DISCONTINUED VBM Domobar Super V4 Dual Boiler PID Switchable Espresso Machine

5 out of 5 based on 11 customer ratings
(11 customer reviews)

This product has been discontinued at 1st-line. Please visit one of the categories below for more comparable products.

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VBM Domobar Super V4 Dual Boiler PID Switchable Espresso Machine

Since 2008, Vibiemme (VBM) has worked diligently with importers, distributors, and industry professionals to upgrade their dual boiler models. One goal was to build a beginner dual boiler espresso machine that would not have any compromises at 15amp when compared to 20amp. Hence, the VBM Domobar Super was born!

The latest VBM Domobar Super Version (4.0) now has both boilers, coffee and steam, fully insulated and PID managed. The drip tray cover’s new design has a hole to reduce ‘splatter’ from the 3 way valve extended below the grouphead. The former versions 3.5 and below had a pressurstat to control the steam boiler.

Here is the kicker on other dual boilers. Especially those which preheat water through the steam boiler before entering the coffee boiler. This design is to reduce the temperature fluctuations in the coffee boiler. However, one issue occurs! The incoming water to the coffee boiler can be at a lower temperature when the steam boiler is off. Thus, with the same programmed PID settings, the coffee boiler may not react fast enough to maintain temperature. Since 2016, VBM’s solution was to implement a temperature management system. There are “2 heating elements” in the coffee boiler, a 600 watt, and a 300 watt. When the steam boiler is on, the system only uses 1 element in the coffee boiler to maintain temperature. When the steam boiler is off, the system uses both heating elements.

Since 2016, all VBM dual boiler espresso machines have an upgraded safety valve on the steam boiler. The safety valve opens up at 2 bar to prevent any excess steam out. This was to allow the programmed PID to elevate the steam boiler to a higher pressure to produce greater steam! In addition, the upgraded steam boiler can withstand higher steam pressure. Without the upgrade, the boiler walls would bow out, weakening the silver solder, and then creating leaks. You can program the steam boiler PID up to 1.5 bar pressure. Coupled with a large 1.9 copper boiler and a commercial-grade steam pipe, the throughput and capacity are there for superior performance. The steam pipe is not a no-burn wand because no-burn wands have half the diameter of the throughput of a standard pipe.

In fact, look at our PID overview sheet. With the steam boiler set at 1.5, you can also program the F.05 setting (steam boiler offset) to have the steam pressure go past 2 bar! However, the steam boiler safety valve will start releasing steam at 2.0-2.2 bar. So, be careful when adjusting the steam boiler offset. This feature was inside machines with a manufacture date from 2016 and on!

Dual Boiler System:

  • Copper, insulation – The boiler is copper which retains heat better than stainless steel. Typically copper boilers are more susceptible to limescale when you compare to stainless steel boilers. Therefore, we highly recommend using a water softener. The manufacturer wraps the boiler with insulation for maximum heat retention. This helps with temperature stability for the espresso extraction and also helps save energy.
  • Pull a shot & steam milk at the same time – Steam is always readily available. Hence, there is no wait time going from coffee to steam mode. Works well if entertaining a small group of people.
  • Optimal size copper boiler – 0.5-liter capacity. This smaller boiler size allows for quicker displacement of stale water. Larger coffee boilers for machines in this class have more difficulty. Boiler temperature is controlled by PID.
  • Large capacity steam boiler – 1.9-liter capacity. Boiler and temperature controlled by PID.
  • User programmed offset: The temperature regulation is at the coffee boiler, and the grouphead always has a lower temp. This feature allows the user to program this delta in temperature as every environment has a different offset.
  • Three-stage power switch – Allows you to operate the espresso machine with the coffee boiler only or both boilers simultaneously.
  • GICAR branded electronic water level control: Reacts to a .02 C of temperature change in the coffee boiler.

PID Control:

  • PID (Proportional, Integral, Derivative): This allows you to manage temperature control of the coffee boiler and steam boiler. If you are not sure what PID is, here is an overview.

E61 Grouphead:

  • True Faema E-61 – The original E-61 by Carlo Ernesto Valente who brought the design from Faema to VBM. More heavy duty than other E-61 groupheads on the market.
  • Constantly heated – Hot water circulates from the heat exchanger through the grouphead and back to keep the grouphead and your portafilter nice and hot. As a result, the grouphead temperature constant and stable when you compare to other groupheads that have a built-in heating element.
  • Pre-infusion – Lever next to the grouphead activates a microswitch which turns on the pump to pump water through the coffee grinds. Pulling the lever half way up will open the valve to allow water into the grouphead without activating the pump. Please note that true pre-infusion requires the direct water connection whereby the water pressure from the water line creates true pre-infusion.

