During continued use coffee oils and residues bake on to
the brewing equipment and if not removed will seriously
affect the quality of the final beverage. Coffee contains
tannins that can stain the machine making it appear
unsightly and the build up of oils in the filter baskets
and spout can make the coffee taste rancid and sour.
It is imperative therefore that proper cleaning and
maintenance procedures become part of the daily routine
particularly for commercial espresso machines.
The following steps will ensure your espresso machine
remains in a clean and hygienic condition so that it can
continue to serve up delicious espresso drinks.
1. Take out the filter handles from the group head and
knock out the spent grounds.
2. Remove the filter basket from the filter handle and
clean the inside of the filter handle using a non-scouring
pad. Ensure all the filter holes are clear. Badly stained
components should be soaked overnight in espresso detergent.
3. Back-flush the group heads. This is achieved by using a
'blind' filter and specialist detergent that should have
been supplied with your machine. The blind filter back
flush process cleans behind the group heads which is not
readily accessible to cleaning directly. Place the 'blind'
filter into the handle, add espresso detergent and lock
into the group head. Press the continuous flow button, wait
a few seconds and then press stop. (Alternatively if your
machine has an automatic cleaning cycle activate this).
Unlock the filter handle and rinse thoroughly with fresh
cold water. Repeat the above process without detergent
until the water in the blind filter is completely clean.
4. Undo the screw retaining the shower plate and dispersal
screen, remove them and clean thoroughly. Clean around the
gasket with a small brush. Replace components. (Note that
not all espresso machines allow the shower plate to be
removed)
5. Re-assemble the filter handle making sure the correct
filter basket is re-fitted to the correct handle. (Single
basket to single spout etc)
6. Purge the steam wand and carefully remove the nozzle.
Check that all the steam jet holes are completely clear.
Clean thoroughly and replace nozzle.
7. Clean the drip tray and rinse out with plenty of clean
water to flush the waste pipe and check that the drain hole
and pipe are clear.
8.Wipe the outside of the machine with a clean, damp cloth
and buff with a dry one.
9. Empty the knock-out drawer of spent grounds, wash
thoroughly, rinse and dry. Return to its position.
10. Turn off the main power to the machine.
The above guidelines are given in good faith, but where
possible you should always follow the manufacturer's
instructions that are specific to the make and model of
your espresso machine.
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For more information about espresso coffee and espresso
making equipment visit http://www.cafebar.co.uk
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