Regular descaling is crucial to keep your Breville espresso machine working well and to ensure that your coffee tastes great. Descaling removes the minerals and limescale that build up in the heating elements, keeping your espresso machine in top shape. Understanding how to descale your Breville espresso machine could save you from potential issues down the line.
To get started, you need some simple items like Breville’s own descaling solution and water. Different models like the Barista Express, Pro, and Touch have specific descale programs. Knowing how to use these programs will make the descaling process easier and quicker.
For those using a Breville machine, following the steps correctly will ensure a smooth process. Adding the descaling solution, entering the descale mode, and following the automated steps will help keep your machine clean. This simple routine helps maintain the machine’s performance and extends its lifespan.
Preparing Your Breville for Descaling
To descale a Breville espresso machine, you need the right materials and steps. This part covers gathering what you need, cleaning the machine, and mixing the descaling solution.
Gathering Necessary Materials
Start by gathering the materials needed for the descaling process. You will need Breville’s descaling solution or a mixture of citric acid and water. You may also use white vinegar, though it’s less recommended.
You will also need a large container to catch the water and solution mix during the process. A clean cloth and some fresh water are necessary for rinsing. Finally, ensure that you have the Breville user manual handy, as it has specific instructions for your model.
Initial Cleaning Steps
Switch off and unplug your Breville espresso machine. Allow it to cool down to avoid burns. Next, remove and empty the water tank and the water filter. This prevents the filter from trapping the descaling solution.
Disassemble parts like the portafilter (if your model has one) and give them a rinse. Ensure there are no leftover coffee grounds or residues. Check the machine’s drip tray and clean it if necessary. Reassemble the machine, leaving out any parts that the manual specifies.
Mixing the Descaling Solution
Follow the instructions on the descaling solution packet. If using a Breville descaling packet, dissolve it in warm water, usually around 1 liter. Pour this solution into the water tank.
If using citric acid, mix about 20 grams with a liter of warm water. For those preferring white vinegar, mix equal parts of vinegar and water. Always double-check the user manual for your specific model’s needs. This solution helps break down the mineral buildup inside the machine.
Executing the Descaling Process
To keep your Breville espresso machine in top shape, follow these steps to descale it. Be sure to gather all items beforehand, including the descaling solution and fresh water.
Filling the Water Tank
Begin by turning off the espresso machine. Remove the water tank and empty it out. Dissolve one packet of Breville’s descaling solution into 1 liter of warm water. Pour this solution into the water tank. Reinsert the tank back into the machine.
Check the tank is securely in place. The warm water helps dissolve the descaling solution faster. This step is important to ensure the descaling process works well.
Starting the Descale Cycle
With the machine off, press and hold the ‘2-cup’ and ‘power’ buttons at the same time. This will start the descale cycle on most Breville models. Watch the LCD display if your machine has one. The machine will pump the descaling solution through its system.
Keep an eye on the machine during this process. This cycle may take up to 20 minutes as the solution works through the internal parts. Ensure all the solution has passed through before moving to the next step.
Rinsing and Finishing Up
After the descaling cycle is done, remove the water tank. Empty any leftover solution and rinse the tank thoroughly. Fill it to the max line with fresh cold water. Reinsert the tank back into the machine. Now, start the rinse cycle by pressing the ‘power’ button again.
Let the machine run the rinse cycle completely to clean out any remaining solution. This ensures no descaling solution remains in the system. Once finished, your espresso machine is ready to use again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Descaling your Breville espresso machine keeps it working smoothly. Below, you will find answers to some common questions.
What are the steps to descale the Breville Barista Express?
- Empty the water tank.
- Replace the filter.
- Fill the tank with descaler solution.
- Turn on the machine and run it until the solution is gone.
- Rinse with fresh water.
Can descaling a Breville Barista Pro be done using vinegar?
Using vinegar for descaling is not recommended. It can harm the machine parts. It’s better to use the descaling solution provided by Breville.
Which descaling tablets are recommended for Breville espresso machines?
Breville recommends using their own brand of descaling tablets. These tablets are specially formulated for their machines. They ensure a good clean without damaging the machine.
What is the process to descale a Breville Bambino espresso machine?
- Turn off and cool the machine.
- Remove the water tank.
- Mix descaler solution in the tank.
- Start the descaling cycle as per the manual.
- Rinse with fresh water.
How frequently should a Breville espresso machine be descaled?
Descaling should be done every 2-3 months. The frequency may vary depending on usage and water hardness. Check the manual for specific guidelines.
What indicators show that a Breville espresso machine needs to be descaled?
Signs that descaling is needed include:
- Longer brewing times
- Unusual noises
- Reduced steam
- Notification lights (on some models)
