*Cleaning* - 10 seconds on, 5 seconds off. Repeat this process 5 times *Rinsing* - Repeat above cycles without cleaning agent and then pull one quick flush of the group head. This was all extremely helpful information for that Profitec Go I'm ordering from you guys. You have some of the best equipment for the best prices. Thanks for all that you do. 🙂
I really needed this video, thank you so much! So straightforward. I have a Profitec 700 and it tells me when I need to clean it. Super easy. Yes, my machine does squeak afterwards. It scares me a bit but then before I know it, the squeak is gone.
Hi RR, You are welcome for the video - happy to help! Those coffee oils lubricate the parts cleaned by backflushing so the squeaks go away. If they don't, it's an indication yoou're backflushing with detergent too frequently.
I think flushing after each espresso without blind filter, is convenient and enough. I do it, mainly for cleaning the shower head. Doing the whole cleaning process with cleaner should be done carefully because E61 Brewgroup is lubricated by the coffee oils. So not to be done too often. I guess once a month as stated in the video is good for normal use.
Also moving to an Espazzola-2+3-58 (the new model with the metal tabs) will help clean the shower screen and around the shower screen without adding too much wear and tear to it.
omg thanks for adressing the squeaky lever thing - each time i was wondering if it was normal on my rocket or if the all thing was ultimately gonna jam on me...
Great video. This procedure is somewhat different than what is described in my ECM Synchronika Owners Manual. ECM advises the following steps: (1) lever up for 20 seconds, (2) lever in middle position for 30 seconds, (3) lever down to discharge. Repeat ten times (or more as needed.) I like the procedure you describe here better. I have done the ECM OM method three times over the last year, and I now have a squeaky and stiff lever; that has not really resolved itself. I am wondering if the Cafiza is left in too long (in the ECM method) and washed away the lubricant. I have ordered the lever gaskets and silicone kit to lubricate and replace as required once I open it up this weekend. Going forward, after I lubricate, I am going to use your frequencies and methods and try that out. Thanks again for the great videos.
Hi AA, Thanks for the comment! In our experience overdoing with Cafiza can remove lubricant and cause the squeaking. Reducing frequency and duration of Cafiza back flushing is a good plan.
@AA, I once had the same issue with my Rocket Appartamento. I left the Cafiza in bit too long during the 5 pull cycle and was stuck with a squeaky lever. I used food safe lubricant on the cam and squeak went away. It hasn’t been back since. I you were able to work out your squeak as well.
Sir, I am a coffee machine engineer with 25 years experience and I can advise that not allowing the chemical to “work”. The chemical cleans by flowing back through the 3 way valve, it foams up an this way propels itself through the 3 way valve. Also running the group for 10 seconds will not improve the end result. The group will fill its limit in under 5 seconds, the pressure builds, then you allow its release, thus causing the chemical to foam backwards, I always recommend leaving the activating powder for maximum of 2 minutes. I agree with your rinsing though. I also “advise” my customers not to use the inbuilt backwashing programmes, the manual way will dissolve more coffee oil residues..
Sorry but are you saying pull the level and hold completely on for 2 minutes runtime straight, or are you saying run for 10 seconds on, the. 10 off for total backflush time of 2 min??
@@ozpain1 the first shot of water will start the activation of the powder, only need to run for 5 seconds as that’s all it will take to fill the ports filter, do that twice then leave for 2 minutes.. after 2 minutes on 5 seconds and off again. Empty prtafilter and do the no 5 second ..off empty 5 more times.
@@bigoldawg2791 I'll gladly provide translation "First do 5 seconds with your cleaning powder. Do this twice. Then let the machine sit for two minutes. Then do another 5 second flush. Now, empty the portafilter, place naked portafilter back in, and do 5 more 5-second water flush ( no more caviza powder is needed ) - Good to go! lol
I thought generally it should be backflushed with detergent every day after use, not just pure water. But now I consider this video as a new insight and will reduce detergent use. Thanks 💪
Hi Filip, that's common in a commercial setting for machines the pull 100+ shots a day, but overkill in the home. Different manufacturers have different recommendations, for example ECM/Profitec suggests a detergent backflush every 90-140 brew cycles. We've found it's easier for people to remember on a regular schedule rather than counting cycles, thus the 1 month recommendation, which can be adjusted if you have particularly low or high usage. AJ
@@Wholelattelovepage hi AJ, yes, makes sense definitely. Thanks for additional clarification. Since I am using same E61 group just on Sanremo Treviso, and pull 5-10 shots per day, I will reduce the cleaning cycle for sure. 🙂
Great video! I've always wondered, if cleaning with detergent can remove the lube from the lever components, does that mean some get into the coffee each time you pull a shot?
Correct information. I will only do daily backflushing with grouphead detergent in a heavy commercial environment. There are users who follow cafe advice to performing aggressive cleaning for their home machine. Such aggressiveness destroy the vib pump and a total waste of time. Home users should get the daily grouphead flushing done in less than a minute. The Bezzera grouphead on the left has better engineering. Requires lesser detergent cleaner as it due to its cleaner design with lesser surface for oil to stick.
Hello! When you say to do a water back flush daily you just mean with an empty portafilter or no portafilter, correct? Not a daily waterflush with a back flush disc? Thankyou! Your videos are fantastic and have been a blessing in getting used to my profitec go.
Hi m, I'm not familiar with the machine - but have used similar entry-level appliance grade products. Back flushing those types of products is not a thing as they do not have valves which release pressure within the portafilter at the end of the brew cycle. I'm guessing it would be recommended with a procedure in the manual if needed for the product. I can say that every machine with the valve which releases pressure exhausts the pressure at the end of a brew cycle. You would a whoosh and excess water from the portafilter would be output somewhere - usually the drip tray. If you do not hear/see that happening I would not back flush unless specifically recommended by the manufacturer.
