Lelit PL41TEM Anna PID Espresso Machine

It is either a bad seal, defective grouphead cover held in with 4 screws, mis-installed grouphead cover, or a worn out portafilter.

Why do you think it is the pump or solenoid valve? It could be your grinder or the preparation or a combination of both. We say this because when a pump or solenoid fails, you will typically see the issue ALL THE TIME! Please read our manometer article to get a better understanding and next step

If the wand was never used, then it sounds like the coffee grinds are too fine. It could also be water corrosion as damaged the valve. Please run a descaler through the wand and see if it resolves.

This is exactly stated in the original question:

"...because I never use the steam wand."

Thanks for pointing out the descaling. you probably need a new steam valve stem. Please note this may not fit some older models. If this does not work, then water corrosion has damaged the brass steam valve.

Please read the Q&A terms. We ask that you pose new questions and not reply to the original. 

The steam wand is a different item. Parts can be referred in the different diagrams for the different versions of the Anna. There are many versions.

With a simple search of our web site, we have a document on the removal from a previous version.  There is a secondary document.

Please remove the steam valve stem on your machine and check against the original link we provided. Use the picture on our web site.

We understand this can be frustrating, but this is what our techs deal with. It is not easy by any manufacturer.

Sorry, without seeing the machine, we are unable to tell the causes. Considering the age of the machine, it probably is a good time to move on to a new machine.

Mold is a characteristic of your local area. The tubes would need to be removed internally from a COLD and UNPLUGGED FROM ELECTRICAL OUT machine. Soaked in bleach overnight. Rinsed with water, soaked in white vinegar overnight, then rinsed for at least 5 minutes under running water through the tubes.

Diagrams are on our web site.

It can be the pump or the grind fineness.

Check the plastic on the inside as it may be cracked from over-tightening.

Sorry, we do not have an ETA at this time.

Filtered water is better to remove other contaminants. Water quality is a moving target as water supply changes in chemistry over time. In addition, what may be good for one machine may not be good for another machine.

Please email us direct with your full name, purchase date, and issues.

Should be as described. Temp prolly needs to be reset to F.

When a PID display completely fails, there is usually no heating. Please review the diagrams on our web site to search for the correct part number, then review the part to make sure the code on the actual part matches 100%. We are unable to tell from here as there could be different parts.

Normally, the heating is not affected. There is no solution other than replacing it.

Sorry for the delay. The small dot flashes on and off constantly to keep the temperature maintained as best as possible. Temperature for espresso is based on the coffee blends used, so there is no best temperature. Milk also is based on your local availability and your preferences. Sorry, but nothing is set in stone.

Hi,

From the parts diagram, it shows SKU MC742 as the steam wand assembly. If you visit the parts page, you can see a parts breakdown of the steam wand. At a certain point, they went from a female-threaded steam tip to a male-threaded steam tip. Both of which are 1-hole tips. Currently, we do not know of any 2-hole or 3-hole tips that are compatible.

Hi,

Currently, we sell 2 dosing tools. Both will fit the Lelit 57mm portafilter. However, keep in mind it will add height when connected and may not fit the clearance on some grinders.

The IDR connects to the portafilter head and will work for 57 or 58mm portafilters. It adds ~3/4" to the height.

The Motta Funnel sits on top of the portafilter head and also works for both 57 and 58mm portafilters. It adds ~ 2 1/8" to the height.

Before buying one, add the height stated above to your portafilter height, and double-check the clearance on your grinder.

There is more than one fitting. Please describe exactly where the fitting is. Examples include top of center of boiler, off of solenoid valve, etc.

Our answers are interjected into your inquiry

1. I am wanting to clean and properly maintain my steam wand, group head and machine overall. 1.) What solution would you recommend for steam wand cleaning/maintenance and what frequency should I be performing cleaning / maintenance?

A. Wipe your steam wand with a moist non-abrasive cloth after every use. If milk residue builds up, then soak overnight with hot water which will cool, then wipe in morning. If the milk is browned, then use a milk wand cleaner. We also suggest, but not required, to use our special sponges for steam wand cleaning.

Q. Completely open to utilizing a water/vinegar solution or if there is a rinse aid type product that is better to use please pass along and steps to follow.

