Vibiemme Domobar Super HX Switchable Commercial Espresso Machine with Rotary Pump
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DISCONTINUED VBM Domobar Super Switchable HX Espresso Machine – Rotary Pump

5 out of 5 based on 5 customer ratings
(5 customer reviews)

This product has been discontinued at 1st-line Equipment.
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VBM Domobar Super Switchable HX Espresso Machine – Rotary Pump

Overview:

The VBM Domobar Super Switchable HX is the THE BOMB! VBM quality at its best! This is the most reliable unit with tank and vibration pump with the following features:

  • Ability to use the internal water reservoir or directly plumb to the water line. Manual lever under machine must be moved to the appropriate water source desired.
  • Ability to manually empty the drip tray or plumb in the drain for the drip tray. Thus, no extra parts or kits needed for the machine – all included.
  • Rotary vane pump for quieter operation.
  • Internal drainage to the drip tray allows operation without any water going to the internal reservoir in direct plumb mode. Other machines drain to the reservoir that need emptying. The VBM Domobar Super Switchable HX does not require constant emptying of the reservoir for the flow from the overpressure valve. Also, it prevents mold and mildew build up as the reservoir stays dry.
  • Adjustment screw under the water reservoir allows operation in direct plumb mode without having to switch any wires on the switch under the reservoir. No separate expensive switches to replace either.
  • The valve on the bottom rotates to change between water tank and direct plumbing modes.
Features:
  • Heat kills electronics. The Gicar motherboard is near the bottom of the unit as heat travels upward. Even on machines that have insulated boilers, there is still heat dissipation and build up inside the machine. So, where does heat travel? Upwards! Where are the electronics on the machines you are looking at?
  • Ease of self-repair? Look at the VBM! Three screws on each side the wraparound body panel and access the insides. Two screws each on the top and bottom of the water tank platform, and you can simply self-repair. The VBM Domobar Super Switchable HX is one of the easiest repairable machines with their Super HX series.
  • True VBM E61 grouphead, which has its own VBM stamp, is heavy and maintains an active flow of water from the grouphead to the heat exchanger in the boiler. Additionally, there is an internal restrictor to lessen the overheating of the grouphead, which is on many E61 grouphead machines.
  • The heat exchanger allows you to make espresso after espresso until it empties the water reservoir and steam milk at the same time because of the large boiler which also adds to more temperature stability over smaller boilers.
  • Professional grade brass portafilters – one portafilter with single spout and single filter basket and one portafilter with dual spout and double filter basket.
  • Removable 2.1-liter pour-over water reservoir.
  • Boiler pressure gauge to indicate boiler pressure (reading will vary between .8 and 1.2 bar pressure). Vary the setting by adjusting the full size pressurestat through the access port under the cup warmer tray on top of the machine.
  • Pump pressure gauge to indicate brew pressure during espresso extraction (reading will vary while not extracting which is normal).
  • Multi-directional stainless steel steam wand on the left side can go in different directions.
  • Multi-directional stainless steel hot water tap on the right side can go in different directions.
Even MORE features:
  • The steam wand is pro-grade – this means there is no silicone inside to slow the throughput of the steam that exits AND there are no odors that sometimes emanate from the silicone inside a no-burn steam wand. In addition, one can still burn their hand or fingers if one holds a no-burn steam wand for more than 5 consecutive seconds while steaming.
  • The power indicator light on the right side indicates when the machine is powered on.
  • Heating light on the left side indicates when the espresso machine is heating.
  • Low water level light in middle indicates when the water level in the water reservoir in the rear is low.
  • A three-stage power switch allows user to fill the internal boiler without sending power to the heating element (prevents damage upon initial start-up).
  • Full-size Parker pressurestat (rated as one of the best boiler pressure regulators) monitors boiler pressure – although you may hear a little clicking sound when the pressurstat turns on and off, the reliability of useful life is greater than a PID display which is subject to internal heat build-up.
  • Extremely large stainless steel drip tray which can be easily (slides out with the pull of handle) removed for cleaning. Grate stays on the machine when pulling out a drip tray so that it is one step to empty.
  • GICAR branded electronic water level control for the internal boiler is located in the lower right rear corner of the machine where there is least heat build up – this improves reliability.
  • Largest OPV (over pressure valve opens when too much pump pressure exists) located in the rear of the machine with easy access when body panel and six (6) associated screws are removed.
Accessories:

Single spout portafilter, single dose filter basket, double spout portafilter, double dose filter basket, blind filter basket for backflushing, plastic coffee scoop, and a common useless plastic tamper (please make sure to order a good tamper).

