Your coffee machine DeLonghi has stopped pumping water, but the display shows the error “hydraulic system is empty”? This is one of the most common problems with models. Magnifica, Dedica and Eletta, but you can fix it yourself. In most cases, the malfunction is due to airing the system, clogged tubes or pump malfunction. However, the signal cannot be ignored: prolonged work with an empty hydraulic system can lead to overheating and failure of key components.
In this article we will look at all possible reasons errors, from a banal lack of water in the tank to a valve or electronics failure. You will learn how to carry out diagnostics without disassembling the case, what tools are needed for repairs, and when to contact a service center. We will pay special attention models with an automatic cappuccino maker - they often have problems with the check valve in the milk supply system.
Why does my DeLonghi coffee machine show "hydraulic system empty"?
Error "hydraulic system empty" (E05, E06 or similar codes depending on the model) means that the pressure sensor is not detecting fluid in the circuit. There may be several reasons, and not all of them are related to a real lack of water. Here are the main ones:
- 💧 There is no water in the tank or it is installed incorrectly (a common problem with DeLonghi ECAM).
- 🌀 Airing the system after replacing the filter, cleaning or prolonged inactivity.
- 🔌 Clogged tubes or filters (especially important when using hard water).
- 🛠️ Pump fault or check valve (requires disassembly).
- 📱 Firmware failure (found in models with electronic control, for example, DeLonghi PrimaDonna).
The first thing to do is restart the coffee machine. Unplug it for 10-15 minutes, then turn it on again. If the error remains, proceed to diagnostics.
How to check the tank and water supply system
Start with the obvious: make sure there is water in the tank and it is installed correctly. Models DeLonghi Magnifica and Eletta the tank has a special float sensor - if it is dirty or jammed, the machine “does not see” the water. Wipe the sensor contacts with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol.
Next check:
- Tank tightness. It should click when installed. If there is play, place a thin rubber gasket.
- Supply tube condition. Disconnect it from the tank and blow it out. If the water does not pass through, clean it with wire or replace it.
- Cleaning filter (if installed). A clogged filter blocks flow. Rinse it under running water or replace it.
⚠️ Attention: Do not use metal objects to clean the pipes as they may damage the silicone hoses. Take the plastic tube from the IV.
If after these manipulations the error remains, the problem is deeper - perhaps airing of the hydraulic system or pump malfunction.
Eliminating air pollution: step-by-step instructions
Airing is the most common cause of the “hydraulic system is empty” error. Air enters the system when replacing the filter, cleaning, or if the machine has been idle for a long time without water. To bleed air, follow these steps:
Make sure the tank is filled to the maximum with water|
Open the hot water tap (if available) and wait 30 seconds|
Press the water button (usually indicated by a droplet) and hold for 10-15 seconds|
Repeat the procedure 3-4 times until there is a uniform stream without bubbles|
If there is a steam wand, release steam through it for 5 seconds-->
Models DeLonghi Dedica (manual) pumping is done through the group head: install the portafilter without coffee, turn on the water supply and wait for a steady stream. If air does not come out, check check valve - it may get stuck.
For automatic machines (Magnifica, Eletta) after pumping, run the cleaning cycle according to the instructions:
Settings → Maintenance → System Cleanup → Start⚠️ Attention: If after pumping the water flows jerkily or intermittently, this is a sign blockage in the tubes or pump malfunction. Requires disassembly of the case.
After eliminating air, run 2-3 cycles of brewing coffee without capsules - this will help completely remove any remaining air from the system.
Cleaning and replacing filters: when necessary
If pumping does not help, the next step is cleaning filters and tubes. In coffee machines DeLonghi There are several filter elements:
- 🔄 Strainer in the tank (washed once a month).
- 🧼 Carbon filter (changes every 2–3 months or after 200 cycles).
- ☕ Group head filter (cleaned with a needle or a special brush).
For cleaning use only branded products (for example, DeLonghi EcoDecalk) or citric acid (1 sachet per 1 liter of water). Algorithm:
- Prepare the solution according to the instructions.
- Fill the reservoir and run the cleaning cycle (
Menu → Descale). - Once completed, flush the system 2-3 times with clean water.
| Symptom | Probable Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| The water flows in a weak stream | Clogged filter or tubes | Cleaning or replacing the filter, bleeding the system |
| The machine hums, but no water comes out | Pump or check valve malfunction | Disassembly and diagnostics, replacement of parts |
| The error appears after replacing the filter | Air or improper installation | Bleeding the system, checking seals |
| The coffee machine does not respond to buttons | Firmware or electronics failure | Resetting or flashing |
If after cleaning the problem remains, it is most likely faulty pump or pressure sensor. In this case, the case will need to be disassembled.