A. Vinegar typically does not clean milk residue, plus may impact milk frothing negatively.

2.) I currently utilize Cafiza, and follow the bottle instructions for backflush, to clean the group head out during backflush, which I do 1 time every 50 or so shots. Do you recommend another method for cleaning the group head or will this suffice?

A. We are moving more towards Puly Caffe since their ingredients seem to be more environmentally friendly.

3.) What other group head maintenance would you recommend?

A. Simple rinsing with water between the 50 detergent backflush routine. Some custoemrs will backflush without detergent, but this may wear down the pump faster.

4.) What other annual, no-annual, quarterly, monthly, etc. maintenance and or cleaning/part replacement would you recommend so I can hopefully have a 20 year old plus lifespan for my machine?

A. It is rare for any espresso machine to last 20 years. Descaling is no longer recommended unless needed because the chemicals will eat away at the metals, gaskets, and orings. Thsi si why soft water is important.

Please drain machine, which has a risk of heating element damage. Water softener needs to remain moist.

Yes, only solution is to replace the PID display with the correct part provided in the diagrams by Lelit.

After filling the reservoir and immediately after powering on, the operator needs to depress the hot water switch or coffee switch to get water from the reservoir to the boiler and out through the wand. This is clearly stated in the section Starting of the Machine line 10.

The machine may have been damaged as the heating element must be submerged in water from the start.

If the above procedure is not performed, the heating element will cause a melt down. The meltdown of the element then trips the GFI.

Are your GFI outlets older than 3 years? If yes, then the GFI could also be the problem.

There is a possibility the safety thermostat on the boiler popped and needs to be reset when the machine is unplugged from the electrical outlet.

Please search for part number mc8700006 on our web site.

We suggest removing any water softeners and descaling using Dezcal or similar descaler. THEN, if you have a blind filter, you can test the pump and gauge. Use the appropriate Lelit diagram to find the portafilter gasket you need. Here is our video.

Unfortunately, like many customers with a similar issue, the espresso machine always gets blamed, when in fact this is a grinder or a coffee problem. The blind test performed already usually indicates the machine is working as it should.

It is an easy answer, and a question/issue we see and hear a lot.

Based on your statement, "... I have tried back flushing and the machine goes to 13-14 bars and the overflow valve works."

It is not a machine problem. Again, you are pointing 'blame' to the machine. If the solenoid valve was stuck CLOSED as you suggest in your second comment, water would not come out of the grouphead OR you would not be able to remove the portafilter with the blind filter inserted after reaching 13-14 bars.

Just because you have been making espresso for 20 years does not qualify you for espresso machine diagnosis and repair. In fact, you already replaced the pump and it did not solve it.

We also did not state user error.

You asked for a suggestion, and we gave you free guidance on a 10 year old machine. If you do not want to listen to our guidance, then this is your prerogative.

Hi, If you go to the page for SKU MC742, there is a parts tab that has a breakdown of the steam wand. There are 2 versions.

The steam knob can be pulled out as it is held by friction. Chances are someone was overturning the knob until the internal portion cracked and it no longer functions properly. Please review the Lelit diagrams for the correct part number that can be searched on our web site.

Unless a broken knob, it should stop.

Without physically seeing the machine, we can only guess a new pump is needed.

Sorry, we are unsure.

Not enough water is flushed through the machine to bring the temperature down.

We are not sure how successful repeatedly one would be on following this method on any machine.

Sorry for the delay. This part will take a few months to get in.

You can also try a little sealant on the threads (at your own risk as we are not responsible for damages)

Sorry for the delay. This part will take a few months to get in.

There is usually a smell on all new machines.  In this case, the wire getting heated may emit a smell you are experiencing.

Please check the re-settable safety thermostat inside the machine.

The portafilter gasket probably needs replacement. Please use the diagrams on our web site to find the correct part. Otherwise, sometimes it is the coffee beans being ground too fine or the gasket and screen just need a little cleaning. Also, too much coffee in the basket can cause this issue as well.

Please use the diagrams to search for the part number.

Sorry, the backflush disc is not included.

Soak the basket overnight in a back flush solution and use a brush to clean.

As for dosage, this depends upon the coffee.

