The appearance of the characteristic cod when brewing, the formation of cracks in the compressed coffee tablet or the complete stop of the cooking cycle signal that it is time to clean the brewing unit of the delonghi coffee machine. Accumulation of coffee oils and microscopic particles of ground grain in the mechanism cooker This leads to a violation of tightness and an increase in pressure inside the system. Ignoring these symptoms causes premature wear and tear of moving parts and can cause expensive repairs to electronics or hydraulics. Regular maintenance of the unit is a prerequisite for preserving the taste of the drink and stable operation. DeLonghi Magnifica, Esam or Dinamica.
Owners often notice that the machine stops dispensing coffee or starts spilling water into the pallet if the mechanism is clogged. This is due to the fact that old coffee, mixed with water, turns into a viscous mass that blocks the movement of pistons. Removal of these deposits restores normal channel permeability and pump pressure. It is important to understand that simple water washing is not always effective against old fat films, so mechanical brushing and, if necessary, the use of specialized means is required.
⚠️ Warning: Before starting any maintenance work, be sure to turn off the coffee machine with the power button and disconnect the network cable. Working with an electrical device under voltage is strictly prohibited.
Diagnosis of pollution and need for maintenance
Determine the critical level of pollution cook-block It can be based on a number of indirect signs that appear during operation. First of all, pay attention to the appearance of the coffee tablet after use: if it is loose, breaks down or has cracks, then the mechanism does not create enough pressure. Also, this is indicated by the too light color of the cake, which indicates underextraction due to a violation of the circulation of water through compressed coffee.
Acoustic signals are a reliable indicator of mechanical problems. If you hear a loud grinding, knocking, or an unusually loud buzzing during a brewing cycle, chances are the moving parts experience increased friction due to lack of lubrication or the presence of solids from old coffee. In some models DeLonghi The screen may display a clean-up indicator or an error message requiring user intervention.
- 🛑 The coffee tablet comes out wet, crumbled or has a non-standard shape.
- 🔊 The appearance of extraneous noises, creaking or knocking when the pump and the brewing mechanism work.
- 💧 Increase the amount of water draining into the pan for used coffee.
- 📉 Decrease in the temperature of the finished drink or change in its taste characteristics.
A timely response to these symptoms avoids more serious breakdowns, such as jamming of the engine of the welding unit or failure of the electromagnetic valve. Regular visual inspection of the extracted node helps to monitor the condition of the sealing rings and movable joints. If you notice that the rubber elements have lost elasticity or have visible damage, replacing them will also be part of the maintenance process.
Tools and workplace preparation
For a quality procedure, you will need a minimum set of tools and consumables that are usually at hand. The main tool will be a soft brush, which often comes complete with a coffee machine, but you can use a regular kitchen brush with not too hard bristles, so as not to damage the plastic elements of the mechanism. You will also need a container with warm water for soaking and washing parts.
As a detergent, it is best to use special tablets for cleaning the brewing blocks or liquid cleaners based on enzymes, which effectively break down coffee fats. The use of aggressive household chemicals containing chlorine or abrasive particles is strictly prohibited, as it can damage food plastics and rubber seals. Lubricating the moving parts after cleaning will require food-grade silicone lubricant, safe for contact with food.
Use only food-grade silicone lubricant. Conventional technical petroleum petroleum petroleum or lithium lubricants can be toxic and spoil the taste of coffee.
Organize the workspace so that all necessary items are within reach. Cover the table with a towel or paper napkins, as the process may involve splashing water and coffee residues. Prepare a clean dry towel to wipe the parts and the coffee machine itself to avoid contamination of the kitchen.
The process of extracting the brewing block
Extraction algorithm cooker It may vary slightly depending on the specific coffee machine. DeLonghiBut the general principle remains the same. First, you need to open the service door, which is usually located on the left or right side of the case. In some models, access requires first removing the container for used coffee and the dropper.
On the side wall of the removable block you will see a red or orange lock button (sometimes there are two, above and below). By pressing this button, you unlock the mechanism, after which the block can be smoothly pulled on itself. Do not make excessive efforts: if the mechanism does not lend itself, check whether the service door is fully open and whether the locking button is pressed to the end.
Features of extraction in different series
In ESAM models, the block is often removed after opening the side door and pressing a single button. In the Magnifica S and E.CAM series, it may be necessary to pre-shift the grinding lever to the "1" position or to completely close the door before removal so that the mechanism returns to the transport position.
⚠️ Warning: Never try to remove the brewing block if the coffee machine has just been working. The mechanism may be in an intermediate position, and forced removal will lead to the breakdown of the plastic gears or guides.After successful extraction, carefully examine the inside of the niche from where the block was taken. There may be residues of coffee or water that should be removed with a dry wipe. Also check the condition of the contact group and springs that provide the block press for the presence of foreign objects.
Mechanical cleaning and washing of parts
The main stage of maintenance is a thorough mechanical cleaning of all available surfaces of the brewing block from coffee plaque. Take a brush and walk gently through the mesh filters, side walls and movable pistons. Pay special attention to the sieve zone, where coffee comes into contact with hot water under pressure: it is here that dense deposits of oils are most often formed.
Wash the block under a stream of warm (not hot!) water while working with a brush. The water should be at a comfortable temperature so as not to cause deformation of plastic parts and not damage rubber seals. Carefully wash coffee from hard-to-reach places, using brush villi to clean up contaminants from the grooves and joints.
