Russell Hobbs RH1916 User manual

INSTRUCTIONS AND WARRANTY
MODEL NO. RH1916
RUSSELL HOBBS NERO ESPRESSO COFFEE MAKER

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Congratulations on purchasing our Russell Hobbs Nero Espresso Coffee Maker. Each unit is
manufactured to ensure safety and reliability. Before using this appliance for the first time, please read
the instruction manual carefully and keep it for future reference.
FEATURES OF THE RUSSELL HOBBS NERO ESPRESSO COFFEE MAKER
•Barmen style coffee maker
•Make espresso, cappuccino, lattes, hot milk, custom coffee and more!
•Suitable for ground coffee
•With steam control to adjust intensity of foam for ideal serving preference
•Illuminated control buttons
•Optimal delivery system and preset brewing temperature for preparation of beautiful coffee with a
thick, creamy and smooth crema
•Brewing temperature: >76℃will not burn the coffee during brewing
•Your choice of single or double shot espresso
•Up to 2 cups per brew
•Compatible with short, medium or tall cups up to 40mm tall
•Removable 1.2L water tank, drip tray and steam nozzle for ease of use and cleaning
•Fast pre-brewing cycle for optimal flavour extraction
•Cup warming plate preheats your cups for best results
•Includes porta-filter, single shot crema filter, double shot crema filter as well as measuring
scoop/tamper tool
•20 bar pressure –850W
•Features an Italian ULKA pump
•Die-cast aluminium alloy boiler
•With built-in overheat and pressure protection technology
•1 year warranty
•For domestic use only

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IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS
When using any electrical appliance, basic safety precautions should always be followed including the
following:
1. Please read the instructions carefully before using any appliance.
2. Always ensure that the voltage on the rating label corresponds to the mains voltage in your
home.
3. Incorrect operation and improper use can damage the appliance and cause injury to the user.
4. This appliance is intended for household use only. Commercial use invalids the warranty and the
supplier cannot be held responsible for injury or damage caused when using the appliance for
any other purpose than that intended.
5. Avoid any contact with moving parts.
6. This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical,
sensory or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless they have been
given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance by a person responsible for their
safety.
7. Children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with the appliance.
8. Check the power cord and plug regularly for any damage. If the cord or the plug is damaged, the
manufacturer or a qualified person must replace it in order to avoid an electrical hazard.
9. Do not use the appliance if it has been dropped or damaged in any way. In case of damage, take
the unit in for examination and/or repair by an authorised service agent
10. To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not immerse or expose the unit, plug or the power cord to
water or any other liquid. Do not use it with wet hands.
11. Never immerse the unit in water or any other liquid for cleaning purposes.
12. Remove the plug from the socket by gripping the plug. Do not pull on the cord to disconnect the
appliance from the mains. Always the unit to cool and unplug it when not in use, before cleaning
or when adding or removing parts.
13. Insert and use only original parts.
14. The use of accessory attachments that are not recommended or supplied by the manufacturer
may result in injuries, fire or electric shock.
15. A short cord is provided to reduce the hazards resulting from becoming entangled in or tripping
over a longer cord.
16. Do not let the cord hang over the edge of a table or counter. Ensure that the cord is not in a
position where it can be pulled on inadvertently.

