Support - Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is the brewing system jammed

A: Check that the brewing system is properly positioned and locked into place. Also, make sure the service door located on the front of the unit is completely closed.

Q: Can the coffee delivery be stopped at any time

A: Yes, Simply press either the button or the button to terminate coffee delivery.

Q: What is the difference between a cappuccino and a latte

A: A cup of cappuccino is one shot of espresso, ¾ cup steams milk with a dollop of froth. It can be garnished with chocolate, cinnamon or nutmeg. A cup of latte is one shot espresso (or two shots for a double latte), ½ cup steamed milk with about ½ to 1/3 froth.

Q: Do I have to keep changing the water

A: The Magnifica doesn't need to be refilled until its low. An indicator light will illuminate when it's time to refill the water tank. Water can remain in the machine between used.
Note: It is recommended to always use fresh water, as this will result in a better-tasting espresso. Empty the tank in you intend to leave the machine unused for an extended period of time.

Q: Is it easy to clean the Magnifica espresso maker

A: Very easy, but before performing any of the following cleaning operations, be sure to turn off and unplug the machine. The used coffee container, water tank, drip tray and frother are removable for easy cleaning.
Note: Never immerse the machine in water.

Q: Why is it that coffee does not come out of the spouts, but rather around the service door

A: The holes in the spouts are clogged with dry coffee; scrape the holes with a needle.
The mobile draw inside the service door is blocked and cannot swing; thoroughly clean the mobile draw, particularly near the hinges to ensure they are free to swing smoothly.

Q: Why does the coffee not come out of one of the spouts

A: The spout holes are blocked; scrape the remains of the dry coffee accumulated with a needle.
or
Check the water tank to make sure it is filled, then check that the service door on the front of the unit is fully closed. Otherwise, the machine will not operate. Also check the brewing system. It may need to be cleaned. Lastly, check the bean container to make sure there are beans present and that the container is not too full.

Q: Why is my coffee machine leaking from underneath

A: The overflow tray may be full; empty the over flow tray.

Q: Why is my coffee not creamy enough

A: Possibly the coffee is ground to coarsely; turn the grinding adjustment knob one click anticlockwise or the wrong type of coffee is being used; use a type of coffee for espresso coffee makers.

Q: The coffee is not hot enough

A: With models with a milk jug container before making the first cappuccino press the cleaning button on the milk jug to get the thermablock up to temperature. The machine default can be changed; refer to operation manual page 33 (ENG) press menu button - then press Next button repeatedly until the appliance displays Temperature Medium. Press change button until the appliance displays required temperature Press OK button to confirm the temperature The infuser is to cold; heat the infuser by pressing the __ button (fig.13) before re making the coffee (see section 6, note 3). The cups have not been preheated; heat the cups by rinsing them in hot water or leaving them to rest for at least 20 minutes on the cup warmer tray on the lid (see section 6, note 3).

Q: Why does the coffee run out to slowly

A: The coffee is ground to finely; turn the grinding adjustment knob one click anticlockwise.

Q: Why does the coffee run out to quickly

A: The coffee is ground too coarsely; turn the grinding adjustment knob one click anticlockwise.

Q: Why is it that when the ¼, ½ and full coffee cup buttons are pressed, the appliance does not deliver coffee, but only water

A: The ground coffee may be blocked in the funnel; remove the ground coffee inside the funnel. Then clean the infuser and the inside of the appliance.

Q: How many cups does the magnifica machine make

A: The Magnifica can deliver either 1 or 2 espressos or 1 or 2 American coffees.

Q: Why can't I remove the infuser for cleaning

A: The appliance is on. The infuser can only be removed if the appliance is off; turn the appliance off and remove the infuser.
IMPORTANT: the infuser can only be removed if the appliance is off. Attempting to remove the infuser with the appliance on will risk causing damage.

Q: Why is the machine taking so long to heat up

A: The machine may need to be descaled. Please refer to the Descaling Section in the downloadable instruction manual for the EAM/ESAM3200 series or the EAM/ESAM4000 series.

