FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

What should be considered when filling the boiler for the first time?

Please make sure that the water tank is filled with water.

The machine is on, but does not start to work.

Water shortage
Floater in the water tank is not in the correct position. (Please consult your user manual for the correct position of the floater.)

What is the optimum brewing pressure for making coffee?

The optimum pressure is between 9 and 11 bar.

The machine does not fill up with water anymore after having connected a water filter.

The filter has not been soaked in water long enough.
The water filter must be held under water when being connected to the silicone tube to avoid the formation of bubbles.
The water filter should be placed in the water tank horizontally. If this is not possible, there is still air in the water filter.

The pump pressure is too low.

Choose a finer grinding degree.
Possibly, use more coffee powder.
Increase the tamping pressure.
Control the pressure of the expansion valve using the blind filter.

The pump pressure is too high.

Choose a coarser grinding degree.
Possibly, use less coffee powder.
Reduce the tamping pressure.
Control the pressure of the expansion valve using the blind filter.

How often should the machine be descaled? How often should the brew group be cleaned?

We recommend to descale the machine every 2-3 months depending on the water hardness degree.
We recommend to clean the brew group once a week.

Can I change the machine temperature by myself?

The temperature of the machine can only be changed by an authorised dealer.

How can I adjust the expansion valve?

Next to the water tank sits a larger adjustment screw. Turn it clockwise to increase the brewing pressure. (See also user manual.)

What is the difference between the Technika IV and the Mechanika IV?

The difference between Technika/ Mechanika IV and the homonymous “Profi” models lies only in the valve type. The Technika/ Mechanika IV have rotary valves for steam and hot water dispension. The Technika/ Mechanika IV Profi have Quick Steam and Hot Water lever valves.

What do I need the blind filter for?

The blind filter is used to control the actual pump pressure of the machine.
The blind filter is required for group cleaning.

There is almost no crema on the espresso.

Change the grinding degree.
Increase the tamping pressure.
The coffee is too old.
The optimum blend is 80% Arabica and 20 % Robusta beans.

How can a machine with direct water supply connection be connected? What kind of adapter is required?

The machine should only be connected by authorised specialists.
To connect the machine to the water supply, a pressure reducer is needed. We also recommend to install a water filter and a blocking valve.