Delonghi troubleshooting

Before we begin, it’s important to note that DeLonghi manufactures coffee pod machines for Nespresso and Dolce Gusto, in addition to their own coffee machines.

To assist you with troubleshooting, we’ve created dedicated guides for Nespresso and Dolce Gusto coffee pod machines, regardless of the manufacturer. If you own one of these machines, please visit the respective guides:

• Delonghi Nespresso Troubleshooting Guide
• Delonghi Dolce Gusto Troubleshooting Guide

This guide focuses on DeLonghi’s exclusive super-automatic espresso and drip coffee makers. However, if you can’t find the manual for your DeLonghi coffee machine at home, we recommend first browsing our DeLonghi coffee machine user manuals repository.

Delonghi Espresso machines troubleshooting

DeLonghi espresso machines are known for their robustness and reliability in the coffee maker market, thanks to their well-designed features and high-quality construction materials. However, even these reliable coffee makers may encounter occasional issues.

Rather than generically addressing Delonghi espresso machine issues, we have created two guides for their most iconic coffee makers: the Delonghi Dedica and the Specialista. These two guides cover virtually all the problems that can affect an espresso machine manufactured by DeLonghi.

Delonghi Super-automatic coffee machines troubleshooting

Similar to the previous section, rather than addressing problems generically, we have prepared a series of repair guides tailored to the most representative models of DeLonghi super-automatic coffee machines. These guides are designed to help you resolve issues specific to your coffee maker model, even if they differ from the ones covered in the guides.

Delonghi drip and 2 in 1 coffee machines troubleshooting

DeLonghi offers two simple coffee machine options: drip coffee makers and 2-in-1 (or combi) coffee makers. The latter, in addition to the issues seen with drip coffee makers, may also encounter problems related to the espresso brewing functionality. If you’re experiencing issues specifically related to espresso brewing, please refer to the Delonghi espresso machines section.

In this guide, we’ve compiled a concise list of the most common problems encountered with Delonghi drip coffee machines:

Common problems with Delonghi coffee machines

In addition to the troubleshooting guides for specific Delonghi coffee machine types, here are the most common problems affecting any Delonghi coffee machine.

➡️ If you own a coffee pod machine, please refer to the Nespresso and Dolce Gusto troubleshooting guides. This section addresses Delonghi espresso, drip, and super-automatic coffee machines.

Issue 1. Delonghi coffee machine won’t turn on

If your Delonghi coffee machine doesn’t turn on, it’s a common issue not exclusive to this manufacturer. Typically, the problem lies in the electrical board, thermal fuses, or capacitors. Fortunately, these components are affordable and easy to replace.

If you are not experienced in dismantling and reassembling electrical appliances, we recommend you take your Delonghi to a specialized technical service. And, of course, if it is a relatively new machine and you still have it under warranty, don’t think about it: ask for a new one.

Watch this helpful video from Fixit on replacing a thermal fuse:

🛒 Buy here: Thermal Fuse 250V 15A TF 200 Celsius Degree Temperature.

Issue 2. Delonghi coffee machine leaking underneath

Leaking underneath the Delonghi coffee machine is a common problem not exclusive to this brand or limited to espresso machines. I’ve covered this issue extensively in the article ‘Problem: My coffee maker is leaking water,’ but here’s a brief summary of the likely causes:

If water leaks from the bottom (all Delonghi types), you may need to disassemble the coffee maker to check for poorly sealed joints or leaking components. Focus on inspecting the boiler, water pipes, and water tank.

If your Delonghi leaks water from the ladle (Espresso machines), the issue is likely due to a defective rubber gasket in the coffee group. This component is more accessible in automatic coffee makers with a removable group.

Issue 3: Low pressure in the Delonghi coffee maker

When a Delonghi coffee machine experiences low pressure, it’s typically due to a malfunctioning pressure pump. In some cases, it might be a leak, as discussed earlier, but the pump may be clogged or broken at other times.

First, try to resolve the issue by thoroughly cleaning the machine’s internal circuits with a descaling process to clear any blockages.

If the pump is damaged, you’ll need to replace it. Fortunately, home coffee machine pumps, such as the ULKA brand, are affordable. Options include:

• 🛒 Buy here: Ulka EP5 Water Pump
• 🛒 Buy here: Ulka EX5 Water Pump

Note: If your machine is still under warranty, it’s advisable to take it to a technical service for repair or replacement.

If the machine is no longer under warranty, you’ll need to disassemble your Delonghi, perform the replacement, and reassemble it, as demonstrated in this video:

Issue 4. Delonghi coffee machine not heating

When your Delonghi coffee machine doesn’t heat properly, consider these solutions:

1. Decalcification: Residues can obstruct the Thermoblock’s operation, causing water to flow too slowly and lower temperatures. Perform a decalcification process to remove these deposits.
2. Replace the Thermoblock or Thermostat: Delonghi coffee machines commonly use the Thermoblock system for heating. If it malfunctions, the water won’t heat properly, and your coffee will be too cold. Consider replacing the Thermoblock or thermostat if necessary.

