Basic Espresso Machine Maintenance

With continued use deposits of coffee oils will build up on components of your espresso machine. If not removed regularly they will cause the coffee to taste rancid.

It is imperative therefore that proper cleaning and maintenance procedures become part of the daily routine particularly for commercial espresso machines.

The following steps will ensure your espresso machine remains in a clean and hygienic condition so that it can continue to serve up delicious espresso drinks.

1. Take out the filter handles from the group head and knock out the spent grounds.

2. Remove the filter basket from the filter handle and clean the inside of the filter handle using a non-scouring pad. Check that the filter basket holes are clean and unobstructed. Badly stained components should be soaked overnight in espresso detergent.

3. Back-flush the group heads. This is achieved by using a 'blind' filter and specialist detergent that should have been supplied with your machine. The blind filter back flush process cleans behind the group heads which is not readily accessible to cleaning directly. Place the 'blind' filter into the handle, add espresso detergent and lock into the group head. The continuous flow button should be pressed and then stopped after about 5 seconds. (Alternatively if your machine has an automatic cleaning cycle activate this). Unlock the filter handle and rinse thoroughly with fresh cold water. Repeat the above process without detergent until the water in the blind filter is completely clean.

4. Undo the screw retaining the shower plate and dispersal screen, remove them and clean thoroughly. Clean around the gasket with a small brush. Replace components. (Note that not all espresso machines allow the shower plate to be removed)

5. Re-assemble the filter handle making sure the correct filter basket is re-fitted to the correct handle. (Single basket to single spout etc)

6. Purge the steam wand and carefully remove the nozzle. The jet holes in the nozzle should be checked to see if they are all clear. Wash and replace.

7. Clean the drip tray and rinse out with plenty of clean water to flush the waste pipe and check that the drain hole and pipe are clear.

8.Wipe the outside of the machine with a clean, damp cloth and buff with a dry one.

9. Empty the knock-out drawer of spent grounds, wash thoroughly, rinse and dry. Return to its position.

10. Turn off the main power to the machine.

The above guidelines are given in good faith, but where possible you should always follow the manufacturer's instructions that are specific to the make and model of your espresso machine.