Regular maintenance of the coffee machine is the key not only to delicious coffee, but also to the long life of the device itself. Many owners ignore the need to replace cartridges by relying on reverse osmosis filters or buying bottled water, but even such water may contain impurities that can eventually disable the heating element. In this article, we will discuss in detail how to change the filter in the coffee machine, why it is necessary to do it regularly and what mistakes users most often make when servicing.
Right. water-filtration prevents the formation of scale on the inner walls of the boiler and thermoblock, which directly affects the stability of the brewing temperature and the quality of espresso. If you notice that coffee has become less fragrant and the time of the strait has increased, it may be time to replace the water treatment system consumables. Ignoring this stage of maintenance can result in costly repairs that will cost significantly more than buying cartridges regularly.
The replacement process is quite simple and does not require special technical skills or disassembly of the device body. All manipulations are performed with external elements or easily accessible nodes, such as: water-storage. It is only important to follow the sequence of actions and use compatible consumables recommended by the manufacturer of your model. DeLonghi, Saeco or Jura.
Why you need to replace filter elements
The main task of the cartridge is to soften the water by replacing calcium and magnesium ions with sodium ions. This process, called ion exchange, is critical for regions with hard water. When the cartridge resource is exhausted, it ceases to perform its function, and the system begins to receive untreated water, which leads to a rapid overgrowth of scale heating elements.
In addition to protection against scale, a quality filter traps mechanical impurities, chlorine and organic compounds that can negatively affect the taste of coffee. Chlorine, in particular, is able to react with coffee oils, giving the drink an unpleasant taste and smell. Therefore, replacing the filter is not only a matter of technical health of the machine, but also gastronomic pleasure.
- 💧 Prevents the formation of lime plaque inside the boiler and tubes.
- ☕ Improves the taste characteristics of the drink, removing the taste of chlorine.
- ⚙️ Reduces the frequency of necessary decalcination procedures (scale removal).
- 🛡️ Protects expensive nodes of the coffee machine from premature wear.
⚠️ Note: Using an expired cartridge (even if it is not used) can lead to the reproduction of bacteria inside the granules, as activated charcoal loses its properties over time and can become a habitat for microorganisms.
Modern coffee machines are often equipped with electronic meters that remind you of the need to replace. However, relying on electronics alone is not worth it: if you rarely use the device, the cartridge still needs to be changed every 2-3 months due to the expiration of its effectiveness. The water in the tank should always be fresh, and the filter element should be active.
Types of filters and their service life
There are many types of cartridges on the market, which are divided by design type and compatibility with brands. The most common are the jug types installed directly into the tank, and the flow systems cut into the water supply. For home automatic coffee machines, it is the removable tank cartridges that are most often used.
The life of a standard cartridge is approximately 50 liters of filtered water or 2 months of use, whichever comes first. There are also reinforced models, the resource of which can reach 150 liters, but they are usually large and not suitable for all tanks.
| Type of cartridge | Compatible brands | Resource (litres) | Time of replacement |
|---|---|---|---|
| INTENZA+ | Saeco, Philips | 50 l. | 2 months |
| AquaClean | Philips, Saeco | 5,000 cups | 3 months |
| Clarify Water | Jura | 50 l. | 2 months |
| DLSC002 | DeLonghi | 50 l. | 2 months |
When choosing consumables, it is important to pay attention to labeling. Original filters Brita Often used by coffee machine manufacturers as a base, but may have a specific body shape for a particular model. Non-original analogs may cost less, but their filtering ability and sealability of valves do not always meet the standards.
Preparation for the replacement procedure
Before you start changing the filter, you need to prepare the workplace and the consumables themselves. You’ll need a new cartridge, a container of clean water (preferably the same one you plan to use for brewing), and possibly a soft cloth to wipe the tank. Make sure the coffee machine is turned off and cooled if it has just been running.
It is important to activate the new cartridge in advance if the instruction so requires. Some models, such as AquaCleanrequire immersion in water upside down until the release of air bubbles ceases. This is necessary to saturate the resin with water and displace the air from the pores, which will ensure proper operation from the first seconds.
☑️ Preparation for replacement
If there is water left in the tank, it must be completely drained. Residues of old water may contain a high concentration of hardness salts, and mixing them with a new filter will reduce the efficiency of the first strait. Rinse the tank with clean water to remove any sludge at the bottom.
Step by step: how to change the filter
The installation process may vary slightly depending on the model, but the overall algorithm remains the same. First, remove the water tank from the casing of the coffee machine. Carefully examine the bottom of the tank: there is a cartridge landing socket. In some models (e.g., JuraThe filter is inserted into a special compartment on the side or on top, and in others (DeLonghi, Saeco) is inserted vertically into the bottom.
Activate the new filter by dipping it into a container of water. Hold it vertically until air bubbles cease to come out of the side hole or valve. This usually takes about 5-10 seconds. After activation, immediately install the cartridge in the tank until the characteristic click or stop. Do not allow the activated filter to dry out in air.
