by dried coffee and lack of lubrication on the guides.
The second obvious sign is the appearance of water in the drip tray outside of the normal rinse cycle or immediately after turning off the device. Leaking brewing unit DeLonghi loses its tightness due to the fact that the rubber seals are covered with a hard coating and cannot fit tightly to the walls of the cooking chamber. As a result, pressurized water finds a way to escape, which can lead to more serious damage to electronics if liquid gets inside the case.
The third symptom is a deterioration in the quality of the drink itself: the coffee becomes less aromatic, an extraneous taste or sourness appears that is not characteristic of the beans used. This happens because old coffee oils, oxidizing upon contact with air, spoil the taste of a fresh portion. If you notice any of these signs, cleaning the brewing unit must be carried out immediately.
⚠️ Attention: If the coffee machine makes a loud grinding noise or has completely stopped ejecting the unit, do not try to force it out. This may cause the plastic drive gears to break. First, make sure the car is turned off and the unit is in the park position.
Preparing to remove the brewing unit
Before starting any manipulations, it is necessary to properly prepare the coffee machine for servicing to avoid damage to the mechanism. The most important rule is that you can remove the brewing unit only when the coffee machine is turned off with the power button, but not unplugged from the socket, or when it is in standby mode after a full cycle of operation. Most models DeLonghi Magnifica or Esam the block is fixed in the working position and will not allow itself to be reached if it is not restored to its original state.
The preparation process begins with emptying all removable containers. Remove the drip tray and waste coffee container, rinse them thoroughly with warm water and wipe dry. This will provide access to the inside of the coffee machine and prevent dirt from getting back into the clean mechanism. Make sure there is no water left in the drip tray that could accidentally splash during further steps.
Next, you should unplug the coffee machine unless the instructions for your specific model require otherwise. In some cases, moving the infuser to the removal position requires the power to be turned on briefly for a rinse cycle, after which the machine must be turned off. Only after the device is silent and stops making sounds of the pump, can you begin to dismantle the unit. Brewing mechanism must be in a calm state.
Step-by-step instructions for removing the node
The process of dismantling the brewing unit in DeLonghi coffee machines is standardized, but requires care and careful movements. First, open the service door, which is usually located on the side of the chassis or on the front panel, depending on the model. Inside you will see the brewing unit itself, often covered with an additional plastic cover or clamp that must be removed or pushed to the side.
On the side of the brewing unit there is a red (sometimes gray) locking button. By pressing it, you release the mechanism from locking. Simultaneously with pressing the button, you must slightly pull the block towards you. It is important not to make sudden jerks; if the block does not give in, check whether the locking button is fully pressed and whether anything is preventing its movement. Smooth rocking from side to side will help loosen the seals.
The extracted unit is a complex structure made of plastic, rubber and metal. Upon inspection, you will notice a moving part that moves up and down, and a static part with mesh filters. It is between these elements that the bulk of contaminants most often accumulate. For ease of further cleaning, it is recommended to unlock the moving part by pressing a special lever or button to open the unit like a book, gaining full access to the internal chambers.
☑️ Checklist for preparing for cleaning
The process of cleaning and removing contaminants
The main cleaning of the DeLonghi brewing unit is carried out under warm running water without the use of aggressive detergents. It is strictly forbidden to use a dishwasher, as high temperatures and aggressive chemicals can deform plastic parts and damage rubber seals. The water should be warm, but not boiling water, so as not to damage the structure of the materials.
The first step is to remove any visible remains of coffee grounds. Use a soft brush or sponge to sweep coffee particles out of hard-to-reach areas, strainers, and guides. Pay special attention to the area of the o-rings and the joints of the moving parts. If the plaque is old and difficult to wash off, you can soak the block in warm water for 15-20 minutes, but do not leave it in water for a long time so that the metal does not corrode.
To remove coffee oils that do not dissolve with regular water, you can use special cleaning tablets for coffee machines dissolved in water or a weak solution of citric acid. Rinse all surfaces thoroughly, paying attention to small details. After water procedures, be sure to dry the block. Wipe it with a soft cloth and leave it in the air until completely dry, especially in areas where metal and plastic parts come into contact.
| Block element | Type of pollution | Cleaning method | Tool |
|---|---|---|---|
| Strainers | Coffee dust, oils | Pressure flushing | Soft brush |
| Rubber seals | Scale, hardened coffee | Wiping with a damp sponge | Lint-free fabric |
| Guides | Dry cake, dust | Removal with a dry brush | Toothbrush |
| Movable camera | Oily coating | Soaking and rinsing | sponge |
⚠️ Warning: Never use abrasive scouring powders, metal sponges or brushes. They will leave micro-scratches on plastic and metal, in which dirt will accumulate even faster, and can also damage the Teflon coating.