Im having trouble getting a response from my machine's manufacturer about if this is recommended. Is this okay to do on a Profitec 400? Thank you for the amazing video!
Hi VT, Yes, you should backflush the Pro 400! Instructions in English on page 40 of the manual: if you do not have the manual, pdf available here: support.wholelattelove.com/hc/en-us/articles/10504064072339-Profitec-Pro-400-User-Manual Brew group cleaner is available at your specialized dealer allowing you to clean and degrease the brew group very easily with the included blind filter. Brew group cleaning should be carried out after approx. every 90 - 140 cups. We recommend Cafiza for backflushing: www.wholelattelove.com/products/urnex-cafiza-espresso-machine-cleaner Follow the instructions as noted below: 1 Heat up the machine until the operating pressure has been reached (1.0-1.2 bar). 2 Place the blind filter into the portafilter. 3 Fill the blind filter with group cleaner according to the package instructions. 4 Clamp the portafilter into the brew group. 5 Operate the brew group lever. The blind filter will fill with water. 6 Let the detergent react, moving the group lever into the middle position, approx. 45°. (Do not move it into the lower position.) 7 Move the lever into the lower position after approx. 20-60 seconds to allow the fats and oils to be discharged by the infusion cylinder. 8 Repeat steps 5-7 up to 10 times, until only clear water is discharged out of the infusion cylinder. 9 Rinse the portafilter and the blind filter with fresh water. Then replace it.
Another informative video thanks, have just read through the comments, and I would like to know is it possible to descale the actual boiler in my commercial machine using a solution to put through it, or is it a case of stripping it down and removing it to clean out the limescale.
Hi gg, Maybe? Depends on machine type - what does the manufacturer recommend? For commercial machines best advice is in line water filtration to prevent scale formation in the first place. This is the inline filtration we recommend: olelattelove.com/products/bwt-bestmax-premium-filter-package-w-besthead-flex
I have an older ECM machine - backflush has always worked perfectly. Now the pressure just builds up in the blind filter but I and can't relieve it anymore pulling the lever - nothing comes out where usually the soapy or brown soapy water came out. What do I do?
Hi Sarah, Does your ECM machine have an E61 group? If so sounds like a blockage or malfunction within the group head. If older, perhaps it's time for a rebuild. Here's our how to video which takes you step by step in detail through the E61 maintenance and rebuild: ruclips.net/video/ELIwD40tsrs/видео.html
How do you remove the shower screen in the actual group head of the machine? I have the Baratza magica and I don’t see a screw ( machines I’ve worked on before have had a screw)
@@Wholelattelovepage omg yes it is 😂 I was just watching a bunch of videos on the earlier and I think that was auto correct or me being a burn out 😂 thank you, I’m so used to screw shower screens on la Marzocco so this is new for me, I’m terrified I’ll break it 😂 thank you
Hi, See section 8.1 in the machine's user manual for instructions on cleaning the coffee circuit. If you do not have the manual it's available here: www.delonghi.com/en-us/manuals/la-specialista-prestigio-espresso-machine-with-smart-tamping-station-and-dual-heating-system-stainless-steel-ec9355m/p/EC9355M
what is different between " Cafiza Espresso Machine Cleaning Powder NSF Certified - 566g" and "Cafiza2 Espresso Machine Cleaning Powder - 900g". And what should I use for Gaggia Classical Pro?
Hi NAV, Thanks for the question. It's likely just the size. Here's the Cafiza I use: www.wholelattelove.com/products/urnex-cafiza-espresso-machine-cleaner
Hi a, leave the shower screen in place for routine backflushing which helps clean it. It is a good idea to remove the shower screen every few month for individual cleaning with detergent like Cafiza. Also clean the shower screen holding plate and group head area.
I have a DeLonghi EC702 and don’t see anything about backflushing in the manual. Was working great, then it stopped dripping. I have descaled it per the manual and the solution came out like a geyser indicating there was mineral buildup. But once I began using for espresso, after two shots or so it returned to barely dripping, no crema… any ideas as to what I’m doing wrong?
Hi ZW, Your appliance level espresso maker does not have a 3-way solenoid valve so it does not need backflushing and should not be backflushed. Chances are your problem is scale buildup. If it was severely scaled prior to descaling then descaling may have loosened up but not removed all scale so it plugged things up again. You could try descaling again and it might help.
Hi there, if my machine have two eyes or two portafilters, should i do it for both or just one? And how do i clean the portafilter after soaking it in detergent? And is it poisonous?
Hi m, For backflushing you only need to use one portafilter. After soaking in detergent, rinse well with plain water. It's not poisonous but can cause burns if used improperly.
Interesting! However I guess if I live alone and never do more than 2 espresso per day on my Rocket R58, I shouldn't back flush with detergent every month so after like 60-75 shots at most and should do it every 2 months instead? I was drinking just 1 per day before when I didn't have a single doser with regular & decaf for night so I would backflush every 3 months instead. Doing a "water only backflush" EVERY DAY seems very excessive if you only drink 1 or 2 cup per day no?! Oh and it kinds of scare me when I see my brew pressure "not pump" on my E61 gauge go beyond 12 Bars and that it keeps going higher. At which point does it starts to be dangerous?
