Keep Your Espresso
Machine Running Like
Day One
Take care of your machine and it’ll reward you with better coffee. We’ll show you what to do and when.
Your easy, step-by-step guide to keeping your
espresso machine happy and running like new.
Keep your machine brewing beautifully—and avoid costly repairs—with this simple maintenance guide.
Clean the Group Gasket
The group head is where your coffee meets the machine—so it needs special attention. Use a group-head cleaning brush and hot water to scrub around the gasket and maintain a tight seal between the group head and the portafilter.
Purge & Clean the Steam Wand
Milk residue can quickly burn onto the steam wand, causing clogs and off-flavours. Purge the wand before and after use, and wipe it with warm, soapy water using a soft, non-abrasive cloth.
Clear the Drain Tray
Remove the drain tray and pour boiling water into the drain cup. This flushes out coffee grounds and keeps the drain hose clear so water can flow freely.
Backflush the Group Head
Espresso leaves behind oils and fine grounds that build up on brewing surfaces, creating a bitter, stale taste and clogging components like jets, valves, and dispersion screens.
How to backflush:
Replace the filter basket with a blind filter (no holes).
Insert it into the group head.
Run the machine for 5 seconds, then stop.
Repeat several times.
This process forces pressurized water backward through the system, washing away buildup.
Backflush With Detergent (Once a Week)
For a deeper clean, use a liquid espresso cleaner like Clean Express.
Place one teaspoon of detergent in the blind filter.
Run the group in 5-second intervals several times.
Remove the portafilter and rinse thoroughly.
Backflush again with water only until all detergent is cleared.
This removes stubborn coffee oils and keeps your espresso tasting clean and fresh.
Check Water Flow
Filters often restrict water flow as they deteriorate. Lower flow puts strain on your machine and can cause internal damage. If water pressure or flow seems reduced, it’s time to service or replace the filter.
Replace Group Head Shower Screens
Even with regular cleaning, coffee oils eventually clog shower screens.
Signs it’s time to replace:
Espresso tastes dull or bitter
Water sprays unevenly
Flow is inconsistent with no portafilter attached
Replacing the screen is quick, easy, and instantly improves shot quality.
Inspect Your Machine
Do a basic visual check:
Any leaks?
Water flow normal?
Any buildup around the group or inside the tray area?
Are rubber seals still in good condition?
Catching small issues early prevents expensive repairs later.
Schedule a Professional Checkup
While everyday and weekly care can be done on your own, periodic inspections by a trained technician help ensure everything inside the machine is running properly.
Even if you’re not doing the repairs yourself, understanding your machine makes it easier to describe problems and avoid unnecessary service costs.
Essential Tools & Tips to Keep Your Machine Perfect
Quality parts and cleaning supplies keep your espresso machine performing at its best. Replace worn components before they fail and your machine will thank you with years of reliable service.
GROUP HEAD GASKETS AND SEALS
These wear out with use and need replacing every year or two depending on your brewing volume.
SHOWER SCREENS AND BASKETS
Pitting and corrosion develop over time, affecting water distribution and shot quality.
CLEANING BRUSHES AND BACKFLUSH
Regular cleaning prevents oil buildup and keeps internal passages clear for consistent extraction.
When should
you call a
Coffee Machine
Technician?
Good maintenance prevents most problems, but not all. If you notice any of these warning signs, it’s time for a professional checkup.
Weak or inconsistent water flow
Pressure drops, trickling water, or pulsing may indicate pump or internal filter issues.
Heating or temperature problems
If the machine overheats or doesn’t warm properly, the boiler or thermostat may need repair.
Leaks around the machine
Leaks from the steam wand, group head, or base often mean worn seals or damaged lines.
Strange noises or vibrations
Grinding, rattling, or buzzing suggests loose parts or pump trouble.
Poor shot quality after cleaning
If cleaning doesn’t help, there may be internal blockages or calibration issues.
Electrical or power issues
Machines that trip breakers or won’t turn on need immediate professional service.
Steam wand not steaming properly
Weak, sputtering, or no steam indicates a valve or boiler problem.
Due for a routine service
Commercial or heavy-use machines should be serviced every 6–12 months.
FAQ
Find answers to the most common questions about keeping your machine in shape.
How often should I clean my espresso machine?
Daily cleaning is essential for great-tasting coffee. Backflush weekly and do a deep clean monthly to keep your machine running smoothly.
Can I use tap water in my machine?
We recommend using filtered water. Hard or unfiltered water can cause scale buildup and damage internal components over time.
What is backflushing and why is it important?
Backflushing removes coffee oils and residue from the group head. It keeps espresso tasting fresh and prevents clogs in your machine.
How do I know when to call a technician?
If your machine leaks, makes strange noises, has low pressure, temperature issues, or poor coffee quality that cleaning doesn’t fix, it’s time to call a professional.
How often should I replace parts like gaskets and screens?
Check gaskets daily for wear. Replace shower screens and gaskets monthly or when you notice inconsistent water flow or poor espresso shots.
Can I do maintenance myself?
Yes! Daily and weekly cleaning is simple, but for repairs, calibration, or deep internal issues, a trained technician is recommended.
