Cleaning and Descaling your Café Semi-Auto Espresso Machine

[@vegascre4267]

I have had CONSTANT issues with my espresso machine. One issue gets fixed and there's another. I have tried multiple times to find some kind of customer contact line for assistance and the only customer care options are with regard to orders, returns, and shipping. When I did call I was told by a CAFE employee they know nothing about the appliance or how to help! Now I am having an issue with my espresso grounds shooting out the sides of the machine missing my puck wasting PERFECTLY GOOD and costly espresso!! Would appreciate some kind of customer communications line when I spend $700+ on a countertop appliance!

[@TeddyCavachon]

Comments about descaling: Narration says to fill 1/3 of the water tank for descaling but at 1:00 in the video the cleaning tablet is seen being dropped into a full tank of water. My machine came with a pouch containing three cleaning tablets with the following instructions: “DIRECTIONS: insert one tablet into the special opening and follow the machine manufacturer’s cleaning ang (sic) maintenance instructions. There is no identifying manufacturer or part number or information on the tablet packet nor was there any information in the supplied documentation. When a tablet was dropped into 1/3 tank of water it did not dissolve! Even after removing it and crushing the tablet it did not dissolve so I reverted to the instructions on page 14 of the manual and used one liter of a 1:1 mixture of water and white vinegar to clean the machine. (Tank to FILL line holds 2800ml). Clearly the cleaning tablets supplied with the machine were not designed to be used with it. With regard to filling the tank only 1/3 full for Stage One cleaning (vs full as shown in the video) the instructions which came with the machine on a yellow STOP - IMPORTANT INFORMATION - insert explains the reason to only fill 1/3 (one Liter). It states: “In Stage 1 of the process if over a THIRD of the water tank is used, the Add Water LED light may NOT turn ON. Stage 1 will complete in under 5 minutes and the pump will turn off. It is acceptable to continue to Stage 2 after that time. CLEAN alert may NOT automatically shut off after stage 2 even though the process has been completed and the pump shut off. Please press the Power button OFF and ON to clear CLEAN alert. If you own one of these machines I suggest following the instructions on page 14 of the Owners manual using 500ml of water + 500ml of White Vinegar instead of the supplied tablets or first trying to dissolve the tablet in 1 liter of water in a separate container before using the solution to fill the tank 1/3 full. CAFE, you should investigate and make sure the proper cleaning product is included with the machine and it is identified with a part number with information how to re-order. I could not find any cleaning agent for CAFE expresso machines on the GE OWNER store web site. If you have part number / source for a cleaning agent which will actually work suggest you add it to the comments.

[@CAFEAppliances]

Hi there Teddy, and thanks for sharing your concerns with the cleaning process. We know how important cleaning and maintaining your machine is, and regret any inconvenience you experienced. Your feedback regarding the level of water shown in the video, as well as the issue you had with the tablet not dissolving, will be shared with our team for review; we appreciate your insights, as we always want to be aware of any possible issues. Based on this video, it looks like your espresso machine has a model number of C7CESAS2RS3. If that is correct, the Descaler 3-pack that is compatible with the unit is listed under Part #WC01X20655. You can order that on our GE Appliances Parts website; you can also look up your model number on that website to view the parts breakdown and make sure the descaler is correct for your model, if you’d like. We hope this information is helpful, and you’re able to descale your unit with no further inconvenience. We’re always glad to assist if you have any other questions or concerns - wishing you all the best! -SG

[@TheBella489]

How often do you use the vinegar and water if you use the machine once per day?

[@TeddyCavachon]

@@TheBella489 When the clean light illuminates, based on water volume used which the machine tracks. The app shows how many liters remaining before cleaning. For me using 2-3x per day I get the clean notice very two months.

[@bjcthatsme123]

Thank you for this comment, this is exactly what I’m experiencing now (the tablet not dissolving) and I came here hoping for answers! It does really seem like the tablets are just random third-party descaling tablets that GE threw into the box without using. I’m wondering if maybe the tablet isn’t supposed to completely dissolve or something, but I dont know. I love that Café replied and didn’t even address the performance issue with the tablet!

[@TeddyCavachon]

@@bjcthatsme123 I’ve continued using the 1 part white vinegar : 1 part water to clean when indicated and it seems to do the job.