Brand

VBM (Vibiemme)
Height (inches)

16.5, approximate
Width (inches)

11, approximate
Depth (inches)

20, approximate
Weight (pounds)

70
Wattage (watts)

1600
Voltage (volts)

110
Boiler capacity (liters)

1.8
Portafilter size (mm)

58
Tank capacity (liters)

2.1
Country of manufacture

Milan, Italy
Approvals

UL

Espresso Machine Warning:

  • ELECTRICAL WARNING: To avoid electrical damage to this espresso machine which is not considered a manufacturer's defect, please acquire and install a single-outlet surge suppressor rated at 1080 joules or higher. the lack of the recommended surge suppressor, the espresso machine can be damaged at the power switch, the electronics, the heating element, the pressurstat or the wiring inside.
  • WATER WARNING: To increase the useful life of and not damage your espresso machine, please use softened water. Softened water is water without calcium and without magnesium, but still has other minerals for espresso extraction. Do not use distilled water, purified water, nor reverse osmosis water as these types of water create oxidation with the metals and cause the same damaging effects as limescale.
  • DESCALING WARNING: We do not recommend descaling unless there is an issue with the espresso machine. The reason is that too much descaling can eat away at the metals and gaskets inside an espresso machine.

  1. No burn wands: We have decided to NOT offer no-burn steam wands because the typical internal diameter is about 50% less than a normal steam wand, and this usually affects performance times in steaming. In addition, the grouphead has a much greater area to get burned.
  2. Some assembly required: Feet are not attached to the machine.
  3. 220 volt: Sorry, 220-240 volt units are not available for ordering.
  4. Service notes:
    1. Backflushing: This machine should be backflushed minimum once every 50 espresso extractions using Ascaso Detergent (our instructions included with purchase). This is only for cleaning the oils fromt he grouphead.
    2. Water Usage: We prefer one uses softened (not just filtered) water to prevent limescale build up. Descaling really is for internally cleaning of the machine.

Maintenance

Documentation

Common Parts

Technical Support

Warranty Information

Who handles the warranty

Eligible warranty for Vibiemme home equipment is handled by 1st-line Equipment or representative thereof. If you have purchased your Vibiemme equipment from another retailer (not 1st-line Equipment), you must contact them first in order to get your equipment serviced under warranty.

What does the warranty cover

The warranty is limited to manufacturer’s defects only.

Regarding espresso machines: Limescale buildup can lead to problems with your machine. The warranty will not cover any repairs if our technicians find limescale in your machine. Although descaling can be a good alternative to remove limescale causing minerals (calcium and magnesium), we strongly suggest that prevention is the best form of maintenance. The reason is that descalers can cause wear and tear on components inside an espresso machine. This includes gaskets, o-rings, and other metal components. However, where there is a clog somewhere, descaling will be a necessity on the specified part, area, or entire machine.

Regarding coffee grinders: As with all coffee grinders, it is very important to only change grind settings when the unit is powered on and the burrs are in motion. If you do not do this, the burrs will ‘gunk’ up and require cleaning by you every time this occurs. Changing the grind settings when the burrs are not in motion will render the grinder to only produce very coarse grinds or no grinds at all. If this result occurs, this will be considered operator error for lack of following directions, and not be classified as a defective grinder.

When does the warranty expire

The manufacturer’s warranty on new equipment is good for a period of 1 year from date of receipt which covers parts. Labor warranties may vary depending on the company you purchase from. Vibiemme products may have an extended warranty limited to manufacturer’s defect and will specifically state the extended period of time on your receipt.

Where will my equipment be serviced

In most cases, your Vibiemme equipment must be sent to a repair facility. If 1st-line Equipment will be servicing your equipment, you must either ship it or drop off at our facility in New Jersey.

