Question 1

La Specialista Maestro . What’s in the box?

Accepted Answer

Learn about the standard contents that comes with La Specialista Maestro.

Question 2

Can I change the quantity of water when brewing an espresso?

Accepted Answer

The unit is preset to dispense 1.2 Fl oz (35 ml) when making a single espresso. To change the quantity of water you can do this by using the My Coffee setting. The way to do this: 1) First choose the drink you want to reprogram (Espresso, Americano, Coffee) 2) Press the My coffee button to enter into the programming mode, it will start to flash 3) While is flashing you must press the OK button to start the brewing process 4) Allow the unit to dispense the amount you desired and when that has been reach you press the ok button again to end 4a) If you are changing the Americano setting, the hot water will start to dispense then when the amount you desired has been reached press the OK button again to end 5) Press the My Coffee button to memorize the new setting Please follow this video for a step by step process:

Question 3

How do I clean the brewing outlet on my La Specialista?

Accepted Answer

When cleaning the brewing outlet you should first do a rinse of the machine, by pressing the rinse button. After the rinse process is finished use a towel/cloth to wipe any residue from the brew outlet. The following video will show this process.

Question 4

Do I need a different type of coffee beans for Cold Brew drinks?

Accepted Answer

Cold Brew extraction works particularly well with lighter roasted beans, possibly single origins rather than blends but, it really comes down to your personal preference as you can use the Cold Brew recipe with any type of coffee.

Question 5

Can I add milk to Cold Brew or Espresso Cool?

Accepted Answer

We suggest to add cold unsteamed milk to your Cold Brew / Espresso Cool for a fresh milky coffee. We do not suggest the use of hot steamed milk as it does not suit the sensorial profile of cold extracted coffee.

Question 6

How big are ESE pods?

Accepted Answer

ESE pods are typically 44mm in diameter and contain seven grams of coffee. They will have the ESE (Easy Serve Espresso) logo on the pack.

Question 7

How can I restore my EC860 machine to factory settings?

Accepted Answer

It is not possible to restore the EC860 to factory settings. However if you wish to change the quantity of coffee delivered simply press and hold the delivery button until the required amount has been delivered then release the button. If you are setting one of the milk beverage drink buttons you will need to do this twice:  Press and hold the relative button to start programming. Release the button to stop the flow of milk and program the quantity. Press and hold the same button and release the button to stop the flowof coffee and program the quantity. To deliver the same drink, simple press the same button once and the newly programmed quantity of milk and coffee will be delivered.

Question 8

How do I froth milk using the traditional milk frother?

Accepted Answer

The traditional frother can take a bit of practice. First of all, ensure the milk is fresh and at refrigerator temperature. Use a stainless steel carafe so you can feel the temperature of the milk. In order to make perfect cappuccino dip the tip of the traditional milk frother into the milk. When the appliance is ready carefully rotate the steam valve until it is fully open. This will froth the milk. Never heat the milk over 160 F / 70 C as this will affect the quality of the frothed milk. It is also possible to froth milk in this way for excellent hot chocolate and malt drinks. Each time you finish milk delivery allow a little steam to flush through the frother, and remember to clean the removable nozzles thoroughly.

Question 9

My pump espresso is leaking from the milk frother. What can I do?

Accepted Answer

If your machine is leaking from the traditional frother, please carry out the following simple checks: Disassemble the traditional frother as shown in your instruction manual and ensure they are completely clean and free of milk residue. Ensure the steam selector is fully close With a pin or similar, clean the inside of the traditional frother nozzle. Check both o-rings are visible and intact. If you have not descaled the machine, do so. If you are in a hard water area, this should be carried out every month or two, depending on how many coffees you make each day.

Question 10

My pump espresso machine is vibrating a lot. What can I do to rectify this?

Accepted Answer

Some vibration is normal. If the pump espresso maker is vibrating too much please check the feet on the bottom are intact as these dampen the vibration. If this is on first use, and no water is coming out of the boiler head you may have an air block, and to resolve this you should open the steam valve until water starts to flow through the steam wand for at least 30 seconds.

Question 11

The green light goes off while making an espresso. Is this normal?

