Brewing Units – Why Are They So Important for a Coffee Machine?

The brewing unit is the heart of most automatic coffee machines. This component is responsible for correctly dosing the coffee, tamping it under optimal pressure, and running hot water through the coffee grounds. Without the brewing unit, the coffee machine would not be able to process the coffee and deliver the desired cup. If you are currently dealing with brewing unit issues, this blog will guide you on how to fix them and how to extend its lifespan as much as possible.

Common brewing unit problems and their causes

Brewing units, such as the DeLonghi brewing unit or the Siemens brewing unit, can face several issues over time. The most common problems include:

Jammed brewing unit

This problem is quite common. The cause is often the buildup of coffee residue, oily deposits, or insufficient maintenance. The brewing unit mechanism contains moving parts that can get stuck if not cleaned regularly. This can cause the coffee machine to stop working or display an error message.

How to fix it?

1. Switch off the coffee machine and unplug it.
2. Remove the brewing unit following the instructions in the coffee machine’s manual.
3. Thoroughly clean it under warm water and remove all coffee residues and grease.
4. If it is still jammed, check the moving parts and apply a special lubricant recommended by the manufacturer.
5. If the problem persists, contact a service center to prevent damage to the coffee machine.

Worn seals

Worn or damaged seals are a frequent cause of brewing unit issues. Seals are essential for maintaining proper pressure and tightness in the brewing unit mechanism. Dirt buildup can also prevent proper functioning and cause water or coffee leaks, reducing the machine’s efficiency.

How to fix it?

1. Switch off and unplug the coffee machine.
2. Check the condition of the seals on the brewing unit and surrounding components.
3. If the seals are worn or damaged, replace them with original spare parts recommended by the manufacturer.
4. Thoroughly clean the brewing unit mechanism and remove any deposits or dirt.
5. After replacement and cleaning, reinstall the unit and test it to ensure it works properly.

Poor coffee quality

If the brewing unit is not cleaned regularly, grease and deposits can build up, negatively affecting the taste of your coffee. This is especially common in machines using oilier coffee beans, as buildup forms more quickly. The result is coffee with a bitter or unpleasant taste. The solution is thoroughly cleaning away accumulated grease and deposits.

These issues can be caused by poor maintenance or worn mechanical parts. It’s important to regularly check the unit’s condition and follow the manufacturer’s maintenance instructions. If the unit is mechanically damaged or you’re unsure how to repair it, contact an authorized service center.

Tip: To improve water quality, we recommend using a filter cartridge such as JURA CLARIS BLUE.

Preventive measures to extend the brewing unit’s lifespan

To minimize problems and extend the brewing unit’s lifespan, follow this routine:

Best cleaning practices:

• Daily cleaning: Empty the container after each use and rinse with clean water.
• Monthly maintenance: Use special cleaning products.

Tip: Avoid using vinegar or aggressive chemicals such as copper sulfate.

Use high-quality coffee:

Avoid oily and flavored beans that can clog the mechanism.

Descaling:

Follow the recommended descaling schedule to prevent limescale buildup.

Lubrication:

Some models, such as the Siemens brewing unit, require regular lubrication of moving parts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What should I do if the DeLonghi Magnifica S brewing unit is jammed?

First switch off the machine, then carefully remove the unit. If it’s jammed, check if the mechanism is blocked by coffee residues. If the problem persists, contact a service center.

2. How often should I clean the brewing unit?

Ideally once a week or after each intensive use of the coffee machine.

3. Can I use universal cleaning agents?

No. Only use cleaning products recommended by the manufacturer to avoid damaging the mechanism.

4. How long does a brewing unit last?

With proper maintenance, the unit can last many years. Worn parts can be replaced.