How do I send in my equipment in for repair

If you are inside the warranty period and have purchased it from us, please contact us. Please be ready to provide the following information: invoice# of purchase, model of equipment, and a detailed description of the issue.

If you are outside the warranty period, whether you have purchased the equipment from us or not, please order a diagnosis. Please note that wait times can be up to 8 weeks. Our technical support staff can have a back log of repairs. As an alternative we have a listing of 3rd party repair companies across the USA that can assist you.

Customer reviews

Rated 5 out of 5 stars
5 reviews
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5 reviews for DISCONTINUED VBM Domobar Super Switchable HX Espresso Machine – Rotary Pump

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      I have had the machine since Jan 2017. I have two problems with the machine. The steam wand is constantly leaking steam. I'm guessing some washer or an o-ring need replacing. Are there instructions on how to replace this and what to buy? Second, I used to have very hard water for a while and the hot water line seems to be completely clogged with calcification. I have installed an RO machine now but would like to know how I can unclog the hot water line.
    1. 0 votes
      Q I have had the machine since Jan 2017. I have two problems with the machine. The steam wand is co...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Nara R on August 28, 2023 7:23 pm
      Answered by the admin

      Please read our white paper on steam and hot water valve leaks at the tip. As for the hot water valve clog, you will need to descale the boiler. You can use the same instructions from a different machine.
      A I have a photo of the tip of the valve (with the washer) I can email if someone can tell me which of the three washers I have to order. Is there an email address I can send it to? I don't want to try and pry it out (it is quite hard) as I'm afraid I might break it in the process and I won't have a working coffee machine for several days until I get a replacement washer!
      2. I ran a gallon of citric acid solution through the machine letting it soak etc. Worked a charm. I'm back in business. I found a video of a guy replacing gaskets and o-rings on a E61 machine. I'm willing to give it a try. Could you point me to the page with those for sale?
    2. 0 votes
      Q I ran a gallon of citric acid solution through the machine letting it soak etc. Worked a charm. I...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Patrick on June 30, 2023 12:34 pm
      Answered by the admin

      Please use the parts diagrams on our web site.
      3. My trusty 16 year old VBM Domobar Super Manual espresso machine isn't heating as high as it used to. I haven’t changed anything except I moved to a different climate (TN) a couple of years ago. Also, I gave it a group cleaning with JoeGlo a couple of weeks ago. I do this every few months, being a home machine, but did a few in a row this time to see if it would solve my issues. I have never descaled and my test kit says the water looks pretty perfect. Should I descale? Also, the lever feels very rough lately. I am wondering if there is metal loss where metal meets metal? I notice water escapes into the pan when I pull shots recently (hence that deep cleaning). Anyway, don’t mean to vent. Hoping this is something you encounter a lot and there’s a simple solution. Thanks and all the best
    3. 0 votes
      Q My trusty 16 year old VBM Domobar Super Manual espresso machine isn't heating as high as it used ...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Patrick on June 26, 2023 10:34 am
      Answered by the admin

      It sounds like the element in the boiler may have build up, making it less effective to heat. It sounds like the grouphead lever may need new gaskets and/or gaskets and o-rings as well as a lubrication. Although VBM espresso machines last a long time, sometimes it is cheaper to retire and replace with a new one.
      4. I have a VBM super HX. It is not powering on. I’ve tried several different outlets to no avail. Hoping to what this might be or what might need replacing.
    4. 0 votes
      Q I have a VBM super HX. It is not powering on. I’ve tried several different outlets to no avail. H...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Andy Thomasson on August 24, 2022 12:19 pm
      Answered by the admin