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17. Do not allow the cord to touch hot surfaces and do not place on or near a hot gas or electric
burner or in a heated oven.
18. Keep the appliance and cord away from direct radiant heat from the sun, from damp, from sharp
edges and other dangers.
19. Do not use the appliance on a gas or electric cooking top or over or near an open flame.
20. Use on a hard, flat level surface only, to avoid interruption of airflow underneath the appliance.
21. Use of an extension cord with this appliance is not recommended. However, if it is necessary to
use an extension lead, ensure that the lead is suited to the power consumption of the appliance
to avoid overheating of the extension cord, the appliance or plug point. Do not place the
extension cord in a position where it can be pulled on by children or animals or tripped over.
22. This appliance is intended for brewing only ground coffee.
23. This appliance is not suitable for outdoor use. Do not use this appliance for anything other than
its intended use.
24. This appliance is intended to be used in household and similar applications such as:
oStaff kitchen areas in shops, offices and other working environments;
oFarm houses;
oBy clients in hotels, motels and other residential type environments;
oBed and breakfast type environments.
25. Do not operate this appliance by means of an external timer or separate remote control system.
26. Caution should be taken while removing the porta-filter after brewing since the metal parts will be
hot. There may also be hot water floating on the top of the filter. Hold it only by its handle and
dispose of the brewed coffee grounds by using the filter retention clip.
27. CAUTION: Never open the lid of the water tank during the brewing process.
28. Always be sure to properly close the water tank and ensure to fill with water at or above the
minimum level marking before turning the appliance ON.
29. Do not remove the water tank until the unit is turned OFF.
30. Caution should be taken when moving any appliance containing or in contact with hot liquids.
31. Do not remove the porta-filter at any time during the brewing process.
32. If coffee does not drip from the porta-filter during operation, the filter is blocked. Turn the
appliance OFF “0” and allow it to cool down. The blockage may be caused by the coffee being
too finely ground. Refer to the “PROBLEM SOLVING” section.
33. DO NOT carry any appliance by the power cord.
34. Do not leave this appliance unattended during use. Always unplug the unit when not in use or
before cleaning.

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35. Do not place the unit on a hot surface.
36. It is absolutely necessary to keep this appliance clean at all times as it comes into direct contact
with food.
37. Pump Espresso coffee makers use high pressures to produce hot coffee and steam. It is
absolutely necessary to keep the brew head and steam wand clean and free from debris or
blockages for health and safety purposes.
38. Do not touch any hot surfaces, use handles or knobs.
39. Ensure that the machine is turned OFF after each use.
40. The manufacturer does not accept responsibility for any damage or injury caused by improper or
incorrect use, or for repairs carried out by unauthorised personnel.
41. In case of technical problems, switch off the machine and do not attempt to repair it yourself.
Return the appliance to an authorised service facility for examination, adjustment or repair.
Always insist on the use of original spare parts. Failure to comply with the above mentioned pre-
cautions and instructions, could affect the safe operation of this machine.
CAUTION: PRESSURE
In order to avoid possible burns to body parts and/or other injury from hot steam and water or damages
to the unit, never remove the water tank or the porta-filter while your coffee maker is brewing coffee or
frothing. If you need to add more water to the water tank, please ensure to switch the unit OFF and
unplug it by the mains power supply.

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PARTS DIAGRAM
1. Single espresso button
2. Double espresso/ two cup button
3. ON/ OFF button
4. Steam activation button
5. Drip tray
6. Cup holder
7. Water reservoir/ water tank cover
8. Water reservoir/ water tank
9. Steam control dial
10. Steam/ frothing wand assembly
11. Steam/ frothing wand heat-resistant sleeve
12. Stainless steel crema filter/s
13. Crema filter holder
14. Porta-filter
15. Measuring scoop/ tamper tool

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INTRODUCTION TO COFFEE
ESPRESSO
A unique method of coffee brewing in which hot water is forced through finely ground coffee. Popular in
Europe, it is a far richer and more full-bodied brew than regular drip coffee because of its richness.
Espresso is usually served in 44 to 59ml (1.5 to 2 oz.) portions, in demitasse cups.
CAPPUCCINO
A drink made with about 1/3 espresso, 1/3 steamed milk and 1/3 frothed milk.
LATTE
A drink made with about 1/4 espresso and 3/4 steamed milk.
Please read ALL of the instructions, cautions, notes and warnings included in this instruction manual
carefully before you begin to use the coffee maker. When this appliance is used, some parts and
accessories get hot and need to cool down. Proper care and maintenance will ensure the long life of the
Russell Hobbs Nero Espresso Coffee Maker and its reliable/ consistent operation. Save these
instructions and refer to them often for cleaning and care tips.
CORRECT USE OF GROUND COFFEE FOR ESPRESSO MAKERS
Please do not use sugar roasted ground coffee or sugar roasted coffee beans as these will clog the filter
and damage the appliance. If sugar roasted coffee is accidentally used, stop using the coffee maker and
take it in to the closest Home of Living Brands Service Center for maintenance. We recommend
descaling the machine periodically to keep it in good working condition. Contact any of our nationwide
Service Centers should you want to learn more about this process.