Additionally, to ensure hotter coffee even with a properly functioning machine:

• Before adding coffee to the filter holder, place your cup under the spout and run hot water through it by pressing the brew button. This warms up the cup, ensuring your coffee stays hot.
• Utilize the cup-warmer tray as intended for the hottest espressos.
• If your machine allows, adjust the temperature settings to a higher level for hotter coffee.

These tips should help resolve temperature-related issues with your Delonghi coffee machine.

• Before adding coffee to the filter holder, place your cup under the spout and press the button to brew coffee. Only hot water will come out, and your mug will be hot before you prepare your coffee. Allow the cup to warm up, and then discard the water.
• Use the cup-warmer tray properly – Enjoy the hottest espressos!
• Select a higher temperature level in the relevant settings menu if your machine allows it.

Issue 5. Delonghi coffee machine won’t dispense water

When your Delonghi coffee machine refuses to dispense water, there could be various causes. I’ll address them in order of ease of resolution, from minor to more severe issues:

1. Poor water tank connection: Sometimes, the obvious solution is the right one. Ensure that the water tank in your Delonghi coffee machine is correctly installed and securely connected to the base.
2. Internal water pipe blockages: As mentioned in previous cases, frequent descaling and thorough cleaning can prevent blockages in internal water pipes. Ineffective cleaning often leads to these issues.
3. Leaks: Similar to the previous section, leaks can disrupt water flow. However, solving leaks can be more complex, typically involving damaged sleeves or circuits that may need replacement. This requires disassembling and reassembling the coffee machine.
4. Technical failure: This is the most severe and challenging issue to resolve. If your coffee machine has a malfunctioning power control board (PCB), it will require replacement.

NOTE: Expert users may diagnose the water problem in their Delonghi coffee machine by listening to it during startup. The noise generated can offer clues about the source of the fault.

Issue 6: Noisy Delonghi coffee maker

If your Delonghi coffee maker is making excessive noise, consider these factors:

1. Isolation from surface: To reduce noise, place rubber, non-slip feet, or suitable mats underneath the machine. Vibrations against the surface it’s on are often the culprit.
2. Surface placement: Remember that placing your Delonghi coffee machine on a raised platform or shelf can amplify noise compared to placing it directly on the kitchen worktop.
3. Variation in noise: Some coffee makers are naturally noisier than others. Understand that the noise level may not necessarily indicate a malfunction in your Delonghi machine.
4. Built-In grinder: Coffee makers with built-in grinders tend to be noisier due to the grinding process. If the noise persists and seems to come from the grinder, consider disassembling the machine to check if the grinder is functioning correctly and if there are any loose components inside causing the noise.
5. Lubrication: Apply grease to moving internal components such as the brewing group or the auger in superautomatic coffee machines. This can help reduce friction-related noise.

Issue 7: Delonghi coffee machine doesn’t froth milk

Let’s focus on troubleshooting the milk frothing system in your Delonghi coffee machine, whether it’s a simple tube or a more complex cappuccino or milk tank system.

For super-automatic Delonghi machines:

1. Ensure the milk tank is securely connected to the stand, the lid is properly closed, and there’s enough milk to froth. Sometimes, even a small amount of milk can be insufficient to initiate the frothing process.
2. If your machine draws milk from an external container, inspect both ends of the milk frothing sleeve to ensure it’s correctly connected.
3. Adjust the steamer dial to a higher setting. In some cases, it’s set too low, resulting in a correct process but inadequate air injection for a creamy froth.
4. Perform a descaling process regularly. The buildup of scale can hinder the milk frothing function.

If you have a manual Delonghi espresso machine:

• Regularly descale your machine to prevent milk residue from solidifying and obstructing the frothing system. As a preventive measure, always allow a burst of steam to exit the nozzle after frothing milk.

If these tips haven’t solved the problem, you may need to dismantle your Delonghi machine and conduct further research into the components involved in preparing the milk foam.

Issue 8: The filter holder doesn’t fit properly

Encountering a filter holder that doesn’t fit well into your coffee machine is a common issue, not limited to Delonghi machines. This issue can occur due to various factors that may contribute to the problem. Let’s explore some potential causes and solutions:

1. Reduce the coffee amount: Carefully lower the amount of coffee grounds in the filter. Ensure it is level and not overfilled. A properly filled filter should allow the filter holder to fit snugly without resistance.
2. Check the portafilter: Examine the portafilter itself for any signs of damage or deformation. A damaged portafilter may not engage with the coffee machine as intended. If damage is evident, consider replacing the portafilter.
3. Inspect the basket placement: Ensure that the coffee filter basket is correctly introduced and aligned within the portafilter. Misaligned or improperly placed baskets can prevent the filter holder from fitting correctly.
4. Obstruction in the group head: Sometimes, an obstruction within the group head, the part of the machine that connects to the portafilter, can impede proper insertion. Carefully inspect and clean the group head to remove any obstructions.
5. Examine gaskets: Check for any worn or damaged gaskets around the group head and portafilter. Damaged gaskets can affect the seal, making it difficult to fit the filter holder correctly.

