How to effectively describe your coffee machine: our full guide
Time to read 3 min
Table of contents
Why descaling is essential
Descaling your coffee machine is crucial for extending its lifespan and ensuring optimal taste in every cup. Over time, limescale in the water accumulates inside the pipes and internal components. This buildup can slow heating, increase energy consumption, and eventually cause costly breakdowns.
Regular maintenance, along with replacing water filters when needed, helps preserve your machine’s performance and lets you enjoy coffee with intact aromas.
How often should you descale?
Frequency mainly depends on two factors: your water hardness and your daily coffee consumption.
As a general rule:
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Soft water (1–5°dH): every 3 to 4 months
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Medium water (6–15°dH): every 2 to 3 months
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Hard water (16°dH and above): every 1 to 2 months
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General descaling steps
Before you start, always refer to your machine’s manual and the descaling product’s instructions for specific guidance. However, the overall procedure is similar:
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Empty the water tank and remove the water filter if installed.
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Prepare the descaling solution: dilute the tablets or liquid as indicated on the product.
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Fill the tank with the prepared solution.
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Start the descaling program from the machine’s menu.
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Rinse thoroughly: after the cycle, fill the tank with clean water and run one or two rinse cycles.
Descaling by machine type
Automatic machines
These machines usually have built-in programs that guide you step by step. Simply follow the on-screen instructions and use only products recommended by the brand.
Manual machines (espresso with portafilter)
Descaling is done manually by running the solution through the water circuit, then rinsing thoroughly. Repeat for both the brew group and the steam wand.
Capsule machines
The process varies by brand but generally follows the same steps: solution in the tank, run the liquid through in cycles, then rinse.
Mistakes to avoid
Using white vinegar: it’s too acidic and can damage seals and internal components.
Skipping the rinse after descaling.
Leaving the water filter in during descaling.
Waiting until problems appear before taking action.
Tips to space out descaling
A suitable water filter for your machine—such as Claris filter cartridges for Jura coffee machines—reduces limescale formation. Use filtered water whenever possible, and empty the tank if you don’t plan to use the machine for several days.
Regular cleaning of the milk frother and internal lines also helps preserve the machine as a whole.
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Good to know: if your machine remains unused for more than a week, empty the tank, run a rinse cycle with clean water, and when you start it again, discard the first two extractions. This simple routine prevents:
- stagnation,
- reduces deposits, and
- prepares the circuit for more effective descaling while protecting seals and sensors.
In summary
Descaling prevents limescale buildup and extends your machine’s lifespan.
Frequency depends on water hardness and your consumption.
Always use products recommended by your machine’s brand, especially during the warranty period.
Remove the filter before descaling and rinse thoroughly afterward.
A suitable water filter helps extend the time between descaling cycles.
FAQ
Can I use a universal descaler?
During your machine’s warranty, use the product recommended by your brand. Once the warranty has expired, it’s at your discretion. We’ll always recommend using your brand’s products, which are designed and tested for your machine.
Does descaling remove all impurities?
It primarily removes limescale. For coffee oils, use specific cleaning tablets.
Can I keep using the machine when the “descale” light is on?
Yes, but this increases the risk of rapid limescale buildup. It’s best to descale as soon as the alert appears.
Do filters replace descaling?
No, they reduce the need but don’t eliminate it.
Does descaling change the taste of coffee?
Yes—in a good way! A clean, descaled machine brings out your coffee’s aromas better. You’ll notice the difference in your cup.
Gaelle, store manager & marketing
Has a soft spot for espresso, but also cappuccino with Sproud pea milk.