Please review the diagrams for your specific machine as Lelit has produced different versions of the same model, and these versions have different parts.

Please email us pictures. Also, you will need to confirm the exact PL041 as there are multiple models of the same machine.

Single baskets always need a different particle grind size when compared to a double basket.

MC747

Sorry, the Anna espresso machines can not be plumbed.

Sorry, we do not carry this replacement part.

Unfortunately, the problem is over the last 17 years, there are multiple steam tips. You may need to contact Lelit for the exact part.

If you have a new pump and solenoid valve, there may be a voltage issue when your outlet is under strain. A blind filter run for 60 seconds will usually show this if the heating element kicks on and the pump pressure drops. The blind filter also tells us the machine is under pressure and there are no leaks at long as the pressure reaches 9-10 bar on the gauge. At this point, it would then point to the grinder or the coffee.

The only other thing to check is the OPV and making sure the boiler is not emptying out. And, make sure you are refilling the boiler AFTER steaming milk as steaming creates an air pocket in the boiler.

There are multiple versions of changing the temperature parameter on this model.

Sorry for the delay. The cover is sold separately MC643.

Usually not a larger problem.

Unplug machine from electrical outlet, and allow to cool down. Remove two screws on inside back by water reservoir and lift up top cover. Disconnect the hoses (remember which longer hose goes where inside) and allow to soak fully submerged in bleach overnight. Rinse thoroughly, soak in vinegar overnight, and rinse again. Re-install.

Comments follow

- What product/process is recommended to descale?
-How/where do we check our machine to identify lime scale buildup?
A. Procedure.

-How do we identify if metals are or have been leaching, or does this only happen is descaling has been done?

A. Lead water test. Can happen if distilled water was used. Flushing eventually remove the leaching.

-What are the recommended ways to treat and test the water (we travel with our machine) to ensure proper pH level prior to using my Lelit PL41TEM?
A. Water softener.

-What is recommended routine preventative maintenance aside from back-flushing and treating the water prior to use?
A. Wash the reservoir minimum every 2 weeks with non-abrasive dishwash soap and rinse. Clean drip tray daily.

-What components need to get changed at “X” months/years/# of shots during its lifetime to ensure it keeps running efficiently for years to come?
A. Portafilter gasket and dispersion screen replacement every 6-24 months depending upon usage. Dispersion screens need to be looked up on the diagrams on our web site as there are different versions for different years.

It all depends upon the espresso blend, the grind, and the amount of coffee in the basket. Lots of parameters. Many customers want the OPV set at 9 bar which means 10 bar on the gauge. It is your machine, and you can change the OPV setting. However, we are not responsible for any damages that can occur.

Yes, the machine be sent in for repair.

Sorry, portafilter gaskets are not covered warranty as this is a usage wear and tear item. We do have video instructions of the older model which apply to the newer ones.

Hi,

Here is a link to the parts diagram. There are links that go directly to the part. Here are some parts you may need:

• MC029-110 - heating element
• MC045 - heating element o-ring
• MC009 - nut
• MC046 - boiler o-ring

We have an order with the manufacturer, but unfortunately, with everything going on today we don't have an ETA.  Please add your email to the waiting list and you will be notified once we receive them.

Sorry, Lelit has discontinued some parts.  There are notes on the pages and here for the valve bodies.

Sorry, we are not aware of any alternatives.

Hi,

Here is a document from Lelit about the metals used for their boilers: Heavy Metals Migration.

In the past, we used to recommend descaling on a monthly basis.  However, we found that over long periods of time, the descaling solution can start leaching out metals.

We then shifted towards treating the water used as opposed to letting limescale build-up and then descaling.  It's a lot easier and there's less down time for your espresso machine.

Sorry, we do not have an ETA.

Sorry, we are not aware of any 3 cup basket fitting the spouted portafilter. At this time, we are not aware of any 3 cup baskets for the bottomless at 57mm diameter.

Most water is removed, but there can be some residual that is not removed.

Leak may be coming from inside. Otherwise, grind may be too fine.

Too much back flush detergent can make the solenoid valve stick open. Use less detergent next time. Use the backflush disk with water only to try and clear the excess detergent inside the valve.