Accepted Answer

Yes this is perfectly normal. It takes around 18 to 20 seconds for the perfect espresso and the machine will still continue to work when the light is off. However please wait until the light returns before making a second espresso. This indicates the machine is primed once again.

Question 12

What do ESE pods look like?

Accepted Answer

ESE (Easy Serve Espresso) pods look rather like small round teabags, but they are filled with coffee and are fairly tightly packed.  These are usually sealed in packets to maintain their freshness and sold in boxes. Each box will carry the �ESE\' logo.

Question 13

What is the boiler made from on your coffee machines?

Accepted Answer

The boiler is made up of a stainless steel and brass construction.

Question 14

Why is my steam wand not frothing the milk?

Accepted Answer

Please try the following which should rectify the problem:- Ensure the steam function has been selected on the control panel. - Ensure the steam dial is fully open.- Check the milk nozzle(s) are completely clean and free of milk debris. (There will be either one or two removable milk nozzles depending on your machine). These should always be cleaned after each milk delivery session.- Check both o-rings are intact on the milk frother.

Question 15

Why is the coffee coming out too slowly?

Accepted Answer

There may be too much coffee in the filter. It should be one level scoop for a single espresso. Make sure do not use permanent and paper filter together. When pressing the coffee with the tamper do not press as firmly and make sure your grind is for espresso maker. It may require descaling or the filters may require cleaning.

Question 16

How can I improve the crema of my coffee using my pump espresso machine?

Accepted Answer

The secret to achieve a good crema on your coffee is to use fresh coffee and be sure to use an espresso grind. When tamping the coffee be sure not to compact the grounds too tightly so water can flow through the ground. Be sure not to overfill the coffee filter, using 1 measuring scoop per coffee is recommended. Make sure the coffee filter is clean may trying a different one.

Question 17

How do I clean my automatic milk system?

Accepted Answer

After each milk preparation it is essential to always carry out the cleaning of the milk circuit, simply by turning the dial to the clean or, depending on the model of your machine, pressing and holding the clean button for a few seconds. Doing so will remove any debris that may block the milk ducts . Keep the milk container lid clean by washing it in hot soapy water or in the dishwasher at least once a week. Ensure that the connector on the machine is also free from debris, paying particular attention to the o-rings on the connector. See video here below: For best results clean your machine monthly with the De\'Longhi milk cleaning solution. You can purchase from our website

Question 18

Can I use capsules with my pump espresso coffee machine?

Accepted Answer

This is not possible. Our coffee machines are only compatible with the E.S.E (which stands for easy serving Espresso) capsules.This is the international industrial standard (the only &ldquo;open&rdquo; system available to the sector for espresso coffee prepared with paper pods).

Question 19

Can all your pump espresso coffee makers use the coffee pods?

Accepted Answer

No, Only those units hat have the ESE coffee pods symbol.* (Easy Serving Espresso) can accomodate coffee pods.

Question 20

Can I make a coffee immediately after frothing the milk with my Dedica coffee maker?

Accepted Answer

If you want to make coffee immediately after frothing the milk you need to allow the boiler is cool down. To do this proceed as follows: place a container under the cappuccino maker/frothing nozzle, open the steam knob until water stop coming out. Now the machine is ready to produce a good coffee.

Question 21

What’s the best espresso machine suggested for ground coffee use?

Accepted Answer

All our Pump Espresso machines can offer you great Espresso and other coffee-based drinks. To ensure the best tasting experience please either purchase espresso-suitable ground coffee or grind your favourite beans (to a fine or espresso coffee grind). Our coffee machines allow you to enjoy all your favourite coffee recipes and to adjust them to suit your taste. Our coffee machines allow you to enjoy all your favourite coffee recipes and to adjust them to suit your taste.

Question 22

What is the difference between a fully automatic espresso maker and a pump espresso coffee maker?

Accepted Answer

The fully automatic espresso makers can make various types of coffee using either pre ground coffee or coffee beans with the help of its incorporated burr conical grinder. A pump espresso machine make various types of coffee using pre ground fine coffee or coffee pods. The pump espresso machines are more manual than the fully automatic espresso maker

Question 23

Which espresso coffee maker works either with the coffee powder or the ESE coffee pods?

