Hi there, I took some notes for myself to print as I plan to have this machine for a very long time. I thought I'd share them, please note that there may be mistakes and that your cleaning timelines will heavily depend on use case! *Cleaning the Gaggia Classic Pro:* When necessary: Steam wand and tip: You can unscrew the steam wand tip and clean it when necessary. This will prevent milk buildup from affecting your milk steaming performance (Flush steam wand after every use) *Daily:* Basket and Portafilter: You should be rinsing your portafilter and basket after each day of use by removing the basket from the portafilter and running it through warm water If necessary: Place the basket in boiling water for 10 minutes to clear any coffee oil buildup *These timing suggestions will vary on machine use as well as water quality, please refer to the manufacturer or other information for appropriate timelines. I based this on my use case and suggestions from these gentlemen* *Weekly:* Cleaning portafilter, basket, and grouphead: Place 6 grams of Cafiza (Or cleaning solution of choice) in warm water (About a liter) and place the portafilter and basket in there for about 30 minutes. While you are waiting you can use a brush that is dipped in the cafiza/water solution to clean the grouphead. After those 30 minutes run a blank shot or two with the portafilter back in the grouphead to ensure that the excess cafiza is cleared. Backflushing: Place approx 2 grams of cafiza in a backflushing basket and run 5 shots of roughly 6-8 seconds each. The water coming out of the solenoid valve will be soapy. After those 5 shots, take the portafilter out and rinse the blank basket. Place the portafilter back in the grouphead and run it another 5 times for approx 6-8 seconds, until the water comes out of the solenoid valve with no soap. Repeat as many times as necessary until the water is clear. Run one blank shot with your shot basket and you're good to go. *Monthly:* Shower screen: Unscrew the shower screen and place it in the cafiza/water mix mentioned above for approx 30 mins. Brush the group head, replace the shower screen after rinsing and run a blank shot or two. Descaling: *This one will greatly vary based on water quality* Remove the solenoid valve and take out the water tank. Use approx ½ of a descaling solution in the water tank, fill the tank up with cold water to the max. By pressing both the shot and steam switch you will run 2 cups of solution through the steam wand. Turn off the machine and wait for 20 minutes. When you return, run 2 cups of the solution and wait 3 minutes. Make sure you turn off your machine between runs. Repeat this step until you are out of the solution. Take out your water tank, rinse it and fill it with cold water. Run the water through your steam wand using both buttons again until the tank is completely empty (No need to take pauses here). Repeat this 4 times after the empty solution tank. Run a blank shot and you’re good to go!
I’ve owned a half dozen Gaggias over the last 30+ years and it’s been a constant issue with scale buildup. In all those years I’ve never read or heard that you should never run the descaling solution through the brew head. Live and learn. Thanks for that invaluable tip!!!
Hi Alan, Thanks for the comment. If you have constant scale buildup issues I'm guessing your source water is rather hard? You might consider treating/filtering your water to reduce the calcium level to prevent scale in the first place. Not sure which Gaggia machine you have, but here are treatment options that when used as directed can prevent scaling. BWT Bestsave: www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-bestsave-s-anti-scale-filter BWT Penguin Pitcher: www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-penguin-2-7-l-water-pitcher BWT Bestcup (works well in the Gaggia Classic): www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-bestcup-m-package
Yeah so to be clear, always run water through the wand and NEVER the brew head, right? This video seems clear but there's an old WLL and other more recent videos where folks are in fact running descaling solution through the brew head
When backflushing, my blind always gets stuck on the group head, and comes out of the portafilter, even though it's a snug fit. I usually run a couple of blasts to remove it which creates a hell of a mess when it eventually drops. Any thoughts?
@@Bent-Ed When the blind basket gets stuck, instead of running the pump, push and pull it a bit (like you're trying to wiggle it). I just use my hand; if I'm quick I usually don't burn myself. The basket usually drops after a little coaxing.
I've always dreaded backflushing and descaling because it made such a mess, but these instructions were simple so now I've got quite a clean machine! Thanks!
My Evo Pro just arrived last night. I can't wait to fire it up. On another note, your videos and customer care are second to none. Please keep up the great work !
My steam pressure is weak so I wrote to Gaggia and guess what, they recommended THIS video to do maintenance. Good job guys, you know you are on the right track when the manufacturer themselves recommends your video!
In the previous descaling tutorial from 6yrs ago, you advised alternating the flushing through the group head and the steam wand. But in this video it is said to NOT flush the the group head. Just want to confirm what the correct method should be. Thanks so much for the tutorials!
Hi d, We've revised our technique a bit over the years and prefer to flush through the wand. That's because In severely scaled/neglected machine there's as chance of causing a plug when flushing through the group. It is okay to flush through the group so long as descaling maintenance has been done on schedule.
I noticed in the video you said to use 1/2 the bottle of gaggia declassified. The instructions on the 250ml bottle say use the whole bottle. Can u clarify please
Hi Lorrie, You're welcome and thanks a whole latte for that report! Perfect example of why I recommend those getting into home espresso bypass entry-level palsticky appliance grade espresso makers and invest in a true machine grade product like the Gaggia Classic!
I am so grateful to find this wonderful explanation video. I’m sure last time I looked I couldn’t find helpful information. I have two vintage Gaggia’s waiting for help. I’m on it now !!
Thanks you guys!!!!! I feel very accomplished replacing my gasket with your help. I was a bit flummoxed with the two "screws" you removed until I realized I needed an allen wrench for mine. I so very much appreciate you!
This video was a perfect explanation for cleaning my Gaggia, thanks so much! I could follow all your steps really easily, will definitely rewatch next time I clean my machine.
Thanks Ted and Marc. Very instructive video. I'm glad i caught this. I've seen several GCP maintenance videos and this is the first one recominding not to flush through the grouphead. I'll look forward to more great content.
This was very useful! In Finland we dont suffer from limescale too much, so I'm doing these for the first time after a year. Better late than never huh :D
Thanks for this amazing tutorial! I just got my new classic evo pro last week from you and I want to keep it in good operating condition. One question, is there any risk at all for the back flushing to somehow make its way back into the boiler? I know it's not safe to use cafiza on aluminum which the boiler is made of.
Thanks for this! One question I have because I wasn't paying a lot of attention at first I guess but there are two tubes that go into your water tank. One touches the bottom of the tank. The other one is about an inch off the bottom of the water tank is that proper?
5:34. removing the basket to clean it doesn't need a tool. If it is gaggia it will fall out. They don't lock in. Since the gaggia baskets had many holes blocked, I bought new ones that clip in nicely. One I bought was a 7 to 9 gram that turned out to be 14 gram. Oh bugger! reducing the pressure to 9 bar has been good.
Hi dr, This video will get you into the machine and a look at where hoses connect etc: ruclips.net/video/qAc5ZP-Mt4g/видео.html From there you can clean or replace. Clean with soap and water maybe a low concentration bleach cleaner. For replacement use same size food grade silicone tubing - neither hose carries heated water or water under pressure.
This video is a like a manual I return to again and again when maintaining my machine. Love it! I did a double descale about three weeks ago, wound up clogging my solenoid valve, took the machine apart, descaled the valve, etc. Got the machine working again, and all seemed good. The other day my wand clogged up. I unscrewed the tip and sure enough, full of scale. So I ran some water through the wand and lo and behold, TONS of scale. And it seems never ending. I've seen so much scale that I'm wondering if it's coming loose from the interior of the wand itself (total guess). Is this common weeks after a descale? I'm curious as to why it's coming out now. I'm gonna run another descale right now, but would love to hear your experience with this sort of thing.
Hi Dave, Thanks for the kind comment and question. If a machine was perhaps a bit neglected previously in the descaling department then it's not uncommon for issues to occur when finally performing an overdue descaling. Also can be an issue for those with very hard (mineral laden) source water. When there's a lot of scale inside a machine a single descaling will not get it all. We've seen boilers with more than 50% of the internal volume filled with scale. That's not common and takes a lot of neglect to get that much! Not saying that's your case and hopefully your troubles are over but no guarantees. Only way to know for sure is open up the boiler as part of a complete rebuild. We have a detailed video for that here if needed: ruclips.net/video/N9i-EH7qXOc/видео.html If you do get through without any more problems I suggest descaling more frequently than in the past. Also if you know or think you have hard water filtering to reduce calcium will help prevent scale in the future. BWT Water & More products are excellent with their calcium to magnesium ion-exchange. www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-penguin-2-7-l-water-pitcher www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-bestcup-m-package
@@Wholelattelovepage thanks for the reply. Yeah, I neglected the machine for the first year to 18 months. Did one descale in that time. Our water isn't horrible, but it's clearly not perfect. I'll be descaling frequently from now on, and backflushing weekly (I pull two shots per day). If I get another clogged solenoid valve I will breakdown the boiler. Thank you! P.S. I bought my machine from you guys and plan to "stay loyal." These videos do make a difference to the customer. Keep it up!
@@davecooper6173 Hey Dave, Thanks for your patronage! Customer experience is very important to us. We will keep the videos coming! Do your weekly back flushing with no Cafiza/detergent. Then use the Cafiza about every 100 shots or so.
To first tip regarding wand cleaning: you have to do it anyway because after every use if steam you need to prime the boiler by opening steam valve while pump is running.
you recommend a deep cleaning annually? Someone mentioned removing boiler and really cleaning the machine and gaskets. Is it necessary besides the maintenance descaling?