Switchable Between Tank/Direct Water Connection:

  • Small water reservoir (2.1 liters): Allows approximately 20 double shots to be extracted without a refill. Refill can occur on the fly while the machine is operating. For those who believe the small boiler makes better coffee because of fresh water displacement, we have a smaller reservoir for the same reason.
  • Commercial-grade rotary vane pump: With the ability to make a direct water connection or use a water reservoir on the same machine with the movement of a lever under the machine. Includes stainless steel braided hose with 3/8″ male thread.
  • The VBM Domobar Super can operate using a water tank/reservoir or direct plumbing to a water line. The machine comes with a stainless steel inlet cold water hose to plumb your machine into your water line. Contact us for water treatment options as well as requirements to connect!
  • OPV (over pressure valve): Opens when too much pump pressure exists. Excess water flows to the drip tray and not the water reservoir. This will allow operation of the direct water connection without having the reservoir fill with overflow water which can get moldy and require constant emptying and cleaning. Although the pump has an adjustment screw for regulation, the OPV is an additional feature to manage overflow that may occur by overpressure from the water company when the machine direct plumbed mode.

Steam/Hot Water Wands:

  • Multi-directional – Allows for more movement and flexibility. The wands connect to the valves on an angle to the side for even more flexibility. As a result, there is less risk of burning oneself from the exposed grouphead.
  • Rotational knobs – Allows for easier control of the intensity.
  • 2-hole steam tip – Allows for a slow gradual build-up of microfoam.

Rotary Vane Pump & Commercial Grade Motor:

  • Quieter than a vibration pump, but it is more expensive to replace. Hence, descaling is important.

Gauges/Indicator Lights:

  • Steam (boiler) pressure gauge – Located on the left. Measures from 0 to 4 bar. Optimal pressure is between 0.8 and 1.1. Regulated by a Mater pressurstat.
  • Brew (pump) pressure gauge – Located on the right. Measures from 0 to 16 bar. Optimal pressure is between 8 and 10. You can find the overpressure valve inside left near the vibration pump.
  • Heating light – Located on the left side. Indicates when espresso machine is heating. Once fully heated, there is no need to pay attention to the heating light unless temperature surfing.
  • Low water level light – Located in the middle. Indicates when the water level in tank/reservoir is low.
  • Power indicator light – Located on the right side. This will indicate when the machine is on.

Construction:

  • Stainless steel body – Polished to a mirror finish. Wrap around body which is easily removable. First remove the top cover. Then remove the 6 screws (3 on each side) and the wrap-around body slides off.
  • Drip tray: Slides out easily to drain out or can be connected to a drain with changing of included adapter and attachment of included drain hose!
  • Extremely large stainless steel drip tray: Can be easily removed for cleaning. Grate stays on the VBM Domobar Super when pulling out drip tray so that it is one step removal to empty.

Parts & Accessories Included:

  • Portafilters – Single spout portafilter and a dual spout portafilter. The neck has the VBM brand imprint, similar to the one on the grouphead.
  • Filter baskets1-cup filter basket which holds approximately 7 grams. 2-cup filter basket which holds approximately 14 grams. Blind filter basket which you use for backflushing. 58 mm in diameter.
  • Tamper – A cheap plastic tamper. Manufacturers will normally include a tamper like this to keep the overall selling price of the machine low. We recommend upgrading to a better tamper.
  • Cleaning brush – A simple brush for cleaning the grouphead. Ergonomically designed with an angle for easier usage.
  • Coffee scoop – A simple plastic scoop if you are using pre-ground coffee.
  • Instruction manual – 3 separate manuals: a quick start guide, a detailed instruction manual, and a description of the machine components.
Brand

VBM (Vibiemme)

Height (inches)

16, approximate

Width (inches)

11, approximate

Depth (inches)

20, approximate

Weight (pounds)

84

Wattage (watts)

1600

Voltage (volts)

110

Boiler capacity (liters)