From the R58 user manual (describing a water backflush), "You should backflush the group head every day." They also recommend a detergent backflush "every week." It's always best to stick with the manufacturer's guidelines, however with your use, you should be fine to do it every month after the 60-75 shots. As for the brew pressure gauge, on that machine pressure should be regulated by the bypass valve on the pump, and then the over-pressure valve will add an extra layer of safety. Going beyond 12 bars seems odd. Have you calibrated your brew pressure of the pump? (Page 15 of your manual) AJ
Thank you for this wee tutorial, can you do one on descaling an e61? Every time I do my older ecm giotto I have blue metalic (i assume calcium chloride) coming out of the hot water pipe for quite a while whilst the group and steam wand is fine. Thanks guys
Hey Ecosse, here are a couple videos showing the process of cleaning, descaling, and maintaining an E61 group: ruclips.net/video/4H57QSEMDhs/видео.html ruclips.net/video/ELIwD40tsrs/видео.html AJ
Hi AJ I don’t think I was quite clear. My E61 i can do but adding durgol to the plastic water tank and pulling it through in to the hot water tank, when I drain out of the hot water pipe, I get blueish metallic water. The E61 head is fine. Is it a case it just needs more cleaning and flushing through the hot water pipe? If the hot water tank was still calcified that would come out of the E61 group head as well? Thanks for bearing with my communication
Ahh sorry for the confusion. Are you using a heat exchanger machine? If so, after descaling, are you draining the boiler through the steam wand? Then you'll want to water backflush and flush the group, and empty the boiler through the hot water wand 3-5 times to fully rinse the boiler. The process is shown in detail here: ruclips.net/video/yEGfyJkWSqU/видео.html If you're using a dual boiler, we (and most manufacturers) recommend having them professionally descaled rather than doing it yourself. Best thing to do with dual boiler machines (really for any machine) is to use water which does not cause scale to form in first place. For plumbed machines one can use in-line ion-exchange filtration like this system from BWT: www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-bestmax-premium-filter-package-w-besthead-flex For reservoir fed machines you can prevent scale using in reservoir ion-exchange pad filters like this: www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-bestsave-m-anti-scale-filter Or an ion-exchange filter pitcher: www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-penguin-2-7-l-water-pitcher AJ
Hi e, Backflushing with a detergent like Cafiza is a 1x every 100-150 brew cycles. Can backflush without detergent at will. Some do it daily but weekly is more common depending on use level.
Thanks for the video. I’m a new user of the Profitec 500 as of a month. I do the back flush everyday (3 times) and I wash the group head as well. I finally did the Cafisa flush, because it was one month - and when I was done, only a single drip came from the group head - weird. After rubbing it with a towel the multi drips were showering down. Any idea why this would happen? Thanks.
Hi Bob, Cafiza likely loosened some coffee residue and blocked the shower screen a bit. Always a good idea to use a group brush to give the screen a scrub. Can also remove the screen and clean the backside from time to time.
Hello, Couple month ago I purchased from your company ECM machine. I like to keep it perfect condition. I brew usually 4 cups coffee daily. I do machine backlash with detergent monthly. Can you suggest if this enough for amount of coffee I made (around 120 cups monthly) or I should do it more often ? Thank you 👨🏻
Hi AP, Thanks for the question. Yes, backflushing with detergent every 120 cups is perfect. In addition, I recommend backflushing with plain water every every days.
Great video! Thanks! I use IMS baskets / shower screens with Nanotech coating. Is it true that if I use products like Cafiza, I could ruin the Nanothech surface?
The nanotech coating on the IMS baskets/screens is similar to working with a non-stick pan - works great at keeping things clean but the more use/abuse it gets, the shorter the lifespan of the coating. I have heard reports of cafiza wearing away the nanotech coating at a faster rate. That's not the worst thing in the world, but if you want the coating to last as long as possible I probably wouldn't soak it with cafiza. AJ
Hey Ben, Great question! I've always just had the valve open to stock flow rate when backflushing as that would be like backflushing without a flow control. But no reason I can think of to not open it up to a higher flow rate - would probably lend a little more power to the flush.
@@user-kj4tt2wv3g I spoke with our lead prosumer machine tech. He confirmed opening the flow valve all the way when backflushing is beneficial. He says it will increase the force of backflush and in a more technical detail, it to some extent reduces exposure of an oring on the flow control assembly to the detergent in products like Cafiza. Not critical that happens but should extend the life of the oring a bit.
@@Wholelattelovepage This is fantastic - your thorough response and follow up is greatly appreciated and makes me glad i ordered from you all. thanks again
How should I do this with a Bezzera BZ 10? Bezzera does not provide any information on decalcification but advises against continuous decalcification !!! When using soft water, descaling is only necessary after several years. Only external decalcification is recommended here. Please show how this is done ;-).... Are there tips and empirical values for this? Greetings Christopher
The process in the video is the same you would do on the BZ10. Backflushing and decalcifying/descaling are two different things. Backflushing will clean your group head and solenoid valve but not remove scale from your boiler. AJ
@@Wholelattelovepage ok thanks ;-) but how should I continuously decalcify according to the manufacturer's instructions if Bezzera advises against it? They say that if the water is below 14°F, I only have to decalcify after many years... ? And if everything is removed and reinstalled for external decalcification...Please also show an external decalcification of the Bezzera BZ 10 ... I'm unsure now :-(
I remove the shower screen and brass disc (not sure what you call it). Clean them well. Reinstall them and then back flush. I figure why push this grime back into the machine if I don’t have to. Please tell me if I’m wrong. Thanks.
You're not wrong and it is good to remove and clean them periodically, however it's likely overkill to do every time before backflushing. The grime will dissolve and be removed through the discharge tube. With the 5 detergent cycles and 5 water cycles, it should all nice and clean inside. AJ
Hey jim, Backflush with plain water whenever you like. We recommend detergent/Cafiza backflush every 125-150 brew cycles. Overdoing detergent backflushes can remove internal lubrication (especially in E61 group machines) and cause squeaking and wear of internal group components.
@@Wholelattelovepage thank you for letting me know. I have the BEZZERA BZ 13 DE and maybe I am back flushing too much so I’ll just do it every three or four weeks I have four shots a day every day between me and my wife
For a breville machine, is it better to use Cafiza or the Breville backflush tablets? I ask because the clean me light only comes on as needed, but I would like to clean the porta filter more frequently because of the gap underneath the plastic part.