Please where did you read they are double walled? From what we wrote, they are not double walled.

Second, they are typically not straight walled.

Please use the contact us/need help https://www.1st-line.com/contact-us/ to provide your order details and description of problem. Make sure that it does not work in both coffee and steam modes. The reason is that if it works in one mode, it may not be the LED.

Sorry, you did not indicate if this was purchased new or used. The knob may be broken, the steam wand stem may be stuck, there may be a blockage in the valve, or the steam tip is clogged.

Just empty the reservoir and keep the steam wand knob in the open position.

Please do not use steam mode, nor leave the machine for more than 2 minutes when there is a water pumping issues. The reason is the boiler heating element can burn out.

Please remove any water softener attached and test through grouphead.

If water exits the grouphead, then the water softener needs recharge or replacement. If no luck, then test with water through the steam wand by opening the steam wand valve knob and depressing the water switch and pump switch.

If no water comes out of the grouphead nor the steam wand, then the pump may have an air pocket. Follow our procedure to remove.

If water only comes out of the steam wand, then the grouphead solenoid valve is clogged or defective. First, without any water softener in reservoir, backflush and test. Second, descale machine. Third, unplug machine from electrical outlet and allow to fully cool. Remove top cover by removing two screws on back top below reservoir lid and check if wires are connected to the black box on front right of machine. Lastly, the black solenoid valve may have gone defective which is very unusual.

Sorry, we are unsure which one you are referring to. The wand usually has o rings. Please note the specific location and connection points. ie steam tip to wand, wand to holding nut, etc.

As for warranty, it depends. If normal wear and tear or rough handling, gaskets and o-rings are not covered.

It probably needs a new pump, but no guarantee as we can not evaluate the machine.

Timers are BAD NEWS! If someone left left the coffee or water switch on, the pump would run until the pump melts down. Thus a bad smell. Heating element may now also have melted as well since the water may have drained from the boiler.

Please look at the answer to the next question down.

It may need a new pump as the average life span of a vibration pump is 5 years.  It could also be an air pocket in the pump, a blockage in the solenoid valve or a bad solenoid valve. Sorry, this one is not easy..

Hi,

For the blind filter basket, please order I..336. If this is out of stock, you can also use this rubber insert (C344) along with your current filter basket.

The blind filter test is the best to show that the machine is operating correctly. It shows the gauge getting up to full pressure, it shows the OPV opens at a very high pressure, and of course, the pump is stressed at 14 bar. In addition, it proves there are no leaks in the solenoid valves, steam wand valve, nor inside the boiler as further evidence.

This now points to preparation. You need to find the right balance of grind fineness, the amount of ground espresso in the 2-cup filter basket, and the level tamping pressure.

Channeling usually shows in the basket after the extraction. Channeling usually creates gushers and fast flows.

Sorry, Lelit does not make one.

The F.03 will not show in the PID menu as in the Version 1.04 software. We have the following instructions for Version 1.05 that will show on the PID display.

After the machine is primed with water through the wand, please allow machine to warm up to operating temperature. Depress and hold the right button for 3-5 seconds, and release until the OFF shows on the menu. Quickly and simultaneously depress and hold both buttons on the PID display for 3-5 seconds. C-F comes up on the display. Within 1 second, depress the right button quickly until you have F on the screen. Once the OFF message is displayed on the screen, depress and release the right button on the PID display. Power off the machine, and power on the machine.

Thanks for sending the photo. Please ALWAYS refer to the diagrams on our web site. There is multiple versions of the same model over the last 15 years. After, search for the part number and review the picture of what is on our web site. You may need to take off the part in question with the machine cold and unplugged from the elctrical outlet. This is to confirm if male or female threads are needed. Again, multiple versions of the same model makes it difficult for us just from a picture.It can be part MC105, MC238, or MC101 found on our web site.

In your case, it can be a faulty tube as well. You can also send the machine in for repair.

Hi,

Here is a link to the parts diagram for the Lelit PL41TEM.

The dispersion screen is MC137. As far as we know this is the only screen that is available. The screw that holds this screen in place is MC139. The rubber gasket has now been replaced with a silicone version, MC047SIL.

For using pods, you would use the MC140 basket.