Coffee – 0.5, Steam – 1.9

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. Shipping: Please note this machine ships on a pallet with curbside delivery only. It is just too heavy for UPS or FedEx to handle properly with the care you deserve on a high end purchase.
  2. Switch stages: To avoid any confusion on the operation of the machine:
    • Stage 0: Machine is off except low water light 'may' come on if water tank has low water.
    • Stage 1 w/ PID OFF: Brew boiler OFF and steam boiler OFF - used for initial refill without damaging the heating elements in either boiler.
    • Stage 1 w/ PID ON: Brew boiler ON and steam boiler OFF.
    • Stage 2 w/ PID OFF: Brew boiler OFF and steam boiler ON.
    • Stage 2 w/ PID ON: Brew boiler ON and steam boiler ON.
  3. 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.
  4. 220 volt version: Sorry, 220-240 volt units are not available for ordering.
  5. Some assembly required: Feet are not attached to the machine.
  6. Direct connect mode:
    1. Setup: There is a screw in the water tank plate that the user can tighten to hold the plate down so the switch is activated to make the machine think there is water in the reservoir.
    2. Connecting water line: Water connection at bottom of machine is in the back left corner ~2" from the rear and ~5 inches from the left side panel. The water connection elbow under the machine is 1/4" male thread. The included stainless steel braided hose, is 46" long and has the female fitting to connect to the water connection elbow. On the opposite end of the braided hose, there is a 3/8" female thread fitting. It is best to purchase the V319 coupling to attach to your water line, and then attach the braided hose to the V319 coupling.
    3. Draining: This model has the capability to drain or not to drain. There is an included plug on the back of the drip tray. The plug can be removed or installed as desired. The machine's drain pipe can be manually directed to drain either to the right or left side of the machine. In either direction, the drain pipe can be angled 4" from either side. The included drain hose is 46" in length and has a 1/4-3/8th inside diameter which slips onto the machine's drain pipe. The drain hose needs to drop vertically 1" for every 12" it goes horizontal.
    4. Water line pressure: Should be regulated to be between 35 and 40 pounds for proper operation of this machine. Check with your local plumbing supply to advise on purchase so as to meet any local building codes. In addition, check with them about your local building code may require a backflow preventer (which does not allow boiler water to backflow into water supply).
    5. Water supply: Connection must be made to a cold water supply line only.

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.

Finding your part
  • Please use the parts diagrams provided below to determine the part(s) you need. Then use our search box above to find the part(s) on our website. If no results come up, more than likely we do not stock the part.
  • If uncertain, please go to the equipment model or part product page. Then use the Q&A tab found on that web page to ask your question.
  • Lastly, and only if the first 2 options were exhausted, please use our parts inquiry page.
  • Our call center does not have the training to handle parts inquiries for over 60,000 different parts items. Asking any questions regarding parts will more than likely result in you being referred to the above steps.
  • Please note also that all parts purchases are non-returnable or refundable and do not include technical support, instructions, or warranties as the purchase price of any part does not cover the cost of technical support. Technical support is available for repairing equipment in our shop.
  • Sorry, we will only special order a part for a model we carry AND was purchased through our supply chain.
  • Since we are unaware of the mechanical, electrical, and/or plumbing expertise of a parts buyer or the tools owned by a parts buyer, we are never able to advise if a self-repair can be performed.
VBM-Domobar-Super-DB-parts-diagram-boiler-1
# SKU
1 ELETGLDOM128
2 RACCP733
3
4 CALDDOMS2BCAF
5 GUARCALDOM
6 ELETRESD60302 (240V)
7 ELETRESD60301 (110V)
8 ELETRESD60300 (100V)
9 CALDOMCAF2BCO
10 ELETGLDOMM165
11 ELETGLDOM60G
12 RACCP733
13 ELETRESD12240 (240V)
14 ELETRESD10110 (110V)
15 ELETRESD10100 (100V)
16 GUARCALDOM
17 RACCP226C
18 PRIG8MA
19 RACCCARPRERIS
20 ELETSON
21 VALVMOSP
22 VALVSFMEAMERI
23 RACCDOM18BIS1
24 RACCP732BIS
25 CALDOMSUP2BVA
26 CALDOMVAP2BCOM
27 COPEISOLCAVAS
28 COPEISOLCAD2C