☑️ Cleaning checklist
Done: 0 / 5If the contaminants are very strong and are not removed by water, you can soak the block in a solution of a special cleaning agent for a time specified by the manufacturer of the chemical. After soaking, the brushing procedure must be repeated to ensure that the softened deposits are removed. Carefully rinse the block with running water to exclude the entry of chemicals into the future drink.
Lubrication of moving elements and seals
After the complete drying of the parts, it is necessary to carry out a lubrication procedure, which ensures smoothness and tightness of the mechanism. Lubrication is subject to side guides, along which the block slides, as well as the sealing rings of pistons. Apply a thin layer of food-grade silicone lubricant to rubber cuffs, evenly spreading it with a finger or soft cloth.
Do not overdo it with the amount of lubrication: excessive amounts can cause the lubricant to start to squeeze out during operation and get into coffee or other parts of the machine. A thin, barely noticeable film is enough to restore the elasticity of the rubber and reduce the friction of plastic against the plastic.
Special attention is required by the side sleds, along which the brewing block moves inside the body. They should also be slightly lubricated to facilitate the installation and removal of the device in the future. This will prolong the life of plastic guides and prevent the appearance of creaks during operation.
Comparison of cleaning methods of the brewing block
There are several approaches to the maintenance of the brewing unit, each of which has its advantages and disadvantages depending on the degree of contamination and the frequency of use of the coffee machine. The choice of method depends on whether you are carrying out regular preventive maintenance or eliminating the effects of prolonged neglect of cleaning.
The table below compares the basic methods so you can choose the most suitable for your situation:
Cleaning method Frequency of application Efficiency Required funds Express flushing Weekly Low (surface) Water, brush. Mechanical cleaning Every 2-3 months Tall. Brush, warm water. Chemical cleaning Every 6 months Maximum Special. pills Ultrasonic wash If necessary (heavy pollution) Maximum UZ-bath, chemistry. Regular mechanical cleaning is the gold standard for most users. DeLonghiallowing you to keep the device in excellent condition without unnecessary costs. Chemical cleaning is recommended as an addition to mechanical cleaning to remove persistent fat deposits that are not washed away by water. Ultrasonic washing is used in extreme cases when conventional methods do not help, but requires the presence of special equipment.
Installation of the unit and check of operability
After cleaning and lubrication is completed, it is necessary to correctly install the brewing unit in place. Take the block with both hands by the sides and carefully enter it into the niche of the coffee machine, making sure that the guides get into their grooves. The block should enter smoothly, without distortions and excessive effort.
Push the block to a characteristic click, which signals that the locks have snapped. Make sure the block sits tight and doesn't stagger. Close the service door to the point. If the door does not close, do not slam it - perhaps the block is not inserted to the end or skewed, and the installation procedure must be repeated.
A properly installed brewing unit is fixed with a slight click, and the service door closes effortlessly.
After installation, turn the coffee machine on the network and start the cooking cycle. The first 1-2 servings of coffee are recommended to skip to wash the system from possible dust or water residue. Pay attention to the mechanism: it should function quietly and smoothly, and the finished drink should meet the expected quality.
Frequent errors in service
During the cleaning process, users often make mistakes that can nullify all efforts or even damage the device. One of the most common mistakes is the use of aggressive dish detergents, which create abundant foam. The foam is poorly washed out of the porous structures of plastic and rubber, and then gets into the coffee, worsening its taste and foam.
Another mistake is trying to lubricate the block with inappropriate substances, such as vegetable oil. Vegetable oils oxidize, thicken and turn into a sticky mass that clogs the mechanism and requires professional disassembly to eliminate. Use only specialized silicone lubricants.
⚠️ Note: Do not use bottle washing brushes or hard metal brushes inside the brewing unit. They can scratch the plastic and damage the filter mesh, which will lead to coffee dust getting into the drink.Also, do not ignore the need to dry the block after washing. Installation of a wet unit can lead to the reproduction of bacteria and the appearance of mold inside the closed case of the coffee machine. Allow the parts to dry completely at room temperature before assembly.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I clean the brewing block in a DeLonghi coffee machine?
The recommended frequency depends on the intensity of use. When preparing 3-5 cups a day, extract and wash the block with water should be once a week. General cleaning with a brush and inspection of seals is recommended every 2-3 months. If you notice a deterioration in the quality of coffee or the appearance of noise, cleaning should be done immediately.
Can I wash the block in the dishwasher?
Manufacturers DeLonghi It is strongly recommended not to wash the brewing block in the dishwasher. High temperatures and aggressive detergents can deform plastic parts, damage rubber seals and wash away the factory lubricant, which will lead to rapid wear of the mechanism.
What to do if the block does not stand in place?
The most common problem is that the block is not moved to the transport position. Try to remove it again, make sure the side latchers aren't clamped, and gently rock the block so it stands in the guides. Also check if there are any foreign objects or large pieces of coffee left inside the niche.
How to lubricate the sealing rings of the brewing block?
For lubrication, only food silicone lubricant is suitable. It is inert, has no smell and taste, is safe to contact with food and does not destroy rubber. It is strictly forbidden to use technical oils, petroleum petroleum, vegetable oil or animal fat.
Why did the coffee get worse after cleaning?
If the taste deteriorated after cleaning, it is possible that a detergent or lubricant remained in the block. Run 2-3 cycles of hot water without coffee through the system. Also, the reason may be too thorough cleaning, removing the natural coffee film, which is involved in the formation of taste - after a few cycles of cooking, the taste will recover.