Scale inside the heating element Thermoblock or boiler leads to local overheating of the metal and subsequent failure of expensive components of the coffee machine. If regular maintenance is ignored, the layer of calcium carbonate begins to narrow the diameter of the tubes, causing a drop in pressure in the brewing system. As a result, the drink becomes less rich and the pouring time increases, which is often mistaken for pump failure.
Coffee machine cleaning solution is a specialized chemical product, the composition of which is selected depending on the type of contamination: mineral deposits (scale) or organic (coffee oils). Using unsuitable chemicals, such as vinegar or citric acid in high concentrations, can damage the rubber seals and plastic parts of the hydraulic system. A properly selected liquid not only removes plaque, but also contains corrosion inhibitors that protect internal surfaces from aggressive influences.For owners of automatic carob models and capsule systems, regular decalcification is a prerequisite for maintaining the warranty. Manufacturers build in water hardness sensors that signal the need for a procedure, but visual monitoring of the state of steam and the taste of coffee is also important. In this article we will analyze the compositions of various products, their effect on the mechanism and a step-by-step algorithm for safe cleaning.
Causes of scale formation and the effects of hard water
The main enemy of any coffee maker is the hardness of the tap water, which varies depending on the region and season. The water contains calcium and magnesium salts, which, when heated above 60 degrees Celsius, precipitate, forming a solid coating. This process accelerates with frequent use of the steam function, as the temperature in the boiler reaches 100-120 degrees.
Scale has low thermal conductivity, causing the heating element to require more time and energy to reach operating temperature. This leads to increased energy consumption and wear on the heating element. In automatic machines with an infuser, deposits can compromise the seal of the connections, causing leaks.
In addition to mineral deposits, coffee oils accumulate in the system, which over time oxidize and become rancid. Fat deposits often remain even after decalcification unless an oil remover is used. An integrated approach to maintenance involves alternating descaling agents and means for cleaning the brewing unit.
⚠️ Attention: The use of distilled water in some models of coffee machines (for example, Bosch or Siemens) is prohibited because the hardness sensors do not respond to the absence of salts and do not trigger the rinsing cycle, which can lead to corrosion of metal parts.
Types of cleaning agents: acid and alkaline solutions
All means for servicing coffee machines are divided into two main categories according to their chemical composition and purpose. Acidic solutions are intended exclusively for the removal of mineral deposits (decalcification). Alkaline or tablet products are used to dissolve coffee oils and disinfect the brewing unit.
Acid products can be based on organic acids (lactic, citric, sulfamic) or inorganic (phosphoric). Organic acids are gentler and safer for rubber seals, but take longer to react. Inorganic acids are more effective at removing old scale, but require thorough flushing of the system with clean water.
Alkaline products, often available in tablet form, contain sodium percarbonate and other oxidizing agents. They effectively break down the fatty film and disinfect the system. It is important not to confuse these products with anti-scale tablets, since their chemical basis is the opposite.
- 🧪 Liquid concentrates — require dilution with water in the proportion specified by the manufacturer, convenient for dosing.
- 💊 Tablets — a compressed product, soluble in water, convenient for storage and transportation.
- 🌿 Biodegradable formulations - products based on natural acids, safe for the environment.
Review of popular decalcification products
The market offers a wide range of products from coffee machine manufacturers and specialized chemical companies. Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) products such as DeLonghi EcoDecalk or Saeco Descaler, are designed taking into account the specifics of specific models and guarantee compatibility with all assembly materials.
Alternative brands e.g. Topperr, Filtero or Utopia, often offer a more affordable price with a similar composition. Many of them are based on sulfamic acid, which effectively removes scale and does not have a strong odor. When choosing an analogue, it is important to pay attention to the availability of safety certificates and recommendations for use.
There are also universal powders and gels that can be used for coffee machines, kettles or irons. However, for complex automatic systems with electronic control, it is better to choose specialized liquids that do not form excessive foam and are easily washed out.
| Product brand | Base | Release form | Brand country |
|---|---|---|---|
| DeLonghi EcoDecalk | Lactic acid | Liquid | Italy |
| Saeco Descaler | Sulfamic acid | Liquid | Italy |
| Utopia Descaler | Organic acids | Liquid | UK |
| Topper 3058 | Acid complex | Liquid | Russia/China |
Step-by-step instructions: how to wash a coffee machine
The decalcification process may differ depending on the device model, but the general algorithm remains the same. Before starting the procedure, you must empty the drip tray and coffee grounds container. You should also prepare a container with a volume of at least 1.5 liters to collect waste liquid.