Q: Why is the grinder making a loud noise

A: By nature, the grinder is loud since it is a professional conical burr grinder. In rare cases, a stone overlooked during the coffee bean sorting process may be blocking the grinding burrs. Turn the machine off and unplug it. Empty the bean container and try to remove the stone.

Q: Why is there no milk coming out of the milk spout

A: The intake tube is not inserted or is inserted incorrectly; insert the intake in the rubber washer in the milk container lid.

Q: Why isn't the machine producing coffee when I use the ground coffee container

A: Add more ground coffee and try again. If you use less than 1 measure, the automatic tamper in the brewing system cannot detect the coffee and will interrupt the brewing cycle.

Q: My espresso has little or no crema. What's wrong

A: The coffee may have been ground to coarsely. Also check to make sure that the coffee is not old or stale.

Q: What can I do to fix the poor frothing on my EAM/ ESAM 3500 - 4500 - 6600

A: Please be informed that, when the problem is "poor frothing", check the following:

1. Coupling and / or IFD device (the milk jug lid): check for solid milk residuals (this is the most common cause for problem): sometimes it is enough to simply press the "clean" button, with the machine "ready for coffee", to clear and clean the parts and have the system perfectly working again (see picture 1). Make also sure the gaskets on the coupling are clean and clear from hard milk residuals (see picture 2).
2. Steam boiler partially blocked by scales: perform "a proper" descaling procedure (using the proper de-scaler diluted in water).
3. Scales obstructing the hole on the exit of the coupling. Disassembly and clean the coupling (clear the hole).

Q: Why is it that when pre-ground coffee is being used (not beans) the appliance does not deliver coffee

A: Too much ground coffee has been added; remove the infuser and thoroughly clean the inside of the appliance. Repeat the operation using a maximum of 1 measure of ground coffee.

Q: Why does the unit regularly indicate that it needs descaling

A: Water hardness - Factory set to 4; test water using the test strip and reset as described.

Q: Why is it that when the on button is pressed, the appliance does not come on

A: The appliance is not plugged in; check that the power cable is plugged into the mains socket.

Q: The milk contains bubbles or squirts out of the milk spout

A: The milk is not cold enough or is not skimmed or semi-skimmed; use skimmed or semi-skimmed milk at refrigerator temperature. If you are still not getting the required results, try changing the brand of milk.

Q: Why is the milk not frothing well

A: The milk container may be dirty; clean the milk lid.

Q: Can I remove the water tank while the machine is delivering coffee

A: No. If it is removed, the machine will not operate.

Q: What type of coffee do I need to use in my espresso machine?

A: When preparing espresso, you should always use the proper bean. Espresso beans are roasted longer than other beans and deliver a full, rich flavour and aroma. Choose al Italian espresso roast coffee bean. For pump-driven espresso machines, you should choose a fine coffee grind. For steam-driven espresso machines, use a coarse ground coffee.
Although any whole beans or ground beans can be used with the Magnifica, for a perfect espresso every time De'Longhi recommends using whole bean or ground espresso coffee from Italy, the worlds finest espresso coffee.

Q: When I'm making cappuccino, how do I make froth and what type of milk should I use

A: Steaming and frothing milk for cappuccino requires two things: a powerful machine and a cold metal pitcher of skim milk. (Skim milk works best because it has very little fat.) Using the patented Cappuccino System Frother, pour 1/3 cup of milk into the pitcher so the milk can aerate, and the Magnifica will deliver high levels of steam at the touch of a button. Tilt the pitcher so the steam nozzle is just below the surface of the milk and the frother will do the rest. Remember to keep you metal pitcher in the freezer to ensure the milk is properly chilled.

Q: Where do I find the appropriate coffee beans

A: Most supermarkets carry Italian or "espresso" beans. Gourmet food stores and coffee chops also carry a wide variety of beans.

Q: Do De’Longhi drip coffee makers feature automatic shut-off?