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SELECTING THE RIGHT CUP
Before preparing your beverage, please make sure to select the right cup size according
to the following Barista ratio’s table:
SELECTING THE RIGHT COFFEE
THE COFFEE
The coffee should be freshly ground and dark roasted. If not, this will affect the outcome and taste of
your coffee. You may want to try a French or Italian roast ground for espresso –experiment and find a
regional coffee that you love. Pre-ground coffee will only retain its flavour for 7 –8 days, provided it is
stored in an airtight container and in a cool, dark area. Do not store in a refrigerator or freezer. Whole
beans are recommended to be ground just before use. Coffee beans stored in an airtight container will
keep its flavour for up to 4 weeks.
THE GRIND
This is a vital step in the espresso making process if you are grinding your own coffee and takes
practice. The coffee must be of a fine grind. The correct grind should look like salt.

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If the grind is too fine, the water will not flow through the coffee even under pressure. These grinds look
like powder and feel like flour when rubbed between fingers.
If the grind is too coarse, the water flows through the coffee too fast, preventing a full-flavoured
extraction. Be sure to use a quality grinder for uniform consistency.
CHOOSING THE CORRECT CREMA FILTER
FOR A SINGLE SHOT–use the shorter crema filter for a single shot of espresso.
FOR A DOUBLE SHOT OR TWO SINGLE SHOTS - use the taller crema filter.
BEFORE THE FIRST USE
1. Before using your appliance for the first time, take the coffee maker out of the box and take off any
protective wrappings. REMEMBER: DO NOT LEAVE PROTECTIVE PACKAGING LYING
AROUND, AS IT COULD BE DANGEROUS AROUND INFANTS.
2. Place the appliance on a dry, level surface.
3. Please refer to the “PARTS DIAGRAM” section to familiarize yourself with the coffee maker and
identify all the parts.
4. Ensure that the appliance is turned OFF and unplugged from the power mains supply.

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5. Wash the water tank, the porta-filter, the two crema filters and measuring spoon in a mixture of mild
detergent and water. Rinse each component thoroughly and buff dry with a clean cloth.
6. Before first use, we recommend that you prime the coffee maker and clean out the internal
components of the coffee maker before first use to ensure all manufacturing dust and residues are
removed. NOTE: In order for your appliance to work properly time after time, it must be cleaned
after every use. To prime and clean your coffee maker, please follow the steps below:
a. Place a crema filter into the filter holder of the port-filter. Position the porta-filter
underneath the brew head and attach it to the brew head. Turn the port-filter from left to
right so that it locks into position as illustrated below:
b. Place an empty coffee cup on to the cup holder.
c. When the water tank is already attached to the coffee maker: open the water tank cover
and pour water into the water tank. Note: Never use warm or hot water to fill the water
tank.
Tip: The appliance is supplied with a removable water tank for easy cleaning. You can
remove it from the appliance for ease of filling and place it back onto the appliance.
Ensure that the water level does not exceed the “MAX” level marking on the water tank.
Place the water tank cover back onto the water tank before continuing further.
d. Plug the appliance into a power mains supply.
e. Press the ON/OFF button once. Turn the steam dial towards the back if the indicator light
is not illuminated.
f. Whilst holding a cup beneath the steam wand, turn the steam dial toward yourself. The
pump will start to operate and water will come out.

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g. Now turn the steam dial towards the back. Note: There may be noise while the pump is in
operation - it is normal)
h. The button indicator light will flash while the coffee maker is preheating. It takes
approximately 2 (two) minutes to preheat. Once the machine has finished preheating, the
indicator light will stop flashing and all indicator lights should turn a solid colour.
i. Press the SINGLE ESPRESSO button to start rinsing water through the internals of the
machine and into the coffee cup.
j. Your appliance is now ready for use.
IMPORTANTANCE OF PRIMING THE COFFEE MAKER
To make a cup of good hot coffee, we recommend that you pre-heat/ prime the appliance before making
coffee, including the cup, so that the coffee flavour is not influenced by the cold parts of the coffee maker
or a cold cup.
FILLING WITH COFFEE
1. Place the selected crema filter into the porta handle of the porta-filter.
2. Fill the crema filter with fresh, fine ground espresso coffee (do not overfill).
3. Tamp and firmly compress the ground coffee with the flat side of the tamp tool so that it is
compressed and appears flat/ even inside the crema filter.
4. Clean any excess coffee from the rim to ensure that the porta-filter will fit properly when attached
to the brew head.