Accepted Answer

Most De\'Longhi pump espresso machines can use ESE pods and ground coffee.. Individual model specifications include an ESE symbol to highlight compatibility.

Question 24

How many filters will I find with my pump espresso coffee maker?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the coffee maker model you have; it may contain two or three filters: Two filters model: 1 cup filter that you can use with the E.S.E coffee pods, and a 2 cups filter. Three filters model: 1 cup filter, 2 cups filter and a specific pods filter.

Question 25

How often does my pump espresso coffee machine need to be descaled?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, the frequency needed will depend on the water hardness in your area, in any case we recommend descaling your pump espresso after 200 uses. Some machines can also be programmed according to the hardness of the water. The \'descale\' lights come on after a period of use established according to water hardness.

Question 26

How to set water hardness on my pump espresso EC860?

Accepted Answer

Setting the water hardness is very quick and easy.To access the menu, make sure the coffee maker is on stand-by.Then press the and buttons together until the ON/ Stand-by light flashes. The appliance is now on &ldquo;programming&rdquo; mode.Press and hold the \'hot water\' button until the lights come on according to the following table. (see image!)When the lights corresponding to the water hardness measured come on, release the button;Then press the button , the setting is now done.

Question 27

How to set water hardness on my pump espresso EC680?

Accepted Answer

Please refer to your user manual or visit our website to find your manual containing the instructions.

Question 28

Why are the control panel lights flashing after I used the frother on my Dedica EC680?

Accepted Answer

If both coffee buttons are blinking (see image below), it means that the temperature is too high to brew the espresso correctly. To cool the machine down turn the steam dial on the ON position to allow water to be released from the machine. When the water stops, turn the dial to the \'O\' position. The machine is now ready to brew again.

Question 29

Why does the three water droplet light still flash after I install the water spout?

Accepted Answer

The water spout must be inserted all the way into the machine. If it still flashes after you have fully inserted try again. If it continues to flash contact us at 0390545100 or visit our website

Question 30

Why does water leak from the water tank on my Dedica EC680?

Accepted Answer

When placing the water tank back on your Dedica EC 680 after filling, please be sure that it is positioned properly and fit tightly from the bottom. Please see video below

Question 31

Why doesn’t the On/Off button on my Dedica EC680 work?

Accepted Answer

Press the On/Off button until you feel the click.  An auto-off function turns the appliance off when not in use for a period of time (9 minutes maximum) to save energy.  To turn it back on again, press any button on the control panel.

Question 32

Why the top right green light of my EC860 coffee maker is keep blinking?

Accepted Answer

Your unit needs to be primed. Please follow these instructions:   Insert the water spout. The light stops flashing and stay a steady green. push the button showing 3 water drops. water will start to flow from the water spout. Unit is now primed. Unit needs to be primed, follow these instructions: Insert the water spout. The light should stop flashing and stay a steady greenIf that doesn\'t happen, try to reinsert it. Do this 3 times and of it doesn\'t stop send a new water spout. If light goes to steady green push the button showing 3 water drops. water will start to flow from the water spout Unit is now primed. Lights will flash while it is heating up.

Question 33

How do I reset my Dedica to factory setting?

Accepted Answer

To answer your question, please refer to the video that we have conveniently linked for you.

Question 34

Which is the difference between Dedica EC680 and EC685?

Accepted Answer

Dedica style EC685 belongs to the new Dedica range, that is made made up of 4 products, 3 with a matt finish in white, red and black plus 1 in stainless steel offering. All include some fantastic new features to enhance and simplify your experience further. Dedica EC685 is now equipped with the exclusive adjustable CAPPUCCINATORE, which has two milk frothing settings: Hot milk and Cappuccino, in order to prepare a perfect and creamy cappuccino, or to heat up the milk for "flat" milk recipes. It\'s also easy to clean and it has flexible noozle that ensures accessibility when you need to froth the milk. Thanks to the exclusive new DOUBLE DRIP TRAY, the number of coffee beverages can be increased, because it is able to house taller glasses and mugs up to 4.5 inches (12 cm).  Design wise we have not only have we given Dedica a brand new colour finish but the logo has also been embossed on the drip tray as a finishing touch.