Yes, limescale usually worsens this issue. You can read more from our tech support articles for the older units.

Every 6-12 months, replace the grouphead gasket and dispersion screen (check versus old shower screen).

Backflush every 50 espresso extractions with detergent using a 57mm blind filter.

Recharge the optional water softener every 2 weeks and replace it every 6 months.

Please review our general article about GFIC outlets.

Please search our database for repair facilities. Please call them to confirm if they will repair your model as not every repair facility will handle every model we sell.

Again, as stated on our web site, manufacturers will make changed without notification to us or our customers. Although we make our best effort to keep on top of these changes, sometimes we learn from our customers. This is the disadvantage to videos and so much product information on each product page. In fact, this is why the largest marketplace in the world allows so little information on products - the reason is because of the changes and they do not want to be liable for false advertising.

The 1.05 is most likely the new version software, and hence the difference in the procedure to change the C-F temperature scale.

Sorry about the confusion! We certainly dislike when these situations where the manufacturer makes a change without any notification to us.

Once the machine is turned on and passes the start up, please depress and hold both keys on the PID until the C-F is shown on the PID. Please the left button to change.

The instructions have been updated as Lelit never notified us of a change.

We recommend short backflushing.

Water needs to be run through the wand after every steaming session. So, no harm done unless all the water was depleted from the boiler.

The little water is normal as this is condensation that build up in the pipe. Review the fundamentals on our video.

Thank you for the insight. Please understand we have sold over 70,000 European espresso machines. We have seen many instances, and many have been the water. We did not mean to insult you, but we requested to stop blaming the machine. We are unsure how you can determine that this is not a coffee matter, nor a descaling matter, and not an oxidation matter, but you are certain that it is a machine problem. We try to keep an open mind and review all variables. We ask that you do the same.

Your previous Saeco did not have a 3 way valve for coffee grinds to back track into the boiler. Saeco machines also have pressurized portafilters, not pressurized baskets as well as this stainless boilers that have rapid heat changes when pulling shots. So, it is a different set up. Do you know why they stopped making them?

Although your bottled water may not have salt, it may have other minerals you are not aware of.

Again, there is nothing black inside the machine that comes in contact with the water. Have you tried a different water? We had another customer who had a Rancilio Silvia. Actually, two of them. The first was old, and the water never gave him issues with the water. The second Rancilio was giving him similar black particles as you desscribe. He changed the water and the problem went away. So, why did the first machine not give him problems? The reason is that about 20 years ago, Rancilio put a brown tef coating on the inside of the boiler. Then about 18 years ago they removed it because of other issues caused by the coating. So, the water stood the same, but the machines changed. Changing the water solved the issue.

Yes, there is a warranty. If using the machine with a gallon of new water does not solve it, please email customer service for a repair authorization number.

Although we respect your opinion, please stop blaming the machine. We work under the premise of cause and effect.

The best way to test the Anna espresso machine's pump is with a blind filter.  If the pressure can reach 10 or more bar, then the issue  is the coffee grinder. If the pressure can not reach 10-11 bar with the blind, then

a) the pump is failing (pumps usually work or do not work), but there are very few unusual cases where they partially work, and/or
b) the over pressure valve is opening too soon - this could be limescale or oxidation or the spring inside (highly unlikely as we these springs fail once every 10 years). Limescale and oxidation can stop the over pressure valve from making a complete seal, and/or
c) you may have a leak in the steam wand which is not allowing full pressure within the system, and/or
d) if there is a water softener attached to the intake tube, it may be clogging up with calcium and magnesium - it either needs to be replaced or recharged.

If you are getting black particles through the steam wand, this seems like you have limescale. There is nothing black inside the machine when manufactured. The only black piece is the rubber on the top tray and the drip tray. This is why we suggested to not blame the machine. 90% of the problem we solve are water issues.

The black particles can also be coffee dust resulting from the coffee grinder. As the three way solenoid valve opens up after shutting of the coffee switch, very minute coffee grinds can pass backwards to the dispersion screen, to the steam valve and back to the boiler. We have seen this before on different machines.

You will need to descale the machine with white vinegar or the descaler we recommend on the link. If this does not solve it, you may need to send the machine in for evaluation after we email a repair authorization which can be requested to customer service.

