Cleaning espresso machines - How to backflush correctly

What is espresso machine backflushing?

Backflushing is a method of cleaning your espresso machine's internal components, such as the shower screen, brew group and three-way valve. The method only works on machines that have a three-way valve, i.e. all espresso machines with an E61 group head design. This means everyone Profitec models, the majority of Rocket Espresso machine models. See picture below to understand what an E61 group looks like. The valve is a small valve that opens up and releases the water pressure from the coffee and deposits it in the drip tray when the brewing process is complete. When we backflush, we use this pressure to blow cleaning fluid up into the brew components. It is important to clean the machine regularly to avoid dirt and lime deposits that build up over time, which can affect the taste of the coffee and the performance of the espresso machine.

Why is it important to backflush your espresso machine?

Backflushing cleaning is important because it removes old coffee fats and deposits that can cause your coffee to taste bitter and rancid. It also prevents the coffee from building up on the shower screen and eventually blocking it. If you notice that there is not as much water flowing out of the shower screen as before, you know that it is blocked by limescale and dirt that is restricting the flow of water. THEN IT'S TIME TO BACK FLUSH!

How to backflush your espresso machine

The process is simple. First, perform 5 backflush cycles with detergent, then perform 5 cycles with just water.

To backflush your espresso machine, you need the following tools:

• Backflushing sink (Blind filter)
• Espresso cleaner (Our recommendation Puly Caff plus 900g)

Buy Puly Caff plus 900g cleaning agent

Follow these steps to backflush your espresso machine:

1. Start the machine and make sure it is warm.
2. Make sure the portafilter with blind filter is clean.
3. Add a cleaning agent to the portafilter about 3g or half a teaspoon.
4. Insert the portafilter into the machine and start the pump. Let the pump run for 10 seconds and stop brewing when 10 seconds have passed.
5. Let the machine stand for 5 seconds.
6. Repeat steps 4 and 5, five times.
7. Remove the portafilter and rinse thoroughly with warm water.
8. Start the machine without the portafilter for a few seconds to flush out any detergent residue.
9. Replace the portafilter and perform the full backflush cycle again without detergent 5 times. Tip! If you think the water still looks white and soapy, you can continue to backflush without detergent until the water looks clear and clean.
10. When you're done, clean the portafilter again, put the regular filter basket back in, and now you're ready to brew espresso!

Squeaky handle after backflush

Some people find that the handle can start to squeak after backflushing. This is completely normal and is due to the components being dried out by the cleaning agent. After a few brews the problem should resolve itself as the coffee oils will provide some degree of lubrication. If the problem persists, you can lubricate the cam mechanism with a food-safe lubricant. Our recommended lubricant is Molykote 111 compound (silicone grease).

How often should a backflush be performed?

The recommended frequency may vary depending on how often you use the espresso machine and from manufacturer to manufacturer. Therefore, first check what is written in your user manual.

Our general recommendation based on daily use:

• Perform 5 backflush cycles with just water. (Daily)
• Perform the entire backflush process with detergent. (4-6 week interval)

Tips for maintaining your espresso machine

To keep your espresso machine in good condition and avoid problems that can affect the taste and quality of the coffee, follow these tips:

• Use as good water as possible.
• Brush and wipe clean the shower screen. (Daily)
• Perform 5 backflush cycles with just water each day (the days you use the machine/daily).
• Leave the filter baskets and portafilters in detergent and hot water (4-6 week intervals)

Summary

Backflushing is an important part of cleaning your espresso machine and keeping it in good condition. By backflushing your espresso machine regularly, you can keep it clean and in good condition, while preventing old coffee grounds and deposits from settling on the shower screen and obstructing water flow. Therefore, it is important that you backwash your espresso machine to keep your espresso machine clean and in good shape, you can enjoy a good and reliable cup espresso every time you brew.