If you own a Breville espresso machine, you know that it is capable of producing some of the best coffee drinks in the world. These machines are known for their versatility, ease of use, and convenience.
However, if you have noticed that your espresso machine’s pressure is too low, it can be frustrating.
Low pressure can result in an improper extraction of coffee, which can affect the quality of your espresso shot.
In this post, I will go over 6 possible reasons why your Breville espresso machine may have low pressure and what you can do about it.
6 Reasons Breville Espresso Machine Pressure Too Low
If the filter is not cleaned regularly, it can become blocked with coffee residue and can prevent water from flowing through the espresso machine.
To fix this, remove the filter and clean it with warm soapy water. Once cleaned, replace the filter and try pulling a shot again.
2. Dirty Grinder:
Another reason why your Breville espresso machine may have low pressure is a dirty grinder. If the grinder is clogged, it can prevent the coffee from being properly ground, which can result in low pressure.
To fix this, remove the grinder and clean it thoroughly. You can use a small brush or toothbrush to clean the grinder.
3. Improper Tamping:
Tamping is the process of compressing the coffee grounds into the portafilter. If the tamping is not done correctly, it can result in low pressure.
Make sure that the coffee is evenly distributed in the portafilter and that you tamp it correctly. Too much pressure or too little pressure can cause the espresso machine’s pressure to drop.
4. Blockage in the Water Lines:
The water line can also become blocked by limescale. Limescale can accumulate inside the machine’s pipes and prevent the water from flowing through the machine properly.
To clean the water line, you can use a descaling solution recommended by Breville. Follow the instructions on the solution’s label for the best results.
5. Low Water Pressure:
Another reason why the espresso machine’s pressure is low is that the water pressure in your area is low.
This can be frustrating; if you have low water pressure, you may have to use a pump or install a pressure regulator to ensure that the machine has enough water pressure to function properly.
6. Faulty Parts:
The last reason for low pressure may be due to faulty parts. If the machine is relatively new and the above-listed issues have been ruled out, there may be a problem with the machine’s internal parts.
Under these circumstances, it’s recommended you take the machine to the manufacturer or authorized repair center for diagnosis and repair.
Breville Espresso Machine Pressure Too Low – 3 Best Fixes
3. Check the Grind Size
The first reason why you might have low pressure in your Breville espresso machine is because of the grind size.
If the grind is too fine or too coarse, it can interfere with the pressure. Too fine grinds can cause clogs, while too coarse grinds can produce weak espresso shots.
Adjust the grinder by making it coarser or finer as needed. You might also need to clean the grinder more often and get rid of leftover coffee beans.
2. Clean the Machine Regularly
The second fix for low pressure in your Breville espresso machine is cleaning. Coffee grounds, excess coffee oils, and even dust can clog the machine’s fine filter and cause low pressure.
Ensure you clean your machine regularly with a damp cloth, unscrew the showerhead and clean it with hot water. You can also use some descaling solution to clean the machine completely, especially if you have hard water.
3. Check the Water Tank
The third fix for low pressure in your Breville espresso machine is to check the water tank. If the water level is too low, it can cause low pressure because air will enter the pump.
Refill the water tank to the appropriate level and ensure it is firmly in position. If the tank or the water tubes are dirty, clean them with a damp cloth. You can also replace any broken or ineffective parts.
What causes low pressure in Breville espresso machines?
There are several reasons why your Breville espresso machine could be producing low pressure, including a clogged or dirty group head, insufficient water level, or a faulty grinder.
These issues can prevent the machine from producing the right amount of pressure to extract coffee grounds properly. Luckily, there are some things you can do to fix the problem.
How can I fix low pressure in my Breville espresso machine?
The first step in fixing low pressure in your Breville espresso machine is to check the machine’s water level.
Ensure that the water tank is filled and the water levels are sufficient. Next, clean the group head and portafilter to ensure that they are not clogged with coffee grounds.
You can do this by removing the filter basket and wiping the inside of the group head with a damp cloth. You can also use a cleaning tablet or solution to dissolve any coffee residues.
Lastly, make sure that your coffee beans are fresh and properly ground to ensure optimal extraction. If none of these fixes work, it may be time to bring your Breville espresso machine to a professional technician for a more in-depth repair.
How can I prevent low pressure in my Breville espresso machine?
Prevention is always better than a cure, and your Breville espresso machine is no exception.
To prevent low pressure, you should regularly clean your machine to ensure that any coffee residue is removed. You should also replace your filter baskets regularly to maintain the proper extraction level.
Additionally, use fresh coffee beans and grind them appropriately for your machine to avoid any blockages or clogging in the grinder.
Lastly, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and don’t over-pack the coffee grounds, as this can restrict pressure flow.
Conclusion
Low pressure in a Breville espresso machine can be a frustrating experience, but it’s important to remember that you can fix this issue by cleaning the machine, checking components, adjusting your tamping, or taking care of your water pressure.
Now that you understand the possible reasons why your Breville espresso machine may have low pressure, you can take the necessary steps to address the problem.
Once sorted, you’ll enjoy a perfectly crafted espresso with your beloved espresso maker. Don’t forget to use beans ground just right to get that great-tasting coffee you deserve.
