Lights up. CALC or DESCAnd the coffee started to flow in a thin stream instead of a powerful stream, which signals a critical clogging of the hydraulic system with stiffness salts. At this point, automation. Krups blocks the preparation of drinks, requiring immediate intervention, since ignoring the signal leads to overloading of the pump and breakdown of the heating element. Right. cleaning at home requires strict adherence to the sequence of actions prescribed in the manufacturer's technical regulations, so as not to bring down the electronics settings.
The main cause of failures lies in the chemical reaction of water with heating elements, as a result of which a solid lime plaque is formed. The use of acetic acid is strictly prohibited by the instructionsAs the aggressive environment corrodes rubber seals and plastic pipes inside the housing. To safely restore performance, you need to use specialized liquids or tablets, specifically designed for coffee equipment.
The scale removal procedure takes 20 to 40 minutes depending on the model and the degree of contamination, so set aside enough time before starting work. Modern models such as Evidence, Quattro Force or EspresseriaThey have built-in programs that automatically control the supply of the solution, but control by the user is mandatory. Below is a detailed algorithm of actions that will help return the device to factory performance and espresso quality.
Preparation for the decalcination procedure and choice of means
Before starting any maintenance process, it is necessary to prepare the workplace and consumables so as not to interrupt the cycle halfway. You will need an empty container of at least 1.5 liters to collect waste liquid and wash water. Also make sure you have a soft cloth on hand to wipe the body and pallet, as splashes may occur in the process.
The key is to choose the right reagent that will effectively dissolve carbonate deposits without damaging the internal nodes. Official instructions recommend the use of original funds Krups or their qualitative analogues marked "for coffee machines". Concentrated solutions are usually diluted with water in a ratio of 1:10, but the exact details are always indicated on the packaging of the particular product.
- 💧 Specialized liquid for the removal of scale based on sulfamic acid.
- 💊 Tablets for decalcination, soluble in warm water (if supported by the model).
- 🚰 Filtered or bottled water for the preparation of a cleaning solution.
- 🧼 Soft detergent without abrasives for external treatment.
It is important to check the condition of the water filter Clarissima Or similar if it is installed in a tank. Before the procedure, the filter must be removed, since the chemical components of the scale removal product can destroy its structure and saturate the water with foreign substances. If the filter has been used for more than two months, it is better to replace it with a new one after all the work is completed.
Automatic scale removal program
Most modern devices Krups They are equipped with an intelligent system that controls the washing stages. To activate the mode, it is necessary to fill the water tank with a prepared solution and install a large container under the nozzle of hot water supply and under the capuchinator. After turning on the machine, wait for the completion of warming up, then press the power button or a special cleaning key (depending on the model) for 5-7 seconds until the indicators start flashing.
During the program, the machine will alternately supply the solution and pause, allowing the chemistry to dissolve the deposits in the boiler and tubes. Messages may appear on the display FILL TANK (fill the tank) or EMPTY TRAY (Empty the pallet) which must be done immediately. Breaking the cycle by shutting down the network can cause acid residues to remain in the system, which will spoil the taste of the next coffee.
⚠️ Attention: During the program, do not open the brewing block and do not try to remove the lid of the case. There is pressure inside the system, and the hot solution can cause a burn.
After passing the main cycle with acid, the machine will automatically go to the rinse stage, if this is provided by the algorithm, or signal the need to pour clean water. You will need to rinse the tank several times and run 2-3 full tanks of clean water through the system to completely wash the residues of the reagents. Only then will the device be ready to prepare drinks.
Manual cleaning of the brewing block and tray
In addition to the internal hydraulic system, a critically important node is the brew group, where the ground coffee directly interacts with water. Remove it by opening the service door, and carefully examine for the presence of oily plaque and compressed residues of cake. Wash the block under warm running water without using detergents, carefully removing contaminants with a soft brush.
Pay special attention to the metal filter and sealing gums, since it is there that mold foci and old fat deposits are most often formed. For deep cleaning, you can use special tablets for decalcination of brewing blocks, soaking the node in solution for 15-20 minutes. After soaking, rinse the parts thoroughly and let them dry at room temperature before being re-installed.
Do not forget to clean the drop tray and grille, where moisture and small particles of coffee accumulate. These items can be washed in the dishwasher unless the manufacturer has indicated otherwise, but it is better to do so manually with warm water with soft detergents. Regular hygiene of these nodes prevents the appearance of unpleasant odor and bacterial plaque.
