Descaling procedure for the CECOTEC FreeStyle Grind & Latte:
Regular descaling is essential to maintain the optimal performance of your machine. The frequency depends on the hardness of your water: descale every month if you have hard water, or every 2 to 3 months for soft water. An alert light (blinking droplet symbol) will appear after approximately 50 liters of coffee brewed or 5000 seconds of use.
- Step 1: Preparation and solution - Unplug the machine and completely empty the water tank. Prepare a descaling solution using a specialized commercial liquid product for coffee machines (follow the manufacturer's proportions), or an alternative of citric acid (20-30 grams per liter of warm water). Never use hot water with citric acid. Fill the tank with about 1 liter of this solution.
- Step 2: Descaling phase - Plug in the machine and place a container under BOTH the coffee outlet AND the steam spout. Press the cleaning icon for 5 seconds. The Espresso icon will light up: press it to start. The machine pumps the descaling solution, and a beep sounds at the end of phase 1. The Lungo icon will then light up.
- Step 3: Main rinsing phase - Empty and refill the tank with only clear cold water. Press the Lungo icon to start phase 2 (official rinsing). The machine pumps clear water, and a beep sounds when it is finished. At this point, all icons on the touch panel light up = confirmation that the program is complete.
- Step 4: Additional rinses - Perform 2 to 3 additional cycles of clear water: pour cold water into the tank, let it pass through the coffee outlet and then through the steam spout, until the water flowing out is perfectly clear and free of descaling solution odor.
- Step 5: Cleaning parts - Take advantage of the operation to disassemble and clean the tank, drip tray, filter holder, and removable seals with soapy hot water. Rinse very thoroughly before putting each part back in place.
Important warnings: Never use white vinegar as it would damage the stainless steel thermoblock. If you use citric acid, wear gloves and safety glasses, and always pour the acid into the water (never the reverse) to avoid a dangerous chemical reaction. Never use this solution with hot water. Allow 30 to 45 minutes for the entire descaling and rinsing process. Once finished, test the machine with a coffee or empty hot water to check its proper functioning. Regular descaling maintains the pressure of 15 bars and significantly extends the lifespan of your device.