Question 35

I am having difficulty on descaling Dedica pump espresso. What can I do?

Accepted Answer

It sounds as though your machine hasn\'t fully registered the descale that you carried out. Please try the following steps in order and see if it resolves the issue. Empty the water tank will all but 1.5 inches approximately of water. Hold the steam button for 10 seconds until all 3 lights flash in sequence. Turn the steam dial to the on position, remembering to place a container under the steam arm. Press the steam button to start the descaling process with the water. Once you run out of water and the descale process stops you will find the light still flashes, whilst this is flashing put another 1.5 inches of water into the water tank, empty the container under the steam arm and press the steam button again for the machine to start rinsing. Once you have run out of water again, turn the steam dial back to the off position. This should register the descale for you, therefore turning out your flashing light.

Question 36

​Why does my Pump Espresso maker turn off after a couple of seconds?

Accepted Answer

Please ensure when you turn your Pump Espresso on, that the middle and bottom buttons are not in the "ON" position. If either button is on when you turn the machine on it will go into standby mode as a precaution.

Question 37

What is the maximum capacity of usage of La Specialista? Is it more appropiate for a domestic or for commercial use?

Accepted Answer

As with all of De\' Longhi coffee machines, La Specialista is a domestic machine only and not for commercial use. Misusing in this way can invalidate the warranty. As with our fully automatic coffee machines, it would be expected that a maximum of 10 - 15 drinks a day is at the maximum limit before it is considered to be non domestic use.

Question 38

What is the tamper pressure being created in my La Specialista?

Accepted Answer

The Smart Tamping Station has a maximum pressure of 15kg depending on whether using the single or double filters. Please note that when tamping you should always aim for the maximum tamp pressure by pulling the tamp lever down fully onto the coffee, except when you are tamping for Cold Brew (tamp to first level)

Question 39

Can I set the brewing temperature on La Specialista range?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all La Specialista coffee machines, have different temperature settings available. Each model may slightly differ from one to the other but all can be adjusted to suit the coffee beans you choose:- La Specialista Arte: 3 Infusion temperatures available;- La Specialista Prestigio: 3 Infusion temperatures available;- La Specialista Maestro: 5 Infusion temperatures available.

Question 40

What is the minimum and the maximum doses that can be used with la Specialista range?

Accepted Answer

The dosage for La Specialista is set for both single and double filters by an indication line to show the perfect quantity of ground coffee that has been tamped. To reach these optimum levels you must ensure the grind settings are correct for the coffee beans you are using. To make a more precise adjustments use the coffee quantity dial. Single Filter capacity – up to 13 grams Double Filter capacity - up to 21 grams

Question 41

Can you turn off the Sensor Grinding Technology on my La Specialista and still use the machine to grind manually?

Accepted Answer

The Sensor Grinding Technology , when correctly set, is designed to grind and deliver a consistent amount of coffee to reach the required amount to brew the perfect espresso. Therefore, you cannot turn off the Sensor Grinding Technology . However, you can turn off the grinder and use your pre ground coffee.

Question 42

Does la Specialista use a dedicated thermoblock heating system?

Accepted Answer

Yes, La Specialista uses a dedicated thermoblock system for coffee and hot water preparation, plus a dedicated steam heater for milk, ensuring a fast heat up time as well as consistent temperatures during extraction and delivery.

Question 43

Why is my La Specialista not brewing espresso and is showing a flashing alarm icons?

Accepted Answer

When your machine is not brewing, there is too much pressure in the group head due to one or more of the following reasons: The filter basket may be clogged. Remove the basket from the filter holder then remove the filter plate from the basket. Rinse under running water to ensure all the holes are open. To unclogged holes use a small pin or needle. There is too much ground coffee in the filter. To fix this, you must ensure the amount of coffee in the filter holder does not exceed the line level in the filter basket. Try turning the ground coffee dial to deliver less coffee but maintain the coffee level. The coffee was ground too fine and the water cannot push through the grounds. In order to fix this, you must adjust the grinder setting to a more coarse grinds.

