One_Descaling_Procedure

by Bruce Colglazier Pappas

NOTE: Do NOT use citric acid (like Dezcal powder) for this procedure. Only use sulfamic acid (like Durgol or Dezcal liquid).

DISCLAIMER: Over time, we each develop our own way of descaling our machines. Please follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning your machine, if it differs from mine.

I use Durgol, as it’s very mild compared to others like Dezcal powder and it’s made of sulfamic acid. In my experience, it also doesn't create a metal aftertaste. But it’s still acid, so you still need to be careful to wipe up spills on the chrome with a dry paper towel. I focus on three parts: element, boiler, and grouphead/steam wand/pressurestat (if your machine has a pressurestat). Then rinse repeatedly. Here is what I do for a thorough cleaning:

A. Clean the element

1. Pour the bottle into the boiler.
2. Add enough tap water to cover the element.
3. Let set 15-30 minutes. Do not turn on yet.

B. Clean the boiler

1. Fill the boiler (all the way to the top) with tap water.
2. Let set another 15-30 minutes. Do not turn on yet.

C. Clean the grouphead/steam wand/pressurestat

1. Pull off some of the water, so it's down to the top of the sight glass, because you're going to heat the machine. I use a turkey baster to remove excess water.
2. Screw on the boiler cap. Now turn on the machine, as if you're going to make espresso.
3. When heated, run some cleaning solution (steam) through the steam wand. Catch the solution in a cup.
4. Also, run some cleaning solution (water) through the grouphead. Catch the solution in a bowl. No need to insert the portafilter and basket, unless the basket has mineral buildup. This will also run cleaning solution through the pressurestat, if you have one.
5. Wait for the machine to cool, remove the boiler cap, and then empty the remaining water. Tip the machine into the sink. Wipe down machine.

D. Rinse repeatedly

1. Fill the machine with water to the top of the sight glass, screw on the boiler cap, turn on again, heat up, and rinse both the steam wand (steam) and the grouphead (water).
2. Wait for the machine to cool, remove the boiler cap, and then empty the remaining water. Tip the machine into the sink. Wipe down machine.
3. Fill the machine with water completely. Do not turn on. Let sit a few minutes. Empty boiler by tipping the machine into the sink. (Repeat if needed.)

You're done. Enjoy your clean machine!

Here is a video from Seattle Coffee Gear, if you prefer videos. Their process is not as detailed as mine.

If you want to make your own descaling product, follow this video from Whole Latte Love.

Created 31-AUG-2017 | updated 04-FEB-2023 | BCP