Service

FAQ

Questions about the machines and technology

Here you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions about your Profitec espresso machine. Whether it’s about the right cleaning techniques or how to handle your espresso setup – here you'll get the most important tips and tricks. Discover everything you need to know about maintaining and using your coffee machine to brew the best espresso at home.

How do I prepare the perfect espresso?

  • Probably the most important question. Look here for an introduction into making a perfect espresso.

  • The temperature of the machine can only be modified for models with PID control. For all other models this must be adjusted by an authorised specialist dealer.
  • Please note that our machines are factory-set to the optimum brewing temperature of 88-95°C.

  • The task of a PID temperature control is to control the temperature of the two boiler. The temperature is kept at the programmed value with minimum deviations of 1°C. PID stands for "proportional - integral - derivative". The temperature plays an important role in the preparation of coffee.

  • The optimum pressure during coffee brewing is between 9 and 11 bar.

  • With our models with vibration pump you can adjust the machine to your desired brewing pressure. To do this, tension the portafilter with the blind filter inserted into the machine. Please press the brew group lever as if you were preparing an espresso. On the pump pressure gauge you will now see how the pressure builds up to the set value. Turn the larger screw (next to the water tank) "clockwise" to increase the pressure and turn the screw "counterclockwise" to reduce the pump pressure. The pump pressure gauge shows the change.
  • Machines with a rotary pump should only be adjusted by the specialist dealer.
  • Please note that Profitec discourages you from increasing the pressure on the screw and refers you to your dealer. From the factory the machines are preset to a pressure of 9 bar. If you are using the machine under a direct water connection, please note that the pump pressure is adjusted by the existing pressure. Also here a re-adjustment of the pump pressure should only be carried out by the specialist dealer.

  • The connection may only be carried out by authorised specialist dealer personnel. You are welcome to use our contact form to contact a specialist dealer.
  • You need a pressure reducer (item no. 89455) for the connection, and we recommend that you use a shut-off valve.
  • Please note that you cannot connect water filters to the water tank adapters on machines with a rotary pump. Please use water filter pads (item no. 89440) or pre-filtered water, e.g. Brita.

  • Water shortage. The swimmer in the machine is not sitting properly. (The correct position of the float can be found in the user manual.)

  • Above the water tank is a large adjusting screw, turn clockwise to increase the brewing pressure (see user manual).

  • The brew group is not yet warm enough.
  • The machine is calcified.
  • The portafilter was not clamped during the heating phase and could not yet take over heat via the brew group.

  • Adjust the grinding degree.
  • Increase the tamping pressure.
  • Your coffee is too old and it´s time to get new one.

  • We recommends a maintenance interval of 3-4 years. Maintenance has to be carried out by an authorised retailer. To ask for a dealer near you you can use our contact form.

  • Descaling is recommended depending on the degree of water hardness.
  • We recommend to carry out the brew group cleaning every 150 cups

  • Please empty the boiler(s).
  • To empty the boiler with a single boiler machine, you must let the machine heat up and then drain the old water through the brew group. A complete emptying of the boiler is not possible (see instructions).
  • With a heat exchanger system, empty the boiler by means of hot water extraction.
  • The dual boiler machine is emptied via the brew group and hot water extraction.
  • We recommend to carry out a brew group cleaning and a decalcification.

  • The blind filter is required to measure the actual pump pressure of the machine.
  • The blind filter is required for group cleaning.

  • Only from one of our authorised dealers. We will be happy to inform you about the dealers next to you. Please use our contact form.

PREPARATION

How do I make the perfect espresso?

With the right technique and a few simple tricks, making espresso is easy. Here are some tips to help you get the maximum out of your beans.

  • Always grind your coffee fresh in the portafilter, as the aromas evaporate quickly as soon as oxygen comes into contact with the coffee grounds. The best amount of coffee in the portafilter depends on many different factors. In the beginning, you can start by using between 17-19g for a portafilter with a two-bass filter.
  • Distribute the ground coffee evenly and press it firmly with a tamper.
  • When the cups are under the portafilter, turn the lever for approx. 20-30 seconds and the espresso will flow into the cups.
  • Coffee is very sensitive to temperature. Pro tip: Always preheat the cups by putting them on the cup tray or using some warm water from the hot water valve.

Which degree of grinding is right?

If the espresso flows too quickly out of the porta filter- it is too coarse. If it flows too slowly or not at all, is too fine. You will get the right degree of grinding after a few tries.

You can find detailed instructions on how to make espresso on our blog.

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