VBM-Domobar-Super-DB-parts-diagram-waterworks-2
# SKU
1 TUBIP737
2 TUPIP939
3 TUBIFLINDO
4 MATECSIGS
5 TUBICU18X18
6
7 RACCGOMF458
8 TUBIFLINDOSAR
9 TUBIP939BIS
10 TUBIP874
11 TUBIDOMPART2
12 TUBIP930
13 TUBIP929
14 TUBIP900KI
15 ELETELE2AU22
16 ELETELE2A11UL
17 RACCRIDMFRU3V
18 RACCRUB3VDSAV
19 RACCPOPODOARV
20 RACCELETODMSU
21
22 ELETELE2AU100


VBM-Domobar-Super-DB-parts-diagram-filterholder-4
# SKU
1 ASPORTN1TAMON
2 ASPORTN1TBMON
3 ASPORTN2TBMON
4 ASPORTN2TAMON
5 FILT1TB
6 FILT1TA
7 FILT2TA
8 FILT2TB
9 FILTBEC1T
10 FILTBEC2T
11 FILTCI
12 FILTMOLPTFL
13 PORTIMPPFNEW
14 TUBIFLINLUAL
15 TUBIFLINLCOAL
16 RACCP864
17 PRESSINO
18 MISURINO
19 SPAZZOLINO
20 PORTTN

VBM-Domobar-Super-DB-parts-diagram-bodywork-5
# SKU
1 MANCASCOPKIR
2 CARRCFRODOM43
3 CARRCASDOSARV
4 VITETAPSCADAR
5 PIEDDOMSUNEW
6 DADOFISSMANOM
7 RACCBUSCADOMS
8 RACCP431B
9 TUBOSCARICOD10
10 TUBIFLINDOSAR
11 TELADOMSUPARV
12 RACCPOPODO
13 GRIGCSDOMSARV
14 FRONDOMSMPARV
15 MANMDOE40016
16 MANMDOE40025
17 SUPAVASCDOSARV
18 TELADOMSCON43
19 MATECVAACDO
20 TELADOMSRIN43
21 PIASPRMIDSARV
22 MOLLPIASMIDKI
23 ELETMICRE
24 SQUAPRESSDOSU
25 CARRCASDOSAV2
26 TARGADCOPI
27 GRIGCSDOMSAR2

VBM-Domobar-Super-DB-parts-diagram-electronics-6
# SKU
1 ELETCAV8VX2DIS
2 ELETPULDISPDM
3 ELETLAMNEONVE
4 ELETLAMNEONRO
5 ELETPREDOMSU
6 COPEASOLPIDOM
7  
8 ELETDOSPIDDSN
9 ELETDOSPIDDS1
10 SQUAPRESSDOSU
11 COPECENPIDBUL
12 RELESTATICODS
13 COPERELESTATI
14 FERMCAVPGD11
15 ELETCAVAL20DO
16 ELETCAVALAUS
17 ELETCAVAUL
18 ELETCVAVALGIAP
19 ELETCUFCOM
20 ELETCOMDOMSUP
21 MANCOMREPLICA
22 ELETMICRE
23 ELETDOSPIDDSN2015
24 ELETDOSPIDDS12015
25 ELETPREDSUVAL

VBM-Domobar-Super-DB-parts-diagram-motor-pump-7
# SKU
1 ELETCONDRPM
2 ELETCONDRPM11
3 ELETMOTRPM304
4 ELETMOTEL11
5 POMPPRONOSETN
6 RACCRIDMF449
7 TUBICU18X18
8 RACCGOMF458
9 VALVNORITDOM
10 RACCTMMF465
11 ASSBYPASSNEW
12 ANTIAMMMOT
13 ELETCONDRPMDCS
14 ELETMOT304200

VBM-Domobar-Super-DB-parts-diagram-taps-8
# SKU
1 MANPRUSCDOMSA
2 RACCPRGOCR
3 RACCASRUDOSU
4 GUAROR113
5 GUARSILRUDOSU
6 RACCCORUDOSU
7 TUBIP202CR
8
9 GUARR6
10 RACCBULASF
11 GUAROR113
12 TUBILADOMSU
13 TUBIP727
14 GUARSILRUDOSR
15 GUARSILRUDOST
16 RACCRUBDOMSUP

Customer reviews

Rated 5 out of 5 stars
11 reviews
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3 stars 0 0 %
2 stars 0 0 %
1 star 0 0 %

11 reviews for DISCONTINUED VBM Domobar Super V4 Dual Boiler PID Switchable Espresso Machine

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      By steamer keeps heating and pressurizing until the dials and the machine is overheating
    1. 0 votes
      Q By steamer keeps heating and pressurizing until the dials and the machine is overheating answer now
      Asked by Rodney Yee on April 21, 2022 4:17 pm
      Answered by the admin

      The PID sensor needs to be checked for corrosion and cleaned. This is usually the culprit.

