Posted Tue Jun 29, 2004, 2:56pm Subject: Backflushing a Rancilio Silvia
I've owned the Silvia for several years now and have had nothing but top-rate, reliable service from it. Other than minor cleaning and occasionally running a dilute vinegar solution through the machine to keep the scale down, I've never performed any other maintenance.
I hear about backflushing and how it's important to do, but I don't know what it is and why it's necessary. From descriptions of the procedure, one appears to block water from flowing through the brewhead while running the pump. This doesn't sound very healthy for the machine.
I may be dense, but where does the water go and why is doing this important?
Posted Tue Jun 29, 2004, 4:19pm Subject: Re: Backflushing a Rancilio Silvia
DonReitz Said:
I've owned the Silvia for several years now... I hear about backflushing and how it's important to do, but I don't know what it is and why it's necessary.
Have you checked out "Espresso! My Espresso!" by Randy Glass? It's how-to pages include one on backflushing with the whys and what fors. Here's an excerpt:
Why backflush? When the 3-way valve opens to relieve the backpressure in the brewing path, it allows some coffee residue and grounds pass through that path. This grounds and oils can build up in the brewing group which can eventually add a stale taste to the coffee. The grounds can also build up to the point that the 3-way valve stops operating properly.
Randy's pages are great reading for any serious Silvia owner.
Posted Tue Jun 29, 2004, 10:08pm Subject: Re: Backflushing a Rancilio Silvia
I backflush with cafiza and my Iron Tastebuds can tell the difference. Make sure the machine is hot--after you're done using it for the day. That Randy Glass guy has a good web-site for your Silvia needs.
I drink espresso so I can work longer, so I can make more money, so I can drink more espresso, so I can work longer, so I can make more money, so I can drink more espresso...
ayn Senior Member Joined: 1 Apr 2003 Posts: 60 Location: Bay Area, CA Expertise: I love coffee
Espresso: Silvia Grinder: Rocky
Posted Wed Jun 30, 2004, 1:45pm Subject: Re: Backflushing a Rancilio Silvia
I backflush my Silvia about once a month, if performed correctly, it won't hurt the machine a bit. If you look at the stuff coming out from the bottom, it's pretty damn dirty.
Posted Wed Jun 30, 2004, 2:35pm Subject: Re: Backflushing a Rancilio Silvia
Thanks to all for the help. It's appreciated. I checked out the Randy Glass site and I've got my answers. It looks like I'll be backflushing from now on. Don
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