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.
Written by Fenton Wayne - (Fenton Wayne is an independent advisor
in the coffee and vending trade where he has over 25 years
experience. This article has been submitted to and distributed
by www.submityourarticle.com)