Machine Maintenance
Safe Lubrication
Lubricate your machine safely. Warranty-safe recommendations for levers and moving parts.
Lubricate your machine safely. Warranty-safe recommendations for levers and moving parts.
Lever squeaks, sticky mechanisms, and stiff movements indicate dry joints. Proper lubrication eliminates noise and improves performance. However, wrong lubricants can contaminate coffee or void warranty.
This guide shows you exactly where and what to lubricate without risking your machine or warranty. Part of your preventive maintenance schedule.
✓ Key Rules:
Safe lubrication points vary by machine type. Follow this map for your machine.
✓ Safe to Lubricate:
❌ Never Lubricate:
How to Lubricate:
Apply small amount of food-grade grease to pivot point. Work lever back and forth 10 times. Wipe away excess. Squeak should disappear.
✓ Safe to Lubricate:
❌ Never Lubricate:
How to Lubricate:
Apply small amount to threads only. Use a toothpick or small brush. Wipe away excess immediately. This prevents threads from seizing.
✓ Safe to Lubricate:
❌ Never Lubricate:
How to Lubricate:
Apply sparingly to external threads only. These machines have more complex internals—be conservative. When in doubt, don't lubricate.
⚠️ Caution:
Superautos are complex. Lubrication voids warranty on most models. Check manual first.
✓ Safe to Lubricate (If Allowed):
Recommendation:
Contact manufacturer before lubricating. Most superautos don't need lubrication. If squeaking, contact service center.
✓ Recommended: Food-Grade Grease
NSF H1 certified food-grade grease. Safe for food contact areas. Examples: Molykote 111, Kluber Barrierta L 55.
Cost: $10-20 per tube. Lasts years. Available online.
⚠️ Acceptable: Silicone-Based Grease
Food-safe silicone grease. Works well for external threads. Less messy than petroleum grease.
Cost: $5-10. Available at hardware stores.
❌ Never Use: Regular Oil
3-in-1 oil, WD-40, or machine oil. Can contaminate coffee. Attracts dirt. Not food-safe.
❌ Never Use: Cooking Oil
Olive oil, vegetable oil, etc. Will go rancid. Attracts bacteria. Not appropriate for machines.
Use Sparingly
A tiny amount goes a long way. Use a toothpick or small brush to apply. Excess grease attracts dirt.
Wipe Away Excess
After applying, wipe away any excess with a clean cloth. This prevents dirt accumulation.
Work It In
Move the part back and forth 10-20 times to distribute grease evenly. This ensures proper lubrication.
Frequency
Lubricate every 6-12 months with regular use. More often if you hear squeaking.
Proper lubrication eliminates squeaks and improves performance. Use food-grade grease and apply sparingly.
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