Filling the hydraulic system of a DeLonghi coffee machine

Espresso machines DeLonghi They are famous for their reliability, but after long-term transportation or first use they require mandatory training. The hydraulic system of the device is a closed circuit in which water circulates under high pressure created by a vibration or rotary pump. If air remains in the tubes and boiler, normal circulation of liquid is impossible, which can lead to overheating of the heating element or noisy operation of the device.

The process of initial startup or restoration of operation after transportation is often called “priming.” The essence of the procedure is to displace air pockets from internal lines and completely fill all containers with water. Ignoring this stage risks failure of the thermoblock, since without water heating element instantly overheats. That is why manufacturers insist on strict adherence to the filling algorithm before the first cup of coffee.

In this article, we will look in detail at how to properly prepare your coffee machine for operation, what nuances exist for different models, and how to understand that the system is completely ready for brewing espresso. Proper preparation will extend the life of the machine and guarantee a stable pressure of 9 bar, necessary for the ideal extraction of coffee beans.

Why does air appear in the system and why is it dangerous?

When transporting from the factory or when moving, the coffee machine is subject to shaking, as a result of which the water from the boiler and pipes is partially or completely drained, replaced by atmospheric air. Air also enters the system if you have not used the device for a long time and water has evaporated from the open valves. The presence of air pockets in the hydraulic system is not just a technical feature, but a real threat to pump and heater.

When you turn on the device with air inside, the pump begins to pump gas, not liquid. Since air is compressible, the pressure in the system does not reach operating values, and the solenoid valve does not open to supply water to the group. At this time, the heating element, having received a command to work, heats up in a dry environment. Modern models DeLonghi They have dry-running protection, but regular dry runs reduce the life of the thermoblock.

⚠️ Warning: Never try to brew coffee if only air is dripping from the spout or steam is coming out without water. This is a direct sign of airiness in the system, requiring immediate bleeding.

In addition to the risk of breakage, air affects the quality of the drink. Gas bubbles entering the coffee tablet disrupt the uniformity of the pour. Instead of a dense, viscous stream with creamy foam, you will get a watery liquid with a ragged flow. Therefore, removing air is not only a technical necessity, but also a key to the taste of your espresso.

Preparing equipment and supplies

Before you start filling the hydraulic system, you need to prepare your work area and the coffee machine itself. You will need a source of clean water, preferably filtered or bottled, so that immediately after pumping you can appreciate the taste of the coffee without the taste of chlorine or rust. Hard water quickly forms scale inside narrow channels boiler, which will lead to lower performance in the future.

Also make sure the water tank is clean and dry inside. If the machine has just been unpacked, remove all shipping tape, foam inserts, and protective films. Pay special attention to the bean compartment and drip tray - they must be installed in their places, as many models DeLonghi will not start the washing cycle if the pan is not inserted all the way.

To make the process easier, prepare a container with a volume of at least 0.5 liters. It will be needed to collect technical water that will leave the system upon first start-up. This water may contain factory grease residues or dust, so it should absolutely not be used for drinking. Place a cup under the hot water spout and under the cappuccino maker, if equipped.

Step-by-step instructions for starting DeLonghi for the first time

The process of filling the hydraulic system may differ slightly depending on the series of coffee machine (Magnifica, Dedica, Autentica), but the basic algorithm is the same for all models with a pump. First, fill the tank with water up to the mark MAX. Place the tank in place, making sure that it is firmly seated on the guides and that the level indicator float moves freely.

Turn on the device using the power button. Immediately after turning on, the machine may make a short pump sound - this is normal, the system is conducting self-diagnosis. If the “No water” indicator on the panel lights up or the drop symbol flashes, this confirms that the sensor does not see liquid in the line. In this case, it is necessary to forcefully start the water supply.

To start pumping, follow these steps:

• ☕ Press the hot water button (cup or tap symbol) to open the solenoid valve.
• 💧 At the same time, turn the cappuccino maker (steam) handle to the “Steam” or “Water” position, if the model requires it.
• 🔊 Listen to the sound of the pump: at first it will hum louder than usual, pumping air, then the sound will become even, and water will come out of the spout.
• 🛑 As soon as there is a smooth stream without “spitting”, turn off the water supply and close the steamer.

Repeat the procedure 2-3 times to ensure that all air has been removed from the system. Some models DeLonghi with electronic control (series ECAM) the process can be automated: the machine itself will offer to carry out a washing cycle when you first turn it on. Follow the instructions on the display by pressing the confirmation button.

Nuances for different series: Magnifica, Dedica and Autentica

Although the principle of operation of the hydraulic system is the same, control of the filling process in different lines DeLonghi has its own characteristics. For owners of popular horn models of the series Dedica (eg EC680, EC685) it is important to know that they do not have an automatic flush cycle when turned on. They need to manually open the hot water valve by turning the function selector to the appropriate position.

Series Magnifica (eg ESAM) is often equipped with mechanical buttons or rotary controls. Here it is important not to just press the button, but to hold it or combine it with turning the steam knob. In more advanced models with a display (ECAM) when turned on for the first time, a test run is started. The machine itself pushes water through the system, and you only need to place the container in time and add water to the tank if the indicator asks for it.

Superautomatic machines with the system deserve special attention LatteCrema. The hydraulic system in them is more complex, since there is a circuit for milk. However, filling the main water circuit occurs in a similar way. The main thing is not to confuse the airing of the water system with the need to flush the milk circuit, which is performed as a separate function.

Diagnosing problems when filling the system

Sometimes even after following all the instructions, the coffee machine behaves strangely. The most common problem is that the pump hums, but the water does not flow, or flows in jerks. This may indicate that the air lock is in the highest part of the tube and cannot be pushed out by gravity. In such cases, the “purge” method helps: you need to remove the water intake tube from the filter in the tank, draw water into the syringe and forcefully push it into the tube, creating pressure opposite to the direction of the pump.

Another possible cause is a clogged inlet filter in the tank or at the pump inlet. If small particles of plastic from packaging or scale got into the water, they could block the narrow cross-section of the valve. Visually inspect the strainer at the bottom of the tank and, if necessary, rinse it under running water. Also check if the silicone hose inside the housing connecting the tank to the pump is kinked.

⚠️ Attention: If you hear a cracking or knocking sound inside the case while the pump is running, turn off the device immediately. This may indicate cavitation (collapse of air bubbles) or mechanical failure of the pump impeller.

In rare cases, the problem lies in the solenoid valve. If it is stuck in the closed position due to a manufacturing defect or scale, water will not flow into the boiler, despite a working pump. Diagnostics of the valve requires disassembling the body and checking with a multimeter, so if you suspect this malfunction, it is better to contact a service center.

Maintenance of the hydraulic system after filling

After the hydraulic system has been successfully filled and the device has begun to operate normally, it is important to maintain it in good condition. Regular use of soft water is key to longevity. Even if you use bottled water, it is recommended to carry out a decalcification cycle using a special product every 2-3 months DeLonghi EcoDecalk. The acidic solution removes micro-deposits that inevitably form on the walls of the heater.

Also, do not forget about regular washing of the brewing group. In automatic machines, this happens when turning it on and off, but once a week it is worth removing the brewing unit (if the design allows) and rinsing it with warm water without detergents. This will prevent stagnation of coffee oils, which over time can clog small holes in the hydraulic part of the brewer.

If you plan not to use the coffee machine for more than two weeks, it is recommended to drain the water from the system. To do this, after turning off, open the hot water tap and remove the tank - the remaining water will flow out by gravity. This will prevent the water from blooming and the formation of stagnation, which will take a long time to wash out the next time you start it.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)