How to descale a Tassimo coffee machine

It’s important to know how to descale your Tassimo coffee machine to keep it running smoothly and ensure that your coffee remains high-quality. Sadly, many people forget this critical maintenance step and don’t give it the attention it deserves.

Regardless of the brand, descaling is necessary for any coffee machine. In this article, I’ll guide you through the steps of descaling a Tassimo machine clearly and straightforwardly.

When should I descale my Tassimo coffee machine?

Determining when to descale your Tassimo machine is easy since all models are designed with an automatic alarm (indicated by an orange light) that alerts you to the need for decalcification when the device is turned on.

Typically, it’s recommended to descale your machine every 3-4 months, but this may vary based on how often you use it.

➡️ If you’re interested in learning more about how frequently a coffee machine should be descaled, be sure to check out this article.

What do I need to descale my Tassimo?

To effectively eliminate the lime buildup from the water circuit of your Tassimo coffee machine, the use of descaling tablets is essential.

Although later on, I will provide an alternative DIY method for descaling your Tassimo coffee maker without tablets; it is important to acknowledge that Tassimo suggests using descaling tablets as the ideal method.

Note: You can also use universal descalers to descale your Tassimo, but this is the same as with DIY methods, as Tassimo only recommends the original tablets.

How do I descale my Tassimo coffee machine?

Are you looking for instructions on how to descale your Tassimo coffee machine? Fear not; the procedure is simple and should take approximately 30 minutes. Follow these steps:

Note: This process is executed when the red descaling light on the Tassimo coffee machine is illuminated.

  1. First, locate the service disc or T-Disc at the back or side of your coffee maker and insert it. This disc will prompt the machine to operate without making any drinks.
  2. Next, fill the water tank with the amount specified in your machine’s reservoir (usually half a litre and labelled with “calc” or a “flush icon”).
  3. If your Tassimo coffee machine features a Brita water filter (such as the Tassimo T55 Charmy), remove it before proceeding.
  4. Add both decalcification tablets into the water tank and wait until they are dissolved. The tablets dissolve quickly, and one packet usually contains two tablets.
  5. Place a large container under the coffee outlet to collect the water containing impurities and dirt from the machine’s internal circuits.
  6. Switch on the coffee machine and hold the start button for 5 seconds to initiate the descaling process (the orange/red light will flash). It usually takes 15-20 minutes.
  7. Once the tank is empty, the tap light will illuminate. Remove the water tank and fill it with clean, fresh water.
  8. Empty the container under the coffee outlet and press the start button once; the cleaning cycle will start. Repeat step 7 once more.
  9. Remove the service disk and clean the exterior of your Tassimo coffee machine with a wet cloth.

Congratulations! You have now descaled your Tassimo effectively. Ensure to clean the tank thoroughly, refill it with fresh water, and enjoy your Tassimo coffee maker again!

How to descale a Tassimo coffee machine: explanatory video

If you require a visual guide to assist you in descaling your Tassimo coffee machine, look no further! Tassimo has produced an explanatory video that walks you through decalcification.

As the saying goes, a picture is worth a thousand words, and this video will provide a clear and straightforward method for descaling your Tassimo coffee machine.

The manufacturer of Tassimo coffee machines, Bosch, provides this official explanation of the decalcification process. The video is clear and concise, making it easy to understand the process. You can trust the information provided to be 100% reliable.

How to descale Tassimo without tablets

Looking for ways to descale your Tassimo coffee maker without using descaling tablets? Whether it’s to save money or because you don’t have Tassimo descaling tablets, alternative methods are available.

One option is to use vinegar or lemon juice instead of descaling tablets. The process is the same as previously explained, but instead of adding tablets to the water tank, you add vinegar or lemon juice.

However, it’s important to note that this DIY method may not always be effective and can potentially harm your Tassimo coffee maker circuits if used too frequently. Therefore, it’s advisable to use official Tassimo descaling tablets whenever possible.

Some common questions when descaling your Tassimo coffee maker

Do you need to descale the coffee machine if the tap water is soft?

All coffee makers, including espresso coffee machines (not just pod coffee machines), accumulate traces of lime and impurities regardless of the water used.

How do I put my TASSIMO in descaling mode?

To initiate the descaling process, hold the button for 5 seconds. The descaling program will begin automatically and typically takes around 30 minutes to complete. You’ll know it’s finished when the orange light illuminates. Please dispose of the container filled with the used descaling solution and put it back under the drink outlet of the machine.

How do I descale my TASSIMO machine without descaling tablets?

You can resolve this issue by diluting vinegar with water in a ratio of one part vinegar to two parts water. For example, mixing one cup of vinegar with two cups of water will create a cleaning solution that is just as efficient at descaling and cleaning as a Tassimo cleaning disc.

How do you reset the descale light on a TASSIMO?

One of the frequent issues encountered during descaling is failing to hold the brew button for five seconds. Insufficient pressing will trigger a cleaning cycle that differs from the descaling cycle. Undertaking a cleaning cycle alone will not turn off the red light.

How do I activate the descaling mode in a Tassimo?

Press and hold the button for five seconds to initiate the descaling process. The machine will then automatically begin the descaling cycle, which should take approximately 30 minutes to complete. Once the process is complete, the orange light will turn on, indicating it’s finished.

Related: Tassimo water leakage