- 🔓 Remove the old cartridge from the tank.
- 💧 Wash the tank with warm water without detergents.
- 🔌 Activate a new filter in the water until the bubbles disappear.
- 🔩 Insert the new cartridge into the socket before clicking.
- 🚰 Pour fresh water to the maximum level.
After installing the filter and filling the tank with water, return the tank to its place in the coffee machine. The primary strait procedure must now be performed. Turn on the device and start the hot water supply (without coffee) through a capuchinator or a nozzle for boiling water. It takes about 100-150 ml of water to wash the channels and remove coal dust that may be present in the new cartridge.
If the water is too slow after installing the filter, there may be air left in the system. Try several times to remove and re-install the tank, slightly swaying it so that the bubbles come out.
⚠️ Warning: Never try to wash a used filter with water or even detergents to “restore” it. Ion exchange resin has a limited resource and does not regenerate at home, and the attempt to wash only violates the structure of the granules.
Setting up the filter counter in the menu
Most modern automatic coffee machines have a built-in reminder system. After physical replacement of the cartridge, you need to reset the counter in the device menu so that the timer starts counting again. If this is not done, the machine will continue to require replacement or, worse, ignore the real resource of the new element.
The path to settings is usually as follows: press the menu button, select the section. Settings or Settings), then move to Service or Maintenance). Find a point. Water filter and select the option. Replace the filter or Reset the meter. In some models Philips/Saeco With AquaClean, you need to enter an activation code that is indicated on the package or generated at the first dive.
For models without a display, the indication can be made by LEDs. In this case, the reset is often carried out by long pressing the combination of buttons. For example, the simultaneous retention of the steam buttons and the supply of water for 5 seconds. The exact combination for your model Bosch or Krups It is better to clarify in the user manual, as it is unique to each series.
What if the car doesn’t see the new filter?
Sometimes, the water level sensor or contact group can become contaminated. Wipe the contacts at the bottom of the tank and in the car with a dry cloth. If the problem persists, the float or electronic module may have failed.
After resetting the meter, the device can automatically start the rinse cycle. Do not interrupt this process, wait for it to be completed. Only then will the coffee machine be ready to prepare the coffee with the use of filtered water, which can also affect the settings of the water hardness in the menu.
Frequent errors and troubleshooting
One of the most common mistakes is incorrect activation of the cartridge. If you do not expel the air from the filter, it will pop up in the tank or create air traffic jams in the water supply system. This causes the pump to run idle and water does not enter the brewing unit, which can cause the pump to overheat.
Another mistake is using hot water to activate or fill the tank. The filters are designed for cold water. Hot water can damage the plastic cartridge body, disrupt the structure of the filter elements and even melt the sealing rings, leading to leaks.
- ❌ I forgot to drop the meter on the menu after the replacement.
- ❌ Used hot water to activate the cartridge.
- ❌ The filter was not fully inserted into the socket (no leakage).
- ❌ Confused top and bottom during installation (relevant for some models).
If after replacement you notice that the water began to flow from under the tank, check the correct installation. The cartridge should stand tight, without distortion. Sometimes there is an additional sealing ring bundled with the filter – make sure it is installed correctly and not twisted. For models, Siemens or Nivona It is important to monitor the position of the magnetic float if it is integrated into the filtration system.
Proper activation of the filter with water and timely reset of the counter in the menu are two key factors that ensure long service of the coffee machine and the absence of system errors.
Questions and Answers (FAQ)
Can I use a coffee machine without a filter if I pour distilled water?
Distilled water is not recommended as it lacks the minerals needed for water hardness sensors to function properly (in some models), and may have a flat, unexpressive taste. In addition, the distillate can more actively wash metals from internal nodes. It is better to use medium hard water with a filter.
How do you know if the filter is running out if the machine is not writing an error?
Indirect signs are the appearance of white plaque (scaling) on the nose of the steam supply or inside the cup after drying the water. The taste of coffee can also be bitter or tart. If you use the car intensively, change the filter strictly according to the calendar (every 2 months), without waiting for signals.
Does replacing the filter affect the coffee machine guarantee?
Use of original consumables or certified analogues (e.g., Brita For the relevant models) is a requirement of many manufacturers to maintain the warranty. The absence of a filter or the use of low-quality analogues in case of a heater breakdown due to scale can be the basis for refusal in warranty repair.
What if a new filter does not fit into the tank?
Make sure you purchase a cartridge for your model. Externally, they may be similar, but differ in neck diameter or height. Also check if there is any old filter debris or a protective cap that is sometimes forgotten at the first installation.
Do I need to wash the filter before the first installation?
Wash under the water stream is not necessary, it must be activated by immersion in a container with water. Washing under strong pressure can damage the structure of activated carbon. Just immerse it in water, wait for the bubbles to come out and immediately install it in the car.