Hi i, thanks for the question. If the machine had been abused - like fed with mineral rich water and not descaled then removing and/or replacing the boiler might be needed. Removing boiler is not normal maintenance and typically only done if there's a known issue. Use good, relatively soft water. Descale as needed and you should be fine.
Hi BBJ, If scale breaks off from inside boiler it may plug up the solenoid if run through the group. Steam wand provides a much easier path out of machine.
So i followed your old video instructions for descale and was using a full bottle per descale and ran a cup through the group head and a cup through the wand. Guess I have been doing it al wrong. Good to know i can only use half the bottle for descale though!
Thanks Ted and Marc!! Great info and huge help for me to maintain my GCP!! I was having some issue with intermittent slow flow through the group head. This process has my machine running like NEW!! Thank you so much again for the great, detailed and absolutely useful "how-to" videos. Robert
@@Wholelattelovepage Good morning Marc and Ted! I just have a quick question re: internal descaling products for my GCP- Can I also use a powder descaler like Urnex Dezcal, or the white/red label Cafiza powder or other similar descaling powders for internal descaling? My concern is that I believe the GCP has an aluminum boiler and if these products would be compatible with it. Thanks much as always and Happy New Year!!
@@archetype90 yes, I agree. It would definitely be good to hear from an expert on this topic for sure! Logically, it would be OK to use this on the GCP. Even though it is an aluminum boiler, the Descaler is only in the machine for 30 minutes or less and then flushed right out. Let’s see who can respond with some expert advice! Thanks! Robert
@@archetype90 I got the following msg. back from Steve at WLL: Urnex Dezcal powder can be used. We usually recommend the liquid Dezcal or Gaggia brand for descaling the boiler of your GCP machine.
Please be aware products designed for backflushing like Urnex Cafiza should not be used inside the machine.
Hi AP, Thanks a whole latte for your appreciation! A lot more content/support for the Classic available here: support.wholelattelove.com/hc/en-us/sections/1500000384362-Gaggia-Classic-Pro
Hello, My problem is tiny grain of coffee, backflushing my gaggia classic pro, get somehow to my solenoid and plug it. So after backflush i several times need to dismantle the machine and remove it from the solenoid. Ps. Take the time to thank you for all your great and very helpful videos.
@Wholelattelovepage Hi, Thank you for getting back to me. To be honest i dont know anymore. Maybe its what you suggest. Probably if not a coffee grain. Coffee grain I mentioned because I had already cleaned the machine with descaling powder from Puly. (No grain from puly). I am not sure if I dare backflush anymore :-)
@Wholelattelovepage Hello again, I noticed today it is limescale, yes. Question: do you know if I can replace my aluminium boiler to a steal boiler? I have Gaggia Classic pro 2019. And Gaggia classic EVO pro is said to have one. This whole scaling buildup clogging the solenoid is happening on a regular basis now. 1 or 2 times a month. And I still descale my Gaggia with Puly Cleaner powder once or twice a month now. I have times when maybe 6 months passed but I do descale. So I am wondering if I should change boiler. And I have had my machine since 2021.
@@StefanLindblad1 Hi SL, Changing boiler material will not prevent limescale. If your water is mineral rich (hard) scale will form in any type of boiler. If you didn't stay on schedule with descaling, it's likely you have scale in boiler that's not completely removed when you finally do descale. In that situation it's not uncommon for remaining scale to break free and clog things up again. If boiler is severely scaled you may need to replace it. Currently only the aluminum boiler is available for the Gaggia Classic Pro. Should you replace the boiler you can avoid scaling in the future by treating/filtering water to reduce calcium content. Filtering options from BWT Water and More result in water that will not cause scale yet have the mineral level needed for best flavor and corrosion protection. Here's a link to our support page for the GCP. There you'll find videos and info including how to replace the boiler if needed: support.wholelattelove.com/hc/en-us/sections/1500000384362-Gaggia-Classic-Pro BWT filter options Bestsave in-reservoir pad filter: www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-bestsave-s-anti-scale-filter?variant=14409382723643 Bestcup in reservoir plumbed filter: www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-bestsave-s-anti-scale-filter?variant=14409382723643 BWT Aqualizer Pitcher: www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-aqualizer-2-6-l-pitcher-with-illuminated-baselight?variant=41552648241206 Hope that helps!
@@Wholelattelovepage Have anyone told you guys you are fantastic?! I dont belive the water is that much mineral heaven here in Stockholm Sweden. But had i been in South of Sweden, close to Denmark, it would be. I found even more limescale in the solenoid today. Just did the whole thing again. Way more than natural. I will as always follow your advice. I will now take a walk and during it, leave the solenoid dismantle in water with descaler. And the flush it with Air Duster. Thank you again
hey all! question, can you guys make a video on how to clean the tubes? one of them is getting dirtier and dirtier and with all this cleaning and maintenance it stays the same, or is there a replacement tube available? Haven't been able to find one. Thanks!
Hey guys. Love your videos. I had one question. I was cleaning my machine and did the descale last. The machine was hot due to this. First few cups of descale came out of the wand with a lot of steam. I hadn’t thought much of this until later, but, now I am wondering if it’s a safety issue to have that cleaner airborne with the steam? I notice in this video you guys did the same thing more or less, with steam coming out when you run out the descale solution. Figure you know more than I do about this so I thought I’d ask here. Thanks a lot.
Hi LH, Thanks for the kind comment and question. The descaler is an acid. Most common is citric acid. I would avoid directly breathing that steam but it's unlikely it presents any danger as the concentration is so low. Citric acid is a very common food additive.
Hi, thanks for the interesting video! I have a 90s Gaggia Classic and it doesn't have the lateral tube used for backflushing. So there is no way to carry out any backflushing operation? Thanks for your feedback
Nice video, very informative, just got the Gaggia classic pro less than a month ago, my instructions book don't mention anything about backflushing, should I still do it? I don't want to ruin the machine, help please😬
Hey kR, Thanks for the comment and question. If it's a recent Gaggia Classic and has a decompression duct - the pipe coming down almost to the drip tray at left rear of tray area then yes you should backflush. I mention this as for a few years there were some versions of the Classic made for EU markets which did not have that pipe indicating those version do not have a three-way solenoid valve. Those versions should not be backflushed.
Hello from Greece. Have a wonderful year and stay healthy. I was working as a barista more than 15 years ago and I always do a back flushing the machine every night. Now I purchased the Gaggia Classic for my self and because I saw your videos and other and I also read that you mustn’t do back flushing the Gaggia due to aluminium components that has and those chemicals if you read are corrosive to aluminium, I contacted Gaggia in Greece here and told me that company says no to back flushing. That’s why it isn’t written anywhere in the manual. And always descaling the machine with Gaggia descales that is aluminium friendly. What’s your answer to that? My mind says that the right thing for a 3 ways solenoid valve is to back flushing it but in the other hand maybe damage the components. Thanks for your answer in advance.😊
Hi PVR, We do recommend backflushing the machine. But not daily. Backflush with cleaner like Cafiza every 100 brew cycles. There may be some confusion as a few years ago a version of the Classic made for the EU (and potentially other) markets did not have a 3 way solenoid valve. For descaling we do recommend using Gaggia brand products.
Hmmm... I recall earlier videos and possibly even the gagia documentation saying to alternate 1 cup through the wand and 1 cup through the grouphead for descaling. Is the change to run all the water through the wand based upon issues you've found in servicing machines or was it a change based upon product changes? Classic vs classic pro perhaps? Thanks. I do appreciate all the effort the team puts into these videos.
Hey Grumpy, Thanks for the comment and question. As Ted mentions in the video running descaler through the group head risks plugging the solenoid with loosened scale particles from the boiler. I believe running descaler out the steam wand is the procedure described in the Classic's service manual. Solenoid valves blocked with scale is the number one reason machines end up on Ted's bench for repairs. Marc
Yes the classic pro manual describes the process as alternating between the group head and the steam wand, but I’ve encountered the blocked solenoid issue after that process so I agree this makes more sense to run it all through the steam wand. I was curious why flipping both the pump switch and the steam switch to on, but I see that the steam wand switch closes the solenoid to stop descaler and possible chunks of scale going through the tiny pipes in the solenoid when it’s open so preventing any scale causing blockages in the solenoid pipes.
Thanks, this is the video I needed! Question about back flushing... how often should we use Cafiza? Once per week? Some say back flush everyday with just water and once per week with Cafiza. Most importantly, should we remove the shower screen during back flushing? I have noticed water does not drip anymore as rain drops after i back flush. It's like the water pressure damages/deforms/moves around the showerscreen. I always need to adjust the shower screen to keep it tighter or loser until water starts to do the rain drops again.
Hi Erald, Thanks for the question. I recommend back flushing with Cafiza every 30-60 brew cycles. Different coffee types in combination with dose levels can cause build up faster. So a visual inspection showing excess residue build up can help narrow done when to back flush. You can remove the shower screen when back flushing but it's not required. If you see the drip from screen changing I'd remove the screen and clean manually.
Another great video, guys! Thanks muchly. Curiosity Q? Can you actually see sediment in the drain bucket when you descale? Would kind of give you feedback that it's doing it's job!
Hello thank you from France for your vidéos. Do i have to descale m'y gaggia classic pro if i use a Brita decanter ? And how often do i have to make this please?
