Compact carob coffee maker DeLonghi EC 685 (Dedica series) has become a benchmark for home use, combining professional functions and minimalist design. Proper initial setup and regular maintenance are key factors that will allow you to get stable espresso with thick foam for many years of use.
In this guide, we will analyze in detail all stages of working with the device, from unpacking to complex technical procedures. You will learn how to properly set the grind, use the cappuccino maker, and deep clean the system of scale to avoid common mistakes made by beginners.
Despite the apparent simplicity of control, EC 685 has a number of hidden functions and nuances, knowledge of which will significantly improve the quality of the drink. Please read the sections below carefully to unlock the full potential of your coffee maker.
Initial preparation and launch of the device
Before using it for the first time, you must thoroughly rinse all removable elements that come into contact with water or coffee. Remove the tray, grill and water tank, rinse them with warm water without using aggressive detergents. Insert the tank into place and fill with fresh cold water to the maximum level.
It is important to install the horn correctly. Insert the holder into the socket until it stops, then turn it clockwise until it clicks. Make sure the handle is centered below the group. Now you can turn on the device and press the power button located on the top panel.
After switching on, the indicators will begin to flash, signaling the warming up process. Thermoblock heats water to operating temperature in a matter of seconds. When the indicators stop flashing and light up steadily, the device is ready for use. Run water through the holder without coffee to remove any possible factory dust.
☑️ First launch of the coffee maker
Grind setting and coffee dosage
The quality of the drink directly depends on the degree of grinding of the beans. For DeLonghi EC 685 a fine grind is required, close to flour, but not turning into dust. If the water flows too quickly and the coffee turns out sour and pale, reduce the grind fraction.
Use the included measuring spoon for dosage. One heaped spoon is usually required per cup. If using a double filter (for two cups), fill it to the brim, but do not press the coffee too hard. Light pressure with a tamper or the bottom of a spoon will be enough.
Pay attention to the pressure in the system. Perfect espresso should flow out in a steady stream, reminiscent of warm honey. If the stream is intermittent or dripping, the grind is too coarse or the coffee is poorly compressed. If there is no jet at all, the grind is too fine.
To adjust the volume of water in the cup, use the programming functionality. Start the water supply and press the button again when the desired amount of liquid is in the cup. The system will remember this volume for next time.
Secrets of the cappuccino maker
Cappuccino maker in model EC 685 - This is a Venturi tube that mixes steam with milk and air. For perfect milk foam, use cold milk with a fat content of 3.5% or higher. Pour the milk into a pitcher or tall glass.
Place the cappuccino maker tube into the milk so that the hole is at the surface. Turn on steam. You will hear a characteristic hissing sound - this is air being sucked in, creating voluminous foam. Gradually lower the container so that the tube remains at the liquid-vapor interface.
⚠️ Attention: Before you start whipping, be sure to release some condensation by pressing the steam button for a few seconds into an empty container. This will remove excess water from the tube.
Don't overheat the milk. The optimal temperature for drinking is about 60-65 degrees. If the milk boils, the taste will be spoiled and the foam will quickly settle. Immediately after use, wipe the tube with a damp cloth and blow with steam to prevent milk residues from drying inside.
What to do if the foam doesn't work?
If foam does not form, check the fat content of the milk (less than 2.5% does not froth well) and the cleanliness of the cappuccino maker opening. Also make sure you use the steam setting and not the hot water setting.
Decalcification technology (scaling removal)
Regular descaling is the key to a long life thermoblock. Hard water quickly damages equipment. Use a special liquid decalcifier for coffee machines, diluted with water in a 1:1 ratio, as indicated in the manufacturer's instructions.
To enter descaling mode, follow these steps: turn off the coffee maker, then press and hold the steam and cup water buttons simultaneously for 5 seconds. The indicators will begin to flash, confirming entry into the service mode.
Pour the solution into the tank, place the container under the cappuccino maker and holder. Press the steam button. The process will take about 20-30 minutes, during which the machine will periodically dispense liquid and pause. Do not turn off the device until the cycle is complete.
| Stage | User action | Indication |
|---|---|---|
| Preparation | Pour decalcifier solution | All indicators are flashing |
| Flushing 1 | Press the steam button | Steam indicator lights up |
| Flushing 2 | Pour in clean water, press the cup button | Cup indicator lights up |
| Completion | Wait for automatic shutdown | The lights go out |
After completing the cycle with the solution, it is necessary to thoroughly rinse the tank and run 2-3 full tanks of clean water through the system to remove any remaining chemicals. This is critical to the taste of the future coffee.
Troubleshooting common problems
If the coffee maker stops dispensing water or the stream becomes very weak, most likely the holes in the shower unit or the needles in the horn are clogged. Take a thin needle or paperclip and carefully clean out the holes in the metal. Also check the filter mesh for large coffee particles.
If water drips from under the horn during operation, check the tightness of the filter. Perhaps there is too much coffee and it is sticking to the group mesh. Try reducing the dosage by 0.5 grams or using a finer grind.
If the indicators flash 15 times in a row, this is a signal about the need for urgent decalcification. Do not ignore this signal, as the automation may block the operation of the device.
A noisy pump may indicate air is getting into the system. Run several portions of water through the holder without coffee to remove any air pockets. Make sure that the water level in the tank is always above the minimum level.
Daily care and maintenance
To maintain the hygiene and taste of your coffee, rinse your brewer and filters daily with hot water. Residues of coffee oils tend to oxidize and impart bitterness to the drink. Once a week, remove the shower net (if the design of your modification allows it) and soak it in a special solution.
The drip tray also requires regular cleaning. Water and coffee slurry accumulate in it, which are an ideal environment for the growth of bacteria. Wash the tray with warm water and a mild detergent.
⚠️ Warning: Never use abrasive sponges or harsh chemicals to clean external metal surfaces. This will cause scratches and loss of shine on the case.
Wipe the housing regularly with a damp cloth. Pay special attention to the area around the cappuccino maker where splashes of milk can dry out. Timely care will preserve the presentable appearance of your DeLonghi Dedica for many years.
Compliance with the decalcification schedule and daily washing of the horn increases the service life of the coffee maker by 2-3 times.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Why does coffee flow out too quickly and without foam?
Most likely, the coffee grind is too coarse for this model. Reduce the grind fraction on the coffee grinder. The cause may also be insufficient coffee in the cone or weak pressure on the tablet.
Can I use ground coffee from the store?
Yes, EC 685 works with ground coffee. However, store-bought coffee often has a grind that is unsuitable for espresso machines (too coarse). It is better to buy grains and grind them immediately before cooking.
How long does it take for a coffee maker to heat up?
Thanks to the thermoblock system, the time to reach operating temperature is about 40 seconds. The ready indicator will light up when cooking can begin.
What does the flashing water light mean?
This is a signal that the tank is empty or installed incorrectly. Check the water level and the tightness of the tank to the machine body.