How to Descale a Coffee Machine
What is Descaling?
Descaling is the process of removing mineral deposits that accumulate inside a coffee machine.
These deposits are primarily made up of calcium and magnesium from your water supply. Even if the machine appears clean on the outside, limescale can build up internally over time.
Regular descaling helps:
- Maintain brewing temperature
- Improve water flow
- Support better coffee extraction
- Reduce strain on internal components
- Extend machine lifespan
Signs Your Coffee Machine Needs Descaling
What Happens If You Don't Descale?
- Slower brewing times
- Reduced water flow
- Unusual noises during brewing
- Lower coffee temperature
- Bitter or inconsistent flavour
- Descale warning light illuminated
- Increased steam production
Ignoring these signs can eventually affect performance and reliability.
How to Descale a Coffee Machine
Step 1 - Prepare the machine
- Empty the water tank
- Remove any coffee capsules or beans from active brewing cycles
- Remove water filters if recommended by the manufacture
- Ensure the drip tray is empty
Step 2 - Prepare the Descaling Solution
Follow the instructions provided with your descaling product.
Ensure the solution is fully dissolved before adding it to the water tank.
Step 3 - Run the Descaling ycle
- Start the machine's descaling programme if available.
- If no dedicated programme exists, run water through the coffee outlet and steam wands in stages
- Continue until the tank is empty
Step 4 - Rinse Thoroughly
- Rinse the water tank
- Fill with fresh water
- Run at least one full tank of clean water through the machine.
Step 5 - Return to Normal Operations
Reinstall any water filters and resume normal brewing.
How Often Should You Descale?
For most coffee machines:
Soft Water: Every 3 - 4 months
Medium Water: Every 2 - 3 months
Hard Water: Every 1 - 2 months
Machines used frequently may require more regularly descaling.
Many modern machines will also display a descaling reminder when maintenance is due.
Nespresso Descaling Guide
Original and Vertuo machines should be descaled regularly to maintain brewing performance.
Sage Descaling Guide
Sage machines benefit from both descaling and regular backflushing
De'Longhi Descaling Guide
Bean-to-cup and espresso models require routine descaling based on water hardness and usage