Hey David, You're welcome! Unless your Brita specifically reduces calcium content of water then yes you should. Most Brita filters I'm aware don't do anything to reduce mineral content of water. They filter solids and have activated carbon for reducing chlorination and other chemicals. Fequency of descale depends on your source water's hardness and use level of machine. For very hard water typical is 1x month out to every 6 months for relatively soft water.
Hi n, Assuming you are referring to descaling the machine? If so, hard to say because it depends on mineral level in your water and bottled water is all over the place with mineral content depending on brand. Even same brand varies as they may use different water sources regionally. If mineral content is low recommend 2x per year. If high minerals then up to 6x per year.
Hello thanks for all your tips, do you have any recommandations for orger descaler because gaggia product is expensive in France.Can i do my descaler with citric acid and water please?
Hi D, thanks for the question. Citric acid can be used for descaling unfortunately I do not have a standard recipe for amount to use. Urnex which manufactures many citric acid based descaling products recommends contact time of
thankyou, only very recently started drinking coffee and bought a used machine today, so all new to me. Is filling the tank from the top funnel the same as taking the tank out and filling it?
I maybe have got my machine nearly 2 years ago.......... Definitely due for some maintenance, although I may have not used it heavily for many months at a time, I am just a bit worried about the scale build up.
Hello! Appreciate the video. I always used the BWT bestcup filter for my classic pro. Should I leave it on during descaling or take it off? I just thought about it during my descale process and took the filter off.
I was recommended to descale every 2 months due to the water where I live (5.9dH and lots of iron). I'm using a dafi filter pitcher instead of one directly in the tank. So the water is filtered before I put it in the tank. Is that enough for daily use? I'm also wondering if I should filter the water first for the 4 tanks of clean water I need to run through the machine at the end?
Hi k, unfortunately I'm not familiar with Dafi filters. I did a little research and they seem to have a variety of filter cartridge types available. Information on their website was a little lacking in specifics so I'm not sure if they have a softening (calcium reduction by ion exchange) filter. At 6dH you're water is not extra hard so 2-3 months between descaling is reasonable if the filter is not softening your water. I would not bother filtering the rinse water.
Hello from Switzerland I‘m a Gaggia Classic pro owner since 2 years now and absolutely happy with the machine. Your videos are all very helpfull! Thank you very much! One question: I refill the boiler after steaming by letting out steam and water through the group head. In all your videos you do this through the steam wand. I just find it very convenient to do it the other way. But does this harm the machine?
Hello e, Thanks for the feedback on your experience with the Gaggia Classic Pro! There's no harm in cooling down thru the group head. Some people find it makes more of a mess to do it that way. But do whatever works for you - some years ago I cooled down thru the group as well.
Very nice instruction video. However the official user manual of the GCP instructs to dispense water and cleaner from the steam wand AND the brewing unit as well (alternately) in the first steps when descaling the machine - one might think also the brewing unit could need some descaling. Also back flushing nowhere in the chapter maintenance to be found (and a blind filter isn't included in the box of a new GCP). So did Gaggia made some mistakes in the manual? By the way, instead of back flushing the official Gaggia importer and service centre in The Netherlands advised me to remove the shower screen (and holder now and then) once a week to clean it with coffee detergent, then flushing it the regular way, for back flushing could harm the pump of this machine over time. To sum it up, i don't know, but what do you all think? Best wishes from The Netherlands!
Hi thanks for the comment and questions. Just checking to make sure you have a Gaggia Classic with a 3 way solenoid. You do if there's an exhaust pipe coming from the back left of the group area depositing into the drip tray. There was a time a few years ago some GC models sold in EU did not have a 3 way solenoid. Those models should not be backflushed. My guess is manuals and service personal may not have been up to date or updated.
@@Wholelattelovepage hi thanks for your answer. I have a Gaggia Classic Evo Pro (model 2023). My questions on descaling and backflushing are related to this latest model of the GCP (with exhaust pipe on the back left) and it's current user manual.
Great info, but it directly contradicts the previous Gaggia Classic maintenance video that clearly states that you should pull a cup of descaling solution through both group & stream wand.
Thanks for a great and very helpful video! Right near the end you quickly mention "do it three more times after your initial rinse tank"...do you mean you need to flush/run through four full tanks of water (initial one plus three) before the machine is fully rinsed and ready to use again? Thank you!
Hi Tony, 4 full tanks is what Gaggia recommends. Personally I think that's excessive but errs on the side of caution. If any doubt, or you want to drop a tank from the rinse put a pinch of baking soda in the rinse water. If it fizzes then there's still acid coming out.
@@Wholelattelovepage If I already have Cafiza (backflush) and Gaggia solution (descale), will mix it with tap water fine then or I still need detergent ? Thanks
Don’t mix with anything else! Use descale product for descaling and Cafiza for backflush. Sorry if that was confusing. Cafiza = detergent. Do not mix it with descaler!
Do you have any videos on how to troubleshoot if the volume of water isn’t coming out of the shower head as much as it used to? It’s coming out normally out of the steam wand. I’ve cleaned the shower head screen.
Hi e, here's a video on diagnosing and cleaning and replacing (if needed) the solenoid valve of the GCP which can cause the problem: ruclips.net/video/dDtHUPxh95o/видео.html
Hey guys. Wonderful job as usual. Just wondering if it's a good idea to remove the steam wand tip to allow the descale solution to dispesne with more flow?
Great video! Easy step by step which made it very easy to clean my gaggia classic. I have a question though. Is it okay to just use regular tap water for the 4 tanks after descaling? I think my water is a bit hard, bit it also seems like a waste to use bottled water like when im brewing.
@WholeLatteLove These videos are so fantastic and thank you for putting them out to the consumer to get the very most out of their machines and to help them last 10 plus years! I hope that you all still read and answer new questions to older videos :) I do have a question with regards to the aftermarket shower screen and precision basket I got both the Nanotech technology shower screen and precision basket. I noticed an amazing film on the basket. My question is that is it okay to clean this nanotechnology with Cafiza or will it ruin the properties of the basket and screen? I am getting conflicting information and would like your honest opinions on if I can use Cafiza or not on this technology. Especially backflushing with new screen and Cafiza too, or just use hot water. Please and thank you I would like to know if I can soak them for 20 minutes in the Cafiza water or just do the boiling hot water method? Cheers! Look forward to your response :)
Hey Matt, Thanks for the kind comment and question. And yes, we do monitor comments on older videos and do our best to answer all original (1st) questions. I'd think about the nanotech quartz coating like a non-stick teflon pan. The coating will not last forever and abrasives will tend to degrade the coating. You can soak the screens and filter baskets in Cafiza but to increase life. I'd only do when needed and unless they're really gunked up you can do a lot less than 20 minutes. They should stay cleaner and clean easier than components without the nanotech treatement. Backflushing with just water is fine but still do the Cafiza as needed based on your usage level and what you see on the components.
In your descaling video you alternate between brew group and steam wand. This video specifically mentions not using the brew group. So what would you recommend in the end?
Hi@@Wholelattelovepage , another question during the descaling part of the video around 24:55 you mention using a rubber tube attached to the steam wand to run water to the sink. Any advice on where to purchase a tube like that and what parameters for the tube to look for?
Hi EM, The Gaggia solution is preferred as it contains an anti-corrosion ingredient in addition to the descaling acid. Dezcal's active ingredient is citric acid. It's okay to use in the Classic but limit total contact time to less than 25 minutes in the machine.
Hi there, great video! One question regarding the Nanotech Shower Screen. A bit concerned with the coating of the product if soaked 30 min in cafizza. No issues? Thanks!
Hi Sergio, Nanotech coating tolerates Cafiza. 30 minutes is an excessive soak time IMO unless your basket is really bad! Treat Nanotech coated products as you would the coating of a non-stick pan. Avoid abrasive scrubbing.
Hey p, Might depend on what makes the machine better for you. Each is equally capable of producing excellent espresso. Both are machine grade products with commercial size 58mm PF components. The Silvia is more expensive. It has a larger boiler so if steaming large amounts of milk it might be a better choice. With the larger boiler it takes it longer to heat up to steaming temp from brew temp. The Gaggia has no problem steaming typical amounts of milk and it's ready to steam in less than half the time. Hope that helps!
I don't know if this is a stupid question, but I'm kinda new to owning an espresso machine. I'm descaling my machine and I was running it through the steam spout. But when I turned off the knobs, some water came out of the group head (with the solution) is that bad?
Hi cz, Scale may occur in any boiler regardless of metal type. The key to prevent is water quality - if high in calcium content (hard water) scale will form. Easy to prevent using traditional water softening measures or more advanced options like those from BWT which use calcium to magnesium ion-exchange. Those reduce calcium but maintain the mineral level needed for best flavor: www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-bestsave-s-anti-scale-filter?variant=14409382723643
Hi r, Thanks for the question. I'd consider opening the boiler up and cleaning. Here's our boiler rebuild video if you want to go that route: How To Clean and Rebuild a Gaggia Aluminum Boiler: ruclips.net/video/N9i-EH7qXOc/видео.html
Hi M, To best of my knowledge stainless boiler was only used for a short period in some EU versions of the Classic which did not have a 3 way solenoid. That boiler will not fit in newer Gsaggia Classic Pros.
Apologies if this has been asked before, but for back flushing would you recommend using the Cafiza powder only or will the Cafiza tablets work as well?