THey're probably very similar, but it's usually better to go with the manufacturer's recommendations and use their own products. I believe on most Breville machines the clean me light comes on every 200 cycles. Not sure whether than resets on it's own if you do it more frequently or not, so that's something to watch out for. AJ
Here’s a tip: don’t wait for the machine to tell you when to back flush. If you make even just one coffee a day, it would serve you well to backflush once a week, maximum two weeks. I notice much better taste and overall operation this way. I also descale once every quarter. Good luck
Hi GL, Thanks for the comment. Be careful not to do too much back flushing with Cafiza or similar products. We recommend doing Cafiza back flush about every 100 brew cycles. Doing it too often can remove lubrication from internal group components.
I have the ECM Giotto purchased years ago from your company. It stopped back flushing a long time ago with nothing coming from the valve. What should be done? Thanks!
Hi Oleg, sounds like there may be some buildup or blockage in there. Does anything come out of the E61 discharge tube after brewing? I'd go through the steps in this video on E61 maintenance to get all of the components cleaned and serviced. ruclips.net/video/ELIwD40tsrs/видео.html AJ
Yes, we actually have three kits depending on the level of replacement you need. It looks like two of them are currently sold out but should be back in stock soon. E61 Group Rebuild Kit - Basic: www.wholelattelove.com/products/e61-group-rebuild-kit-basic E61 Group Rebuild Kit - Moderate: www.wholelattelove.com/products/e61-group-rebuild-kit-moderate-1 E61 Group Rebuild Kit - Major: www.wholelattelove.com/products/e61-group-rebuild-kit-major AJ
The BZ13 manual recommends a daily backflush - I believe they're talking about just with water. Depending on your usage, you should be good following the schedule mentioned in this video: daily water backflush, monthly cafiza backflush. AJ
No, I don't believe backflushing will clean out those areas. Here's a video on how to clean and maintain the flow control device: ruclips.net/video/Bxh1ik-orFA/видео.html AJ
Water backflush at the end of each day. Profitec recommends a detergent backflush every 90-140 brew cycles, so with your use, I'd probably do it every 2 weeks or so. AJ
My ecm synchronika brew lever has never been as smooth in operation as my old profitec 500 was, when i backflush it its plain horrible it basically wants to stick half when i pull it up, any suggestions??? Ohhhh types too soon! Lol
@@Wholelattelovepage but people say that using puck screen reduces coffee grounds to go back to shower screen. Read somewhere that if you use puck screen you can back flush with tablets or cafiza once a month. I dont knw if thats true.thats why i asked
I get it... but for $9, to save some scratches/dents on your portafilter and baskets, may be worth it. I find myself grabbing it more often than using the lip of another basket. AJ
@@les5309 You order 60mm AP paper from aliexpress. About $1,5/100pcs. After tampering it will fit right into the 58mm basket. The shower screen stays almost completely clean. Can be washed and reused a few times.
@@Wholelattelovepage Exactly, a metal mesh might be a better solution, but it is quite expensive compared to paper. My biggest problem with it is that it is quite thick.
I guess technically one "cycle" of 5 pulls. Because you're running this in a closed system, there's nowhere near 2 liters of water waste. You can see in the video even doing the 10 pulls (5 with detergent, 5 without) and flushes after each, the 1L drip tray was only about half full. AJ
Hey Chef, You can follow maintenance available for the machine in our support center: support.wholelattelove.com/hc/en-us/sections/360011447434-Bezzera-BZ13-PM#section-4
I dont have an espresso machine but i love watchinv these vids
Thanks for watching!
AJ
Than get one and do it yourself 😂
@@dankur8641 its too much work lol
*Cleaning* - 10 seconds on, 5 seconds off. Repeat this process 5 times
*Rinsing* - Repeat above cycles without cleaning agent and then pull one quick flush of the group head.
This was all extremely helpful information for that Profitec Go I'm ordering from you guys. You have some of the best equipment for the best prices. Thanks for all that you do. 🙂
Hi e, you're welcome - thanks for the comment and your patronage!
so good man !!! i looked at others videos previously and yours is just the best !! thanks a lot
I really needed this video, thank you so much! So straightforward. I have a Profitec 700 and it tells me when I need to clean it. Super easy. Yes, my machine does squeak afterwards. It scares me a bit but then before I know it, the squeak is gone.
Hi RR, You are welcome for the video - happy to help! Those coffee oils lubricate the parts cleaned by backflushing so the squeaks go away. If they don't, it's an indication yoou're backflushing with detergent too frequently.
Now this was a great and precise educational video. U guys have improved, thank you!
Glad you enjoyed it!
I think flushing after each espresso without blind filter, is convenient and enough. I do it, mainly for cleaning the shower head.
Doing the whole cleaning process with cleaner should be done carefully because E61 Brewgroup is lubricated by the coffee oils. So not to be done too often. I guess once a month as stated in the video is good for normal use.
Hey Ben, thanks. Good point about not doing it too often on an E61 machine, unless you want to take apart and manually lubricate often.
AJ
Also moving to an Espazzola-2+3-58 (the new model with the metal tabs) will help clean the shower screen and around the shower screen without adding too much wear and tear to it.
omg thanks for adressing the squeaky lever thing - each time i was wondering if it was normal on my rocket or if the all thing was ultimately gonna jam on me...
You're welcome. Glad the video cleared it up for you!
AJ
Always good to follow the instruction of the cleaner you are using .
Agreed!
