Sediment is a common cause of coffee maker malfunctions. The appearance of a thick crust inside the device leads to its overheating and related failures. To eliminate possible problems, it is important to regularly treat the device with a special descaling agent for coffee machines.
Special products are used to descale coffee machines.
How scale forms
Drinking liquid contains various inorganic components that are responsible for its characteristic taste. Under the influence of high temperature, it is heated and breaks down into carbon dioxide and precipitated salts. Over time, these deposits settle on the heater and other components of the coffee machine, creating an additional insulating layer. This impairs the thermal conductivity of surfaces and forces the machine to operate at increased power.
When exposed to high temperatures, scale forms.
When to clean the device
If the coffee maker is used daily, it is recommended to remove sediment every month. Progressive models are equipped with an electronic control option, which automatically notifies about the degree of contamination of the equipment and the need for preventive cleaning. If such a system is not provided, you can take into account the number of portions brewed recently. The average is 200 cups of drink.
Cleaning Frequency
The frequency of decalcification of the coffee machine is determined by the degree of water hardness. The higher it is, the more often you will have to clean the device.
You can determine high salt concentrations using a kettle. If contaminants form frequently and quickly, it means the water is hard.
How to clean a coffee machine
Any of the products must first be dissolved in water. The volume of the working solution depends on the model and is 1-2 liters or more. Complex models have an automatic cleaning program. The procedure is described in the documentation for the device. If the device has a water filter installed, it must be removed, as the decalcifier will render it unusable.
Semi-automatic machines are cleaned in the normal coffee brewing mode.
Step-by-step instructions for decalcifying a coffee machine
- Unplug the coffee machine and make sure it has cooled down.
- Wipe the outside of the appliance with a damp cloth and clean the cappuccino maker.
- Remove the brew head and remove dirt with a toothbrush.
- Pour decalcifying solution into the pre-rinsed tank.
- Turn on the machine to cook mode and wait until all the liquid has drained.
- Wash the tank, fill it with clean water and run it 2 times to rinse off any remaining product.
During the procedure, do not add water or turn off the coffee machine unless instructed to do so. Do not remove the tray, drip tray or brewing unit during decalcification. Strictly follow the procedure recommended by the manufacturer.
Rules for cleaning coffee machines with different coatings
The specifics of flushing depend on the material used to make the device. Some coffee machine surfaces require more careful care, while others are not afraid of the effects of abrasive compounds.
Ceramics
Cleaning ceramic surfaces is carried out in stages. To begin, pour 500 ml of liquid into the container of the coffee maker and add 2 tbsp. l. soda After boiling the components for 30 minutes, 20 g of citric acid is added to them. The cleaning mixture is brought to a boil again.
Cleaning ceramics is done in stages.
Plastic
You cannot clean plastic surfaces with vinegar. It is replaced with citric acid, adhering to the proportions - 1 packet per 1 liter of water. After the substance dissolves, the liquid is boiled. Cleaning the walls does not happen immediately, so it is better to repeat the procedure 2-3 more times.
Stainless steel
Stainless steel models can easily withstand the effects of vinegar, citric acid and other aggressive cleaning agents. The metal surface is not afraid of repeated washing and retains its clean appearance for a long time. Apple cider vinegar diluted with water in a ratio of 1:10 is suitable for processing.
Stainless steel tolerates citric acid well.
Electrical appliance
Vinegar should not be used when cleaning plastic-coated electrical devices. If the product is metal, you should prepare a cleaning solution based on 500 ml of liquid and 200 ml of 9% vinegar. The mixture is brought to a boil with the lid ajar.
Details
Auto cleanup
If the cleaning of the coffee machine is automatically programmed by the manufacturer, this is very convenient. This means that the consumer will simply follow the steps indicated in the instructions. If it says that you need to use a specific product, then that’s what you need to do. The cleansing process takes about 5 minutes, but there will be no trace of scale if you follow all the rules.
It is better to run the descaling program regularly; if possible, it is better to do it every day. The automatic program can be set to run at night. With the help of such preventive cleaning, you can prevent the initial appearance of scale and eliminate serious malfunctions in the operation of the device. Before starting the automatic cleaning process, you need to check the amount of decalcifier, if it is also supplied from the cartridge in the housing.
REFERENCE! You need to understand that this program is not available in all models of coffee machines, but only in those that are quite expensive (for example, DeLong, Philips and other popular brands). In all other cases, cleansing must be done on your own.