Lubrication of moving parts and assembly
After complete cleaning and drying of all components, it is necessary to lubricate the moving parts of the brewing unit. This is a critical step that is often missed, causing the mechanism to re-seize after a short time. For lubrication, use only food grade silicone lubricants designed specifically for coffee machines. The use of technical petroleum jelly, lithol or vegetable oil is unacceptable, as they can oxidize, go bitter or be toxic.
You need to apply a thin layer of lubricant to the side guide rails along which the block moves inside the coffee machine, as well as to the moving joints of the mechanism itself. Avoid getting grease on the strainers and internal chambers where the coffee is brewed to prevent chemicals from getting into the drink. It is enough to treat only the rubbing surfaces that provide movement.
After lubrication, reassemble the unit, if it was disassembled, and make sure that all parts fall into place with a characteristic click. Insert the brewing unit back into the coffee machine, following the orientation along the guides. It should fit tightly and all the way without excessive effort. Close the locking button and close the service door. The device is now ready for the first start after servicing.
Which lubricant to choose?
It is recommended to use food grade silicone based lubricants. They are inert, odorless, can withstand high temperatures and are safe in case of accidental contact with food. Popular brands include Molykote 111 or specialty lubricants from coffee machine manufacturers.
Typical maintenance errors
When cleaning the brewing unit themselves, users often make mistakes that can negate all efforts or even damage the device. One of the most common mistakes is using household chemicals to wash dishes. Such products create abundant foam, which is very difficult to completely wash out of porous structures and seals, which subsequently leads to the appearance of foam in the cup of coffee and a change in its taste.
Another common mistake is trying to lubricate the block immediately after washing, without waiting for it to dry completely. The water remaining in microcracks or under the seals mixes with the lubricant, forming an emulsion that is quickly washed out and does not perform its functions. In addition, moisture in a closed space can provoke the development of mold, which is much more difficult to combat than removing coffee deposits.
Some users try to speed up the drying process with a hair dryer or place the unit on the radiator. High temperatures can cause plastic parts to deform, especially if they are made from heat-sensitive polymers. Brewing unit must dry naturally at room temperature, which guarantees the preservation of the geometric dimensions of all parts.
To remove stubborn white deposits (scale) from metal parts, use a weak solution of citric acid, but avoid contact with rubber seals, as the acid can accelerate their aging.
Regularity of maintenance and prevention
To ensure that your DeLonghi coffee machine lasts a long time and provides you with delicious coffee, it is important to follow a preventive maintenance schedule. The frequency of deep cleaning of the brewing unit depends on the intensity of use of the device. If you prepare 3-5 cups a day, it is enough to do the procedure once every two weeks. If there is a high load (office, large family), cleaning should be done weekly.
In addition to mechanical cleaning, do not forget about chemical maintenance. Regularly use special cleaning tablets that dissolve coffee oils inside the system where a brush cannot reach. It is also important to use water filters or fill in already purified water, which will significantly reduce the rate of scale formation and reduce the frequency of necessary maintenance.
Following these simple rules will help you avoid costly repairs and replacement of components. A clean brewing unit is the key to stable pour pressure, correct brewing temperature and, as a result, the perfect taste of your espresso. Don't wait for problems to arise; turn maintenance into a healthy habit.
The main rule: The cleanliness of the brewing unit directly affects the service life of the coffee machine. Regular maintenance is cheaper than repairing or replacing the device.
Can the brewing unit be washed in the dishwasher?
No, manufacturers categorically do not recommend washing the brewing unit in the dishwasher. High water temperatures and aggressive detergents can deform plastic parts, damage rubber seals and wash off the factory lubricant, which will lead to rapid wear of the mechanism.
How often should the brewing unit be lubricated?
The moving parts of the brewing unit should be lubricated every time after deep cleaning, that is, approximately once every 2-4 weeks, depending on the intensity of use. Without lubrication, rubbing parts will quickly wear out and begin to creak or jam.
What should I do if the brewing unit does not fit back in?
Make sure the unit is completely assembled and all latches are closed. Check to see if the insertion orientation is reversed. If the block does not fit, do not use force - remove it, check the position of the moving parts again and try to insert it again, shaking it slightly.
What are the dangers of ignoring cleaning the brewing unit?
Ignoring cleaning leads to the accumulation of mold and bacteria, which spoil the taste of coffee and are harmful to health. Mechanically, this threatens the drive jamming, water leaks onto electronic components and the coffee machine failing.