AJ
Great video. This procedure is somewhat different than what is described in my ECM Synchronika Owners Manual. ECM advises the following steps: (1) lever up for 20 seconds, (2) lever in middle position for 30 seconds, (3) lever down to discharge. Repeat ten times (or more as needed.) I like the procedure you describe here better. I have done the ECM OM method three times over the last year, and I now have a squeaky and stiff lever; that has not really resolved itself. I am wondering if the Cafiza is left in too long (in the ECM method) and washed away the lubricant. I have ordered the lever gaskets and silicone kit to lubricate and replace as required once I open it up this weekend. Going forward, after I lubricate, I am going to use your frequencies and methods and try that out. Thanks again for the great videos.
Hi AA, Thanks for the comment! In our experience overdoing with Cafiza can remove lubricant and cause the squeaking. Reducing frequency and duration of Cafiza back flushing is a good plan.
@AA, I once had the same issue with my Rocket Appartamento. I left the Cafiza in bit too long during the 5 pull cycle and was stuck with a squeaky lever. I used food safe lubricant on the cam and squeak went away. It hasn’t been back since. I you were able to work out your squeak as well.
I have never seen a backflush performed by a more-handsome young man
Haha thanks Troy!
AJ
Sir,
I am a coffee machine engineer with 25 years experience and I can advise that not allowing the chemical to “work”.
The chemical cleans by flowing back through the 3 way valve, it foams up an this way propels itself through the 3 way valve.
Also running the group for 10 seconds will not improve the end result.
The group will fill its limit in under 5 seconds, the pressure builds, then you allow its release, thus causing the chemical to foam backwards, I always recommend leaving the activating powder for maximum of 2 minutes.
I agree with your rinsing though.
I also “advise” my customers not to use the inbuilt backwashing programmes, the manual way will dissolve more coffee oil residues..
Hi Pete, thanks for your experience and advice
AJ
Sorry but are you saying pull the level and hold completely on for 2 minutes runtime straight, or are you saying run for 10 seconds on, the. 10 off for total backflush time of 2 min??
@@ozpain1 the first shot of water will start the activation of the powder, only need to run for 5 seconds as that’s all it will take to fill the ports filter, do that twice then leave for 2 minutes.. after 2 minutes on 5 seconds and off again.
Empty prtafilter and do the no 5 second ..off empty 5 more times.
@@peteb5343 dudes speaking in riddles 😑
@@bigoldawg2791 I'll gladly provide translation "First do 5 seconds with your cleaning powder. Do this twice. Then let the machine sit for two minutes. Then do another 5 second flush. Now, empty the portafilter, place naked portafilter back in, and do 5 more 5-second water flush ( no more caviza powder is needed ) - Good to go! lol
I thought generally it should be backflushed with detergent every day after use, not just pure water. But now I consider this video as a new insight and will reduce detergent use. Thanks 💪
Hi Filip, that's common in a commercial setting for machines the pull 100+ shots a day, but overkill in the home. Different manufacturers have different recommendations, for example ECM/Profitec suggests a detergent backflush every 90-140 brew cycles. We've found it's easier for people to remember on a regular schedule rather than counting cycles, thus the 1 month recommendation, which can be adjusted if you have particularly low or high usage.
AJ
@@Wholelattelovepage hi AJ, yes, makes sense definitely. Thanks for additional clarification. Since I am using same E61 group just on Sanremo Treviso, and pull 5-10 shots per day, I will reduce the cleaning cycle for sure. 🙂
I don’t have a blanking disc, but achieved a similar effect with a disc I made from tin foil cut into a circle.
Hey AFX, I like that hack!
Great video! I've always wondered, if cleaning with detergent can remove the lube from the lever components, does that mean some get into the coffee each time you pull a shot?
Hi kw, good question. Unlikely any lube gets into the brew water. Lube is a food safe grease and grease and water do not mix.
Correct information. I will only do daily backflushing with grouphead detergent in a heavy commercial environment. There are users who follow cafe advice to performing aggressive cleaning for their home machine. Such aggressiveness destroy the vib pump and a total waste of time. Home users should get the daily grouphead flushing done in less than a minute. The Bezzera grouphead on the left has better engineering. Requires lesser detergent cleaner as it due to its cleaner design with lesser surface for oil to stick.
Hi q, Thanks for the comment!
Hello! When you say to do a water back flush daily you just mean with an empty portafilter or no portafilter, correct? Not a daily waterflush with a back flush disc?
Thankyou! Your videos are fantastic and have been a blessing in getting used to my profitec go.
Hi r, Thanks a whole latte for the comment on our videos!
For the plain water back flush use the back flush disc.
I have a KOTLIE CM5080 Espresso machine from Amazon. Would you know if it is fine for backflushing?
Hi m, I'm not familiar with the machine - but have used similar entry-level appliance grade products. Back flushing those types of products is not a thing as they do not have valves which release pressure within the portafilter at the end of the brew cycle. I'm guessing it would be recommended with a procedure in the manual if needed for the product. I can say that every machine with the valve which releases pressure exhausts the pressure at the end of a brew cycle. You would a whoosh and excess water from the portafilter would be output somewhere - usually the drip tray. If you do not hear/see that happening I would not back flush unless specifically recommended by the manufacturer.
Im having trouble getting a response from my machine's manufacturer about if this is recommended. Is this okay to do on a Profitec 400? Thank you for the amazing video!
Hi VT, Yes, you should backflush the Pro 400!
Instructions in English on page 40 of the manual:
if you do not have the manual, pdf available here: support.wholelattelove.com/hc/en-us/articles/10504064072339-Profitec-Pro-400-User-Manual
Brew group cleaner is available at your specialized dealer allowing you to clean and degrease the brew
group very easily with the included blind filter. Brew group cleaning should be carried out after approx.
every 90 - 140 cups.
We recommend Cafiza for backflushing: www.wholelattelove.com/products/urnex-cafiza-espresso-machine-cleaner
Follow the instructions as noted below:
1 Heat up the machine until the operating pressure has been reached (1.0-1.2 bar).
2 Place the blind filter into the portafilter.
3 Fill the blind filter with group cleaner according to the package instructions.
4 Clamp the portafilter into the brew group.
5 Operate the brew group lever. The blind filter will fill with water.
6 Let the detergent react, moving the group lever into the middle position, approx. 45°. (Do not move it
into the lower position.)