Question 44

Does the steam run on a separate heating system so you can simultaneously create espresso and steam?

Accepted Answer

The steam circuit has its own dedicated \'Instant Heat System\' that means you can froth milk almost immediately after delivering espresso, or vice versa you can deliver perfect espresso immediately after frothing the milk. However the two operations can not be done together due to an higher wattage consumption but the two separate heating system allows you to have the unit always ready.

Question 45

What is the purpose of the rubber seal inside the filter basket on my La Specialista?

Accepted Answer

The purpose of the rubber seal is to direct the flow of water properly through the perforated filter, and make removal for cleaning the filter easy.

Question 46

Does the Sensor Grinding Technology on my La Specialista sense the size of the filter basket I am using?

Accepted Answer

The Sensor Grinding Technology does not sense if you are using the single or double basket. When you choose to use the two cups basket you must press the X2 button on your control panel to activate the machine to grind and deliver double the amount for two espresso.

Question 47

Does pressing the “X2” button on my La Specialista only change the amount of ground coffee?

Accepted Answer

When pressing the X2 button it will double the amount of ground coffee as well as double the amount of water of the chosen drink. ex: If \' Americano\' is chosen it will pour double espresso as well as double of the hot water. It is always recommended when making an Americano to chose this option.

Question 48

Why is my La Specialista not grinding?

Accepted Answer

There are few reason that may cause your machine not to grind. There are: 1) The coffee quantity dial may be in the pre ground use coffee setting which will bypass the grinder. This setting is used for tamping only. 2) Please check the My Coffee icon to see if it is flashing. If this is flashing it means the My Coffee program is in programming mode. You must complete the program in order to activate the grinder. 3) Lastly, please be sure the filter holder is inserted tightly to activate the grinder

Question 49

Can you adjust the espresso and hot water temperatures on my La Specialista?

Accepted Answer

With regards to changing the hot water temperature, no, this is a pre set temperature of approximately 200F (95C) With regards to changing the espresso temperature, yes, the unit has two pre set temperatures (Standard and High). The difference between Standard and High is approximately 5F(2C) To change these temperature settings: With the machine on and ready, make sure the mode selection dial is set to Espresso Press and hold the \'X2\' and \'My\' coffee buttons simultaneously for at least 3 seconds to access the water temperature setting.  The \'water tank\' and \'tamp\' light flash alternately and the \'temperature\' light remains on steady. This indicates you can choose the desired temperature setting. Press the button that corresponds to your desired temperature, &ldquo;X2&rdquo; button is for Standard temperature and &ldquo;Rinse&rdquo; button is for High temperature Press the On/Standby button to exit out of the program

Question 50

What do the function buttons mean on my La Specialista espresso maker?

Accepted Answer

The video below is an overview explaining the control panel buttons and dials for your unit.

Question 51

How to make a perfect espresso using my new La Specialista?

Accepted Answer

The following video will show you how to set your machine to make the perfect espresso. Please note: the coffee quantity dial is designed to be set once unless you choose to change type/brand of beans. If you desire a stronger or lighter espresso, this is adjusted by using your grinder setting ring from 1 to 6.

Question 52

How do I customise drinks with la Specialista?

Accepted Answer

Learn how to program the quantities to your personal preference by using the &ldquo;MY&rdquo; coffee button. La Specialista will remember your set recipes every time. You can also reset to the default values whenever you want.

Question 53

How do I descale my la Specialista espresso maker?

Accepted Answer

One of the most important processes to keep your machine working at optimal performance is descaling. When the descale warning light comes on, you should follow the steps in the below video to descale your unit. This will remove any build up such as lime scale. We recommend using our descaling solution as this been tested and proven to work best.

Question 54

What is the general maintanance required for cleanining my La Specialista?

Accepted Answer

Keep your La Specialista in great working condition by regularly cleaning the components, including the EASY CLEAN filters and outlets, and frequently empty the drip tray. Watch this video to discover how to clean your La Specialista:

Question 55

My La Specialista shows an error message. What does this mean?

