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Flow and pressure: no flow, slow brewing and pump problems

Oct 03, 2026

No flow from the group

  • Empty tank or air in the system: fill the tank and check that the hose and filter reach the bottom. Open the hot water or steam valve and run the pump until the water flows evenly.
  • The pump makes a noise but nothing comes out: clogged tank filter, air lock or clogged shower screen/dispersion block. Remove the shower screen and try without the portafilter.
  • The pump makes no noise at all: see electrical faults.

Brewing is too slow

  • The grind is too fine or there is too much coffee in the basket. Grind coarser or use less.
  • Clogged shower screen: backflush with Cafetto EVO cleaning powder and soak the shower screen.
  • Clogged holes in the filter basket or in the portafilter spout. Soak in detergent.
  • Limescale in the system: measure your water, see water and descaling.

The pump is louder than usual

A vibration pump always hums, but a louder, rattling noise usually means it is drawing in air: too little water in the tank, the hose has come loose or the filter in the tank is clogged. Top up and bleed the air. If that does not help, the pump may be worn.

Brew pressure too high or too low

If your machine has a brew pressure gauge, it should show about 9 bar while brewing (with coffee or with a pressure gauge portafilter). With a blind basket it often shows 10–12 bar, which is normal. The pressure is set with the over-pressure valve (OPV) inside the machine or with the adjustment screw on rotary pumps. Adjusting it requires opening the housing; follow the manual or have a technician do it.

  • Too low: clogged OPV, worn pump, too little water.
  • Too high on a plumbed-in machine: the inlet pressure is above about 3–4 bar. Fit a pressure regulator.

No or weak hot water

Limescale or dirt in the hot water valve or the nozzle. Clean the nozzle and see steam and hot water valves.

Can't find the fault? Contact us with the model, serial number and a short description, ideally with a video. We will help you find the right spare part or a service technician.

Barista & Espresso