7 Move the lever into the lower position after approx. 20-60 seconds to allow the fats and oils to be
discharged by the infusion cylinder.
8 Repeat steps 5-7 up to 10 times, until only clear water is discharged out of the infusion cylinder.
9 Rinse the portafilter and the blind filter with fresh water. Then replace it.
@@Wholelattelovepage thank you so so much for the fantastic reply! I love this company!
@@veggietables6974 Thanks a whole latte for the love!
Another informative video thanks, have just read through the comments, and I would like to know is it possible to descale the actual boiler in my commercial machine using a solution to put through it, or is it a case of stripping it down and removing it to clean out the limescale.
Hi gg, Maybe? Depends on machine type - what does the manufacturer recommend? For commercial machines best advice is in line water filtration to prevent scale formation in the first place. This is the inline filtration we recommend: olelattelove.com/products/bwt-bestmax-premium-filter-package-w-besthead-flex
I have an older ECM machine - backflush has always worked perfectly. Now the pressure just builds up in the blind filter but I and can't relieve it anymore pulling the lever - nothing comes out where usually the soapy or brown soapy water came out. What do I do?
Hi Sarah, Does your ECM machine have an E61 group? If so sounds like a blockage or malfunction within the group head. If older, perhaps it's time for a rebuild. Here's our how to video which takes you step by step in detail through the E61 maintenance
and rebuild: ruclips.net/video/ELIwD40tsrs/видео.html
How do you remove the shower screen in the actual group head of the machine? I have the Baratza magica and I don’t see a screw ( machines I’ve worked on before have had a screw)
Hi FBM, Hopefully it's a "Bezzera" Magica :). The shower screen pries out.
@@Wholelattelovepage omg yes it is 😂 I was just watching a bunch of videos on the earlier and I think that was auto correct or me being a burn out 😂 thank you, I’m so used to screw shower screens on la Marzocco so this is new for me, I’m terrified I’ll break it 😂 thank you
Hi i have a delonghi la specialista prestigio how i could do the backflush in this machine
Hi, See section 8.1 in the machine's user manual for instructions on cleaning the coffee circuit. If you do not have the manual it's available here: www.delonghi.com/en-us/manuals/la-specialista-prestigio-espresso-machine-with-smart-tamping-station-and-dual-heating-system-stainless-steel-ec9355m/p/EC9355M
what is different between " Cafiza Espresso Machine Cleaning Powder NSF Certified - 566g" and "Cafiza2 Espresso Machine Cleaning Powder - 900g". And what should I use for Gaggia Classical Pro?
Hi NAV, Thanks for the question. It's likely just the size. Here's the Cafiza I use: www.wholelattelove.com/products/urnex-cafiza-espresso-machine-cleaner
Do you take the shower screen off too or leave that on and directly insert the portafilter with the back flush disc?
Hi a, leave the shower screen in place for routine backflushing which helps clean it. It is a good idea to remove the shower screen every few month for individual cleaning with detergent like Cafiza. Also clean the shower screen holding plate and group head area.
Awesome, thank you so much 🙏🏽
I have the ECM puristika, with the flow control. Is the process in this video the same for mine?
Yes it is!
I have a DeLonghi EC702 and don’t see anything about backflushing in the manual. Was working great, then it stopped dripping. I have descaled it per the manual and the solution came out like a geyser indicating there was mineral buildup. But once I began using for espresso, after two shots or so it returned to barely dripping, no crema… any ideas as to what I’m doing wrong?
Hi ZW, Your appliance level espresso maker does not have a 3-way solenoid valve so it does not need backflushing and should not be backflushed. Chances are your problem is scale buildup. If it was severely scaled prior to descaling then descaling may have loosened up but not removed all scale so it plugged things up again. You could try descaling again and it might help.
Hi there, if my machine have two eyes or two portafilters, should i do it for both or just one? And how do i clean the portafilter after soaking it in detergent? And is it poisonous?
Hi m, For backflushing you only need to use one portafilter. After soaking in detergent, rinse well with plain water. It's not poisonous but can cause burns if used improperly.
Should I perform this same process with the Silvia?
yes
Interesting! However I guess if I live alone and never do more than 2 espresso per day on my Rocket R58, I shouldn't back flush with detergent every month so after like 60-75 shots at most and should do it every 2 months instead? I was drinking just 1 per day before when I didn't have a single doser with regular & decaf for night so I would backflush every 3 months instead.
Doing a "water only backflush" EVERY DAY seems very excessive if you only drink 1 or 2 cup per day no?!
Oh and it kinds of scare me when I see my brew pressure "not pump" on my E61 gauge go beyond 12 Bars and that it keeps going higher. At which point does it starts to be dangerous?
From the R58 user manual (describing a water backflush), "You should backflush the group head every day." They also recommend a detergent backflush "every week."
It's always best to stick with the manufacturer's guidelines, however with your use, you should be fine to do it every month after the 60-75 shots.