      Unfortunately, it can be a bad power switch, bad switch under the reservoir platform, bad heating element, bad brain unit, or bad pressurstat. We would suggest, with the unit unplugged from the electrical outlet, remove the bosy panel (3 screws on each side) and check for burnt wiring or electrical parts.
      5. I recently bought a used VBM Domobar Super espresso machine from a local bakery shop. They had the machine connected to their water line. I would like to use the water reservoir instead. I am not sure which steps to take to switch the machine from direct water connection to using the reservoir. Would you be able to direct me to an article, or perhaps one of your youtube videos explaining the steps to do so?
    5. 0 votes
      Q I recently bought a used VBM Domobar Super espresso machine from a local bakery shop. They had th...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Olivier on July 23, 2021 2:15 pm
      Answered by the admin It is just a matter of moving the lever to the other side on the bottom of the unit.
      6. Hi. I have your VBM Super HX Domobar. For a medium dark roast I have the pressure set at 1.4 bar with water temp coming out at about 185 F. is this about right or should the pressure be higher and the temperature higher? Thank you, Justin
    6. 0 votes
      Q Hi. I have your VBM Super HX Domobar. For a medium dark roast I have the pressure set at 1.4 bar ...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Justin West on June 21, 2021 2:10 pm
      Answered by the admin

      Unless a SCACE is used, the temperature can not be read accurately. 1.4 bar on the boielr pressure usually equates to a higher temp in the grouphead. This is why a SCACE is needed. If using an instant read thermometer, then the temperature is probably correct.
      7. do you have or know any website that sell wood knobs for vbm domobar 2019 but different shape from the original
    7. 0 votes
      Q do you have or know any website that sell wood knobs for vbm domobar 2019 but different shape fro...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Mustafa on May 6, 2021 11:56 am
      Answered by the admin

      Sorry, we do not.
      8. I bought a VBM Super dobomar HX from you a while back. I recently started having an issue with the pressure . . . when pulling a shot the pressure seems to hover around only 6 bar, where usually it would go up to 10-12bar. And the shot comes out much more slowly than usual. When back-flushing with the blind disc, I can hear the pump, and the pressure gauge still goes up to about 12. But when I am pulling a shot with coffee it seems to just remain at 6 bars, and the pump sounds as if it is barely working. Any ideas what might be going on here?
    8. 0 votes
      Q I bought a VBM Super dobomar HX from you a while back. I recently started having an issue with th...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Latith on May 5, 2021 2:20 pm
      Answered by the admin

      Seems like a grind issue. Please learn more about gauges.
      9. Do you have a recommendation for a bottomless portafilter for the Domobar Super Switchable HX? I'd like to start using a bottomless portafilter on my new VBM but am unsure which ones would fit the E61 group head the best.
    9. 0 votes
      Q Do you have a recommendation for a bottomless portafilter for the Domobar Super Switchable HX? I'...... Read more answer now
      Asked by MJL on April 21, 2021 4:32 pm
      Answered by the admin

      You can use our 50890 bottomless portafilter.
      10. Hi, purchased this machine from you a few years ago. it is working great. Unfortunately the VBM name plate affixed to front of drip tray separated from the drip tray. I was surprised to see that the plate was held on via some kind of metal adhesive two sided tape. (Doesn't seem to match the product quality of rest of unit). Regardless I need some help sourcing the correct replacement tape to re-affix. Can you help?
    10. 0 votes
      Q Hi, purchased this machine from you a few years ago. it is working great. Unfortunately the VBM n...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Chris on March 29, 2021 1:05 pm
      Answered by the admin

      It is rare for this tape to come off. It is used in only two places. Was the tray placed in the dishwasher or constantly summerged in fluids because the dishwasher was the only time it separated. Best bet is to go to a home improvement store and find very strong double sided tape.
      11. Does this machine have PID? https://www.1st-line.com/buy/vbm-domobar-super-hx-rotary-pump-switchable-espresso-machine/
    11. 0 votes
      Q Does this machine have PID? https://www.1st-line.com/buy/vbm-domobar-super-hx-rotary-pump-switcha...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Aaron Morgan on January 23, 2021 3:28 am
      Answered by the admin

      This HX model does not have a PID. The dual boiler version has a PID.
      12. I acquired a Vibiemme Domobar HX Super a few years ago and have always used the reservoir, but it is the model with a rotary pump as well. I recently moved apartments and am interested in setting up a direct connection (at least for purposes of sending water to the Vibiemme, and to the extent easy to do without modifications, draining). I am a renter and also not particularly plumbing savvy, so wanted to check with you on how you typically recommend folks go about setting up a direct connection/if there are any particular products you offer that would help out in doing so?
    12. 0 votes
      Q I acquired a Vibiemme Domobar HX Super a few years ago and have always used the reservoir, but it...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Rich on August 10, 2020 8:55 pm
      Answered by the admin

