Preventive Maintenance Schedule by Machine Type

Why Preventive Maintenance Matters

Most machine failures are preventable. Regular maintenance catches small issues before they become expensive repairs. A $30 gasket replacement today prevents a $500 machine failure tomorrow.

Different machine types require different maintenance schedules. This guide provides exact timelines for each type.

✓ Maintenance Includes:

• Descaling (mineral removal)
• Gasket replacement
• OPV (Over Pressure Valve) checks
• Lubrication of moving parts
• Screen and basket inspection
• Seal replacement

Maintenance Schedules by Machine Type

Choose your machine type and follow the maintenance calendar.

SBDU (Single Boiler Dual Use)

Examples: Gaggia Classic, Rancilio Silvia, Lelit Victoria

Monthly:

• Clean shower screen and basket
• Run cleaning water through group head
• Inspect gasket for wear

Every 3 Months:

• Descale using citric acid or commercial descaler
• Deep clean group head with brush
• Check OPV function (should release at 9 bar)

Every 6 Months:

• Replace group gasket if worn
• Lubricate group head threads (food-grade grease)
• Inspect water lines for cracks

Annually:

• Replace shower screen if damaged
• Deep descale (2-3 cycles)
• Professional inspection recommended

HX (Heat Exchanger)

Examples: Rancilio Silvia Pro, Lelit Mara X, Gaggia Evolution

Monthly:

• Clean shower screen and basket
• Backflush group head (if 3-way solenoid)
• Inspect gasket and seals

Every 2 Months:

• Descale heat exchanger (critical for HX machines)
• Run cleaning cycles after descaling
• Check water flow consistency

Every 6 Months:

• Replace group gasket if worn
• Lubricate solenoid valve (if applicable)
• Inspect heat exchanger for scale

Annually:

• Professional heat exchanger cleaning
• Replace solenoid valve if needed
• Full system inspection

DB (Dual Boiler)

Examples: Rocket Espresso, Lelit Bianca, Profitec Pro 700

Monthly:

• Clean shower screen and basket
• Backflush group head
• Inspect gaskets and seals

Every 3 Months:

• Descale both boilers
• Deep clean group head
• Check steam wand function

Every 6 Months:

• Replace group gasket if worn
• Lubricate all moving parts
• Inspect solenoid valves
• Clean steam wand internals

Annually:

• Professional boiler inspection
• Replace solenoid valves if needed
• Full system descaling (3+ cycles)

Lever Machines

Examples: Flair, ROK, Cafelat Robot, La Pavoni

Monthly:

• Clean basket and shower screen
• Wipe down lever mechanism
• Inspect seals for wear

Every 3 Months:

• Descale if using hard water
• Lubricate lever pivot points (food-grade grease)
• Check spring tension

Every 6 Months:

• Replace gasket if worn
• Deep clean all moving parts
• Inspect springs for corrosion

Annually:

• Replace springs if weakened
• Professional inspection
• Full disassembly and cleaning

Superauto Machines

Examples: Jura, Delonghi, Saeco, Philips

Weekly:

• Empty and rinse grounds container
• Clean milk frother (if applicable)
• Run cleaning cycle

Monthly:

• Run descaling cycle (follow machine prompts)
• Clean water tank and filter
• Inspect grinder for jams

Every 3 Months:

• Replace water filter
• Deep clean milk system
• Run multiple cleaning cycles

Annually:

• Professional service recommended
• Replace grinder burrs if worn
• Full system inspection

Universal Maintenance Tasks (All Machines)

Descaling

Remove mineral buildup from boilers and water lines. Use citric acid (natural) or commercial descaler. Follow manufacturer instructions. Frequency depends on water hardness: hard water every 2-3 months, soft water every 6 months.

Gasket Replacement

Group head gaskets wear out from pressure and heat. Replace when shots start leaking around the portafilter or extraction becomes inconsistent. Cost: $5-15. Difficulty: Easy.

OPV (Over Pressure Valve) Check

Ensures machine maintains 9 bar pressure. Test by pulling a shot without coffee—water should release at consistent pressure. If pressure is too high or too low, OPV may need adjustment or replacement.

Lubrication

Use food-grade grease on moving parts (lever pivots, solenoid valves, group head threads). Never use regular oil—it can contaminate coffee. Apply sparingly.

Screen and Basket Inspection

Replace if dented, corroded, or damaged. Damaged screens cause uneven water distribution and inconsistent shots. Cost: $3-8.

Explore Related Topics

Water Troubleshooting

Diagnose water-related machine issues.

Dialing In Espresso

Master extraction variables for perfect shots.

Beginner's Guide

Start your espresso journey with fundamentals.

Start Your Maintenance Schedule

Follow this schedule to keep your machine running smoothly for years. Preventive maintenance is cheaper than repairs.

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