    2. Hi there my vbm domobar super db has been showing codes A5. A7. A8 and A9 on and off for a few weeks now, could you please advise me of what the codes are for as I’m far from a espresso machine repair shop. Any help would be very much appreciated
    3. 0 votes
      Q Hi there my vbm domobar super db has been showing codes A5. A7. A8 and A9 on and off for a few we...... Read more answer now
      Asked by greg on January 19, 2021 6:53 pm
      Answered by the admin

      Sorry for the delay as we had to confirm with VBM. There are no such A8 or A9 codes. We have a list of codes in our tech support section.

    4. The green light no longer works and the pressure, while it remains between 10-12 --- doesn't distribute an espresso w/ crema as it used to up until last week.
    5. 0 votes
      Q The green light no longer works and the pressure, while it remains between 10-12 --- doesn't dist...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Michael on December 9, 2020 5:50 pm
      Answered by the admin

      The light may need to be replaced or the power is not sufficient.

      As for the espresso, if the brew pressure gauge is reading 10 or more bar, then the fault lies in with the coffee being used.

    6. I've got a quick question about my new VBM. The machine arrived in good condition and gave it a test run from the reservoir following the steps on your site and it worked good. I got the machine hooked up to a dedicated water line with a filter, softener, and regulator a couple of days ago and with the regulator set at 2.5 bar it started dumping water through the overfill (? spout in the drip tray ). I reduced all the way down to 1 bar and it continues to flow water out of the overfill. I set the machine back up for running from the reservoir and it seems to run fine. Not sure if I missed something so I could really use your advice.
    7. 0 votes
      Q I've got a quick question about my new VBM. The machine arrived in good condition and gave it a t...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Jay on October 9, 2020 4:31 pm
      Answered by the admin

      Sorry for the delay. Please look inside to determine where the flow is coming from.

      It could be the steam boiler safety valve or vacuum breaker valve, which means the boiler is overfilling. If the pump is constantly running, then the water inline may be too pure.

      It could the the overpressure valve (OPV) which means there is too much in line water pressure which means the inline regulator is not functioning properly. A way to test this is look at the brew pressure gauge when the machine is idle and direct plumbed. If the gauge reads more than 2.5, then your regulator is faulty.

      In tank mode, put in a blind filter and run the grouphead (lever up) for 45 seconds. If the max pressure reaches 9 bar on the brew pressure gauge, then the OPV is not faulty. If it does not go over 9 bar, then the screw on the OPV may be tightened clockwise.

    8. I purchased this machine about 10 years ago. The pressure gauge (when drawing shots) has always been on 12; now it is on 7 to 10). Could you tell me if this is a problem, and what I might do to bring the pressure up to its earlier level. Thank you.
    9. 0 votes
      Q I purchased this machine about 10 years ago. The pressure gauge (when drawing shots) has always b...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Carla Keller on August 17, 2020 5:36 pm
      Answered by the admin Please check with the blind filter in place. If the gauge goes over 9 bar with the blind filter, then it is a grind issue. If it does not, it can be a pump, gauge, or overpressure valve (OPV) issue or a combination thereof.
    10. Loving my machine. For the life of me, could not find the screw that holds the water filler plate in place when hooking up to a water line. So far we're using the reservoir, but hooking to a water line is in our future. Can you send one of those please?
    11. 0 votes
      Q Loving my machine. For the life of me, could not find the screw that holds the water filler plate...... Read more answer now
      Asked by John on June 19, 2020 6:29 pm
      Answered by the admin

      This part was in the small bag in the drip tray that had the components to drain your drip tray.

    12. the seam boiler is not get power i check it with my tester ... no heat up i change the cpu control board .. i took the water out and the clean the level probe and putting back and stop working .
    13. 0 votes
      Q the seam boiler is not get power i check it with my tester ... no heat up i change the cpu contro...... Read more answer now
      Asked by alfonsopinilla on June 5, 2020 3:12 pm
      Answered by the admin

      Other electrical components will need to be checked with a multimeter. It could be the switch is not in position 2 or the maybe power switch is defective. Sorry, electrical problems are difficult to diagnose and determine remotely.

