MaraX PL62X - LELIT Bianca PL162T: How to execute the descaling procedure

Summary

This video tutorial guides users through the LELIT descaling procedure for the MaraX and Bianca espresso machines. It emphasizes the importance of using LELIT water softener filters to prevent limescale buildup. The process includes removing and cleaning the water tank, adding descaler solution, and performing a series of water withdrawal and rinse cycles to thoroughly clean the machine. Special instructions are provided for the Bianca machine, such as disabling pre-infusion and adjusting flow settings. The video concludes with the installation of a new water filter and machine readiness for use.

Takeaways

• 😀 Always use LELIT water softener filters to reduce limescale buildup in the machine.
• 😀 Read the product safety sheet for Puly descaler espresso liquid before use.
• 😀 Use a microfiber cloth (like PLA9101) to immediately clean any descaler splashes on the machine surface.
• 😀 Disable preinfusion on Bianca machines before starting the descaling procedure.
• 😀 For Bianca V3 versions, also disable the low flow start and final time settings.
• 😀 Remove the water tank, remove and reassemble the LELIT water softener filter, then fill the tank with 2L of fresh water and one bottle of descaler.
• 😀 Wait 15-24 minutes for the machine to heat up and prepare the descaling solution.
• 😀 During the procedure, withdraw 0.5L of water from the brew group and the water wand as part of the descaling process.
• 😀 If steam pressure exceeds 3 bars, open the steam tap to release excess pressure.
• 😀 Repeat the water withdrawal cycle a total of 4 times, flushing the system with fresh water after each cycle.
• 😀 Always rinse the water tank after completing the descaling procedure and replace the water softener filter with a new one.

Q & A

Why is descaling necessary for the LELIT MaraX and Bianca machines?

Descaling is necessary to remove limescale buildup caused by minerals in the water. Limescale can affect the performance of the machine and the quality of the coffee, so regular descaling is important for maintenance.

How can I prevent limescale buildup in the first place?

To prevent limescale buildup, it's essential to use LELIT water softener filters. These filters help reduce the mineral content in the water, and they should be replaced regularly for best results.

What product should be used for descaling the machine?

The recommended descaling product is Puly descaler espresso liquid. Always read the product's safety sheet before use to ensure proper handling and safety.

How do I prepare the machine for descaling?

Start by removing the water tank and the LELIT water softener filter. Then, reassemble the filter into the tank and fill it with 2L of fresh water. Afterward, add one bottle of Puly descaler espresso liquid to the tank and wait until the machine is ready to use.

Are there any specific settings to adjust for the Bianca machine during descaling?

Yes, if you are using a Bianca machine, you need to disable the preinfusion. For the V3 version of the Bianca, you should also disable the low flow start time and low flow final time before beginning the descaling process.

What should I do if the steam pressure exceeds 3 bars during the descaling process?

If the steam pressure exceeds 3 bars, you should open the steam tap to release some pressure from the steam boiler. This helps maintain safe pressure levels during the process.

How long does it take for the machine to reach the right temperature during descaling?

It typically takes between 15 and 24 minutes for the machine to reach the right temperature during descaling. It's important to wait until the machine is ready before proceeding with the next steps.

What should I do if the water level in the tank gets too low during the descaling process?

If the water level in the tank gets too low, add cold water to bring it back to the required level. Monitoring the water level is crucial to ensure the descaling solution is properly circulated throughout the machine.

How do I clean the water wand after descaling?

After descaling, use a microfiber cloth to unscrew the hot water wand shower. Rinse it thoroughly and then reassemble it by screwing it back in clockwise.

How many cycles should I complete for the descaling process, and why?

You should complete a total of four cycles of withdrawing 0.5L of water from the brew group and drawing water from the hot water wand. This ensures that the descaling solution is fully flushed out of the system and the machine is properly cleaned.