First prepare the solution by mixing the product with water in the proportion indicated on the package. Usually this is 100 ml of concentrate per 1 liter of water. Pour the resulting mixture into the water tank. Turn on the coffee machine and go into maintenance mode. On the display or using the indicators, select the "Decalc" or "Descaling" function.
☑️ Checklist before starting flushing
The machine will begin pumping the solution through the system, pausing to dissolve deposits. At this point, steam or foam may be released. Do not interrupt the process until the reservoir is empty. After completing the chemical cleaning cycle, be sure to perform 2-3 rinsing cycles with clean water to remove any remaining acid.
⚠️ Attention: During the decalcification cycle, do not turn off the device from the network. Interrupting the program may leave acid in the boiler, causing corrosion or damage to electronic components.
Cleaning the brewing unit from coffee oils
In addition to scale, it is critical to clean the brewing unit of fat deposits. In automatic machines, this unit can be removable or non-removable. For removable units, it is recommended to remove them once a week and wash them with warm water without detergents.
For deep cleaning, special tablets are used, which are dissolved in a water tank or placed in the ground coffee compartment (depending on the instructions). The active substances of the tablet penetrate into hard-to-reach places in the brewing mechanism, breaking down old oils. After completing the cycle with the tablet, you must thoroughly flush the system with clean water.
The Dangers of Not Cleaning Oils
If coffee oils are not removed, they oxidize and give coffee a bitter, rancid taste. In addition, hardened oils can jam the moving parts of the brewing unit, which will require expensive repairs or replacement of the unit.
Some users try to use dishwashers to clean the infuser units. This is only permissible if the instructions for a specific model Jura, Philips or DeLonghi there is appropriate permission. In most cases, high temperatures and aggressive detergents in the dishwasher deform plastic parts and wash away the factory lubricant.
Folk remedies against professional chemistry
There are popular tips on the Internet for using citric acid or vinegar instead of specialized solutions. Citric acid is indeed a weak organic acidic agent and can dissolve scale. However, the concentration in folk recipes is often selected by trial and error, which carries risks.
Acetic acid, in turn, has a pungent odor that is difficult to wash out of plastic pipes and the boiler. In addition, vinegar may be too aggressive for rubber seals over long periods of contact. Professional products contain surfactants and inhibitors that soften the effect of acid on machine materials.
Tip: If you use water from a reverse osmosis filter or bottled water of low mineralization, the frequency of decalcification can be reduced to 1-2 times a year, but you cannot completely abandon it.
Skimping on the cleaning product can lead to damage to the heater, the cost of which is a significant part of the price of the entire coffee machine. Therefore, using proven chemistry is a better investment in the long term.
Frequently asked questions and errors during maintenance
Many users make typical mistakes when trying to extend the life of a coffee machine or, conversely, accelerating its wear and tear. One of the common mistakes is ignoring the indicator of the need for decalcification. The machine continues to operate, but heating efficiency decreases and the load on the components increases.
Another mistake is using too concentrated a solution in hopes of cleaning the system faster. This may cause chemical burns to internal surfaces and corrosion. Also, you should not pour the product directly into the brewing unit, bypassing the water tank, if this is not provided for by the design.
⚠️ Attention: Never use chlorine-containing detergents or dishwashing detergents to clean the hydraulic system of the coffee machine. Foam can damage the pump, and chlorine can destroy the metal.
Main conclusion: Regular use of the correct solution for cleaning the coffee machine extends the life of the heater by 30-40% and preserves the taste of the coffee.
It is also important to monitor the expiration dates of cleaning products. Expired chemicals may lose their properties or, conversely, become too aggressive. The bottles should be stored in a dry place at room temperature, away from direct sunlight.
Can I use an oil cleaning tablet instead of a descaler?
No, these are different products with different chemical compositions. Oil tablets (alkaline) will not dissolve mineral scale, and scale remover (acidic) is not effective against fats. They must be applied separately according to the maintenance schedule.
How often should I clean my coffee machine with descaling solution?
The frequency depends on the water hardness and intensity of use. On average, it is recommended to carry out the procedure every 2-3 months or after preparing 200-300 cups. Machines with stiffness sensors will tell you when to do this.
Is it dangerous for decalcifier solution to get into the finished coffee?
Yes, it's dangerous and tastes bad. That is why, after a chemical cleaning cycle, it is imperative to run 1-2 full tanks of clean water through the system until the smell and taste of chemicals completely disappear.
What should I do if the machine makes a strange sound after washing?
If the sound appears immediately after the procedure, there may be air left in the system. Try pouring water through the cappuccino maker or group without coffee several times. If the noise persists, pieces of scale may have broken off and become stuck in the valves, requiring service.