    14. I purchased a Vibiemme Super Double Domobar version 3 or 3.5 from you in 2013. It is plumbed in. About two weeks ago I noticed condensation and a pool of water beneath the machine, however everything still functioned. I descaled, adjusted the pump pressure and the opv (12 bar as the machine is heating, 4 bar line pressure, 8.5 bar flushing, 9 bar blind portafilter, the PID and a grouphead thermometer match nicely). After two weeks of fantastic coffee, this morning I have a puddle: a steady stream of water into the drip tray and leakage from the steam boiler safety valve. I disassembled the OPV and it appears clean. I pulled the steam boiler water level probe and it too seems scale free but the tank was overly full. I tried re-descaling. Running from the tank instead of the house line, the steam pressure seemed normal and the tank did not over-fill (but perhaps because I kept draining it). While descaling the brew boiler, I hoped to be able to re-adjust the OPV, previously disassembled, but the brew pressure never increased beyond 2 to 4 bar as the machine warmed and almost no water dripped into the tray no matter how much I screwed in or out the OPV. Re-plumbed, it did not take long for the steam boiler to apparently over-fill : steam pressure reads 2 bar, steady stream into the drip tray, the steam boiler safety valve leaks, and water not steam comes out when I open the steam wand. I have connected back to the water tank and let the machine idle for three hours. Brew pressure gauge sits at 2 bar, even during warm-up, and goes to 8 when the pump is activated. After about an hour water has built up in the opv tubes but is not steadily flowing into the drip tray as when plumbed. However, with the pump activated the water jets out of the OPV tubes into the drip tray. Water is coming out of the group head extremely hot (200 degree on the PID, 215 at the grouphead - not sure how much more I can open the opv). Steam boiler pressure stays under 1.5 bars unlike the 2 bars when plumbed. Help!
    15. 0 votes
      Q I purchased a Vibiemme Super Double Domobar version 3 or 3.5 from you in 2013. It is plumbed in. ...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Nils Kenaston on May 9, 2020 2:43 am
      Answered by the admin

      It sounds like the water pressure is too high now, or the solenoid valve for the boiler refill is not sealing properly.

    16. I have a 2012 VBM DB. Two questions, 1) On power-up, the startup cycle will show the version 1.03, shut down and recycle. This happens if I turn the switch to brew boiler or brew + steam boiler. After about 3/4 attempts the machine powers up and starts heating. 2) Steam leaks out internally, on occasion and I note the pressure into the red ~2.0 bar. I have descaled and flushed the Jaeger Pressurestat, but still have this intermittent problem.
    17. 0 votes
      Q I have a 2012 VBM DB. Two questions, 1) On power-up, the startup cycle will show the version 1.03...... Read more answer now
      Asked by FrankV91320 on April 6, 2020 4:21 pm
      Answered by the admin

      This may be multiple issues.

      The overheating is a limescale issue causing the pressurstat to stick and not cutting off the power to the heating element when it reaches proper steam pressure - on the older units, it should not go over 1.4-1.5. A full descaling is needed as well as a replacement pressurstat change AFTER the descaling.

      The other issue is electrical or electronic. It could be the relay(s) on the floor, the safety thermostats, the brain unit, the display, and/or the power switch are intermittent defective. This can be a needles in the haystack. If the brain unit shows any sign of melting, it could be that. If the display has disfigured letters/numbers, it could be that. The relay on the floor could show green or red. Least likely is the power switch. It becomes a guess of changing one part out at a time in this case.

    18. The espresso side of my machine is now working like new. The steam boiler on the other hand will not produce any heat. The pilot light turns on when I put the switch in the "II" settings, but the boiler will not heat at all. I removed the relay cover and the red light never turns on. I disconnected the water sensor and turned the machine to the "I" position and the pump did start filling water until I re-connected it. I measured 1.7 V on the relay control connectors, when the machine is in "I" and in the "II" position and after it was already hot for 30 minutes. It is 5V when not connected to the relay and 1.7 V when connected Is there something else that I am missing? What other measurements can I make to diagnose the problem? Can it be a defective part?
    19. 0 votes
      Q The espresso side of my machine is now working like new. The steam boiler on the other hand will...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Barak on January 23, 2020 7:07 pm
      Answered by the admin

      Sounds like the relay is bad. However, the manufacturer does not provide voltage specs. You can compare the coffee boiler relay on the floor. The red light should be on.

