So many issues can cause your espresso machine to stop working properly. While it certainly makes sense to get in touch with a professional who knows everything about fixing all types of coffee machines, you can fix smaller issues on your own. You just need to identify the underlying cause and then you can do the repair on your own.
In some cases, it is difficult to fix the issue. For instance, sometimes, the machine does not feel as hot from the inside as it was before. It is a common problem, but you will be better off calling in a professional for espresso machine repair because it is important to open it up and fix things from inside. If you do not know anything about the way espresso machines work, it is better to avoid opening it up and let a professional do the work.
However, there are some situations when you can try your own luck and do the repair on your own. This is possible when no water is coming through. If you find your espresso machine choking on air, it is a good idea to prime the pump first. For this, you will have to open the steam valve. Once done, now let it run for a couple of minutes. This usually works fine for machines that do not come with self-priming pumps. In case there is a removable water reservoir in your machine, you may want to check the valve on it. Also, check that the reservoir is placed properly in the machine. If the reservoir is clogged, you may refer to the manual and remove it. Sometimes, running the pump after removing the group head may also help.
A good way to prevent bigger issues is to not overlook the smaller ones. For instance, the presence of a crema, which is the top layer of an espresso, shows that the machine is working fine. You have to ensure that the creama is bubbly and has a milky texture. However, you should also bear in mind that you will not get the crema in case you are using a steam-based machine. Moreover, you may not get any creama in case the water gets too hot – the same will be the case when the water is not hot enough. A good way to ensure that your machine is heating up the water properly is to check the temperature with a thermometer – it should be somewhere around 105F.
The fact of the matter is that your espresso machine may develop certain problems over time. It is important to pay attention to smaller issues and keep them from turning into bigger problems. However, you should use your own knowledge only when you know what you are doing. Sometimes, when the machine stops heating the water or you notice insufficient pressure in the machine, it is better to let a professional fix it for you. It is easy to find espresso machine repair services online, but be sure to conduct some research and opt for an experienced service provider with qualified and trained technicians.