How to Descale a DeLonghi Coffee Machine: Magnifica and Other Models

Step by step

1. 1

   Act on the warning light

   Magnifica and other DeLonghi models count the coffees they brew and switch on the descaling light after a set limit. Don't ignore it - scale on the heating element slows brewing and raises power consumption. The whole procedure usually takes between fifteen and thirty minutes. On many models the machine keeps brewing after the light comes on, but don't put the job off, because the buildup only grows and becomes harder to remove.

2. 2

   Choose a descaler

   The safest choice is original EcoDecalk or another liquid made for coffee machines. A weak citric acid solution is sometimes used, but one that's too strong can damage the seals and risks voiding the warranty. If you're unsure, stick with the dedicated product.

3. 3

   Prepare the machine

   Empty the drip tray and the grounds container. Take the water-softening filter out of the tank, because contact with descaler will ruin its properties. Under the wand and the coffee spout, place a container that holds at least a liter. If you use a smaller cup, empty it along the way so the solution doesn't spill onto the counter.

4. 4

   Pour in the solution and start the program

   Pour the descaler into the empty tank and top it up with water according to the ratio on the package - some models have level marks on the tank. Start the descaling mode following your model's manual, because the button combination or menu position differs between versions. The machine will push the solution through in several cycles on its own.

5. 5

   Rinse twice

   When the tank empties, rinse it, fill it with clean water, and run a rinse cycle. Repeat the rinse a second time - that removes descaler residue from the whole circuit. Only then will the coffee be free of a chemical aftertaste. It's best to pour away the first coffee or two after descaling instead of drinking them.

6. 6

   Set the water hardness

   Test your water hardness with the test strip supplied with the machine and set the matching level in the menu. That way the counter correctly estimates when to switch the light on again. After a completed cycle, the descaling indicator usually goes out on its own.

7. 7

   Look after the brew group separately

   In models with a removable brew group (like many Magnificas), take it out once a month and rinse it under running water, without dish soap. Leave it to dry and put it back. This cleaning is separate from descaling and doesn't replace it.

EcoDecalk, a substitute, or citric acid

EcoDecalk is DeLonghi's own product matched to the machine's materials, so it carries the least risk. Cheaper substitutes for espresso machines are fine too, as long as the label says they're intended for coffee machines.

Citric acid is tempting for the price, but it has two flaws: a solution that's too concentrated can dry out and damage the rubber seals, and using a product outside the manufacturer's recommendations can be grounds for refusing a warranty claim. If you use it anyway, make a weak solution and rinse exceptionally thoroughly.

Water hardness and frequency

The harder the water, the faster scale builds up and the more often the light comes on. Setting the correct hardness means the machine reminds you to descale at the right moment, not too early or too late.

The softening filter in the tank slows scale buildup and stretches the intervals between treatments. Replace it as recommended, and take it out for the duration of every descaling cycle.

Descaling isn't everything

Descaling cleans the internal water circuit, but it doesn't deal with the brew group, the milk frother wand, or the grounds container. Wash those parts separately and regularly, so the coffee tastes fresh and the mechanism doesn't jam.

Every so often, also wipe down the housing and the water tank, and replace the water daily instead of topping up the old. Fresh water in the tank limits residue and bacteria growth, so deep cleans come around less often.

Frequently asked questions