What To Know
- If desired, add a small amount of Breville cleaning solution to the water tank and repeat the flushing process.
- If you live in an area with hard water, consider using a descaling solution to remove mineral deposits from the machine.
- Lubricate the moving parts of the machine, such as the portafilter and group head, with a food-grade lubricant.
Flushing your Breville coffee machine regularly is crucial for maintaining its optimal performance and longevity. It removes accumulated coffee grinds, oils, and mineral deposits that can impair the taste of your coffee and damage the machine’s internal components.
When to Flush Your Breville Coffee Machine
- After every 200 shots: This is the recommended frequency for regular flushing.
- When changing coffee beans: Different beans have different oils and flavors, and flushing the machine ensures that the previous beans’ taste doesn’t linger.
- After extended periods of inactivity: If your machine has been idle for a few days or weeks, flushing it before using it again is essential.
- If you notice a change in coffee taste: If your coffee starts tasting bitter, weak, or stale, flushing the machine may resolve the issue.
How to Flush Your Breville Coffee Machine
Materials:
- Breville coffee machine
- Fresh water
- Cleaning solution (optional)
Instructions:
1. Empty the portafilter: Remove the portafilter and empty any remaining coffee grinds.
2. Fill the water tank: Fill the water tank with fresh, cold water.
3. Insert a blank filter: Place an empty portafilter with no coffee grinds into the group head.
4. Start the brewing cycle: Press the brew button and let the machine run for about 10 seconds.
5. Stop the brewing cycle: Press the brew button again to stop the flow of water.
6. Repeat steps 4-5: Repeat the brewing and stopping process 4-5 times to thoroughly flush the machine.
7. Add cleaning solution (optional): If desired, add a small amount of Breville cleaning solution to the water tank and repeat the flushing process.
8. Rinse the portafilter: Remove the blank filter and rinse it thoroughly with water.
Additional Tips
- Use a descaling solution: If you live in an area with hard water, consider using a descaling solution to remove mineral deposits from the machine.
- Flush the steam wand: After steaming milk, flush the steam wand with hot water to prevent milk residue from clogging it.
- Lubricate the moving parts: Lubricate the moving parts of the machine, such as the portafilter and group head, with a food-grade lubricant.
Troubleshooting Flushing Issues
- No water flow: Ensure that the water tank is filled and that the portafilter is properly inserted.
- Water not hot enough: Adjust the machine’s temperature settings to a higher level.
- Water leaking from the group head: Inspect the group head gasket and replace it if necessary.
Final Thoughts: Keep Your Coffee Machine Pristine
Flushing your Breville coffee machine regularly is a simple but effective way to maintain its performance and extend its lifespan. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your machine consistently brews delicious, flavorful coffee.
Top Questions Asked
Q: How often should I descale my Breville coffee machine?
A: Descaling frequency depends on water hardness. If you live in an area with hard water, descale every 3-6 months.
Q: Can I use vinegar to flush my Breville coffee machine?
A: While vinegar can be used for descaling, it’s not recommended for regular flushing. Breville recommends using their cleaning solution specifically designed for their machines.
Q: Why does my coffee taste bitter after flushing?
A: If your coffee tastes bitter after flushing, it could be due to residual cleaning solution. Ensure that you rinse the machine thoroughly with fresh water after flushing.