Procedure for coffee machines with an auto-clean function:
— you need to rinse the water tank and remove the grains;
- pour the pre-prepared product into this container;
— run the automatic cleaning program;
— rinse the container and hopper of the device using a stream of water;
— start the program for making coffee and drain the first portion.
How to descale a coffee machine using special products
Before descaling your coffee maker, you first need to choose a product for this. Almost all well-known coffee machine manufacturers offer their own proprietary products for this. Often they are offered to be purchased along with the device itself. The use of such a suitable product is very reliable for her, but some people have doubts about its safety for people.
First, the product must be prepared in a certain way. According to the instructions, this is not difficult; it should be included with the decalcifier itself. In this case, you must not violate the proportions, otherwise there is a risk of damaging the device or harming your health. It is possible to make a coffee machine cleaner yourself, but before using it, you need to carefully study the instructions.
If you need to prepare the product, you can only use clean water to dissolve it, the same as when brewing coffee.
How to clean coffee machine from coffee oils
If you need to clean the coffee machine from coffee oils, you will need special tablets; a descaling agent cannot cope with this.
Periodically, you need to clean the coffee machine filter and the entire brewing unit from coffee oil, where oils and coffee residues are densely deposited. If cleaning is not carried out, the drain valve may become clogged and then the device will have to be repaired. Models are available with or without automatic filter cleaning. REFERENCE! Descaling and oil descaling programs are two different types of cleaning that require different products.
Cleansing tablets
Cleansing with special tablets is carried out with the highest quality. First, they need to be dissolved in water in a certain proportion, which is indicated on the package. One tablet will be needed per treatment. There are different tablets on sale, they can be for scale or coffee oils.
How to descale your appliance using citric acid
Citric acid is the most budget-friendly product that can be used to descale a coffee machine or coffee maker. When using this method, it is necessary to observe proportions; no more than 3 - 4 teaspoons of acid should be used per cycle.
Cleaning is carried out according to the following instructions:
- The coffee machine is unplugged.
- Take out the water tank and rinse it several times under running water.
- Pour water with citric acid into it; the amount of water must be found in the instructions for the coffee machine.
- Run several coffee brewing steps until the container is completely empty.
- Now you need to take out the water tank and wash it, then pour clean water into it.
- Run at least 2 coffee brewing cycles before preparing and drinking real coffee.
REFERENCE! Now you know how to clean a coffee machine with citric acid, but some experts do not recommend using citric acid, because it can damage the parts.
How to clean a coffee maker filter
Many models of coffee makers have filters. They can be disposable or reusable. If you have reusable filters, you can simply wash them under running warm water and detergent. If there is heavy contamination, the filter is soaked in a solution of citric acid, which is prepared at the rate of 5 tablespoons of powder per 1 liter of water. The filter is left in the prepared solution for 1 hour, after which it is washed with hot water and returned to the coffee machine. With disposable filters, when they become dirty, they are simply replaced with new ones.
How to clean the cappuccino maker in a coffee machine
If your coffee machine has a cappuccino maker, it also needs to be cleaned periodically. The remaining milk or cream dries out, clogging the milk supply hose. To purify, you simply need to run clean water through the conversion system. In this case, instead of a container with milk, you need to put a container with water and turn on the hot foam preparation mode. The actions continue until clean, clear water comes out.
Recommendations for use
- It is best not to experiment with your coffee machine and choose products that you think are suitable for it. It is better to clarify this issue with the coffee machine seller, who will help you choose the most suitable option and tell you what product to use to clean the coffee machine.
- The frequency of cleaning should be once a week or once every 2 weeks. The frequency depends on the quality of your water and the amount of coffee brewed.
- You can descale your coffee machine using both branded and universal products.
- Coffee drinks from a freshly cleaned coffee maker are very aromatic and tasty.
- When cleaning, you need to use clean water at room temperature.
Anti-scale products
Cleaning products for the care of coffee makers are divided into several groups. The following types are particularly effective:
- Chemical cleaners.
- Softener filters.
- Decalcifiers.
Chemical
These products contain various acids. They are allowed for models coated in plastic, glass or steel. The substances are highly effective, but can negatively affect built-in automation and rubber seals.
Chemicals contain various acids.
Softening filters
They are distinguished by their ability to reduce water hardness, preventing the accumulation of plaque. After use, magnesium and calcium ions turn into sediment and do not interact with the heater.