      Otherwise, bad heating element or brain unit.

    20. Starting last month, the steam / hot water boiler would take > 2 hours to heat up & generate steam instead of the usual 30-45min. Finally it gave up on me & the steam boiler (the big one) wouldn't heat up at all after left "ON" for hours. The amber light next to pressure gauge is blinking, indicating that the boiler should be heating up but it doesn't. Upon visual inspection inside, I couldn't find any melted plastic or melted wiring. Thinking the problem might be the heating element, I physically pulled out the heating element & tested for continuity. I don't have electrical background, but the volmeter reads around 13 ohm when I connect the 2 voltmeter sensors to the plugs at end of heating element. When touching only one plug & second sensor on physical coil, I get a zero reading. Having that said, does my heating element need replacing? If not what else can I try. Thank you!!
    21. 0 votes
      Q Starting last month, the steam / hot water boiler would take > 2 hours to heat up & genera...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Clyde Movsesian on November 16, 2019 9:45 am
      Answered by the admin

      It sounds like the heating element is good. Try resetting the safety thermostat.

      The brain unit may not be sending power to the heating element, or the step down relay went bad. Otherwise, it could be the PID sensor in the steam boiler. The only way to test these is by replacement.

    22. I tried the blind filter and there is zero bars of pressure. I do not have a water softener attached. I descaled the machine a few months ago and only use bottled water in my machine. The machine was working fine yesterday and had normal pressure. Water will come out but at very low pressure.
    23. 0 votes
      Q I tried the blind filter and there is zero bars of pressure. I do not have a water softener attac...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Terry on October 8, 2019 6:55 pm
      Answered by the admin

      It may be a failing pump, a failing gauge, or a clog in the grouphead. We suggest descaling again.

    24. I have a Domobar DB that i bought about 8 years ago from you guys. When I turn the machine on, everything is OK and it heats up to the correct temperature, but after bein on for about 20-30 minutes, the heater part and the PID stop working and the machine cools down. When it cools down a bit, everything starts working again. The pump works all this time even when the PID display is off. Any clue on how to fix this?
    25. 0 votes
      Q I have a Domobar DB that i bought about 8 years ago from you guys. When I turn the machine on, e...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Barak on September 27, 2019 6:44 pm
      Answered by the admin

      It sounds like the black electronic board needs replacement. There are different versions. Hence, you will need to email us the label on your current board for correct match up.

    26. The hot water boiler does not refill. My VBM is in service locally here in Melbourne, FL. The repairman has said I need a Cigar Auto leveler. The hot boiler is not refilling by itself. I have tried to locate the part on your website, but could not find it.
    27. 0 votes
      Q The hot water boiler does not refill. My VBM is in service locally here in Melbourne, FL. The rep...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Max Bond on August 19, 2019 4:48 pm
      Answered by the admin

      Every Gicar brain unit has a code as different version of the same mdoel machines may have different codes. The code needs to be searched on our web site. It can look something like xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx  where there are 4 sets of numbers separated by 3 periods. Each set can have 1, 2, or 3 digits. At the end could be a letter.

    28. While giving my machine an extensive clean I noticed some O-ring debris in the goup head lever harm located in one of the two grooves. One O-ring was missing and the other was degraded. Referring to your parts diagrams, none of them appear to reference o-rings in the group head lever arm. Can you please advise if this is the case, meaning that rubber debris originated from somewhere else. Thanks for your help and support.
    29. 0 votes
      Q While giving my machine an extensive clean I noticed some O-ring debris in the goup head lever ha...... Read more answer now
      Asked by pat on March 11, 2019 4:02 pm
      Answered by the admin

      There are 2 o-rings (page 6, part 26, part#GUARPICA) in the lever arm based on the diagrams, which most Vibiemme machines share the same grouphead. These should be greased with Petrogel.

      there is also a white gasket used for the larger nut (page6, part 5, part #GUARCAINGRTE).