Hi DF, Beyond the smell/taste vinegar can leave behind, vinegar is less effective than other descaling acids like citric. Citric acid leaves no flavor/odor and is inexpensive. If using citric acid limit contact time to
I can’t get water from My steam wand for descaling. it goes right to steam when the machine is cold. any tips on how to troubleshoot this? makes espresso fine. steaming is fine. only issue is getting a stream of water necessary for emptying the tank form descaling purposes.
Hi SM, To get water from the steam wand open the steam valve and turn on the brew and steam switch simultaneously. When not using steam from the machine be sure and turn off the steam switch. It should only be on when you want steam from the machine. Once you are done steaming turn always off the steam switch.
@@Wholelattelovepage that’s what i’ve been doing for several descalings. no problems until yesterday. it goes to steam and stays that way. no water stream. (I get maybe 4-5 drops of water then it’s steam)
Hello!! Love the informative video :)))) quick question, my portafilter seems like it has a lot of trouble when I twist it in. It is the one that comes with the gaggia classic pro as well. What can I do? Thank youuuu
Hi Jessica, First, be sure and clean the group head on a regular basis. Over time, coffee residue can build up causing more difficulty. If your machine is relatively new it does take some time to break in the hard rubber group gasket. The group gasket is a wear part. When it's time to replace consider upgrading to a silicone group gasket. They are more supple and last longer than the stock gasket. Here's the one you want: www.wholelattelove.com/products/caffewerks-silicone-group-gasket-73-x-57-x-8mm
Slime buildup happens in the water tank and hoses long before a descale is necessary. I’m not even sure the descale solution is designed to deal with the slimy film. How do you handle this problem?
Hi UT, Slime buildup may be the result of water quality issues or leaving water in the reservoir too long. Suggest turning over water in reservoir on daily basis and washing with soap and water and rinsing as needed to prevent.
Hey jeff, You are welcome! Also, careful it's "espresso". Say expresso and you could make a baristas head explode! Some wear shirts with the slogan "There's no X in espresso"!
Hi Ted and Marc! I had a group head on My GCP that all of a sudden wasn’t delivering water through the portafilter. I went nuts thinking my machine or some part of it was a goner. I had no idea how often I should do these things described and demonstrated here. I’ve had my machine for 5 months using it once per day. I do use the decalcifying packets from Whole Lattè Love too. I did all of this described and shown in this video and my machine now works like a champ again! Thanks for all of this!! 👉🏻 Question: What constitutes a heavy vs light user? At using my machine once per day with fairly hard water where I live, how often should I do this… monthly or once every other month?
Hi Mike, You are welcome and thanks for your patronage! It's hard to be incredibly specific on frequency of maintenance but it's always better sooner than later. Once a day is relatively light use. But, knowing you have hard water you could be laying down 3x the scale of somebody who is also a light user but has soft water. You might consider using a filter to reduce calcium level in you water which would increase time period between descaling, or eliminate the need to descale and/or add to peace of mind. This filter is good for >1,000 brew cycles in moderately hard water or 3 months: www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-bestcup-m-package When used as directed it stops scale formation in your machine yet retains the mineral level needed for best flavor.
When flushing during descaling is it advisable to remove the tip of the steaming wand to prevent potential clogging by loosened scale. After descaling is completed, then the tip can be remounted onto the wand. What are the WLL thoughts about doing this precaution during descaling?
Hi R.C. P, Thanks for the comment and question. Recommend plain water backflushing weekly and backflushing with Cafiza every 125-150 brew cycles. For descaling, that all depends on how hard (the mineral content of) your source water is. For relatively soft water of 200ppm every 1-2 months. If you know your water is hard or want to eliminate descaling you can filter water to reduce calcium content. 3 options for that: 1. BWT BestSave anti-scale in reservoir pad filters: www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-bestsave-s-anti-scale-filter 2. BWT Bestcup in reservoir plumbed filter: www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-bestcup-m-package 3. BWT Penguin Pitcher: www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-penguin-2-7-l-water-pitcher We like the BWT products as they all do calcium to magnesium ion-exchange resulting in water that will not cause scale yet maintain the mineral level needed to support good flavor. Standard sodium based water softening works also but magnesium is a better flavor extractor than sodium. Additionally, all the BWT products contain activated carbon to deal with chlorination and other chemicals. Hope that helps and congrats on your new machine!
Lol I just bought a Gaggia classic pro and so far I’m enjoying it but I’m still considering switching it out for a Flair 58 since it doesn’t require this much maintenance
Hey D, Happy to hear you are enjoying your Classic Pro. Maintenance is a fact of life with any machine but really doesn't take much. Can prevent scale entirely with a filter like this: www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-bestcup-m-package Our water pitcher like this which we use to fill all our reservoir fed machines: www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-penguin-2-7-l-water-pitcher
Hi r, no. On paper sounds like good idea because no minerals no scale. Problem is water with no minerals is such a good solvent it can cause metal to corrode and damage your machine. Also, distilled water over-extracts coffee leading causing bad flavor.
Hey jk, Thanks for the question. While white vinegar is good for removing mineral deposits from items like glass coffee pots I know of no manufacturers recommending its use for descaling espresso machine boilers.
Excellent video gentlemen! I apologize if I may be replicating this question if it's already been asked, but wouldn't it be better for the sake of time as well as not plugging the steam wand tip to remove it during the descaling? Any contraindications? Thanks again for this very thorough video.
Hi there, I took some notes for myself to print as I plan to have this machine for a very long time. I thought I'd share them, please note that there may be mistakes and that your cleaning timelines will heavily depend on use case!
*Cleaning the Gaggia Classic Pro:*
When necessary:
Steam wand and tip:
You can unscrew the steam wand tip and clean it when necessary. This will prevent milk buildup from affecting your milk steaming performance (Flush steam wand after every use)
*Daily:*
Basket and Portafilter:
You should be rinsing your portafilter and basket after each day of use by removing the basket from the portafilter and running it through warm water
If necessary: Place the basket in boiling water for 10 minutes to clear any coffee oil buildup
*These timing suggestions will vary on machine use as well as water quality, please refer to the manufacturer or other information for appropriate timelines. I based this on my use case and suggestions from these gentlemen*
*Weekly:*
Cleaning portafilter, basket, and grouphead:
Place 6 grams of Cafiza (Or cleaning solution of choice) in warm water (About a liter) and place the portafilter and basket in there for about 30 minutes. While you are waiting you can use a brush that is dipped in the cafiza/water solution to clean the grouphead. After those 30 minutes run a blank shot or two with the portafilter back in the grouphead to ensure that the excess cafiza is cleared.
Backflushing:
Place approx 2 grams of cafiza in a backflushing basket and run 5 shots of roughly 6-8 seconds each. The water coming out of the solenoid valve will be soapy. After those 5 shots, take the portafilter out and rinse the blank basket. Place the portafilter back in the grouphead and run it another 5 times for approx 6-8 seconds, until the water comes out of the solenoid valve with no soap. Repeat as many times as necessary until the water is clear. Run one blank shot with your shot basket and you're good to go.
*Monthly:*
Shower screen:
Unscrew the shower screen and place it in the cafiza/water mix mentioned above for approx 30 mins. Brush the group head, replace the shower screen after rinsing and run a blank shot or two.
Descaling:
*This one will greatly vary based on water quality*
Remove the solenoid valve and take out the water tank. Use approx ½ of a descaling solution in the water tank, fill the tank up with cold water to the max.
By pressing both the shot and steam switch you will run 2 cups of solution through the steam wand. Turn off the machine and wait for 20 minutes. When you return, run 2 cups of the solution and wait 3 minutes. Make sure you turn off your machine between runs. Repeat this step until you are out of the solution.
Take out your water tank, rinse it and fill it with cold water. Run the water through your steam wand using both buttons again until the tank is completely empty (No need to take pauses here). Repeat this 4 times after the empty solution tank.
Run a blank shot and you’re good to go!
Hey Patrick, This awesome thanks for sharing. Yes, frequency does depend on level of use.
i have this comment saved as a note on my phone. super useful! thanks so much for sharing
You're the fucking best, Patrick. Thank you.
Helpful -Thank you!!!👏👏👏
Oh… remove the solenoid valve? Woopsie… never done that part before
I’ve owned a half dozen Gaggias over the last 30+ years and it’s been a constant issue with scale buildup. In all those years I’ve never read or heard that you should never run the descaling solution through the brew head. Live and learn. Thanks for that invaluable tip!!!
Hi Alan, Thanks for the comment. If you have constant scale buildup issues I'm guessing your source water is rather hard? You might consider treating/filtering your water to reduce the calcium level to prevent scale in the first place. Not sure which Gaggia machine you have, but here are treatment options that when used as directed can prevent scaling.
BWT Bestsave: www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-bestsave-s-anti-scale-filter
BWT Penguin Pitcher: www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-penguin-2-7-l-water-pitcher
BWT Bestcup (works well in the Gaggia Classic): www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-bestcup-m-package
Yeah so to be clear, always run water through the wand and NEVER the brew head, right? This video seems clear but there's an old WLL and other more recent videos where folks are in fact running descaling solution through the brew head
Also wondering this as my manual says to run it through the brew head?
When backflushing, my blind always gets stuck on the group head, and comes out of the portafilter, even though it's a snug fit. I usually run a couple of blasts to remove it which creates a hell of a mess when it eventually drops. Any thoughts?
@@Bent-Ed When the blind basket gets stuck, instead of running the pump, push and pull it a bit (like you're trying to wiggle it). I just use my hand; if I'm quick I usually don't burn myself. The basket usually drops after a little coaxing.
I've always dreaded backflushing and descaling because it made such a mess, but these instructions were simple so now I've got quite a clean machine! Thanks!
You're very welcome!
My Evo Pro just arrived last night. I can't wait to fire it up. On another note, your videos and customer care are second to none. Please keep up the great work !
Hi sw, Congrats on your new machine and thanks for your kind comment!
My steam pressure is weak so I wrote to Gaggia and guess what, they recommended THIS video to do maintenance.
Good job guys, you know you are on the right track when the manufacturer themselves recommends your video!
That's awesome! Glad I could help!
Pro-tip. Leave the steam tip off in order to keep loosened scale from building up in the tip.
i was just wondering about this!
You mean always do not have the tip on? Even when frothing milk?
No. Definitely keep the tip on for frothing. Just for descaling purposes.
No. Definitely keep the tip on for frothing. Just for descaling purposes.
No. Definitely keep the tip on for frothing. Just for descaling purposes.
In the previous descaling tutorial from 6yrs ago, you advised alternating the flushing through the group head and the steam wand. But in this video it is said to NOT flush the the group head. Just want to confirm what the correct method should be. Thanks so much for the tutorials!
Hi d, We've revised our technique a bit over the years and prefer to flush through the wand. That's because In severely scaled/neglected machine there's as chance of causing a plug when flushing through the group. It is okay to flush through the group so long as descaling maintenance has been done on schedule.
@@Wholelattelovepage perfect. Thanks for the explanation.
I noticed in the video you said to use 1/2 the bottle of gaggia declassified. The instructions on the 250ml bottle say use the whole bottle. Can u clarify please
My machine was purchased in 2006. I just cleaned it, replaced parts and it’s now working great. Thank you for all the info.
Hi Lorrie, You're welcome and thanks a whole latte for that report! Perfect example of why I recommend those getting into home espresso bypass entry-level palsticky appliance grade espresso makers and invest in a true machine grade product like the Gaggia Classic!
This is my first descaling after buying my GCP from you guys - thanks for the help
Everything you need to know in one video; thanks for putting this together!
Glad it was helpful! Thanks for the comment!
Thanks for the help. I've installed my group head silicone gasket and my stainless shower holding plate. Great espresso for years to come!
Glad it helped
I have the Gaggia Classic from 2015 and the manual says it a little different but I have been doing it your way so so far no problems
Hi K, Thanks for the report!
Just followed your video the whole way through my full service of my gaggia classic pro. Works good as new! Appreciate it 👍👍
Awesome! Thanks for the comment.
This is a great all-in-one video on maintaining a Gaggia Classic Pro. Thank you for creating it?
Hey Mark, You are welcome and thanks for taking a moment to leave your comment - it's appreciated a whole latte!
I am so grateful to find this wonderful explanation video. I’m sure last time I looked I couldn’t find helpful information. I have two vintage Gaggia’s waiting for help. I’m on it now !!
Glad it was helpful!
Thanks you guys!!!!! I feel very accomplished replacing my gasket with your help. I was a bit flummoxed with the two "screws" you removed until I realized I needed an allen wrench for mine. I so very much appreciate you!
Hi Eve, You are welcome!
This video was a perfect explanation for cleaning my Gaggia, thanks so much! I could follow all your steps really easily, will definitely rewatch next time I clean my machine.
You're very welcome! Thanks for the comment!!!
Thanks for sharing this. Cleaned my machine. Appreciate your work !!!!
You're welcome!
Second time cleaning - this video is my right hand man!
Hi Deanne, happy to help you out - thanks for the comment!
Thanks Ted and Marc. Very instructive video. I'm glad i caught this. I've seen several GCP maintenance videos and this is the first one recominding not to flush through the grouphead. I'll look forward to more great content.
This was very useful! In Finland we dont suffer from limescale too much, so I'm doing these for the first time after a year. Better late than never huh :D
Thanks guys I come back to this video every so often!
Welcome back!
Thanks for this amazing tutorial! I just got my new classic evo pro last week from you and I want to keep it in good operating condition. One question, is there any risk at all for the back flushing to somehow make its way back into the boiler? I know it's not safe to use cafiza on aluminum which the boiler is made of.
Hey u, you're welcome for the tutorial. No risk of Cafiza making it back to the boiler - flush away!!!
Thanks for this! One question I have because I wasn't paying a lot of attention at first I guess but there are two tubes that go into your water tank. One touches the bottom of the tank. The other one is about an inch off the bottom of the water tank is that proper?
Hey 1rr, Yes, that is proper. 1 tube is for water to the pump, The other is a return to the tank from the over pressure relief valve.
@@Wholelattelovepage Thank you!
Awesome video! Has anyone ever told you you sound like Jeff Daniels?
Not yet!
5:34. removing the basket to clean it doesn't need a tool. If it is gaggia it will fall out. They don't lock in. Since the gaggia baskets had many holes blocked, I bought new ones that clip in nicely. One I bought was a 7 to 9 gram that turned out to be 14 gram. Oh bugger! reducing the pressure to 9 bar has been good.
Hey peter, thanks for sharing!
I've got algae building up in the clear rubber hoses that drape into the water reservoir. What is the process for cleaning or replacing them?
Hi dr, This video will get you into the machine and a look at where hoses connect etc: ruclips.net/video/qAc5ZP-Mt4g/видео.html
From there you can clean or replace. Clean with soap and water maybe a low concentration bleach cleaner. For replacement use same size food grade silicone tubing - neither hose carries heated water or water under pressure.
@@Wholelattelovepage Brilliant! Thank you so much, I'll check it out! Have a great day!
I read the neon sign in the back as “Whole Latte Lab” and I was so proud of myself.
This video is a like a manual I return to again and again when maintaining my machine. Love it! I did a double descale about three weeks ago, wound up clogging my solenoid valve, took the machine apart, descaled the valve, etc. Got the machine working again, and all seemed good.
The other day my wand clogged up. I unscrewed the tip and sure enough, full of scale. So I ran some water through the wand and lo and behold, TONS of scale. And it seems never ending. I've seen so much scale that I'm wondering if it's coming loose from the interior of the wand itself (total guess). Is this common weeks after a descale? I'm curious as to why it's coming out now.
I'm gonna run another descale right now, but would love to hear your experience with this sort of thing.
Hi Dave, Thanks for the kind comment and question. If a machine was perhaps a bit neglected previously in the descaling department then it's not uncommon for issues to occur when finally performing an overdue descaling. Also can be an issue for those with very hard (mineral laden) source water. When there's a lot of scale inside a machine a single descaling will not get it all. We've seen boilers with more than 50% of the internal volume filled with scale. That's not common and takes a lot of neglect to get that much! Not saying that's your case and hopefully your troubles are over but no guarantees. Only way to know for sure is open up the boiler as part of a complete rebuild. We have a detailed video for that here if needed: ruclips.net/video/N9i-EH7qXOc/видео.html
If you do get through without any more problems I suggest descaling more frequently than in the past. Also if you know or think you have hard water filtering to reduce calcium will help prevent scale in the future. BWT Water & More products are excellent with their calcium to magnesium ion-exchange. www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-penguin-2-7-l-water-pitcher www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-bestcup-m-package
@@Wholelattelovepage thanks for the reply. Yeah, I neglected the machine for the first year to 18 months. Did one descale in that time. Our water isn't horrible, but it's clearly not perfect. I'll be descaling frequently from now on, and backflushing weekly (I pull two shots per day). If I get another clogged solenoid valve I will breakdown the boiler. Thank you!
P.S. I bought my machine from you guys and plan to "stay loyal." These videos do make a difference to the customer. Keep it up!
@@davecooper6173 Hey Dave, Thanks for your patronage! Customer experience is very important to us. We will keep the videos coming! Do your weekly back flushing with no Cafiza/detergent. Then use the Cafiza about every 100 shots or so.
To first tip regarding wand cleaning: you have to do it anyway because after every use if steam you need to prime the boiler by opening steam valve while pump is running.
Yes!
you recommend a deep cleaning annually? Someone mentioned removing boiler and really cleaning the machine and gaskets. Is it necessary besides the maintenance descaling?
Hi i, thanks for the question. If the machine had been abused - like fed with mineral rich water and not descaled then removing and/or replacing the boiler might be needed. Removing boiler is not normal maintenance and typically only done if there's a known issue. Use good, relatively soft water. Descale as needed and you should be fine.
For descaling, you never run any clean water through the group head? Always through the steam wand?
Hi BBJ, If scale breaks off from inside boiler it may plug up the solenoid if run through the group. Steam wand provides a much easier path out of machine.
So i followed your old video instructions for descale and was using a full bottle per descale and ran a cup through the group head and a cup through the wand. Guess I have been doing it al wrong. Good to know i can only use half the bottle for descale though!
Thank you! I always reference to this for backflushing and descaling
You're so welcome!
I have a excellent water softener and extra large filter. Do I still need to worry about descaling?
Hi js. Probably not. Only way to know for sure is test the hardness of filtered water. You're looking looking for
Thanks Ted and Marc!! Great info and huge help for me to maintain my GCP!! I was having some issue with intermittent slow flow through the group head. This process has my machine running like NEW!! Thank you so much again for the great, detailed and absolutely useful "how-to" videos. Robert
Hey Robert, You are welcome and thanks a whole latte for taking a moment to leave a comment!
Marc
@@Wholelattelovepage Good morning Marc and Ted! I just have a quick question re: internal descaling products for my GCP- Can I also use a powder descaler like Urnex Dezcal, or the white/red label Cafiza powder or other similar descaling powders for internal descaling? My concern is that I believe the GCP has an aluminum boiler and if these products would be compatible with it. Thanks much as always and Happy New Year!!
@@robertbelden1584 I'd be very curious to hear this too from some experts. Some people say it is ok, but then someone else comes along and says don't!
@@archetype90 yes, I agree. It would definitely be good to hear from an expert on this topic for sure! Logically, it would be OK to use this on the GCP. Even though it is an aluminum boiler, the Descaler is only in the machine for 30 minutes or less and then flushed right out. Let’s see who can respond with some expert advice! Thanks! Robert
@@archetype90 I got the following msg. back from Steve at WLL: Urnex Dezcal powder can be used. We usually recommend the liquid Dezcal or Gaggia brand for descaling the boiler of your GCP machine.
Please be aware products designed for backflushing like Urnex Cafiza should not be used inside the machine.
As a brand new gaggia classic I really do appreciate this video, thanks boys great job, keep going.
Hi AP, Thanks a whole latte for your appreciation! A lot more content/support for the Classic available here: support.wholelattelove.com/hc/en-us/sections/1500000384362-Gaggia-Classic-Pro
I have a question, is it recommended to backflush on the Gaggia Classic Pro? The instructions that came with my machine do not mention anything
Hi a, Yes backflushing the GCP is recommended. It helps keep the group and solenoid clean.
@@Wholelattelovepage thanks a lot!
Hello, My problem is tiny grain of coffee, backflushing my gaggia classic pro, get somehow to my solenoid and plug it. So after backflush i several times need to dismantle the machine and remove it from the solenoid.
Ps. Take the time to thank you for all your great and very helpful videos.
Hi SL, It's unusual for that to happen. Are you sure it's not limescale particles?
@Wholelattelovepage Hi, Thank you for getting back to me. To be honest i dont know anymore. Maybe its what you suggest. Probably if not a coffee grain. Coffee grain I mentioned because I had already cleaned the machine with descaling powder from Puly. (No grain from puly). I am not sure if I dare backflush anymore :-)
@Wholelattelovepage Hello again, I noticed today it is limescale, yes. Question: do you know if I can replace my aluminium boiler to a steal boiler? I have Gaggia Classic pro 2019. And Gaggia classic EVO pro is said to have one. This whole scaling buildup clogging the solenoid is happening on a regular basis now. 1 or 2 times a month. And I still descale my Gaggia with Puly Cleaner powder once or twice a month now. I have times when maybe 6 months passed but I do descale. So I am wondering if I should change boiler. And I have had my machine since 2021.
@@StefanLindblad1 Hi SL, Changing boiler material will not prevent limescale. If your water is mineral rich (hard) scale will form in any type of boiler. If you didn't stay on schedule with descaling, it's likely you have scale in boiler that's not completely removed when you finally do descale. In that situation it's not uncommon for remaining scale to break free and clog things up again. If boiler is severely scaled you may need to replace it. Currently only the aluminum boiler is available for the Gaggia Classic Pro. Should you replace the boiler you can avoid scaling in the future by treating/filtering water to reduce calcium content. Filtering options from BWT Water and More result in water that will not cause scale yet have the mineral level needed for best flavor and corrosion protection. Here's a link to our support page for the GCP. There you'll find videos and info including how to replace the boiler if needed: support.wholelattelove.com/hc/en-us/sections/1500000384362-Gaggia-Classic-Pro
BWT filter options
Bestsave in-reservoir pad filter: www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-bestsave-s-anti-scale-filter?variant=14409382723643
Bestcup in reservoir plumbed filter: www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-bestsave-s-anti-scale-filter?variant=14409382723643
BWT Aqualizer Pitcher: www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-aqualizer-2-6-l-pitcher-with-illuminated-baselight?variant=41552648241206
Hope that helps!
@@Wholelattelovepage Have anyone told you guys you are fantastic?! I dont belive the water is that much mineral heaven here in Stockholm Sweden. But had i been in South of Sweden, close to Denmark, it would be. I found even more limescale in the solenoid today. Just did the whole thing again. Way more than natural. I will as always follow your advice. I will now take a walk and during it, leave the solenoid dismantle in water with descaler. And the flush it with Air Duster. Thank you again
hey all! question, can you guys make a video on how to clean the tubes? one of them is getting dirtier and dirtier and with all this cleaning and maintenance it stays the same, or is there a replacement tube available? Haven't been able to find one. Thanks!
Hey guys. Love your videos. I had one question. I was cleaning my machine and did the descale last. The machine was hot due to this. First few cups of descale came out of the wand with a lot of steam. I hadn’t thought much of this until later, but, now I am wondering if it’s a safety issue to have that cleaner airborne with the steam? I notice in this video you guys did the same thing more or less, with steam coming out when you run out the descale solution. Figure you know more than I do about this so I thought I’d ask here. Thanks a lot.
Hi LH, Thanks for the kind comment and question. The descaler is an acid. Most common is citric acid. I would avoid directly breathing that steam but it's unlikely it presents any danger as the concentration is so low. Citric acid is a very common food additive.
Hi, thanks for the interesting video! I have a 90s Gaggia Classic and it doesn't have the lateral tube used for backflushing. So there is no way to carry out any backflushing operation? Thanks for your feedback
Hi mm, Sounds like you have a version of the Classic which does not have a 3 way solenoid valve. Those versions should not be backflushed.
Nice video, very informative, just got the Gaggia classic pro less than a month ago, my instructions book don't mention anything about backflushing, should I still do it? I don't want to ruin the machine, help please😬
Hey kR, Thanks for the comment and question. If it's a recent Gaggia Classic and has a decompression duct - the pipe coming down almost to the drip tray at left rear of tray area then yes you should backflush. I mention this as for a few years there were some versions of the Classic made for EU markets which did not have that pipe indicating those version do not have a three-way solenoid valve. Those versions should not be backflushed.
Hello from Greece. Have a wonderful year and stay healthy. I was working as a barista more than 15 years ago and I always do a back flushing the machine every night. Now I purchased the Gaggia Classic for my self and because I saw your videos and other and I also read that you mustn’t do back flushing the Gaggia due to aluminium components that has and those chemicals if you read are corrosive to aluminium, I contacted Gaggia in Greece here and told me that company says no to back flushing. That’s why it isn’t written anywhere in the manual. And always descaling the machine with Gaggia descales that is aluminium friendly. What’s your answer to that? My mind says that the right thing for a 3 ways solenoid valve is to back flushing it but in the other hand maybe damage the components. Thanks for your answer in advance.😊
Hi PVR, We do recommend backflushing the machine. But not daily. Backflush with cleaner like Cafiza every 100 brew cycles. There may be some confusion as a few years ago a version of the Classic made for the EU (and potentially other) markets did not have a 3 way solenoid valve. For descaling we do recommend using Gaggia brand products.
Hmmm... I recall earlier videos and possibly even the gagia documentation saying to alternate 1 cup through the wand and 1 cup through the grouphead for descaling. Is the change to run all the water through the wand based upon issues you've found in servicing machines or was it a change based upon product changes? Classic vs classic pro perhaps? Thanks. I do appreciate all the effort the team puts into these videos.
Hey Grumpy, Thanks for the comment and question. As Ted mentions in the video running descaler through the group head risks plugging the solenoid with loosened scale particles from the boiler. I believe running descaler out the steam wand is the procedure described in the Classic's service manual. Solenoid valves blocked with scale is the number one reason machines end up on Ted's bench for repairs.
Marc
Yes the classic pro manual describes the process as alternating between the group head and the steam wand, but I’ve encountered the blocked solenoid issue after that process so I agree this makes more sense to run it all through the steam wand. I was curious why flipping both the pump switch and the steam switch to on, but I see that the steam wand switch closes the solenoid to stop descaler and possible chunks of scale going through the tiny pipes in the solenoid when it’s open so preventing any scale causing blockages in the solenoid pipes.
@@Wholelattelovepage Perfect! Thank you Marc! I will adjust my cleaning routine.
@@julian-earl I wondered about that too. Thank you for the clarification!
Thanks for the great video, guys. It really helped me a lot.
Glad it helped!
You guys really saved me from stripping the shower screen screw, thank you!
Hey BK, You're welcome and thanks a whole latte for the comment!
Marc
Thanks, this is the video I needed! Question about back flushing... how often should we use Cafiza? Once per week? Some say back flush everyday with just water and once per week with Cafiza. Most importantly, should we remove the shower screen during back flushing? I have noticed water does not drip anymore as rain drops after i back flush. It's like the water pressure damages/deforms/moves around the showerscreen. I always need to adjust the shower screen to keep it tighter or loser until water starts to do the rain drops again.
Hi Erald, Thanks for the question. I recommend back flushing with Cafiza every 30-60 brew cycles. Different coffee types in combination with dose levels can cause build up faster. So a visual inspection showing excess residue build up can help narrow done when to back flush. You can remove the shower screen when back flushing but it's not required. If you see the drip from screen changing I'd remove the screen and clean manually.
Thanks for the detailed pro tips on Gaggia Classic Pro machine cleaning. Very useful.
You're welcome!
Another great video, guys! Thanks muchly. Curiosity Q? Can you actually see sediment in the drain bucket when you descale? Would kind of give you feedback that it's doing it's job!
Hey tim, thanks for the comment. It's not unusual to see some residue and such.
Hello thank you from France for your vidéos. Do i have to descale m'y gaggia classic pro if i use a Brita decanter ? And how often do i have to make this please?
Hey David, You're welcome! Unless your Brita specifically reduces calcium content of water then yes you should. Most Brita filters I'm aware don't do anything to reduce mineral content of water. They filter solids and have activated carbon for reducing chlorination and other chemicals. Fequency of descale depends on your source water's hardness and use level of machine. For very hard water typical is 1x month out to every 6 months for relatively soft water.
@@Wholelattelovepage thanks
For the back flush, should it be done with the boiler cold, or at temp? Or does it matter?
Hi evan, At temp for sure!
Thank you very much 😊
If I always used bottle water and do 3 cafe per day, how many time à year should I clean my gaggia evo pro?
Hi n, Assuming you are referring to descaling the machine? If so, hard to say because it depends on mineral level in your water and bottled water is all over the place with mineral content depending on brand. Even same brand varies as they may use different water sources regionally. If mineral content is low recommend 2x per year. If high minerals then up to 6x per year.
Thank you 😊
Hello thanks for all your tips, do you have any recommandations for orger descaler because gaggia product is expensive in France.Can i do my descaler with citric acid and water please?
Hi D, thanks for the question. Citric acid can be used for descaling unfortunately I do not have a standard recipe for amount to use. Urnex which manufactures many citric acid based descaling products recommends contact time of
Thank you@@Wholelattelovepage
thankyou, only very recently started drinking coffee and bought a used machine today, so all new to me. Is filling the tank from the top funnel the same as taking the tank out and filling it?
Yes, it is
I maybe have got my machine nearly 2 years ago.......... Definitely due for some maintenance, although I may have not used it heavily for many months at a time, I am just a bit worried about the scale build up.
Hey R, Chance of scale buildup depends on the mineral hardness of water you are using. After 2 years it is time!
Hello! Appreciate the video. I always used the BWT bestcup filter for my classic pro. Should I leave it on during descaling or take it off? I just thought about it during my descale process and took the filter off.
Hi MOJDR, You made the right choice! You don't want to run descaler thru water filters!
Can i use this descalin process in a profitec go?
I found the blue in colour cleaning liquid for cleaning the steam wand the best option
Great tip!
Perfect video and a few jokes as a bonus! Thank you so much.
Very welcome!
great explanation!
Thanks!
I was recommended to descale every 2 months due to the water where I live (5.9dH and lots of iron). I'm using a dafi filter pitcher instead of one directly in the tank. So the water is filtered before I put it in the tank. Is that enough for daily use? I'm also wondering if I should filter the water first for the 4 tanks of clean water I need to run through the machine at the end?
Hi k, unfortunately I'm not familiar with Dafi filters. I did a little research and they seem to have a variety of filter cartridge types available. Information on their website was a little lacking in specifics so I'm not sure if they have a softening (calcium reduction by ion exchange) filter. At 6dH you're water is not extra hard so 2-3 months between descaling is reasonable if the filter is not softening your water. I would not bother filtering the rinse water.
Hello from Switzerland
I‘m a Gaggia Classic pro owner since 2 years now and absolutely happy with the machine. Your videos are all very helpfull! Thank you very much!
One question: I refill the boiler after steaming by letting out steam and water through the group head. In all your videos you do this through the steam wand. I just find it very convenient to do it the other way. But does this harm the machine?
Hello e, Thanks for the feedback on your experience with the Gaggia Classic Pro! There's no harm in cooling down thru the group head. Some people find it makes more of a mess to do it that way. But do whatever works for you - some years ago I cooled down thru the group as well.
@@Wholelattelovepage Thank you for answering so quickly. That‘s good to know👍 All the best and most of all - lots of good coffee!
I use once a day. Do i need to clean it ? It doesnt have any problem. I also use poland sprint water
Hi l, Yes I would clean, Recommend backflushing with detergent 1x month and plain water backflush 1x week. Recommend descaling every 4-6 months.
@@Wholelattelovepage Thank you 🙏🏻
Very nice instruction video. However the official user manual of the GCP instructs to dispense water and cleaner from the steam wand AND the brewing unit as well (alternately) in the first steps when descaling the machine - one might think also the brewing unit could need some descaling. Also back flushing nowhere in the chapter maintenance to be found (and a blind filter isn't included in the box of a new GCP). So did Gaggia made some mistakes in the manual? By the way, instead of back flushing the official Gaggia importer and service centre in The Netherlands advised me to remove the shower screen (and holder now and then) once a week to clean it with coffee detergent, then flushing it the regular way, for back flushing could harm the pump of this machine over time. To sum it up, i don't know, but what do you all think? Best wishes from The Netherlands!
Hi thanks for the comment and questions. Just checking to make sure you have a Gaggia Classic with a 3 way solenoid. You do if there's an exhaust pipe coming from the back left of the group area depositing into the drip tray. There was a time a few years ago some GC models sold in EU did not have a 3 way solenoid. Those models should not be backflushed. My guess is manuals and service personal may not have been up to date or updated.
@@Wholelattelovepage hi thanks for your answer. I have a Gaggia Classic Evo Pro (model 2023). My questions on descaling and backflushing are related to this latest model of the GCP (with exhaust pipe on the back left) and it's current user manual.
Great info, but it directly contradicts the previous Gaggia Classic maintenance video that clearly states that you should pull a cup of descaling solution through both group & stream wand.
Hi Kerri, Thanks for the comment. It can be done either way.
Amazing video, thanks
Thank you too!
Thanks for a great and very helpful video! Right near the end you quickly mention "do it three more times after your initial rinse tank"...do you mean you need to flush/run through four full tanks of water (initial one plus three) before the machine is fully rinsed and ready to use again? Thank you!
Hi Tony, 4 full tanks is what Gaggia recommends. Personally I think that's excessive but errs on the side of caution. If any doubt, or you want to drop a tank from the rinse put a pinch of baking soda in the rinse water. If it fizzes then there's still acid coming out.
Which type of water can I use to backflush and/or descaling my GCP? Is using tap water for maintenance will affect the machine?
Hey t, using tap water for backflush with detergent and descale is fine.
@@Wholelattelovepage If I already have Cafiza (backflush) and Gaggia solution (descale), will mix it with tap water fine then or I still need detergent ? Thanks
Don’t mix with anything else! Use descale product for descaling and Cafiza for backflush. Sorry if that was confusing. Cafiza = detergent. Do not mix it with descaler!
Do you have any videos on how to troubleshoot if the volume of water isn’t coming out of the shower head as much as it used to? It’s coming out normally out of the steam wand. I’ve cleaned the shower head screen.
Hi e, here's a video on diagnosing and cleaning and replacing (if needed) the solenoid valve of the GCP which can cause the problem: ruclips.net/video/dDtHUPxh95o/видео.html
Should we remove the steam wand tip when descaling?
Hi J, generally do not have to but you can.
Hey guys. Wonderful job as usual. Just wondering if it's a good idea to remove the steam wand tip to allow the descale solution to dispesne with more flow?
Hi ra, Thanks for the comment. You can if desired but not necessary.
Great video! Easy step by step which made it very easy to clean my gaggia classic. I have a question though. Is it okay to just use regular tap water for the 4 tanks after descaling? I think my water is a bit hard, bit it also seems like a waste to use bottled water like when im brewing.
Hi Henrik, Thanks for the comment. No problem using regular tap water for rinsing.
Awesome video!
Thanks!
@WholeLatteLove
These videos are so fantastic and thank you for putting them out to the consumer to get the very most out of their machines and to help them last 10 plus years!
I hope that you all still read and answer new questions to older videos :)
I do have a question with regards to the aftermarket shower screen and precision basket I got both the Nanotech technology shower screen and precision basket. I noticed an amazing film on the basket. My question is that is it okay to clean this nanotechnology with Cafiza or will it ruin the properties of the basket and screen? I am getting conflicting information and would like your honest opinions on if I can use Cafiza or not on this technology. Especially backflushing with new screen and Cafiza too, or just use hot water. Please and thank you I would like to know if I can soak them for 20 minutes in the Cafiza water or just do the boiling hot water method?
Cheers! Look forward to your response :)
Hey Matt, Thanks for the kind comment and question. And yes, we do monitor comments on older videos and do our best to answer all original (1st) questions.
I'd think about the nanotech quartz coating like a non-stick teflon pan. The coating will not last forever and abrasives will tend to degrade the coating. You can soak the screens and filter baskets in Cafiza but to increase life. I'd only do when needed and unless they're really gunked up you can do a lot less than 20 minutes. They should stay cleaner and clean easier than components without the nanotech treatement. Backflushing with just water is fine but still do the Cafiza as needed based on your usage level and what you see on the components.
In your descaling video you alternate between brew group and steam wand. This video specifically mentions not using the brew group. So what would you recommend in the end?
How often should you descale if using distilled water that is mixed with Third Wave Water for espresso profile?