Decalcifiers
There are 2 types of decalcifiers available for sale that can be used to clean the coffee maker:
- Pills. They are a mixture of chemical components that are compressed into a single substance for easy use.
- Liquid formulations. The cleaner dissolves instantly and does not contain any solid particles that may remain inside the machine.
Decalcifiers can be used to clean your coffee maker.
Methods No. 1 - cleaning with coffee machine tablets
There are 2 types of tablets that can be used to clean your coffee machine.
For decalcification
They are used if it is necessary to clean specifically from plaque that clogs the internal water channels of the device, preventing the free circulation of liquid and the destruction of plastic and rubber structural elements. The composition of such products, as a rule, includes the following components - maleic and sulfamic acids, baking soda and a corrosion inhibitor.
On the packaging of such tablets you can see the inscription “For decalcification” or the following interpretations of it:
- CALC
- Descaling
- Decalcifier
- Descaling
When choosing a tablet, you need to focus on the brand of the coffee machine. For example, if you have a Bosch coffee machine, you must also use Bosch tablets.
Regardless of the brand of tablets, the instructions for use are as follows:
- Dissolve the tablet in clean water.
- Fill the coffee machine reservoir with the resulting solution to the maximum mark.
If the coffee machine has a special compartment for ground coffee, it is suggested that you place the tablet in it, completely filling the reservoir with clean water.
- Select the function to prepare plain ground black coffee.
- When the glass is half full, turn off the device for 15 minutes.
- Turn on the machine and wait until the machine dispenses the remaining half portion.
- Clean the brewing unit.
- Carry out the brewing cycle twice without using a tablet.
So, scale will be removed from the heater:
Cleaning tablets
They are used when you cleanse coffee and essential oils. Their packaging is labeled “Cleansing” or the following options:
- Clean
- Cleaning
- Cleans
The tablets work in the same way: they are placed in a tank and filled with hot water, after which the draining procedure is repeated several times.
In the following video you can clearly see how KRUPS art.055 cleaning tablets are used:
Folk remedies
You can remove scale from your coffee machine using proven folk remedies. Their effectiveness has been proven by the experience of many users and experts.
Cleaning with citric acid
The method allows you to remove fresh scale from the coffee maker, which has not formed a thick layer and has not become hard. The food additive is safe for all plastic, metal and glass surfaces. To prepare the solution, you need to use 2 tbsp. l. acid diluted in 0.5 liters of water, which will allow you to obtain an effective and not overly aggressive composition.
Cleaning with citric acid removes fresh scale.
Cleaning with brine
The brine needs to be poured into the coffee machine reservoir and boiled for 25-30 minutes.
After this time, the contents will need to be shaken and waited until it cools completely. The method allows you to eliminate rust and sediment.
Cleaning with soda
The soda contains phosphoric acid, which effectively fights salt deposits on the surfaces of the device. It is recommended to use clear drinks when cleaning the coffee maker. Before using the liquid, the gas must be released to prevent the formation of foam. To do this, shake the bottle, and then carefully open it and wait until the bubbles are released.
Soda fights salt deposits.
After this, the soda can be poured into the device, boiled and waited for cooling.
Features of cleaning individual elements of the coffee machine
When refinishing a coffee maker, it is important to clean several elements separately. Among them:
- Cappuccino maker.
- Brewing unit.
- Holder.
Holder
After the part is removed from the machine, a dark residue may be visible on it. To wash the device from dirt, use hot water, immerse the holder there for 20 minutes, and then wipe with a foam sponge (hard surface).
The holder is the part of the coffee machine into which the filter is inserted.
Cappuccino maker
Before processing the component, it is necessary to get rid of condensation. Then the part must be immersed in a container with hot water and soda for 20 minutes.
To completely remove scale, the surfaces should be rubbed with a sponge, rinsed and dried with a dry cloth.
Infuser
After 2 weeks, the brewing unit is removed from the machine and washed under clean water. Then it needs to be installed in its original place. If the part is not removable, then you need to place a cleaning tablet in the department for ground beans, place a large container under the horn and turn on the coffee brewing cycle.
The infuser is removed from the machine.
Why clean your coffee machine?
Pure water contains some types of minerals and trace elements. During heating, limescale deposits form, entering the coffee drink in the form of white flakes, so it becomes tasteless, and as a result, the internal elements of the machine may become corroded. Scale has a porous surface, so bacteria and microorganisms multiply quickly.
