Descaling your coffee machine is essential to extend its lifespan and ensure tasty drinks. Indeed, the accumulation of limescale can alter the taste of your coffee and damage the appliance. Fortunately, there are simple methods to effectively clean your machine. Here are our practical tips for perfect descaling!
Why do you need to descale your coffee machine?
The water we use to prepare our coffee naturally contains minerals, including calcium and magnesium, which can be deposited as limescale in the internal components of your machine. This limescale can clog pipes, reduce the performance of the appliance and even damage it in the long term. Regular descaling is therefore essential to maintain the quality of your coffee and the longevity of your machine.
How often should you descale your machine?
How often you need to descale depends on how much you use your machine and how hard the water is in your area. If you live in Brussels, where the water can be quite hard, it is recommended to descale your machine every 2 to 3 months. However, if you use your machine frequently or if the water in your area is particularly hard, it may be necessary to do it more often.
Steps to Descaling Your Coffee Machine
Prepare your descaling solution
You can buy specific products to descale your coffee machine, often available in liquid or tablet form. If you prefer a more natural solution, you can also use white vinegar diluted with water (1 part vinegar to 2 parts water). However, be sure to check the manufacturer's recommendations in your machine's manual, as some models do not tolerate vinegar.
Empty the water tank
Before you begin the process, make sure to empty your machine's water tank. Also remove any coffee filters and other removable accessories.
Pour the descaling solution into the tank
Fill the water tank with your descaling solution. If you are using a specific product, follow the instructions on the package. If you are using a homemade solution, prepare it in advance.
Start the descaling cycle
Turn on your machine and run a coffee brewing cycle without coffee in the filter holder. Some machines have a specific descaling mode. If not, run a normal cycle and let the solution circulate through the pipes.
Rinse thoroughly
Once the descaling cycle is complete, empty the tank and refill it with clean water. Run several cycles of clean water to thoroughly rinse out all descaling residue and avoid any unwanted taste in your coffee.
Clean the filter holder and other accessories
Take this opportunity to clean the filter holder, steam nozzle (if your machine has one) and other removable parts. A simple wash with hot water is sufficient.
Additional tips for optimal maintenance
Use filtered water : To slow down limescale build-up, you can use filtered water or a filter carafe to brew your coffee.
Maintain your machine regularly : In addition to descaling, remember to regularly clean the other components of your machine (tank, filter holder, etc.) to ensure optimal coffee quality.
Check the indicator lights : Some machines have an indicator light that indicates when it is time to descale. Don't wait for it to come on to maintain your machine!
Descaling your coffee machine is a simple but essential step to preserve the quality of your coffee and ensure a long life for your appliance. Follow these tips and you will be able to enjoy consistently delicious coffee, without the taste of limescale, while extending the performance of your machine.
If you are looking for a new coffee machine, do not hesitate to visit us in our appliance store in Stockel. We will advise you on the best products to maintain your equipment and guarantee you a perfect coffee experience!