      At this time, we believe the BWT BestMax system works well for protection as well as conversion. Please make sure to get the extra adapter indicated.
      A I am not plumbing savvy either, but I'll describe my setup since I have the same machine. I chose to use 1/4" OD blue plastic flex tubing and John Guest connectors for everything. In my kitchen there is copper pipe coming out of the floor with a shutoff valve which connects to the faucet via flex hose. I used a T connector to tap into the water supply, part number ASVPP1LF. Had to temporarily shut the water off at the copper pipe, disconnect the flex hose and reconnect through the T. That went to a pressure regulator that I bought at Chris Coffee, which comes with a meter and two JG 1/4" connectors. The other side of the regulator goes to the water filter, and mine is the 3M ESP124-T. At the VBM Domobar end, I used a 1/4" OD flex tubing to 1/8" NPTF adapter, part number PP450821W. Note that one of these is BSP and the other is NPTF, but they fit perfectly. I wrapped the brass connector with teflon tape and hand tightened the JG adapter to the hilt. I did not use the braided hose that came with the machine. It's been functioning now for 7 months without incident.
      13. Hey everyone. I had previously posted a question on the Q&A about a leak in my machine. I received several answers - it’s not the wands or anything related to scale buildup as the machine is only about two years old and has been on a BWT filtration system (purchased from you) since brand new - the water here is not particularly hard anyway. I took the cover off the machine and found the source of the leak, it’s a T-shaped piece on top of the boiler, and specifically it’s leaking from the fitting that runs to the pressurestat from the boiler. The water is then rolling down the copper tube, collecting on the bottom side of the capacitor, dripping onto the Gicar, and from there to the bottom of the unit and out of one of the little holes on the bottom, right side of the machine. I have pictures if that would be helpful. Please let me know how to fix.
    13. 0 votes
      Q Hey everyone. I had previously posted a question on the Q&A about a leak in my machine. I rec...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Ruben on April 16, 2020 6:34 pm
      Answered by the admin

      Yes, please use the need help link on the top of our web site to start the conversation to email pictures.

      Is there any discoloration, like green, blue or white sediment near the leak?

       
      14. My VBM Domobar Super HX Switchable Rotary is leaking from somewhere underneath, in the middle, possibly slightly toward the right-hand side of the unit (as you face the front). This only happens after the unit has been switched to the second position for a few hours. It's a slow leak, but does not stop - I frequently find huge puddles on the counter underneath and around the unit. Please let me me know what I should do - thank you!
    14. 0 votes
      Q My VBM Domobar Super HX Switchable Rotary is leaking from somewhere underneath, in the middle, po...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Ruben on April 15, 2020 1:03 am
      A If it's only occurring when switched to the second position (heater on) then it's likely to be a pressure leak. It's pretty easy to remove the case and take a peak inside. I had a leak at the anti-vacuum valve that is threaded onto the top of the boiler. If you're seeing a lot of water, it could be that the boiler is over heating and the safety valve is opening. If you are near the machine when that happens you should hear the pop when it releases, and you should observe the steam pressure increasing to 2 bar before the safety opens; normally it should be between 1 and 1.5. I had an over heating problem that was caused by a failing pressurestat which was not consistently shutting off the heater; the failure had been caused by scale build up, to it's very important to descale your machine and soften your water.
      A Have you checked that the hot water wand control knob is closed completely? Even a fraction off closed can lead to a very slow drip that looks like a leak.
      A Second position turns on the heater. Leak must be happening only when boiler is pressurized. It's fairly easy to remove the case so I recommend you start by taking a peak inside. If the leak results in a large amount of water, it could be that the boiler is over heating and the pressure safety valve has opened; that releases at the top of the boiler and the water will exit the bottom of the machine. If you are near the machine when the safety opens, you should hear it pop followed by releasing steam; just prior to it opening the pressure gauge over the steam wand should reach about 2 bar; normal pressure is 1 to 1.5. If those symptoms match yours, I would first check for a failed pressurestat. Using a water softener and keeping the machine descaled is of utmost importance; I learned that the hard way.
      Answered by the admin The casing will need to be removed (3 screws on each side) and then heat up the machine. Do not stick your fingers inside. Visually inspect for the leak. Chances are there is limescale somewhere. However, since we do not know the age of the machine nor the water condition, this is only a guess.
      15. My VBM Domobar Super HX has been in use for close to two years. It is connected to the water supply through a Pentek water filter system. A few months ago I noticed that the lever sticks when pulling a shot; lifting it stop, then needs to be nudged to proceed to the lock position. It does not stick when returning to the off position. There is some resistance when pushing to the release position, but not nearly as significant as when pulling to lock. Is there a part that needs lubricated or perhaps is beginning to fail?
    15. 0 votes
      Q My VBM Domobar Super HX has been in use for close to two years. It is connected to the water supp...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Peter Zito on February 10, 2020 7:22 pm
      Answered by the admin