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SELECT THE DESIRED FUNCTION
PREPARING ESPRESSO
1. Press the SINGLE ESPRESSO button once to brew one single shot.
OR press the DOUBLE ESPRESSO button twice to brew a double shot.
OR press and hold the SINGLE ESPRESSO button for 3 seconds to customize the brewing amount
to your preference. When done, press the SINGLE ESPRESSO button once again to stop it.
2. The coffee maker will start brewing the espresso according to your selection. The coffee maker will
turn to standby mode automatically once the cycle has been completed.
3. Your delicious espresso is ready to be enjoyed.
FROTHING MILK OR PREPARING CAPPUCCINO
1. Using a large enough cup, follow steps 1 and 2 in “PREPARING ESPRESSO”
2. Make sure that the steam button is set to the “OFF” or “0” position.
3. Set the steam control dial to the 1st position. Wait until the indicator light is illuminated.
4. Fill a jug with about 100ml’s of milk for each cappuccino to be prepared. We recommend using
whole milk at refrigerator temperature (not hot!). Note: When choosing the size of the jug, it is
recommended that the diameter is not less than 70±5mm and that the height of the jug is tall
enough. Bear in mind that milk increases 2 (two) times in volume during frothing.
5. Turn the steam control dial slowly in an anti-clockwise direction. Steam will come out from the
steam wand. Note: Never turn the steam control dial too quickly, as the steam will accumulate
rapidly in a short time which may increase the potential of the risk of explosion.
6. Insert the steam wand about 2 (two) centimetres into the milk. Froth milk by moving the jug up and
down.
7. Once the desired consistency is reached, you can turn the steam button to “OFF” or “0” position.
Note: During operation, if the green indicator light has turned off, you should set the steam button to the
“OFF” or “0” position. Set the steam control dial to the “coffee/hot water” selection (the 1st position) and
pump water. After about 30 (thirty) seconds, close the pump（set the steam control dial to the “0”

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position). Wait until the green indicator light illuminates and turn the steam control dial in an anti-
clockwise direction to release steam again.
8. Pour the frothed milk into the espresso previously prepared.
9. Your cappuccino is now ready to enjoy!
10. Press the OFF button and unplug the machine from the main power source.
Note: we recommend that you allow the coffee maker to cool down for at least for 5 (five) minutes
before making coffee again.
NOTE: Wipe the steam wand and heat resistant cover immediately after the cycle has completed to
keep your appliance in a clean and hygienic condition. Be very careful when doing this and ensure that
it is only done once the cycle has completed and the coffee cup removed, as the steam may scald you.
TIP: Sweeten to taste and if desired, sprinkle the froth with a little cocoa powder.
MAKING HOT WATER
Pre-heat your coffee cup using this function. This is ideal to ensure that the temperature and taste of the
coffee is not affected by dispensing coffee into a cold cup.
1. Press the ON button and set the steam button to the OFF position.
2. Set the steam dial to the “coffee/hot water” selection, the “0” position. The red indicator light will
illuminate. Wait for a moment until the green indicator light illuminates.
3. Turn the steam control dial from “OFF” to “0” position in anti-clockwise manner.
4. Now press the coffee/hot water selector to the “1” position and hot water will flow out from the steam
wand. Note: At first the hot water will splatter from the steam wand. Ensure that the steam wand is
placed close to the inside edge of the coffee cup.
NOTE: Be very careful when doing this as the steam may scald you if not done carefully.