After addressing these potential causes, try reinserting the filter holder into the coffee machine. It should now align and fit appropriately.

Issue 9: Insufficient coffee output from the Delonghi Machine

When your Delonghi coffee machine produces too little coffee or none at all, the troubleshooting steps may vary depending on the type of machine you have:

For manual espresso machines:

Check for blockages: If you own a manual espresso machine and experience low or no coffee output, it’s often due to blockages in the coffee delivery system.

1. Start by descaling your machine to remove mineral deposits, which can obstruct the flow. This is the same cause that can lead to pressure-related issues, as mentioned earlier.
2. Additionally, inspect the holes in the basket, and clean them regularly to ensure unobstructed coffee flow.

For Delonghi super-automatic machines:

1. Descaling: If you have a Delonghi super-automatic machine and notice insufficient coffee output, the first step is to perform a descaling procedure. Mineral buildup can clog internal components, affecting the coffee flow.
2. Check ground coffee output: Residual coffee grounds may accumulate inside the machine over time, causing blockages. To address this, clean the coffee grinder area thoroughly.
3. Inspect grinder and grinding settings: In super-automatic machines with integrated grinders, the grinder’s condition and settings can impact coffee output. Make sure the grinder is functioning correctly and set to an appropriate fineness level for your desired coffee strength.
4. Check water reservoir: Verify that the water reservoir is adequately filled. A low water level can disrupt the coffee-making process.
5. Clean the coffee spouts: Coffee residue can accumulate in the spouts, obstructing the flow of coffee. Regularly clean and maintain this component.

Delonghi coffee machines lights flashing

If you notice flashing lights on your Delonghi coffee machine, it’s essential to understand their specific meanings, although interpretations may vary depending on your model. Delonghi machines use flashing lights for different purposes, and knowing what each signifies can help you troubleshoot effectively.

Here are some common reasons for flashing lights on Delonghi coffee machines:

• If your Delonghi coffee machine flashes, we must follow some essential advice, although the final result will have nuances that will depend on the model in question. The fact is that not all machines have the same lights or the same behavior.
• For example, on the Dedica EC-685, some lights indicate that the coffee maker is heating up, and you have to wait until they go off to make a coffee. Of course, this does not mean that there is a fault.
• Other lights on the Delonghi coffee machines flash when you set them up to memorize an option.
• Flashing is also used for resets. When you reset your Delonghi coffee machine, all the lights flash for 3 seconds to indicate that you will restore the factory settings.

On manual (portafilter) Delonghi espresso machines, the two coffee-making buttons (the 1-cup and 2-cup buttons) usually flash simultaneously to warn of one of the following circumstances:

• The water in the tank has run out.
• The tank is not connected to the coffee machine (or is disconnected).
• Clogging of the coffee filter.
• Obstruction in the coffee spout.
• The spray nozzle is open.
• The boiler is too hot and should be cooled down before making the next coffee.
• Need for descaling.

Check your Delonghi coffee maker user manual here.

The orange light on my Delonghi lights up

One of those minor doubts is usually installed among users for not reading the user manuals (or throwing them away too quickly).

Many Delonghi coffee machines include an orange light as a light indicator, which is nothing more than a decalcification warning.

What happens at first? The coffee maker doesn’t present any problems; we trust it and get rid of the manual within weeks or months. And, of course, the descaling notice appears for the first time after a long time. On the Dedica model, for example, it looks like this:

When descaling your Delonghi coffee maker, you must do it when that orange light goes ON. That is, with the decalcification notice active. Otherwise, even if you have done the process correctly and the machine is clean inside, the warning will still come out because the coffee machine will not know whether you have descaled it.

I’ve descaled my Delonghi coffee machine, but I keep getting the orange light.

Pablo Barrantes

The yellow light on Delonghi coffee machines

Same as the previous section. In some models, the decalcification warning comes from an orange light; in others, it is more yellowish. It is the same type of warning.

How do you descale a Delonghi coffee maker?

The time needed: 20 minutes.

If you need to descale your Delonghi coffee maker, the good news is that it won’t take long to complete the process, although if you are already experienced, you will do it almost by heart. The steps are similar whether it’s a manual Delonghi express or an automatic, but we’ve summarised them here just in case:

1. Fill up the water tank.
2. Add the descaler liquid.
3. Run a complete water cycle.
4. Repeat the previous step 2-3 times.
5. Clean the tank thoroughly and rinse.
6. Finally, discard the first coffee.

We recommend the official Delonghi Ecodecalk descalers, but you can look for the ones you need in our descaling liquids section.

As you have seen, many of these breakdowns in Delonghi coffee machines are not failures or problems as such, but merely a lack of knowledge or experience on the part of the users.