A perfect espresso starts with good coffee beans, the right grind, and… a clean espresso machine. Without regular maintenance, old coffee residue and oils can quickly affect the flavor. At FREKKO, we know: a clean machine = better coffee, more enjoyment, and fewer malfunctions.
Why clean?
- Removes old coffee oils that cause bitter flavors
- Keep your machine in good condition and extend its lifespan
- Prevents blockages and malfunctions
- Ensures a constant temperature and the best extraction
Daily maintenance
- Backflush with water or backflush powder
- Rinse the filter holder and filter baskets with warm water
- Rub and purge the steam pipe after each use (turn on the steam briefly).
- Wiping the exterior and display
Weekly maintenance
- Backflush with backflush powder; follow the instructions on the packaging
- We always recommend powder, not tablets. Powder works better and is also more economical—win-win!
- Clean the shower screen and brewing unit with a brush
- Clean the O-ring of the brewing unit with a cloth
- Clean the filter holder(s) in a bath of backflush powder
- Clean the steam pipe thoroughly with a wet brush or cloth
Periodic maintenance
- Replacing water softener bags
- Check all rubbers for cracks or wear.
- Descaling, only if you use tap water and the manufacturer recommends this
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Advice on how often you should descale your machine based on the dH (German Hardness) of water:
• 0–4 °dH (very soft water)
➝ Descaling: once every 12 months
• 5–7 °dH (soft water)
➝ Descaling: once every 12 months
• 8–10 °dH (moderately hard water)
➝ Descaling: 1x every 6–12 months
• 11–14 °dH (hard water)
➝ Descaling: 1x every 3–6 months
• 15+ °dH (very hard water)
➝ Descaling: every 1–3 monthsIdeal water values for espresso (SCA guidelines as a starting point)
• Total hardness : 3–6 °dH (50–100 ppm CaCO₃)
• Alkalinity : 2–4 °dH (40–70 ppm)
• pH : around 7
• No sodium (salt) or chlorine
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Helpful tips from FREKKO
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Always use fresh, filtered or mineral water to reduce limescale build-up
- Tip: BWT, Brita, Bar le Duc or Spa.
- For cleaning, use only branded agents or mild, coffee-safe products
- Don't use liquid descaler, only a soluble powder. This is not only more economical, but also better for your machine, as it's specifically designed for semi-professional espresso machines.
- Always keep a cloth near your espresso set so you can easily wipe something away or clean your steam pipe immediately after use.
- NEVER use a scouring pad, even if the dirt is stubborn.
- Glassex works well for making your machine shine.
- Do not use abrasives and/or chlorine.
- Be careful with electricity and water.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I backflush?
It's best to flush the machine with water at the end of the day, or during your barista moment. You can do this by briefly turning the machine on without the portafilter in place. With backflush powder: at least once every 10 days, or if you haven't used the machine for more than 7 days.
Can I descale my espresso machine with vinegar?
No, never do this! Vinegar is corrosive and can irreversibly damage components. Always use a professional descaler like the one offered at FREKKO.nl.
What if my steam pipe is clogged?
Faster cleaning ;) Steaming again outside the milk jug after use will remove any remaining milk residue from the nozzle. Still clogged? Remove the steam nozzle and soak it in a special cleaner, then use a brush to clean it.
Can't find your question here, or would you like to know more? Contact us and we'll be happy to help!
How does backflushing work again? Here's an instructional video:
