What To Know
- Maintaining a clean coffee machine is crucial for both the quality of your coffee and the longevity of your appliance.
- As a general rule, it’s recommended to backwash your machine every 3-6 months, or more frequently if you notice a decline in coffee quality or flow rate.
- Remember, a clean coffee machine is a happy coffee machine, and a happy coffee machine makes the best coffee.
Maintaining a clean coffee machine is crucial for both the quality of your coffee and the longevity of your appliance. Backwashing is an essential cleaning process that removes built-up coffee oils and minerals from your Breville coffee machine, ensuring optimal performance and delicious coffee every time. This comprehensive guide will provide you with a step-by-step breakdown of how to backwash your Breville coffee machine, ensuring your morning brew is always fresh and flavorful.
What is Backwashing?
Backwashing is a process that reverses the flow of water through the coffee machine‘s water lines, flushing out any accumulated coffee oils, minerals, and debris. This helps prevent clogging, reduces the buildup of scale, and improves the overall performance of your machine.
When to Backwash Your Breville Coffee Machine
The frequency of backwashing depends on how often you use your machine and the water quality in your area. As a general rule, it’s recommended to backwash your machine every 3-6 months, or more frequently if you notice a decline in coffee quality or flow rate.
Materials You’ll Need:
- Breville coffee machine
- Cafiza cleaning tablets (or similar cleaning solution)
- Soft cloth or sponge
- Bowl or sink for wastewater
Step-by-Step Backwashing Instructions:
1. Remove the Water Tank
Start by removing the water tank from the machine. Empty and rinse the tank thoroughly.
2. Insert Cafiza Tablet
Drop a Cafiza cleaning tablet into the water tank and fill it with fresh water up to the “MAX” line.
3. Place Bowl/Sink Under Portafilter
Place a bowl or sink under the portafilter to catch the wastewater.
4. Start Backwashing Cycle
Insert the portafilter without any coffee grounds into the group head. Press the “Clean” button on the machine and let the backwashing cycle run for approximately 5 minutes.
5. Rinse Water Tank and Portafilter
After the backwashing cycle is complete, empty the water tank and rinse it thoroughly. Rinse the portafilter as well.
6. Reassemble Machine
Reinsert the water tank and portafilter into the machine.
7. Brew 2-3 Cups of Water
Brew 2-3 cups of water through the machine to remove any remaining cleaning solution. Discard this water.
Additional Tips:
- Use only cleaning solutions specifically designed for coffee machines.
- Descale your machine regularly to prevent scale buildup, which can affect the backwashing process.
- If you have particularly hard water, consider using a water filter to reduce mineral content.
- Backwashing your machine regularly will help extend its lifespan and ensure optimal performance.
Troubleshooting:
- Machine not backwashing: Check if the portafilter is inserted correctly or if the water tank is empty.
- Water not flowing during backwashing: Ensure the water lines are not clogged or kinked.
- Coffee still tastes bitter: Backwash the machine more frequently or consider using a stronger cleaning solution.
Wrapping Up: A Clean Machine for Perfect Coffee
Backwashing your Breville coffee machine is a simple and effective way to maintain its cleanliness, ensure optimal performance, and enjoy delicious coffee every time. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can keep your machine running smoothly and extend its lifespan. Remember, a clean coffee machine is a happy coffee machine, and a happy coffee machine makes the best coffee.
What You Need to Know
1. How often should I backwash my Breville coffee machine?
Every 3-6 months, or more frequently if needed.
2. What kind of cleaning solution should I use?
Use Cafiza cleaning tablets or similar solutions specifically designed for coffee machines.
3. Can I use vinegar to backwash my machine?
Vinegar can damage the seals and components of your machine. Use only approved cleaning solutions.
4. What if my machine doesn’t have a “Clean” button?
Refer to your machine’s user manual for specific backwashing instructions.
5. How long does the backwashing cycle usually take?
Approximately 5 minutes.