As for the brew pressure gauge, on that machine pressure should be regulated by the bypass valve on the pump, and then the over-pressure valve will add an extra layer of safety. Going beyond 12 bars seems odd. Have you calibrated your brew pressure of the pump? (Page 15 of your manual)
AJ
Thank you for this wee tutorial, can you do one on descaling an e61? Every time I do my older ecm giotto I have blue metalic (i assume calcium chloride) coming out of the hot water pipe for quite a while whilst the group and steam wand is fine. Thanks guys
Hey Ecosse, here are a couple videos showing the process of cleaning, descaling, and maintaining an E61 group:
ruclips.net/video/4H57QSEMDhs/видео.html
ruclips.net/video/ELIwD40tsrs/видео.html
AJ
Hi AJ I don’t think I was quite clear. My E61 i can do but adding durgol to the plastic water tank and pulling it through in to the hot water tank, when I drain out of the hot water pipe, I get blueish metallic water. The E61 head is fine. Is it a case it just needs more cleaning and flushing through the hot water pipe? If the hot water tank was still calcified that would come out of the E61 group head as well? Thanks for bearing with my communication
Ahh sorry for the confusion. Are you using a heat exchanger machine? If so, after descaling, are you draining the boiler through the steam wand? Then you'll want to water backflush and flush the group, and empty the boiler through the hot water wand 3-5 times to fully rinse the boiler. The process is shown in detail here: ruclips.net/video/yEGfyJkWSqU/видео.html
If you're using a dual boiler, we (and most manufacturers) recommend having them professionally descaled rather than doing it yourself. Best thing to do with dual boiler machines (really for any machine) is to use water which does not cause scale to form in first place. For plumbed machines one can use in-line ion-exchange filtration like this system from BWT: www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-bestmax-premium-filter-package-w-besthead-flex For reservoir fed machines you can prevent scale using in reservoir ion-exchange pad filters like this: www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-bestsave-m-anti-scale-filter Or an ion-exchange filter pitcher: www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-penguin-2-7-l-water-pitcher
AJ
Aj thats perfect, thats the video I needed. You are very patient, thank you (ecm giotto 2009 heat x)
Do I need to back flush before I use the machine? Or after I use it? Or both?
Hi e, Backflushing with a detergent like Cafiza is a 1x every 100-150 brew cycles. Can backflush without detergent at will. Some do it daily but weekly is more common depending on use level.
@@Wholelattelovepage yes but, do I need to back flush BEFORE? or just after using the machine.
@@edithaebreo Just after your daily use should cover it..water back flush daily, detergent back flush monthly...
Thanks for the video. I’m a new user of the Profitec 500 as of a month. I do the back flush everyday (3 times) and I wash the group head as well. I finally did the Cafisa flush, because it was one month - and when I was done, only a single drip came from the group head - weird. After rubbing it with a towel the multi drips were showering down. Any idea why this would happen? Thanks.
Hi Bob, Cafiza likely loosened some coffee residue and blocked the shower screen a bit. Always a good idea to use a group brush to give the screen a scrub. Can also remove the screen and clean the backside from time to time.
Hello, Couple month ago I purchased from your company ECM machine. I like to keep it perfect condition. I brew usually 4 cups coffee daily. I do machine backlash with detergent monthly. Can you suggest if this enough for amount of coffee I made (around 120 cups monthly) or I should do it more often ? Thank you 👨🏻
Hi AP, Thanks for the question. Yes, backflushing with detergent every 120 cups is perfect. In addition, I recommend backflushing with plain water every every days.
@@Wholelattelovepage OK, I will do also with water. Thank You !
Can I backflush my DeLonghi Specialista 6335 ?
Great video! Thanks!
I use IMS baskets / shower screens with Nanotech coating. Is it true that if I use products like Cafiza, I could ruin the Nanothech surface?
The nanotech coating on the IMS baskets/screens is similar to working with a non-stick pan - works great at keeping things clean but the more use/abuse it gets, the shorter the lifespan of the coating. I have heard reports of cafiza wearing away the nanotech coating at a faster rate. That's not the worst thing in the world, but if you want the coating to last as long as possible I probably wouldn't soak it with cafiza.
AJ
Really appreciate these videos. I’m curious- when a flow control group is installed, should the flow be set to fully open during the backflush?
Hey Ben, Great question! I've always just had the valve open to stock flow rate when backflushing as that would be like backflushing without a flow control. But no reason I can think of to not open it up to a higher flow rate - would probably lend a little more power to the flush.
@@Wholelattelovepage excellent. Thanks very much!
@@user-kj4tt2wv3g I spoke with our lead prosumer machine tech. He confirmed opening the flow valve all the way when backflushing is beneficial. He says it will increase the force of backflush and in a more technical detail, it to some extent reduces exposure of an oring on the flow control assembly to the detergent in products like Cafiza. Not critical that happens but should extend the life of the oring a bit.
@@Wholelattelovepage This is fantastic - your thorough response and follow up is greatly appreciated and makes me glad i ordered from you all. thanks again
Can I use citric acid instead?
Hi s, No, do not back flush with citric acid. It has little to no effect on coffee oils. You need a detergent/surfactant to deal with the oils.
How should I do this with a Bezzera BZ 10? Bezzera does not provide any information on decalcification but advises against continuous decalcification !!! When using soft water, descaling is only necessary after several years.
Only external decalcification is recommended here. Please show how this is done ;-).... Are there tips and empirical values for this?
Greetings Christopher
The process in the video is the same you would do on the BZ10. Backflushing and decalcifying/descaling are two different things. Backflushing will clean your group head and solenoid valve but not remove scale from your boiler.
AJ
@@Wholelattelovepage ok thanks ;-) but how should I continuously decalcify according to the manufacturer's instructions if Bezzera advises against it? They say that if the water is below 14°F, I only have to decalcify after many years... ? And if everything is removed and reinstalled for external decalcification...Please also show an external decalcification of the Bezzera BZ 10 ... I'm unsure now :-(
I remove the shower screen and brass disc (not sure what you call it). Clean them well. Reinstall them and then back flush. I figure why push this grime back into the machine if I don’t have to. Please tell me if I’m wrong. Thanks.
You're not wrong and it is good to remove and clean them periodically, however it's likely overkill to do every time before backflushing. The grime will dissolve and be removed through the discharge tube. With the 5 detergent cycles and 5 water cycles, it should all nice and clean inside.
