Gourmet Coffee Corner

Yesterday we discussed the detriments of making a morning cup of joe with a calcified espresso machine. Needless to say, the gunky buildup affects both the taste of the final product – which should always be of utmost concern – and the efficiency with which it’s brewed. Fortunately, there’s a simple solution to the problem: an espresso machine decalcifier. Although some machines perform this function automatically, they tend to be more than a little pricy.

To perform this routine bit of maintenance, you’ll need a stand-alone decalcifying cleaner and a large container capable of holding several cups of water. First, remove the water reservoir from the coffee machine, empty it, and refill with warm water. Add a bottle of decalcifier to the reservoir and stir. Then reattach the reservoir and turn the machine on. Place your empty container beneath the steam wand, toggle the machine to feed out hot water, and open the steam valve.

Wait until all of the liquid has drained into the container, then ditch the contents. Now it’s time for the rinse cycle. First rinse the reservoir manually in the sink. Next, fill with water and replace it on the machine. Run the water through the machine once more. When this final step is complete, your espresso machine will be effectively descaled. Time to enjoy a clean, crisp espresso.