Most plaque is formed due to calcium dissolved in water, which is why the process associated with cleaning the device is often called decalcification. It’s easy to understand that it’s time to descale your coffee machine; this is indicated by the following signs:
- the coffee has an unpleasant aroma;
- the drink is weak and under-brewed;
- there was a noticeable decrease in steam pressure;
- The coffee machine began to have a different sound when operating.
Some coffee machines have sensors that automatically check for limescale. If the red light flashes or a message appears on the panel, this is a signal that it is time to clean.
Criteria for choosing descalers for a coffee machine
To make the right choice of descaling agent for your coffee maker, you need to use the compositions recommended by the manufacturer. Some models are incompatible with common substances and require careful care.
There are no restrictions on the form of the cleaning substance. Tablets are easy to store, but take longer to dissolve. The gel acts quickly, but it lasts for 3-4 treatment cycles. The liquid consistency has a lower content of active substance, but is highly effective.
How to descale a coffee machine?
Automatic coffee machines in the high price segment have special cleaning programs. You need to pour liquid descaling agent into the machine and run it in the desired program. If you are using tablets, the drug must be diluted in water according to the instructions and, after complete dissolution, the tablets must be used in the same way as a liquid product.
In some models, a special program is not provided and cleaning is performed in a sequence of actions. The entire procedure is described in the instructions for the coffee machine.
Semi-automatic and many automatic coffee makers are cleaned by simply running the coffee program. Do not add grains; instead of water, add cleaning liquid or a tablet diluted in water. The resulting “drink” is immediately poured out and the procedure is repeated with plain clean water, without any means.
The decalcification procedure is always described in the instructions for the coffee machine. Therefore, strictly adhere to the sequence of actions. The only place where deviation is appropriate is the choice of means. You can take a generic one rather than a branded one, or replace the liquid with tablets.
Rating of the best funds
To quickly descale your coffee machine, you need to use only proven tablets and cleaning products. The rating of the best drugs, according to reviews from experts and users, will help simplify your choice.
DeLonghi EcoDecalk
EcoDecalk is a new decalcification product that has an environmentally friendly composition and is suitable for all models. The liquid is based on raspberry and citric acids and is available in 500 ml bottles. This volume is enough for 5 processing cycles.
DeLonghi EcoDeca is a descaling product.
Philips Saeco Decalcifier
Philips Saeco Decalcifier is designed to care for Gaggia, Philips and Saeco coffee machines. It is sold in 250 ml bottles and is gentle on the internal surfaces of the device. The result of the treatment appears after a few minutes.
TOPPERR 3006
The concentrated composition ensures gentle but effective removal of plaque in different models of coffee machines. It is quite convenient to use this drug: you need to dilute it according to the instructions in the specified dosage, pour it into the reservoir and turn on the cleaning cycle. With the TOPPERR 3006 you can process carob and capsule machines.
TOPPERR 3006 is a concentrated composition.
Krups XS 3000
The drug was developed for the Krups XS 3000 model and is used to prevent scale. The tablets are able to cleanse the internal space of deposits and coffee oil.
Bosch Descaling
Bosch Descaling is sold in sealed packaging of 6 pieces. and is intended for quick cleaning of equipment from limescale. Properly selected proportions of ingredients do not have a negative impact on internal surfaces.
Bosch Descaling is designed for quick cleaning of equipment.
Top House
Produced in Germany and characterized by high decalcification efficiency. In addition, it prevents the appearance of rust. For 1 treatment cycle, 125 ml of product is required.
Durgol Swiss Espresso
The Swiss product is in demand among owners of automatic cars. It has a gentle but quick effect and is 5-10 times faster than descaling products from other brands in terms of response speed. Using a cleaning product, you can completely get rid of lime without additionally treating the coffee machine with chemicals.
Durgol Swiss Espresso is in demand.
Comparison table of characteristics
| Name | Manufacturer country | Release form | Compatibility |
| DeLonghi EcoDecalk | Italy | Liquid preparation | All brands |
| Philips Saeco Decalcifier | Germany | Liquid preparation | Saeco, Philips and Gaggia |
| Krups XS 3000 | Germany | Tablet form | KRUPS Espresseria Automatic and Barista |
| Bosch Descaling | Germany | Tablet form | Bosch, Siemens, Gaggenau, Neff |
| Top House | Germany | Liquid | All brands |
| Durgol Swiss Espresso | Switzerland | Liquid composition | All brands |
| TOPPERR 3006 | Germany | Concentrate | All brands |