      Press in the switch behind the lever and see if it sticks. If not, the grouphead internals of the horizontal stem may need to be lubricated with PetrolGel.
      16. We'll, simply put I'm installing the VBM in a newly built kitchen. I have the electrical outlet and water supply under the counter so I need to have holes drilled into the counter - one for the water supply line and one for the electrical cord. I think an inch and a half hole will work for either water supply or power cord. My question is where to drill the holes in relationship to the machine. There is also some confusion about the depth of the machine. The manual says 50 cm. But I've also seen 46 and 47. This may be as a result of the handle on the drip tray. Additionally, I'm in Mexico and the machine is in Las Cruces, NM.
    16. 0 votes
      Q We'll, simply put I'm installing the VBM in a newly built kitchen. I have the electrical outlet a...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Paul Germani on January 31, 2020 7:20 pm
      Answered by the admin

      We usually recommend 2" holes minimum for both electrical and water together.

      We recommend placing the machine and then selecting where to place the holes based on what is under the counter.

      The depth has changed based on the removal of the handles.
      17. I just purchased a used VBM Domabar Super that is beautiful. How do I tell if it is a rotary pump or vibratory? It's much quieter than my Salvatore. serial number is 51102 Also, any idea how old the machine is? Thanks!
    17. 0 votes
      Q I just purchased a used VBM Domabar Super that is beautiful. How do I tell if it is a rotary pump...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Dave Burns on January 9, 2020 5:05 pm
      Answered by the admin

      Sorry, we are unable to provide this information as we only store information by customer name. Please ask the previous owner to provide his receipt which can answer the questions.
      18. I have a 2006 Domobar super coffee maker 1G. The top panel/cover is missing. Will TELADOMSCON43 fit this?
    18. 0 votes
      Q I have a 2006 Domobar super coffee maker 1G. The top panel/cover is missing. Will TELADOMSCON43 f...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Matthew Dontzin on June 28, 2019 3:49 pm
      Answered by the admin

      Please always refer to the manufacturer's diagrams on our web site to determine the correct part number. Then, please search for the part number on our web site for availability and pricing. Please review the picture on our web site to match what you need. In some cases, measurements may be provided to double check what is needed.
      19. Brew pressure is consistently unusually high (11-12) and I'm getting gushers and really fast shots after a couple months of use. Any thoughts on how to remedy? Machine has worked fine otherwise.
    19. 0 votes
      Q Brew pressure is consistently unusually high (11-12) and I'm getting gushers and really fast shot...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Ruben on February 19, 2019 7:57 pm
      Answered by the admin

      The gauge shows the resultant resistance of the grind. In other words, there is an issue with the grind consistency, grind fineness amount of coffee in the basket, or the tamp (not enough, not level, uneven, etc) or channeling.
      20. Hot water wand exhausts a lot of pressure and steam when dispensing - is this normal?
    20. 0 votes
      Q Hot water wand exhausts a lot of pressure and steam when dispensing - is this normal? answer now
      Asked by Ruben on January 17, 2019 6:47 am
      Answered by the admin

      100% normal.
      21. My VBM does not release pressure after pulling a shot. I tried flushing with vinegar and a very small amount of water drained after that but the basic problem remains.
    21. 0 votes
      Q My VBM does not release pressure after pulling a shot. I tried flushing with vinegar and a very s...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Dan on January 11, 2019 3:19 pm
      Answered by the admin