Hi DSS, Since it contains some minerals recommend descaling every 2-4 months depending on usage level.
Hi@@Wholelattelovepage , another question during the descaling part of the video around 24:55 you mention using a rubber tube attached to the steam wand to run water to the sink. Any advice on where to purchase a tube like that and what parameters for the tube to look for?
Can you use Dezcal on the Gaggia instead of the Gaggia solution?
Hi EM, The Gaggia solution is preferred as it contains an anti-corrosion ingredient in addition to the descaling acid. Dezcal's active ingredient is citric acid. It's okay to use in the Classic but limit total contact time to less than 25 minutes in the machine.
@@Wholelattelovepage great, thank you!
Hey fellers, how often do you recommend cleaning the shower screen and portafilter?
Hi dm, Thanks for the question. Well, if/when they look dirty is a good place to start.
Hi there, great video! One question regarding the Nanotech Shower Screen. A bit concerned with the coating of the product if soaked 30 min in cafizza. No issues? Thanks!
Hi Sergio, Nanotech coating tolerates Cafiza. 30 minutes is an excessive soak time IMO unless your basket is really bad! Treat Nanotech coated products as you would the coating of a non-stick pan. Avoid abrasive scrubbing.
Gaggia C Pro vs Rancilio S, Which one is better machine?
Hey p, Might depend on what makes the machine better for you. Each is equally capable of producing excellent espresso. Both are machine grade products with commercial size 58mm PF components. The Silvia is more expensive. It has a larger boiler so if steaming large amounts of milk it might be a better choice. With the larger boiler it takes it longer to heat up to steaming temp from brew temp. The Gaggia has no problem steaming typical amounts of milk and it's ready to steam in less than half the time. Hope that helps!
@@Wholelattelovepage Thanks!
@@prosperousson389 NP!
I don't know if this is a stupid question, but I'm kinda new to owning an espresso machine. I'm descaling my machine and I was running it through the steam spout. But when I turned off the knobs, some water came out of the group head (with the solution) is that bad?
Hi degt, no that’s okay and all questions are fine!
@@Wholelattelovepage thank you!!
Are the brass boilers as prone to scaling?
Hi cz, Scale may occur in any boiler regardless of metal type. The key to prevent is water quality - if high in calcium content (hard water) scale will form. Easy to prevent using traditional water softening measures or more advanced options like those from BWT which use calcium to magnesium ion-exchange. Those reduce calcium but maintain the mineral level needed for best flavor: www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-bestsave-s-anti-scale-filter?variant=14409382723643
Thank you for sharing! My filter screen was pretty nasty!
What would you do if you suspected mold inside the boiler?
Hi r, Thanks for the question. I'd consider opening the boiler up and cleaning. Here's our boiler rebuild video if you want to go that route: How To Clean and Rebuild a Gaggia Aluminum Boiler: ruclips.net/video/N9i-EH7qXOc/видео.html
Ok thank you 😊
No problem 😊
Can you install SS boiler from 2015 model into 2019+ so prevent galvanic corrosion of aluminium?
Hi M, To best of my knowledge stainless boiler was only used for a short period in some EU versions of the Classic which did not have a 3 way solenoid. That boiler will not fit in newer Gsaggia Classic Pros.
Apologies if this has been asked before, but for back flushing would you recommend using the Cafiza powder only or will the Cafiza tablets work as well?
Hey grizz, the tablets work as well!
In case I don’t have Gaggia Descaler, can I use white vinegar instead? Or is it going to ruing my Classic Pro?
Hi DF, Beyond the smell/taste vinegar can leave behind, vinegar is less effective than other descaling acids like citric. Citric acid leaves no flavor/odor and is inexpensive. If using citric acid limit contact time to
I can’t get water from My steam wand for descaling. it goes right to steam when the machine is cold. any tips on how to troubleshoot this? makes espresso fine. steaming is fine. only issue is getting a stream of water necessary for emptying the tank form descaling purposes.
Hi SM, To get water from the steam wand open the steam valve and turn on the brew and steam switch simultaneously. When not using steam from the machine be sure and turn off the steam switch. It should only be on when you want steam from the machine. Once you are done steaming turn always off the steam switch.
@@Wholelattelovepage that’s what i’ve been doing for several descalings. no problems until yesterday. it goes to steam and stays that way. no water stream. (I get maybe 4-5 drops of water then it’s steam)
Hello!! Love the informative video :)))) quick question, my portafilter seems like it has a lot of trouble when I twist it in. It is the one that comes with the gaggia classic pro as well. What can I do? Thank youuuu
Hi Jessica, First, be sure and clean the group head on a regular basis. Over time, coffee residue can build up causing more difficulty. If your machine is relatively new it does take some time to break in the hard rubber group gasket. The group gasket is a wear part. When it's time to replace consider upgrading to a silicone group gasket. They are more supple and last longer than the stock gasket. Here's the one you want: www.wholelattelove.com/products/caffewerks-silicone-group-gasket-73-x-57-x-8mm
Slime buildup happens in the water tank and hoses long before a descale is necessary. I’m not even sure the descale solution is designed to deal with the slimy film. How do you handle this problem?
Hi UT, Slime buildup may be the result of water quality issues or leaving water in the reservoir too long. Suggest turning over water in reservoir on daily basis and washing with soap and water and rinsing as needed to prevent.
@@Wholelattelovepage thanks!
Thanks for the Video it was very helpful. I can clean and field strip my M16 faster but it don’t make Expresso. Again Thank You
Hey jeff, You are welcome! Also, careful it's "espresso". Say expresso and you could make a baristas head explode! Some wear shirts with the slogan "There's no X in espresso"!
Hi Ted and Marc! I had a group head on My GCP that all of a sudden wasn’t delivering water through the portafilter. I went nuts thinking my machine or some part of it was a goner. I had no idea how often I should do these things described and demonstrated here. I’ve had my machine for 5 months using it once per day. I do use the decalcifying packets from Whole Lattè Love too. I did all of this described and shown in this video and my machine now works like a champ again! Thanks for all of this!!
👉🏻 Question: What constitutes a heavy vs light user? At using my machine once per day with fairly hard water where I live, how often should I do this… monthly or once every other month?
Hi Mike, You are welcome and thanks for your patronage! It's hard to be incredibly specific on frequency of maintenance but it's always better sooner than later. Once a day is relatively light use. But, knowing you have hard water you could be laying down 3x the scale of somebody who is also a light user but has soft water. You might consider using a filter to reduce calcium level in you water which would increase time period between descaling, or eliminate the need to descale and/or add to peace of mind. This filter is good for >1,000 brew cycles in moderately hard water or 3 months: www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-bestcup-m-package
When used as directed it stops scale formation in your machine yet retains the mineral level needed for best flavor.
When flushing during descaling is it advisable to remove the tip of the steaming wand to prevent potential clogging by loosened scale. After descaling is completed, then the tip can be remounted onto the wand. What are the WLL thoughts about doing this precaution during descaling?
Hey V, Perfectly fine to do that but generally not required.
Informative video! I'm about to purchase the GCP. I plan on using it 5-6 a week. How often do you recommend cleaning/descaling etc?
Hi R.C. P, Thanks for the comment and question. Recommend plain water backflushing weekly and backflushing with Cafiza every 125-150 brew cycles. For descaling, that all depends on how hard (the mineral content of) your source water is. For relatively soft water of 200ppm every 1-2 months. If you know your water is hard or want to eliminate descaling you can filter water to reduce calcium content. 3 options for that:
1. BWT BestSave anti-scale in reservoir pad filters: www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-bestsave-s-anti-scale-filter
2. BWT Bestcup in reservoir plumbed filter: www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-bestcup-m-package
3. BWT Penguin Pitcher: www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-penguin-2-7-l-water-pitcher
We like the BWT products as they all do calcium to magnesium ion-exchange resulting in water that will not cause scale yet maintain the mineral level needed to support good flavor. Standard sodium based water softening works also but magnesium is a better flavor extractor than sodium. Additionally, all the BWT products contain activated carbon to deal with chlorination and other chemicals.
Hope that helps and congrats on your new machine!
Lol I just bought a Gaggia classic pro and so far I’m enjoying it but I’m still considering switching it out for a Flair 58 since it doesn’t require this much maintenance
Hey D, Happy to hear you are enjoying your Classic Pro. Maintenance is a fact of life with any machine but really doesn't take much. Can prevent scale entirely with a filter like this: www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-bestcup-m-package
Our water pitcher like this which we use to fill all our reservoir fed machines: www.wholelattelove.com/products/bwt-penguin-2-7-l-water-pitcher
Is distilled water a good idea for making coffee with this machine?
Hi r, no. On paper sounds like good idea because no minerals no scale. Problem is water with no minerals is such a good solvent it can cause metal to corrode and damage your machine. Also, distilled water over-extracts coffee leading causing bad flavor.
Thanks for the info
Can i use white vinegar for descaling?
Hey jk, Thanks for the question. While white vinegar is good for removing mineral deposits from items like glass coffee pots I know of no manufacturers recommending its use for descaling espresso machine boilers.
Excellent video gentlemen! I apologize if I may be replicating this question if it's already been asked, but wouldn't it be better for the sake of time as well as not plugging the steam wand tip to remove it during the descaling? Any contraindications? Thanks again for this very thorough video.
Hi MB, Thanks for the comment and question. You can remove the tip if desired.
@@Wholelattelovepage Thank you!