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PRODUCING STEAM TO HEAT LIQUIDS
The steam wand (without the frothing device) can be used to make hot beverages like hot chocolate,
water or tea.
1. Make sure that the steam button is set to the “OFF” or “0” position.
2. Remove the frothing device from the steam wand.
3. Set the steam control dial to the 1st position. Wait until the indicator light is illuminated.
4. Dip the steam wand into the liquid to be heated. Turn the steam control dial in an anti-clockwise
direction to slowly start making steam. Note: Never turn the steam control dial too quickly, as
the steam will accumulate rapidly in a short time which may increase the potential of the risk of
explosion.
5. When the required temperature is reached - turn the steam control dial to the “OFF” or “0” position.
6. Press the OFF button and unplug the machine from the main power source.
CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE
This appliance is for household use only and is not user-serviceable. Do not open or change any
parts by yourself. Please refer to a qualified electrical service department or return to the
supplier if servicing is necessary.
Always remember to unplug the unit from the electrical outlet when not in use and before
cleaning. Ensure that the power button is set to OFF.
Do not use bleach or other abrasive substance or solvents to clean your appliance as it can be
damaging to the finish.
To remove stubborn spots/marks, wipe the surfaces with a cloth slightly dampened in soapy
water or mild non-abrasive cleaner. Dry with a clean, dry, soft cloth.
Don’t immerse the appliance in water or any other liquid.
CLEANING THE BREW HEAD, THE PORTA-FILTER AND FILTER
1. Switch the power button to the OFF position “0” and unplug the power cord from the electrical outlet.
2. Some of the metal parts may still be hot. Do not touch them with your hands until they have cooled.

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3. Remove the porta-filter and discard the coffee grounds. Wash both the porta-filter and crema filter
with warm soapy water, rinsing them well. Do not wash the porta-filter or crema filters in the
dishwasher.
4. Wipe the lower part of the brew head in the coffee maker with a damp cloth or paper towel to
remove any coffee grounds/ residues that may be left over.
5. Place the porta-filter (without any crema filter) back in the brew head of the coffee maker.
6. Place an empty large cup underneath the porta-filter.
7. Press the SINGLE ESPRESSO button once and let the unit brew with water only until it stops
automatically.
CLEANING THE WATER TANK
Discard the remaining water by removing the water tank and turning it upside down over the sink. It is
recommended to empty the water tank between uses. Wash the water tank with soapy water, rinse it
well and wipe it dry. Do not wash the water tank in the dishwasher.
CLEANING THE APPLIANCE
1. Wipe the housing of the coffee maker with a soft wet cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or
scouring pads, as they will scratch the finish.
2. Do not store the porta-filter in the brew head. This can adversely affect the seal between the brew
head and the porta-filter while brewing espresso.
3. Clean the drip tray and removable cup holder regularly.
4. CAUTION: Do not immerse the appliance in water.
DESCALING
Mineral deposits building up in the coffee maker will have an adverse effect in the operation of the
appliance. Your appliance must be descaled when you begin to notice an increase in the time required
to brew espresso or when there is excessive steaming. You may also notice a build-up of white deposits

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on the surface of the brew head. The frequency of cleaning depends upon the hardness of the water
used. The following table will provide you with a guideline for suggested cleaning intervals.
TO DESCALE THE WATER TANK:
1. Fill the water tank with fresh, undiluted white household vinegar.
2. Allow the coffee maker to sit overnight with the vinegar solution in the water tank.
3. Discard the vinegar by removing the tank and turning it upside down over the sink.
4. Rinse the water tank thoroughly with tap water by filling the tank half full with water and then pouring
the water back out into the sink, repeating this step twice.
TO DESCALE THE INTERNAL PARTS OF THE COFFEE MAKER:
1. Make sure that you descale the inside of the water tank first by following the “Descaling” steps
above.
2. Place a crema filter into the filter holder of the port-filter. Position the porta-filter underneath the
brew head and attach it to the brew head.
3. Place an empty coffee cup on to the cup holder.
4. Now fill the water tank with white vinegar above the minimum level.
5. Plug the appliance into a power mains supply.
6. Press the ON/OFF button once. Turn the steam dial towards the back if the indicator light is not
illuminated.
7. Whilst holding a cup beneath the steam wand, turn the steam dial toward yourself. The pump will
start to operate and vinegar will come out.

