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Solenoid Valve
Electrically operated valve — a coil pulls a steel plunger to open a port, letting water, steam or air pass.
Category: Espresso Machine — Groups & Brew Path
An electronically operated valve that opens and closes when power is applied to a coil. Used throughout an espresso machine — most importantly as the 3-way valve at the group head, but also on autofill, steam, and hot water circuits.
Why it matters — Solenoid valves are the electronic plumbing of a modern espresso machine. They're cheap, replaceable, and the most common failure point on routine service.
Good to know
- Coffee oils gum the 3-way group solenoid over time — a weekly detergent backflush prevents most issues.
- Most solenoids are standardised (12V, 24V, 110V, 240V) and interchangeable; match the voltage and the fitting size when replacing.
Related: Solenoid Valves