      Please backflush using a small amount of detergent.. If this does not work, the machine may need to be evaluated by a professional as multiple components can be at fault.
      22. My VBM (purchased November 2018) doesn’t release pressure only a small dribble out of the valve at best. Some splattering after pulling a shot and backflushing was an adventure as the pressure built up.
    22. 0 votes
      Q My VBM (purchased November 2018) doesn’t release pressure only a small dribble out of the valve a...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Dan on January 10, 2019 1:08 am
      Answered by the admin

      Hard water can clog the gicleur (pinhole) in the grouphead in as little as 2 weeks. We suggest running 1 cup of vinegar through the grouphead, sit 20 minutes, then run another cup, sit 10 minutes, then backflush with vinegar. Then rinse the reservoir and run 4 cups though the grouphead. Test.

      If issues persist, please open another ticket in Q&A for next step.
      23. Water is coming at pretty much the correct temperature for the pull but is also coming with water vapor, not sure if this is normal i guess not ideal. wanted to know if there is any adjustment for this?
    23. 0 votes
      Q Water is coming at pretty much the correct temperature for the pull but is also coming with water...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Oren Rozenbaum on December 14, 2018 6:23 pm
      Answered by the admin

      This is normal if machine is sitting for 5 minutes or more. This is why there is a cooling flush!
      24. I am toying around with the idea of connecting a remote control device to my VBM. (I now it is slough like but I can get it warmed from my phone and in my bedroom while trying to wake up!) Need to figure out if a WEMO Mini will work without blowing it. It is rated at input: 120v, 60Hz, 15A, same output and a three pronged plug. It seems within range but I'm concerned about the "maximum power rated at 1,600 W" note on page 10 in the manual. What do you think? thanks.
    24. 0 votes
      Q I am toying around with the idea of connecting a remote control device to my VBM. (I now it is sl...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Ed K on October 18, 2018 6:18 pm
      Answered by the admin

      First, before using any devices to power us a machine should have a surge suppressor between the device and the espresso machine. The minimum rating should be 1080 joules or higher.

      For the wattage, the device should be rated 20% greater than the wattage rating of the espresso machine. In this case, the device rating should be 1875 watts or higher. This buffer reduces the probably of a fire being caused by the device.
      25. Hi, I purchased a Vibiemme Domobar Super HX with rotary pump in January 2017. It turns on (the light comes on) but the machine doesn't heat. Please let me know how to fix this. Thanks
    25. 0 votes
      Q Hi, I purchased a Vibiemme Domobar Super HX with rotary pump in January 2017. It turns on (the li...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Nara Rajagopalan on May 15, 2018 11:40 pm
      Answered by the admin

      We are unsure which of the three lights are on.

      If only the power light illuminates on the right side of the machine, please make sure the power switch is in position 2. Then lift the water reservoir to make sure the right middle light illuminates. If it does not, the switch under the reservoir needs to be check.

      In addition, with the machine off, the heating element would need to be checked for continuity, the safety thermostat on the side or the top of the boiler depressed and felt for a click, and all the wires and connections checked for faults or deformity. 

      Personal Injury Warning! The voltage to the heating element can be checked to make sure the brain unit is working. However, if you are unsure what you are doing, there is a risk of electrocution or personal injury or physical damages that 1st-line will not assume any responsibility for.
      26. Dear 1st-line, My Vibiemme Domobar, purchased April 2014, has recently stopped releasing pressure through the drain valve after pulling a shot or backflushing. Only a small amount of water trickles out, and the portafilter is still pressurized (and can splatter if I open it too quickly). In addition, it occasionally (once every few weeks) loses temperature for no apparent reason, dropping from the normal 204degF to 150degF or so. Any suggestions for fixing either of these problems? I'm reasonably handy and willing to take it apart, but I don't know what I'm looking for. Alternatively, do you offer any kind of cleaning/maintenance service? I could drive it down (from NYC). Thanks, Eero.
    26. 0 votes
      Q Dear 1st-line, My Vibiemme Domobar, purchased April 2014, has recently stopped releasing press...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Eero on March 12, 2018 2:44 pm
      Answered by the admin

      We are sorry to hear about this. First step is to descale through the grouphead as a part may be scaled up and preventing water flow to heat the grouphead. Second step is to fully rinse. Third step is to backflush with detergent.

