How to Clean the Brew Group

(Saeco / Philips / Gaggia Super-Automatic Espresso Machines)

Saeco, Philips, and Gaggia super-automatic espresso machines all use very similar removable brew groups. Cleaning the brew group regularly is one of the most important maintenance steps you can take to ensure proper operation, good-tasting coffee, and long machine life.

This guide applies to most Saeco, Philips, and Gaggia machines with a removable brew group.

Before You Start

Before removing the brew group, make sure that:

The machine has finished any active cycle
It is not rinsing or brewing
The machine is not making any noise

The machine can be either ON or OFF when the brew group is removed — both are acceptable.

Step 1: Access the Brew Group

Most brew groups are accessed through a service door with a latch, typically located:

On the front of the machine, or
On the right-hand side of the machine

Open the service door fully to expose the brew group.

Step 2: Remove the Brew Group

Most Saeco, Philips, and Gaggia brew groups share a similar design.

Locate the “PUSH” lever or handle on the brew group
Press or pull the lever to unlock the brew group
Carefully slide the brew group straight out of the machine

Step 3: Rinse the Brew Group

Once removed:

Rinse the entire brew group under warm water
The brew group can get fully wet
Use a soft brush if needed to remove:
- Loose coffee grounds
- Coffee buildup in crevices

Important:

❌ Do NOT use soap or detergent
✅ Water only

Step 4: Do Not Remove the Factory Grease

You may notice grease on certain moving parts of the brew group.

This grease is normal
It is essential for proper movement
Do NOT wash it off

Removing this grease can cause poor operation or premature wear.

A separate guide on how and when to properly lubricate the brew group will be covered in another article.

Step 5: Inspect the Top Piston O-Ring

While the brew group is removed, inspect the large orange O-ring located on the top piston.

Check for:

Cracks
Chips
Flattening
Tears or breaks

A damaged O-ring can cause leaks, brewing issues, or internal pressure loss and should be replaced.

👉 Replacement Part:
Philips / Saeco / Gaggia Brew Unit O-Ring

A full step-by-step guide on how to replace this O-ring will be covered in a separate article.

Step 6: Clean the Brew Group Compartment (Inside the Machine)

While the brew group is removed, it is important to clean the area inside the machine where the brew group sits.

Over time, ground coffee and residue can build up in this compartment, which can affect proper operation and contribute to odors or mold if left uncleaned.

How to Clean the Brew Group Compartment

Wipe the area with a damp cloth
A small amount of dish soap can be used if there is visible buildup
Make sure the cloth is damp, not dripping wet

Removing Loose Coffee Grounds

If there is a buildup of dry or slightly damp coffee grounds:

Use a soft brush to loosen debris
A vacuum can be used to remove loose grounds

⚠️ Important:
If using a vacuum, make sure it is capable of handling slightly damp coffee grounds, as moisture may be present.

What NOT to Do

Do not pour water directly into the machine
Do not spray cleaners inside the compartment
Do not use harsh chemicals or degreasers

Once the compartment is clean and dry, you can proceed with reinstalling the brew group.

Step 7: Dry the Brew Group Thoroughly

Proper drying is very important.

Best option:

Allow the brew group to air-dry overnight

If needed:

Dry it with a clean, lint-free cloth

Pay special attention to:

The top funnel, where ground coffee falls into the brew group

The entire brew group should be as dry as possible so fresh coffee grounds do not stick to leftover moisture.

Step 8: Reinstall the Brew Group

Before reinstalling the brew group:

Ensure the rear latch is in the UP position
This can be adjusted by pressing the same lever used to remove the brew group

To reinstall:

Slide the brew group back into the guide tracks
Push firmly until it snaps fully into place

If the brew group is not seated correctly:

The machine may blink a warning light
Or display an error message (depending on the model)

Step 9: Close the Service Door & Resume Use

Once the brew group is properly installed:

Close the service door
The machine is now ready to make coffee again

How Often Should You Clean the Brew Group?

We recommend cleaning the brew group:

Once per week

Regular cleaning helps:

Ensure smooth mechanical movement
Keep coffee tasting fresh
Prevent coffee buildup and mold
Extend the life of your espresso machine

Need More Help?

Additional guides coming soon:

How to lubricate a brew group
How to replace a brew group O-ring
Troubleshooting brew group errors

If your machine continues to have issues, professional service may be required.

Written by Steven Rizzuto
Owner & Service Specialist, Anthony’s Espresso

How to Clean the Brew Group (Saeco, Philips & Gaggia Machines)