Accepted Answer

The below How to Video will show you the list of different error messages and how to clear them. For further assistance please contact us through our website. Click here

Question 56

What is the meaning of optimal zone on my La Specialista?

Accepted Answer

This machine is designed to deliver the correct brewing pressure based on the chosen coffee bean type and the fineness of the grind. When brewing, the indicator level should always be within the optimal zone. If the indicator level falls noticeably below the optimal zone, this indicates an under extracted espresso and requires a finer grind to be used. If the indicator level moves past the optimal zone, this indicates an over extracted espresso and requires a more coarse grind to be used. Please note: Different coffee bean types may result in a different optimal zone reading. Remember, as long as the indicator level resides in that zone you are getting the perfect extraction.

Question 57

Why is the bean container icon on my La Specialista display flashing?

Accepted Answer

There are two reasons your bean container icon will flash: 1) The bean container is not fully locked onto the grinder 2) The coarseness ring of the grinder is not alligned between 1 and 6. You must always have the arrow alligned between the number 1 and 6.

Question 58

What is the proper use of the coffee amount dial on my La Specialista?

Accepted Answer

The coffee quantity dial controls how much coffee is ground into your filter. The single and double filters come with an indication level that, once tamped, the ground coffee level should reach. This indicates the perfect amount of ground coffee for brewing. If you change the type of coffee beans or over time you may need to slightly adjust the dial, but typically once it is set it will remain consistent.

Question 59

How do I make an Americano with La Specialista range?

Accepted Answer

An Americano coffee is an espresso based drink made with 1/3 espresso and 2/3 hot water. Before delivery, simply turn the recipe selector dial to Americano. La Specialista will deliver espresso first and then top up with hot water from the hot water spout. We recommend to use the double dose filter and utilize the X2 button when making an Americano, however, you can also make an Americano with a single shot.

Question 60

How do I prepare hot tea with my La Specialista?

Accepted Answer

When you want to brew hot water with La Specialista you simply press the hot water button. Please see the following video for step by step instructions:

Question 61

How do I clean the grinder on my La Specialista?

Accepted Answer

The La Specialista grinder will work at optimal performance if kept clean. The regularity of cleaning will vary depending on how often you use it and the type of bean you use. When you look inside the beans container and see that the grinder burr has residual coffee obstructing then it is time for cleaning. The way to do this is to empty the bean container of all beans, remove the bean container from the machine, use a vacuum to clean out any beans residue from the opening, and then turn the ring counter clockwise to the \'remove\' position and take out the burr. Use a small brush to clean the coffee residue off the burr. Please see the following video for step by step instrcutions:

Question 62

How do I prepare a Cappuccino with my La Specialista?

Accepted Answer

A Cappuccino is a milk based coffee drink made of espresso with frothed milk. For this you need to manually froth your milk using the adjustable frothing arm. Remember to set the adjuster to \'foam\' before you begin to steam. Please see the following video for step by step instructions:

Question 63

How do I clean the Smart Tamping Station on my La Specialista?

Accepted Answer

We recommend to clean the Smart Tamping Station approximately every 1-2 weeks depending on usage. The way to do this is to wipe out the opening with a dry cloth while the tamping handle is in the back position. Then use the included brush to clean out any residue in the opening. Lastly, pull the handle forward and clean with a dry cloth. Please see the following video for step by step instrcutions:

Question 64

How do I change the strength of the espresso on La Specialista range?

Accepted Answer

The intensity of the coffee is determined by the roasting type and strength* of the coffee beans you choose, and the fineness setting you choose on the grinder which ranges from 1- finest to 8 - coarse (on La Specialista - EC9335 the grinding range is from 1 to 6): When the desire is a more intense coffee you should choose a lower setting which will result in a finer grind. For a lighter coffee choose a higher setting resulting in a more coarse grind. Important - When you adjust the grinder, you must only move it by one click at a time and only while the grinder is in operation. A small adjustment makes a big difference. It may take a few grinds until you reach the desired grind consistency. *Please note: The strength of the coffee is determined by the grind, not by the amount of coffee. You should never use the coffee amount dial to determine the coffee strength .

Manual Espresso Makers