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8. Now turn the steam dial towards the back. Note: There may be noise while the pump is in operation
- it is normal)
9. The button indicator light will flash while the coffee maker is preheating. It takes approximately 2
(two) minutes to preheat. Once the machine has finished preheating, the indicator light will stop
flashing and all indicator lights should turn a solid colour.
10. Press the SINGLE ESPRESSO button to start rinsing vinegar through the internals of the machine
and into the coffee cup.
11. Repeat steps 1 –10 as necessary using only tap water to rinse any remaining traces of vinegar out
of the coffee maker.
STORING THE APPLIANCE
Ensure that the unit is switched to the OFF position. Unplug the coffee maker from the power
outlet.
Remove the porta-filter from the appliance.
Clean all the parts as instructed above. Ensure that all parts are dry before storing.
Store the appliance in a clean, dry place.
Never store the appliance while it is still wet or dirty.
Never wrap the power cord around the appliance.
SERVICING THE APPLIANCE
There are no user serviceable parts in this appliance. If the unit is not operating correctly, please check
the following:
You have followed the instructions correctly
That the unit has been wired correctly and that the wall socket is switched on.
That the mains power supply is ON.
That the plug is firmly in the mains socket.
If the appliance still does not work after checking the above:

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- Consult the retailer for possible repair or replacement. If the retailer fails to resolve the problem and you
need to return the appliance, make sure that:
The unit is packed carefully back into its original packaging.
Proof of purchase is attached.
A reason is provided for why it is being returned.
If the supply cord is damaged, it must be replaced by the manufacturer or an authorised service agent, in
order to avoid any hazard. If service becomes necessary within the warranty period, the appliance
should be returned to an approved Home of Living Brands (Pty) Limited service centre. Servicing outside
the warranty period is still available, but will, however, be chargeable.
CHANGING THE PLUG
Should the need arise to change the fitted plug, follow the instructions below.
This unit is designed to operate on the stated current only. Connecting to other power sources
may damage the appliance. Connect a three-pin plug as follows:
The wires in this mains lead are coloured in accordance with the following code:
Green/Yellow = Earth
Blue = Neutral
Brown = Live

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TROUBLE SHOOTING
PROBLEM
POSSIBLE CAUSES
SOLUTIONS
Coffee does not dispense
from the porta-filter.
1. No water in water tank.
2. The coffee grind is too fine.
3. There is too much ground
coffee in the filter.
4. The appliance was not
turned ON or plugged in to
the wall socket.
5. Coffee has been tamped/
compressed too much.
1. Add water.
2. Replace the ground coffee
with medium ground
coffee.
3. Fill the filter with less
coffee.
4. Plug the coffee maker into
the electrical outlet and
turn it ON.
5. Refill the filter with ground
coffee but do not tamp too
much.
Coffee comes out
around the edge of
the porta-filter.
1. The porta-filter was not
rotated to full lock position.
2. There may be coffee
grounds/ grounds residue
around the rim of the filter.
3. There may be too much
coffee in the filter.
1. Rotate the filter holder to
the full lock position.
2. Wipe off the rim ensuring it
is residue and coffee
grounds-free.
3. Fill the filter with less
coffee grounds.
Milk is not foamy after
frothing.
1. The coffee maker ran out
of steam.
1. Ensure there is enough
water in the water tank.

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2. The milk is not cold
enough.
3. The steam wand is
blocked.
4. Preheating/ priming has
not yet finished.
5. The steam ready indicator
light is not illuminated.
2. Chill milk prior to making
cappuccino.
3. Follow the instructions to
clean the steam wand.
4. Please wait a few
moments and try again.
5. Only after the steam ready
indicator light is
illuminated, can the steam
can be used to froth.
Please wait a few
moments.
Coffee comes out
too quickly.
1. The ground coffee is too
coarse.
2. There is not enough coffee
in filter.
1. Use a finer grind.
2. Use more ground coffee.
The coffee comes out too
weak.
1. You may be using a small
crema filter for double
shot of espresso.
2. The ground coffee is too
coarse.
1. Use the taller/ large crema
filter for double shot of
espresso.
2. Use a finer coffee grind.
The hot water & steam
indicator light is illuminated.
The other indicator lights are
off.
The steam control dial is not
closed.
Close the steam control dial.