[@TeddyCavachon]

How does one obtain a replacement for the 58mm silicone steam ring which seals the portafilter? My nearly two year old unit is starting to leak around that seal with the water dripping down from around the skirt of the grinder if the portafilter is a bit too full. I’ve looked on GE Appliances parts but can’t find it. Other 58mm steam rings I’ve found for similar Breville machines do not have the three notches like the CAFE machine.

[@CAFEAppliances]

Hi again Teddy, We just wanted to reply here too letting you know that we've seen and have replied to your other comment too. -MS

[@MYAFELINA]

I'm confused, she says: Fill a third of the water tank. And she filled up to the max line. Also is this 30 minute process needed before first time use (I thinking since I don't need to descale.)

[@CAFEAppliances]

We apologize for the confusion. Only a third of the water tank should be filled for the descaling process. You do not need to complete the descaling process before the first use, but we do recommend cleaning the unit thoroughly. Congratulations on your new espresso machine!

[@bulgarianlady1]

I have issues with my espresso machine , it leaks water from the bottom, so when I try to make espresso, it drops and water under the machine comes out. This is my second cafe espresso machine that I gave a try and they month have the same issues … only used for 3 months. Very sad and very disappointed, need to see what can be done by the company at this point

[@CAFEAppliances]

Hi there - We're sorry to hear you're having some trouble with water leaking from the bottom of the unit. Steam/water is released after the brew into the far back of the drip tray. It is not normal for water to miss the tray. Please make sure the tray is installed properly to catch the steam/water that is released. If the problem persists, please reach out to us on Instagram/Facebook/X via private message. We'd be happy to assist you further. Best, JS

[@jmrd7225]

I had the same issue and I removed the lid that s goes on the tray and no more water coming out from the bottom. The one on the right side.

[@AndreaHernandez-dt1ip]

Ok first let me help everyone. To start the machine needs to be on. In the video it looks like it’s off so like an idiot I tried pressing the two buttons while in off status confused why it wasn’t working haha. The tablets provided need WARM water. And ALOT of stirring. I’d say get other tablets that actually dissolve as they should or use the 1:1 water/vinegar solution. I am stubborn and wanted to figure out the tablets provided in the package. I used a separate bowl and using 1 cup of water made the water boiling hot and added the tablet and stirred well. Then added that water to the 1/3 lukewarm water in the dispenser. That did the trick. Then I used a BIG bowl used for baking (not a tiny glass one like they show in the video. What’s in the tank is getting fully emptied into the bowl and the water will be hot. After that I refilled the tank once the add water sign turned on and repeated the process. I didn’t have to turn the machine off and on because it stayed in cleaning status so I just refilled pressed the two buttons for good measure and then switched from neutral to steam again. Once emptied I rinsed and refilled the tank and wallah she’s sparkling. A note to Cafè, you need to hire better customer service or simply put in more effort for those of us trying your product. The replies are robotic and leave the customers concern completely unanswered. I love my espresso machine but from what I’ve seen you guys need to do better in assisting those who have issues with their machines. We should not have to trouble shoot like this when you are the designers and should have quick and easy answers. Sincerely, someone whose trying to help ♥️

[@CAFEAppliances]

Thank you for your valuable comments with regard to cleaning the Cafe' Semi-Auto Espresso Machine. Your feedback is appreciated as our design teams use our customer's feedback to improve ownership experience. We're so glad to hear how you love your espresso machine! Take care! -NC

[@n.s.3410]

NPC response. The irony.

[@State48]

How do you unclog the grinder? I took it all apart and its still clogged

[@CAFEAppliances]

We appreciate you reaching out about this! If the video above isn't helpful, please send us your model number, so we can provide more detailed instructions.

[@kailemynatt3323]

I’m having the same issue!

[@CAFEAppliances]

Please take a look at this article, which gives detailed steps on how to unclog a grinder: spklr.io/6050vxYG. If this isn't helpful, please don't hesitate to reach out via private message on Facebook or Instagram.

[@isaacvalenzuela588]

All 4 buttons on my machine are flashing, what does they mean?