☑️ Checklist of maintenance of the brewing block
Maintenance of the cappuccinator and steam tube
The milk tract is the most vulnerable place for bacteria to multiply, so its cleaning should be carried out immediately after each preparation of milk drinks. If you're in your model Krups system One Touch CappuccinoStart the automatic washing program by following the display. For classic panarellos, it is enough to blow the tube with steam and wipe with a wet cloth.
Once a week, it is recommended to carry out a deep cleaning of removable parts of the cappuccinator. Disassemble the unit according to the instructions, removing all silicone tubes and plastic nozzles. Soak them in a warm soap solution or a special product for dairy systems to dissolve milk fat, which is washed away poorly with ordinary water.
- 🥛 Wash the milk circuit immediately after use, without waiting for the milk to dry out.
- 🔍 Check the integrity of silicone tubes for cracks and hardening.
- 🧽 Use a brush for hard-to-reach places inside plastic joints.
If you notice that the steam is weak or intermittent, it is possible that the steam exit hole has clogged with scale. In this case, gently clean it with a special needle, which often comes complete with the machine, or a thin wooden sword. Metal objects are not recommended to be used so as not to expand the calibrated hole.
Table of frequency and types of services
To maintain the perfect condition of the device, it is important to follow a maintenance schedule. The frequency of treatments depends on the hardness of the water in your area and the intensity of the coffee machine. Below is a summary table that helps you navigate the necessary actions.
| Type of procedure | Frequency | Required funds | Impact on work |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flushing the circuit | Daily / After milk | Clean water | Hygiene, lack of smell |
| Cleaning the brewing block | Once a week. | Water, soft brush. | Stable pressure, taste. |
| Decalcination (internal) | By the indicator signal | Liquid from scale | TEN protection and pumping |
| Replacement of the water filter | Every 2 months | New filter | Softening water, less scale |
Compliance with this schedule allows you to significantly extend the life of expensive components, such as boilers and electromagnetic valves. Ignoring regular cleaning of the brewing unit can lead to mechanical jamming of the mechanism, the repair of which will require disassembly of the body and services of the service center.
The secret to long service
Use only bottled water of low mineralization. This will reduce the frequency of decalcination by 2-3 times and keep the taste of coffee unchanged for years.
Diagnostics of errors and troubleshooting
During operation, various indicators can light up on the display, signaling problems. An error code or flashing symbol often indicates a maintenance need or a malfunction. For example, a flashing red indicator may mean that the water tank is empty, or that the drip tray is installed incorrectly.
If the scale indicator does not go out after the complete decalcination procedure, the cycle may have been interrupted or the concentration of the solution was insufficient. Some models require you to reset the scale counter manually through the settings menu or a combination of buttons. Refer to the user manual of your particular model Krups To clarify the keyboard combination.
⚠️ Attention: If the machine makes an uncharacteristic noise, knocking or humming while operating, stop using immediately and disconnect the device from the network. This may indicate a breakdown of the pump or the presence of an air traffic jam.
A common problem is the weak pressure of coffee. In addition to scale, the cause may be too small grinding of grain or contamination of the mesh of the brewing block. Try to change the degree of grinding in the big way and conduct a washing cycle without coffee. If the problem persists, a deeper diagnosis is required.
The main conclusion: 90% of the breakage of Kruger coffee machines is associated with untimely decalcination and ignoring the indication signals.
Frequent Questions and Answers (FAQ)
Can I use citric acid instead of a special remedy?
The use of citric acid is permissible in extreme cases, if the concentration is very low (no more than 15-20 grams per liter). However, experts do not recommend this regularly, as acid crystals can not dissolve well and scratch the internal surfaces, and also cope with certain types of deposits worse compared to professional chemistry.
Why does the Kruger machine not turn on after cleaning?
This can happen if water gets into the electrical part during the washing of the brewing unit or if the machine was turned off at the wrong time of the cycle. Let the device dry completely for a few hours in a warm place, then try turning it on again. If the problem has not disappeared, you need to contact the service.
How often should the water filter be changed?
The standard life of a filter jug or cartridge is about 50 liters of filtered water or 2 months of use, whichever comes first. If you use very hard water, the resource may run out faster, leading to more frequent decalcination.
What to do if the block is not inserted to the end?
Make sure that the piston of the brewing unit is in the lower position (as when extracted). If it is put forward, the mechanism will not allow the block to be inserted. Also check if foreign objects or coffee residues in the shaft of the installation interfere. Never use force to avoid breaking plastic guides.