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Backflush (water only)

Backflushing with plain water, with no detergent.

Category: Maintenance & Servicing

Running plain water through the brew path with a blind basket (a solid disc with no holes) in place of the regular basket. The water can't escape forward through the puck, so it backflows into the 3-way valve and out through the discharge line.

Why it matters — Water-only backflush clears coffee grounds from the shower screen, the group seat, and the 3-way valve. It's gentle enough to do daily — and pairs with a weekly detergent backflush for full cleaning.

Good to know

  • Run 3–5 short cycles (5 seconds on, 5 seconds off). Constant pressure isn't necessary; the on/off cycle flushes residue more effectively.
  • A water-only flush won't dissolve hardened coffee oils — those need a detergent backflush.