[@CAFEAppliances]

Hello-Thank you for reaching out to us. We would like to help look into this further for you. Could you please send us a private message with more details on what is happening with the unit (photos video would be helpful if you have that), and what was happening before the lights started flashing? Also, please include the model and serial number as well. We look forward to hearing from you. Sincerely-DM

[@saidaochoafit]

Can we see the video of deep cleaning portafilter?!

[@CAFEAppliances]

Hi Saida! You would simply want to dispose of the grounds in the portafilter, rinse with water, and then let the parts dry before putting it back into the machine. More cleaning tips can be found in the Use and Care manual, here: spklr.io/6056mQw4 Hope this helps! If you have other questions, feel free to let us know. -MS

[@saidaochoafit]

@@CAFEAppliances is there no way of cleaning them internally? What are the extra portafilters for then? Since they done have the mesh to brew espresso

[@CAFEAppliances]

Hi again! So long as the cleaning instructions on page 13 in the Use and Care manual are followed, the portafilter will be clean, no need to take anything apart. The other filters shown are for different types of espressos. Page 8 talks more about them! -MS

[@isaacvalenzuela588]

what are the cleaning agent tabs to drop in the water?

[@CAFEAppliances]

Hi Isaac, Thanks for asking! Your espresso maker will come with a cleaning kit that includes the following: a pin (needle) for cleaning, a cleaning brush, cleaning solution, and a microfiber cleaning cloth. As an alternative to the cleaning solution provided, a 1:1 ratio of water and white vinegar can be used for the descaling process. You should not use any cleaning agents not provided with the product or recommended in the instructions. If you have other questions about your appliances, feel free to ask! -MS

[@NishNosh77]

@@CAFEAppliances where can we purchase the cleaning solution? Our machine did not come with a cleaning solution.

[@CAFEAppliances]

Hello. We hate to hear your unit didn’t come with cleaning solution - we know how important maintaining your machine is, and we want to help. Can you clarify if you removed the drip tray to check for the cleaning kit? Depending on your model, the unit may come with the cleaning kit located in the bottom left corner of the machine. If you still aren’t seeing the solution you need, can you please confirm the model number of your machine? That information would be helpful as we look into this further for you. We’re also glad to assist with any other concerns you may have, and we’re wishing you all the best! -SG

[@NishNosh77]

@@CAFEAppliances Model #: C7CEBBS3RD3!

[@nishshokeen3534]

my new coffee maker leaks water from bottom (cafe bellissimo espresso machine)

[@CAFEAppliances]

Hello-Thank you for reaching out to us. We are sorry to hear that you are having trouble with your coffee maker and would like to help. Could you please send us a private message with the model and serial number on your unit and a few more details on what is happening? If you need help locating the model number please see the link here- spklr.io/6050Wde0 We look forward to hearing back from you. Sincerely-DM

[@nishshokeen3534]

@@CAFEAppliances model number :-C7CESAS4RIW3 Serial :-GV000461 it’s leaking water every time I make anything in it !!

[@CAFEAppliances]

We are sorry to hear that this is happening. Could you please send us a DM/PM with some more information, photos where on the unit specifically the water is leaking from? This will help us to research this further for you.

[@nishshokeen3534]

@@CAFEAppliances I have recorded how it leaks water where should I send it ?

[@nishshokeen3534]

@@CAFEAppliances how to dM/pm ? I have picture and videos but can’t upload here !!!

[@natalieflood3567]

my “clean” button never shuts off, even after following instructions and cleaning. why?

[@CAFEAppliances]

Hello. We regret that you’re having trouble with the Clean alert, and we want to assist. If you have model C7CESAS2RS3, the manual has cleaning instructions starting on page 15 and is linked here: spklr.io/6056lBEm . Were those the specific instructions you followed? If you’ve followed all of those instructions and are still seeing the alert, you may want to try resetting the electrical components of the machine by disconnecting it from power for a couple minutes then reconnecting; this can resolve some issues. If you continue to have trouble, you’re more than welcome to send us a private message over our social media (such as Facebook or Twitter) confirming your model number; we’d be happy to discuss this further and help reach a resolution. All the best! -SG

[@TeddyCavachon]

There was a yellow insert in the manual of the machine I bought which said if more than 1/3 of a tank is used for the initial clean then the clean light may not go out. I’ve found that running the cycle again with less than 1/3 tank of water then a full tank will usually cause it to go out.

[@Escorpianna2910]

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