Introduction

The La Marzocco Linea Micra and Mini R are beloved espresso machine known for their exceptional performance and durability. To ensure it continues to deliver top-notch coffee, regular maintenance and cleaning are essential. This blog post will guide you through the best practices for maintaining and cleaning your Linea Micra or Mini R, including the importance of using the right water and understanding the maintenance cycles. We will also share which cleaning solutions La Marzocco uses in their Italian factories.

Cleaning Routine

A consistent cleaning routine is crucial for the longevity and performance of your La Marzocco Linea Micra or Mini R. Here’s a step-by-step guide to keep your machine in pristine condition:

Daily Cleaning

1. Group Head Cleaning: At the end of the day, flush the group head with water to remove coffee residues. If you use our custom drip tray for the Linea Micra, we recommend just flushing into a cup or briefly removing the drip tray. Use a brush to clean the gasket and shower screen.
2. Portafilter and Basket: Rinse the portafilter and basket thoroughly with hot water. Ensure no coffee grounds are left behind.
3. Steam Wand: Wipe the steam wand with a damp cloth after each use. Purge it by letting steam out for a few seconds to prevent milk residue buildup.

Weekly Cleaning

1. Backflushing: Use a blind filter and a small amount of espresso machine cleaner to backflush the group head. This process removes oils and residues from the internal components.
2. Component Cleaning: Boil 1-2 liters of water and add two teaspoons of La Marzocco cleaning powder. Place the components of the hybrid portafilter, including the spouts and baskets, into the solution. Unscrew the shower screen and add both the screw and the screen. Let them sit for 30 minutes, then rinse with water and reinstall.
3. Drip Tray and Grate: Remove and clean the drip tray and grate with warm, soapy water. Ensure they are completely dry before reassembling.
4. Outside of the Machine: The outside of the machine can be cleaned with a damp cloth and some non-abrasive cleaning solvent. If you want to go one step further, here are the two cleaning solutions La Marzocco uses in the factories in Italy (thanks to Gerald from the German La Marzocco After Sales team for providing this info!):

• • For the stainless steel La Marzocco Linea Micra or Mini R's and all colors except matte-black: Novato Safety Clean FS
  • For the matte-black La Marzocco Linea Micra and Mini R: Tech Masters Mega Foam

Monthly Cleaning

1. Water Tank: Clean the water tank with warm, soapy water and rinse thoroughly. This prevents any mold or bacteria growth.
2. Steam Boiler Maintenance: Heat up the machine completely, then turn it off. Place a large bowl under the hot water tap and open the valve to empty the steam boiler completely. Once emptied, ensure the water tank is full and turn the machine back on. This helps reduce build-up of minerals in the boiler.
   
3. Descaling: Do not descale your La Marzocco machine! Prevention is the better solution in this case, so make sure to use the right water (see below).

Importance of Using the Right Water

Using the correct water is vital for the health of your Linea Micra. La Marzocco recommends using water that meets specific guidelines to prevent scale buildup and ensure optimal performance. The ideal water should have:

• Total Dissolved Solids (TDS): Between 75-150 ppm
• pH Level: Between 6.5-8.0
• Hardness: Between 3-5 grains per gallon (50-85 ppm)

Using water that falls within these parameters will help maintain the machine’s internal components and reduce the frequency of descaling. La Marzocco recommends specific waters per region (e.g. Volvic in Germany) - we highly encourage you to go with their recommendation.

Maintenance Cycles

Regular maintenance is necessary to keep your Linea Micra and Mini R running smoothly. Here’s a breakdown of the recommended maintenance cycles:

Small Maintenance (Every 2 Years)

Approximately every two years, a small maintenance check should be performed. This typically costs around €150 and includes:

• Inspection and Cleaning: A thorough inspection and cleaning of internal components.
• Gasket Replacement: Replacing worn gaskets to ensure a proper seal.
• Valve Check: Checking and adjusting valves for optimal performance.

Major Maintenance (Every 4-5 Years)

Every 4-5 years, a major maintenance service is recommended, costing around €500. This includes:

• Complete Overhaul: A comprehensive overhaul of the machine, including deep cleaning and replacement of key components.
• Pump and Motor Check: Inspecting and servicing the pump and motor to ensure they are functioning correctly.
• Electrical Components: Checking and replacing any worn electrical components to prevent future issues.

Conclusion

Maintaining and cleaning your La Marzocco Linea Micra or Mini R is essential for ensuring it continues to produce excellent espresso. By following a regular cleaning routine, using the right water, and adhering to the recommended maintenance cycles, you can keep your machine in top condition for years to come. Remember, a well-maintained machine not only performs better but also extends its lifespan, providing you with delicious coffee day after day.

 

Disclaimer: This article has been written to the best of our knowledge and will be updated as new guidance from La Marzocco becomes available. Please note that direct guidance from La Marzocco should always take priority. We do not accept any liability for issues with machines resulting from maintenance based on this article.