A: All De’Longhi drip coffee makers that feature a 24-hour timer have a 2-hour automatic shut-off. There are also a few select models without a 24-hour timer that also feature a 2-hour automatic shut-off.

Q: The coffee flows too quickly. What’s wrong?

A: The coffee may be ground too coarsely. Try adjusting the grind settings.

Q: The coffee is not flowing. What’s wrong?

A: First check the water reservoir to make sure there is water in it. Second, check the filter basket to make sure it is not clogged. Coffee that is too fine or compressed too firmly will clog the basket. Lastly, check the showerhead, it may need cleaning.

Q: Are all drip coffee makers marked for “Household Use Only”?

A: Most De’Longhi drip coffee makers are for “Household Use Only”. Please refer to the product section of our web site or call our customer service number 1800 126 659 for more information on our models.

Q: Will the thermal carafe keep the coffee hot for a long time?

A: The carafe should keep the contents warm for approximately 2 hours.

Q: What is the temperature of the coffee when it is brewed?

A: The temperature of the coffee once it is released from the machine is between 70-80 degrees celsius.

Q: What temperature should the thermal carafes maintain?

A: The thermal carafes will maintain a temperature of 75degrees Celsius. The temperature will slowly start to drop as time progresses.

Q: What size paper filter should be used for the 4-cup drip coffee makers?

A: Use a number 2 coffee filter for all 4-cup De’Longhi drip coffee makers.

Q: Do drip coffee makers use charcoal or water filters?

A: Water filters.

Q: Where can I buy pods for my Nespresso coffee machine

A: To purchase Nespresso coffee pods please click here go to the Nespresso Website.

Q: Why can’t coffee urns be used outside?

A: Coffee urns and other units shouldn’t be used outside due to safety concerns.

Q: Why does anyone drink espresso? It’s always so bitter.

A: An authentic espresso should be a rich flavour, never bitter. Old coffee beans or coffee that has not been freshly ground may result in bitterness. For rich flavour, always use freshly ground beans or relatively fresh pre-ground coffee.

Q: What’s the brown foam on top of an espresso?

A: The light brown foam that floats on top of an espresso is known, in Italian, as the “crema”. Distinguished by its caramel-colour, the “crema” is the essence of authentic espresso. The crema carries a variety of flavours that comprise the coffee bean. The presence of “crema” means the espresso is fresh and perfectly prepared. It is a natural froth produced by the pump pressure.

Q: Do I have to keep changing my water?

A: Pump-driven espresso machines can be refilled at any time during the brewing process, but don’t need to be refilled until they are low. Water can remain in the machine between uses. Empty it only if you intend to leave the machine unused for an extended period of time. Steam machines can only be refilled once all of the steam has been released from the unit. To release the steam, turn off the machine, replace the carafe under the filter holder and move the Vario lever (available on certain models) to light. Steam and water will begin flowing into the carafe. Once steam is no longer dispersed, you can open the steam cap and begin again.

Q: How easy is it to clean an espresso maker?

A: Making espresso or cappuccino means an occasional splatter. It happens to everyone. But De’Longhi espresso/cappuccino makers wipe clean with a damp sponge.

Q: Why is my espresso cold in the pump unit?

A: It’s possible that the machine has not warmed up yet. Warm-up generally takes about 6 minutes. Also, when you turn the pump unit on, if your ready light and OK light come on simultaneously this could indicate a problem with your thermostat. You will need to take your unit to an authorized service centre.

Q: What is the difference between pump and steam units?

A: Steam driven machines boil water to create hot water, steam, & pressure. The steam in the boiler is used to build pressure for the extraction of flavour from the grind. In pump-driven machines, the pump creates a minimum and consistent pressure of about nine bars. The water in the pump machines do not have to boil the water to make pressure for pushing the water through the grinds.

Q: What size is an espresso?

A: Espresso is 25-30mls of coffee.

Q: How do I know if the coffee beans are fresh?

