How to backflush with cleaning detergent for your espresso machine

Brewing a perfect espresso involves many factors, such as choosing the right beans, adjusting the grind size, dosing the correct amount, and applying even pressure when tamping. But one often overlooked factor that is crucial for achieving an exquisite cup is the cleanliness of your espresso machine. A dirty machine can ruin the flavor of your espresso, even if About all other variables are perfect. Here is a step-by-step guide to keeping your espresso machine clean and in top condition.

Cleaning the Group Head

We start with water and detergent backflushing. We recommend a water backflush every day the machine is used, but About if you can only do it once a week, that is also fine. For detergent backflushing, we recommend about once every two weeks for all machines, except those using E61 group heads, where we recommend once every one to two months.

Steps for Backflushing:

1. Insert a blind filter and add up to 3 grams of cleaning powder or an espresso cleaning tablet (only use detergents intended for espresso machines such as Puly Caff plus cleaning powder or Caff plus cleaning tablets. Lock the portafilter into the group head.
2. Activate the brew cycle for 10 seconds and let the machine release the pressure. Repeat 5-8 times depending on how dirty the group head is. It is usually repeated until the water no longer looks brown and dirty.
3. Remove the portafilter. Activate the brew cycle and rinse the portafilter under a water stream from the group head. Stop the cycle.
4. Insert the blind filter again. Lock the portafilter into the group head again, this time with a clean blind filter without cleaning agent. Repeat step 2 to rinse and ensure that no cleaning agent remains. Repeat until the water that comes out looks clear and clean.
5. Soak the filters and the metallic part of the portafilter (not the plastic part) in 6 grams of Puly Caff plus cleaning powder per liter of warm water for 30 minutes.
6. Rinse with water and replace the filters (only during detergent backflushing).

Regular Maintenance

When you have incorporated backflushing into your monthly maintenance routine, the five extra minutes you spend cleaning your machine will save both your taste buds and your wallet. But even a regular backflushing routine cannot clean everything on the other side of your shower screen. A little scrubbing or a new shower screen can make a big difference in the quality of the espresso that your machine produces.

Cleaning the Shower Screen

To maintain the machine's performance and ensure a smooth and clear taste in your espresso, we recommend that you clean the shower screen every week. Here are the steps to remove, clean, and reinstall different types of shower screens:

1. Remove the Shower Screen: Start by turning off the machine and letting it cool down. Use a screwdriver or a suitable tool to remove the screws that hold the shower screen in place. Be careful not to damage the machine or the screen during the process.
2. Cleaning: Soak the shower screen in a solution of warm water and cleaning detergent, such as Cafiza or Biocaf, for at least 30 minutes. Use a brush to scrub away coffee residues and oils that may have stuck to the screen.
3. Rinsing: Rinse the shower screen thoroughly with clean water to remove all traces of cleaning detergent. Dry it properly before putting it back.
4. Reinstallation: Reattach the shower screen to the machine and secure it with the screws. Ensure that the screen is properly seated and that no parts are loose.

Benefits of Regular Maintenance

By following these cleaning routines, you can ensure that your espresso machine always performs at its best. Regular maintenance helps prevent the buildup of coffee residues and oils that can affect flavor and extraction. A clean machine also contributes to a longer lifespan for your equipment, saving you money in the long run by reducing the need for repairs and replacements of parts.

Final Tips

Remember that even the best espresso machine requires regular maintenance to perform optimally. By investing a few minutes each week in cleaning and maintenance, you can enjoy perfectly brewed espresso every time. Additionally, you will extend the machine's lifespan and maintain a consistently high quality in your coffee drinks. A well-maintained machine is the key to a successful coffee experience, so be sure to make cleaning and maintenance a part of your routine.