      If this does not improve the issue, the machine can be dropped off for evaluation and repair.
      27. I have successfully plumbed my machine, rotated the lever on the bottom of the machine and running it from the direct (BWT filtered) water source. Occasionally the "no water" orange light comes on and the machine will not heat up. In order to get the machine running and hot I have had to add water into the tank (!) to weight the switch that signals there is enough water. Any idea why this is happening – and a solution? Thanks.
    27. 0 votes
      Q I have successfully plumbed my machine, rotated the lever on the bottom of the machine and runnin...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Ed on January 12, 2018 2:48 am
      Answered by the admin

      There is a screw in the plate under the reservoir or included in the drip tray accessory bag to keep down the reservoir platform. By turning the screw downwards (clockwise), the platform will engage the switch under the platform so that the heating element is not powered off without water in the reservoir.
      28. I was wondering how often this machine needs to be back flushed and descaled. I make one cappuccino daily and I use Poland Spring bottled water only. Thanks in advance for any information.
    28. 0 votes
      Q I was wondering how often this machine needs to be back flushed and descaled. I make one cappucci...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Vince Yannitelli on January 8, 2018 7:45 pm
      Answered by the admin

      Our minimum recommendation for backflushing with detergent is every 50 espresso extractions. Short backflush rinses without detergent can happen daily.

      As for descaling, we prefer that customers take a more preventative approach by treating their water. Descaling eats away at metals and gaskets causing premature wear. This means using soft water that has no magnesium and no calcium. Distilled and RO water will create the same problems as limescale but via an oxidation of the metals in the machine. We prefer descaling only be used when there is a problem.

      For tank mode, please use V725. For plumbed in mode, email us about the use of a BWT system.
      29. both my steam wand and hot water spout have started to drip slightly after about 1 1/2 years of usage. What needs to be replaced to stop the leaking? Thanks.
    29. 0 votes
      Q both my steam wand and hot water spout have started to drip slightly after about 1 1/2 years of u...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Ed K on December 11, 2017 2:50 am
      Answered by the admin

      Please review the procedure here. It is very important that you check which gaskets is in your machine BEFORE ordering.
      30. Also on plumbing machine, can a John Guest adapter (to brass connector under machine) be used instead of supplied braided hose? If so, please link to part page. Thanks.
    30. 0 votes
      Q Also on plumbing machine, can a John Guest adapter (to brass connector under machine) be used ins...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Ed K on November 22, 2017 3:31 am
      Answered by the admin

      It is best to use the stainless steel braided hose for protection and prevention of potential water leaks. The reason is that running flexible tuning, like John Guest or other brands, is not a good idea because of the potential of cracking or getting to close to a heat source (the machine). The best would be to connect your John Guest tubing to the other end of the stainless steel braided hose.
      31. I'm plumbing my VBM with a BWT filter to combat hard water and scale. I have read a 4 feet line is optimal but I need to install the filter in the basement requiring about 8+ feet from the filter to the machine intake. I also have a water pressure reducer and will set it between 2 to 4 bar. Will 8 feet work or does this length stress the machine? Thanks.
    31. 0 votes
      Q I'm plumbing my VBM with a BWT filter to combat hard water and scale. I have read a 4 feet line i...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Ed Kensinger on November 22, 2017 2:57 am
      Answered by the admin The water pressure in the plumbed in water supply line should be about 35psi (range of 30-40 is acceptable). Too low water pressure will starve the pump for faster failure and cause more machine vibration. Too high water pressure can cause leakage. Please note other manufacturer's machines may have different receommendations. The length of the line does not matter as long as you run 3/8" minimum OD. Smaller lines can create machine vibration.

    Christian M. from United States (US) purchased

    1st-line E61 Bottomless Portafilter w/ Standard Walnut Handle, 3-Cup Basket, ~6.5mm Lips

    4 hours, 59 minutes ago