AJ
Hey AJ I back flush mine once a week is that too much
Hey jim, Backflush with plain water whenever you like. We recommend detergent/Cafiza backflush every 125-150 brew cycles. Overdoing detergent backflushes can remove internal lubrication (especially in E61 group machines) and cause squeaking and wear of internal group components.
@@Wholelattelovepage thank you for letting me know. I have the BEZZERA BZ 13 DE and maybe I am back flushing too much so I’ll just do it every three or four weeks I have four shots a day every day between me and my wife
For a breville machine, is it better to use Cafiza or the Breville backflush tablets? I ask because the clean me light only comes on as needed, but I would like to clean the porta filter more frequently because of the gap underneath the plastic part.
THey're probably very similar, but it's usually better to go with the manufacturer's recommendations and use their own products. I believe on most Breville machines the clean me light comes on every 200 cycles. Not sure whether than resets on it's own if you do it more frequently or not, so that's something to watch out for.
AJ
Here’s a tip: don’t wait for the machine to tell you when to back flush. If you make even just one coffee a day, it would serve you well to backflush once a week, maximum two weeks. I notice much better taste and overall operation this way. I also descale once every quarter. Good luck
I do a chemical flush like this usually once every 2 weeks.
Hi GL, Thanks for the comment. Be careful not to do too much back flushing with Cafiza or similar products. We recommend doing Cafiza back flush about every 100 brew cycles. Doing it too often can remove lubrication from internal group components.
I have the ECM Giotto purchased years ago from your company. It stopped back flushing a long time ago with nothing coming from the valve. What should be done? Thanks!
Hi Oleg, sounds like there may be some buildup or blockage in there. Does anything come out of the E61 discharge tube after brewing? I'd go through the steps in this video on E61 maintenance to get all of the components cleaned and serviced. ruclips.net/video/ELIwD40tsrs/видео.html
AJ
@@Wholelattelovepage AJ, thank you for a speedy reply! Is there a kit of replacement parts I can order?
Yes, we actually have three kits depending on the level of replacement you need. It looks like two of them are currently sold out but should be back in stock soon.
E61 Group Rebuild Kit - Basic: www.wholelattelove.com/products/e61-group-rebuild-kit-basic
E61 Group Rebuild Kit - Moderate: www.wholelattelove.com/products/e61-group-rebuild-kit-moderate-1
E61 Group Rebuild Kit - Major: www.wholelattelove.com/products/e61-group-rebuild-kit-major
AJ
I have a BZ13, what is the recommended back flushing regiment?
The BZ13 manual recommends a daily backflush - I believe they're talking about just with water. Depending on your usage, you should be good following the schedule mentioned in this video: daily water backflush, monthly cafiza backflush.
AJ
Does this also clean the flow control valve/screen thing on Profitec 600 w/ flow control?
No, I don't believe backflushing will clean out those areas. Here's a video on how to clean and maintain the flow control device: ruclips.net/video/Bxh1ik-orFA/видео.html
AJ
If u are making around 8-10 shots a day on the Pro 700 , what should be the ideal schedule for full and water back flushing
Water backflush at the end of each day.
Profitec recommends a detergent backflush every 90-140 brew cycles, so with your use, I'd probably do it every 2 weeks or so.
AJ
Does this process work on the R Nine One as well (can't see the relieve valve)?
Yes, the R Nine One manual recommends backflushing with detergent weekly, but you can adjust to your level of usage.
AJ
My ecm synchronika brew lever has never been as smooth in operation as my old profitec 500 was, when i backflush it its plain horrible it basically wants to stick half when i pull it up, any suggestions???
Ohhhh types too soon! Lol
Haha oops! If it's still stiff or squeaky, you may want to lubricate the cam. Here's how: ruclips.net/video/ELIwD40tsrs/видео.html
AJ
If i use puck screen .how often i should back flush
Hi there.
I would not say that using a puck screen does anything to negate any need to backflush your machine.
@@Wholelattelovepage but people say that using puck screen reduces coffee grounds to go back to shower screen. Read somewhere that if you use puck screen you can back flush with tablets or cafiza once a month. I dont knw if thats true.thats why i asked
Can the Profitec Pro 700 be backflushed?
Hey Alexander, yes it can
AJ
ecm is from germany isnt it
Portafilter Basket Ejector....need I say more?
I get it... but for $9, to save some scratches/dents on your portafilter and baskets, may be worth it. I find myself grabbing it more often than using the lip of another basket.
AJ
whats the machine on the right?
Hi there. The machine on the right is the Profitec Pro 600.
www.wholelattelove.com/products/profitec-pro-600-dual-boiler-espresso-machine
Useful, but using filter paper can significantly reduce the amount of dirt that gets back.
Good point. I know some people use metal mesh puck screens too for a similar purpose, with less waste. Perhaps a topic for a future video.
AJ
What is the process for using filter paper, please?
@@les5309 You order 60mm AP paper from aliexpress. About $1,5/100pcs. After tampering it will fit right into the 58mm basket. The shower screen stays almost completely clean. Can be washed and reused a few times.
@@Wholelattelovepage Exactly, a metal mesh might be a better solution, but it is quite expensive compared to paper. My biggest problem with it is that it is quite thick.
reapect
5 cycles of backflush daily ? Are you even serious ? Your goal is to waste 2 litters per day or what ?
I guess technically one "cycle" of 5 pulls. Because you're running this in a closed system, there's nowhere near 2 liters of water waste. You can see in the video even doing the 10 pulls (5 with detergent, 5 without) and flushes after each, the 1L drip tray was only about half full.
AJ
I've got Bezerra bz 13 from uiu guys,and the manual has nothing in it about backflushing or descaling or maintaining the machine.
Hey Chef, You can follow maintenance available for the machine in our support center: support.wholelattelove.com/hc/en-us/sections/360011447434-Bezzera-BZ13-PM#section-4