We understand your expectations. However, please note the vibration pump on espresso machines overcomes the resistance created by the amount of coffee in the basket, the grind fineness, and the tamping pressure. When these attributes create too much resistance, the pump will try to overcome them. If the resistance is greater than 10-11 bar, the over pressure valve opens up and releases the excess pressure to the drip tray.

The dark liquid is the three way valve allowing the water pressure over the grinds to also dissipate into the drip tray.

By lowering the over pressure valve, you will be allowing water to be released at a lower pressure and this will not solve your problem. In fact, it may make it worse. You need to find the right balance of amount of ground coffee in the basket, the right grind fineness, and the right tamp pressure to create a good espresso shot.

You can read more here.

Please click on the Support link on the top of our web site, then click diagrams, then click on the manufacturer, and then click on the model. There is more than one version, so the diagrams need to be reviewed by you for the correct part numbers. please then go to the top of our web site and search for those part numbers for availability and pricing.

Holding down both PID buttons at startup brings up the back end programming menu. Please note that the machine can be damaged with a certain configuration of these settings. Hence, we only recommend it for changing C to F.

For Americano coffee beverages, 100 d C will start to create steam. Although oyu can do the 100 d C for a short time, we suggest 99 d C and the temperature in the boiler will decrease rapidly with the incoming cold water into the boiler.

Great! The more often you run water through the wand or grouphead, the less chance of running the boiler dry and causing damage to the heating element - this being common on many dual purpose, single boiler espresso machines.

Typically, we see that about 16 ounces of milk can be steamed or frothed before refilling the internal boiler.

Sorry, we are not aware of any of these components to be cross-compatible with other manufacturers.

Sorry for the delay as we had a difficult time accessing. All three will work. However, it is best to replace with the same exact pump.

Thanks for the inquiry. This is a grinder issue, coffee grind issue, dosage issue, or a tamping issue. Please review our fundamentals.

There are a number of possibilities, but our educated guess is the coffee thermostat is defective on the non-pid version.On the PID version, it can be a bad sensor or a bad PID control unit.

It could need a new pump, but it can also be the grind.

Yes, it is possibly the pump as they only average a 5 year life span.

It probably needs a new ULKA pump.

Please check the steam hole tip and make sure it is not clogged.

Warm up time to steam mode can happen in 30-60 seconds as each environment is different.

So far, customers who purchased for home use were quite satisfied with steaming performance. If entertaining more than 4-6 people, a heat exchanger machine should be considered.

Sorry this inquiry was lost in la-la land and we just found it. The pump will need to manually primed.

Neither. Polished brass.

It is possible that enough steam pressure will open the 3 way solenoid valve. Please descale unit through the grouphead after removing any filter from the water tank intake hose.

Sorry, we do not publish these because there are different versions of the same model, and if a customer makes a mistake, we then get blamed and become liable - especially for injury and damages.

This is why it is important mark the connections with numbers and to then take photos.

You may want to contact the manufacturer directly to see if they are willing to provide the wiring diagram. Otherwise, the machine would need to be shipped into our facility for diagnosis and service. We are sorry about this.

There is a suction that occurs when the coffee brew switch is closed and the solenoid valve opens. This does happen on certain blends and certain doses. It is not considered a fault on the machine.

This is normal as the PID display is giving a temperature reading at the boiler. With incoming cold water, it is normal for the temperature to fluctuate downward then recover.

Grouphead blockage, bad grouphead solenoid valve, 'bad' pump can not produce high pressure, or clogged jet breaker behind the dispersion screen.

It may need a pump replacement, a solenoid valve replacement or has a clog somewhere inside. Without evaluating the machine, we are uncertain where the problem lies.

Descale first and see if there is an improvement. Otherwise, it sounds like the pump needs to be replaced. 

It is difficult to determine the exact issue. Our guess is a bad pump, but it also can be a partial blockage in the system. So, descale the machine and see if it improves. If not, replace the pump which on average last 5 years.

Thank you for your inquiry and posting the machine on your blog.

The PL041 can be backflushed using the optional backflush/blind disc. The backflush or 3 way solenoid valve tube is on the right side behind the front wall and it feeds into the drip tray.