Pump and check valve diagnostics
The pump is the “heart” of the hydraulic system. If it does not create the required pressure, the machine will show an error. To check it's working:
- Unplug the coffee machine and drain the water.
- Remove the back cover (a Phillips screwdriver is required).
- Find the pump (usually a black cylinder with tubes).
- Disconnect the hoses and check them for blockages.
- Connect the pump directly to the network (if you have experience with electricity) and check if it pumps water.
The check valve (located at the pump outlet) often gets stuck due to scale. It can be washed in a solution of citric acid or replaced. Cost of a new valve for DeLonghi - from 500 to 1500 rubles.
⚠️ Attention: If you are not confident in your skills, have the pump repaired by a professional. Incorrect connection may result in a short circuit!
How to check a pump without disassembling the housing?
If you don’t want to disassemble the coffee machine, try this method:
1. Fill the tank with water to the maximum.
2. Turn on hot water mode (if available).
3. Place your hand on the body near the pump (usually on the bottom right).
4. If the pump is running, you will feel vibration. If not, it is broken or there is no power.
Resetting and flashing
Sometimes the "hydraulic system is empty" error occurs due to a firmware failure. This is true for models with electronic control (DeLonghi PrimaDonna, Eletta). To reset settings:
1. Turn off the machine using the power button.2. Press the "Menu" and "OK" buttons at the same time.
3. While holding them, turn on the power.
4. Wait for the beep (about 10 seconds).
5. Release the buttons and the machine will reboot.
If resetting doesn't help, you may need to flashing. To do this:
- Download the latest firmware from the website DeLonghi (section "Support").
- Write it to a flash drive (FAT32 format).
- Insert the flash drive into your machine's USB port (if available) and follow the onscreen instructions.
For models without USB, flashing can only be done at a service center.
Resetting the settings helps in 30% of cases when the error is caused by a software glitch. If the problem is mechanical, repairs will be required.
When to contact the service center
Not all breakdowns can be fixed on your own. Contact a specialist if:
- 🔧 After disassembling the case, you found oil leak from pump (a sign of wear on the seals).
- ⚡ Visible on the control board burnt elements or traces of oxidation.
- 💻 Coffee machine won't turn on or does not respond to buttons after reset.
- 🔄 The error appears immediately after repair (the hydraulic system may have been assembled incorrectly).
Average cost of repairs in service:
| Type of work | Cost (₽) |
|---|---|
| Diagnostics | 500–1000 |
| Pump replacement | 2500–4000 |
| Cleaning the hydraulic system | 1500–2500 |
| Electronics repair | from 3000 |
Before visiting the service take a photo of the error on the display and write down the car model (located on the sticker on the back). This will speed up diagnosis.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the DeLonghi hydraulic system
Can I use vinegar instead of citric acid for cleaning?
No! Vinegar is harsh on rubber seals and can damage the tubes. Use only special means (for example, DeLonghi EcoDecalk) or citric acid in the proportion of 1 sachet per 1 liter of water.
After cleaning the car began to make more noise. This is fine?
Yes, in the first 1-2 cycles after cleaning, the pump may run louder due to scale residues in the system. If the noise does not go away after 5-6 cups of coffee, check pump mounting - the screws may have become loose.
How often do you need to change the carbon filter?
The manufacturer recommends replacement every 2 months or after 200 cooking cycles. If the water in your region is very hard, reduce the interval to 1–1.5 months. Check the condition of the filter visually: if it is darkened or coated, replace it sooner.
Can I repair the pump myself?
Theoretically yes, but in practice it is impractical. Cost of a new pump for DeLonghi - from 2000 rubles, and repairs require special tools and skills. Exception: replacing seals (if the pump is leaking). In other cases, it is easier to buy a new one.
Why does the error only appear when preparing cappuccino?
This is a sign of a problem with milk supply system. Check:
- Keep the cappuccinatore tube clean (blow it out).
- Operation of the check valve in the milk pipeline.
- Steam pressure settings (
Menu → Cappuccino → Pressure).
If the milk does not froth, but the water flows normally, the problem is steam generator.