A: You will know espresso roast coffee beans are fresh if they have an oily surface.

Q: How many cups does it make?

A: De’Longhi espresso/cappuccino pump machines have water tanks that hold enough water for 20 –28 espresso cups. However, the tank can be refilled at any point so the actual number of cups is limitless. But a pump machine only brews 2 cups at a time. That’s what makes espresso so tasty and unique. Our steam machines have water tanks with a capacity to brew 4 cups of espresso. After you have brewed 4 cups you must release all of the steam pressure before opening the cap and adding more water.

Q: How do you make cappuccino?

A: Steaming milk for cappuccino requires two things: a powerful machine and a cold pitcher of low fat (2%) milk. De’Longhi espresso/cappuccino machines are designed to deliver high levels of steam at the touch of a button. Simply hold the pitcher so the swivel jet frother steam nozzle is just below the surface of the milk. Gently move the pitcher from side to side allowing the nozzle to aerate the entire surface of the milk.

Q: My espresso has little or no “crema”. What’s wrong?

A: The coffee may have been ground too coarsely or the grounds may not have been pressed with a tamper. Also check to make sure that the coffee is not old or stale.

Q: Why isn’t there water coming out of my espresso maker?

A: If it is a steam-driven machine, make sure the water level is on the light to medium setting. If it is a pump-driven machine, you may have a clogged line and the unit needs to be primed. How to prime the unit: Fill the unit with water. Turn the unit on and open the steam valve all the way. Push the brew button. Wait until a steady stream of water flows from the frothing arm and then shut off the steam knob. This will divert the water to the brew head and clear the clog. If this does not work, take the machine to an authorized service centre.

Q: Should coffee grounds be packed tightly into the filter holder?

A: No. Gently compress coffee grounds using the tamper supplied with the machine.

Q: Does espresso have too much caffeine?

A: Actually, because espresso beans are roasted longer than other coffee beans, they have a lower caffeine level. A cup of espresso has more concentrated coffee flavour and should not be confused with caffeine content.

Q: What are the various types of coffee?

A: Please see below -
Espresso : 25-30mls of coffee with a thick,golden crema on the surface.
Macchiato : Served short or long with a dash of milk and/or a dollop of froth
Long Black : 1/3 Espresso 2/3 Hot water
Cappuccino : 1/3 Espresso 2/3 Steamed and textured milk
Caffe` latte : Espresso with steamed milk and a 1cm head of froth.
Flat white : 1/3 Espresso 2/3 hot milk.

Q: Water is leaking excessively from the filter holder. What’s the problem?

A: The filter holder is not properly inserted into the brew head. Also, check to make sure that coffee grounds have been cleaned from the rim of the filter holder.

Q: What is cappuccino?

A: A cup of cappuccino is actually espresso topped with hot, frothy milk garnished with chocolate, cinnamon or nutmeg.

Q: What type of coffee do I need to use in my espresso machine?

A: When preparing espresso, you should always use the proper bean. Espresso beans are roasted longer than other beans and deliver a full, rich flavour and aroma. Choose an Italian or French espresso roast coffee bean. For pump-driven espresso machines, you should choose a fine coffee grind. For steam-driven espresso machines, use coarse ground coffee.

Q: Where do I find the appropriate coffee beans?

A: Most supermarkets carry Italian, French or “espresso” beans. Gourmet food stores and coffee shops also carry a wide variety of beans.

Q: How do I make froth and what type of milk should I use?

A: Skim milk works best because it has very little fat. With the swivel jet frother you pour 1/3 cup of milk into the pitcher so the milk can aerate. The pitcher should be kept in the freezer and should be made of metal. With the IFD system you pour milk directly into the machine, but make sure there is water in the boiler first.

Q: I’m having difficulties creating a nice, rich froth. What’s the problem?

A: You should use skim or low-fat milk that is cold. Check the steam nozzle and/or intake hole to see if it is clogged. Clean away any dried milk to allow steam to flow freely. Make sure that you depress the steam button firmly.