It is important to treat the water for prevention of limescale. We do sell descaling agents, but prevention is better because descaling eats away at the internal metal and gaskets. We have two treatment options. V725 and MC747.

Only descale if a problem arises.

Thanks for the inquiry. In some environments, the intake or on return hoses found on some models (this is across many different manufacturers), black mold will develop just like in a shower or bathroom.

This does need to be removed as soon as possible. It is usually not immediate life threatening for ingestion because the water inside the machine at 200 degrees, and in most (not all) cases, bacteria, mold spores, fungus die.

On this machine, unplug the cold machine from the electrical outlet. Remove the top cover by removing the tank lid, then removing the two screws on the backside of the top cover.

Slide off the hose from the internal connection. In some cases there may be a tie-wrap that needs to be removed. Let the hose sit in a 50/50 bath of water and chlorine overnight. Rinse thoroughly in the morning. Air dry and rinse again until most of the chlorine smell is removed. Re-attach and re-assemble machine. The black gasket needs to be placed on the top cover before re-installing so there is a seal on top to prevent water spillage into the machine.

You may need to periodically do this maintenance.

Before replacing the pump, its best to test with the blind filter and run the coffee switch for 30 seconds.

If the pump maintains over 8 bar pressure after the coffee switch has been on for 8 seconds, then the pump and OPV is ok and it points to the grinder.

If not, descale the machine with the blind, and test again. Descaler needs to stay in the machine for 20 minutes before flushing.

Otherwise, it can be the vibration pump. Any 110 volt ULKA pump at 41 or 52 watts is ok. The 52 watt is more pwoerful, but it needs a longer wait time between extractions.

Yes, we have.

In terms of performance, the PL41 espresso machine heats up in 10 minutes compared to the 20-30 minutes on the Rancilio Silvia. Steaming power is about the same.

Everyone has different opinions on their taste preferences.

In 99% of cases, the portafilter gasket needs to be replaced every 6-12 months. in very few cases, the collar may get a crack or just wear from age and usage, and it would need replacement.

At the time of this writing, there are two versions of the grouphead gaskets, currently part number MC047. Please read the longer description to learn about the two different gaskets.

We are unaware of and have not seen any aluminum inside the PL041TEM espresso machine. Hence, we only have seen where the water is in contact with brass (boiler or valve) or stainless (dispersion screen and screw).

We have seen this on a variety of different makes and models, and in all cases, we found it to be either the coffee grinds back tracking into the boiler or the resultant of the water being used. Try using a different water for a few weeks. Make sure there is no black mold in your reservoir or intake pipes.

Other than the portafilter basket or gaskets outside the steam wand, there are no other black parts inside the machine. If it was one of these gaskets, you would have leakage at the portafilter or the steam wand connection to the valve.

There is no 100% way to prevent  a few grinds from going back to the boiler. Coffee dust particles will back track. In this case, the grinder is of low quality or the burrs are dull - thus producing coffee dust. This would need to be corrected. Next, backflush more often - after every extraction without detergent and with backflush detergent every 50 extractions. Lastly, run water through the steam wand with the valve open to flush out any particles.

Please note that if you have a lot of grinds, you may have an internal boiler issue - a defective pipe on this particular model OR the water is creating a similar issue that looks likes coffee grinds (we have seen this before)

Sorry for the delay as this document needed to be re-created from our old web site. The PID can be reset using these instructions.

Sorry, we do not export at this time.

The current stock, at the time of this writing, have an adjustable OPV. The manufacturer and 1stl-ine do not suggest adjusting this because the pump pressure can be adjusted by changing the grind fineness.

Addendum: The OPV is currently adjustable on machines in stock. We normally advise not to change this as the grind fineness and amount of coffee in the basket can be attributable to the resultant pump pressure. For example, a customer changed his OPV to almost 6.0 bar, and then he inquired why his machine had a pump defect since it could not produce 9 bar of pressure. Vice versa, the OPV can be set to 8 bars, and the machine does not show 8 bar on the gauge because the grind is not fine enough or there is not enough coffee in the basket.

Unfortunately, the internet does not always keep up with changes made. This is why its always a good idea to look at the current product's specifications.