    30. Hi, we bought one of these from your store in August, and we have an older version of this same machine (10y old) that is still going strong. Love the machines. However, this new one is suddenly discharging water from all three ports (steam, hot water, main espresso outlet in the middle) that is "dirty." It acts as if there is some sort of internal charcoal filter that is leaching charcoal into the water. It only started doing this in the last month or so. The unit is direct plumbed - I disconnected the water line from the machine and opened the line up and the water from the line is clear (as is the sink water, off of which the line is plumbed) - this means it is something in the machine itself. Is there a hidden charcoal filter? Or could it be faulty rubber seals that are deteriorating? I have run the water through the different outlet ports on the machine on several different days to see if the water clears, but it doesn't. Very strange. Thoughts???
    31. 0 votes
      Q Hi, we bought one of these from your store in August, and we have an older version of this same m...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Tim on February 9, 2019 7:14 pm
      Answered by the admin

      We have seen strange scenarios of discolored waters from different machines. There is no charcoal in any of our machines. In most cases, it is the machine reacting with the water being heated. We have seen small black particles, white particles, and sometimes green and bluish particles.

      From what we have seen, there are only black orings in the steam and hot water valves. If these were breaking up, steam and hot water would be leaking from the wand tips.

      Please keep in mind that we test every Vibiemme double boiler espresso machine with our softener water, and then we drain the water. If there were any particles, we would have seen them.

      We suggest changing your water by using the reservoir for a few weeks to see if it clears up.

    32. How long do you have to let the machine warm up prior to use? If more than 5 minutes, is there a feature to program it to turn on each morning at a set time?
    33. 0 votes
      Q How long do you have to let the machine warm up prior to use? If more than 5 minutes, is there a ...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Shannon on January 2, 2019 3:18 am
      Answered by the admin

      Coffee boiler only, 20-25 minutes.

      Coffee and steam boilers, 45 or more minutes.

      You can use an external timer to power on/off the machine. However, it is important to place a surge suppressor (1080 joules or higher) between the machine's plug and the timer to reduce electrical issues on the machine.

    34. I'm looking for a way to descale the machine. Looks like I have a version 3 machine, it's about 7 years old. The original manual does not mention descaling at all. Is there any other maintenance that needs to be done regularly other than descaling and back flushing?
    35. 0 votes
      Q I'm looking for a way to descale the machine. Looks like I have a version 3 machine, it's about 7...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Vel on December 14, 2018 2:53 pm
      Answered by the admin

      We usually do not recommend a descaling unless needed to solve a problem. It is better to treat the water by softening it. If you need to descale, please follow these instructions.

    36. Machine is constantly leaking water in the drip tray from the valve on buttom left corner of drip tray (not the grouphead). The machine is plumbed & pressure is barely 2bar, however leaking also occurs when water source is the tank. When I empty the boiler & leave the machine off, the leaking stops for several hours but then it starts leaking again without the machine being turned back on. Lately I've also stopped hearing the sound of boiler filling up on daily use unless I completely drain it and turn the machine back on… I am assuming that somehow while the machine is off, the boiler gets filled & possibly overfilled by itself? Is it normal for boiler to be filled while the machine is off? Having that said I was hoping to get your opinion of what might be the cause & what part I need to order / replace?
    37. 0 votes
      Q Machine is constantly leaking water in the drip tray from the valve on buttom left corner of drip...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Clyde Movsesyan on April 4, 2018 5:28 pm
      Answered by the admin

      First step, please descale your machine in tank mode. Remove body cover by removing three screws on each side. Follow the hose behind the spout and look for the source of where the water is coming from.

      Second step, test the machine in tank mode with the plumbing disconnected from the machine and power off. There should be no leaks.

      Third step, power on machine for several hours and look for the leak in the hose. If there is a leak, then the boiler may be overfilled or the boiler refill valve is partially open allowing water to back track to the OPV. If there is water exiting the safety valve or vacuum breaker valve on top of the boiler, then the boiler is overfilling which points to a bad sensor, bad brain unit, or faulty wiring.

      Fourth, if no leaks in tank mode, reconnect direct plumbing water supply and leave power off. If it leaks, then to points to the OPV (check hose to drip tray spout) or overfilling of boiler as described above. If no leaks, power on and check. If it leaks at this point, then it is most likely an overfilling boiler.

      You can check for an overfilled boiler (steam side) by removing slowly hot water from the hot water spigot. Within a few ounces, the pump should kick in. If not, then the boiler could be overfilled.

      As soon as the pump kicks in, shut the hot water valve. In a few seconds, the pump should stop. If the pump stays on, it could be overfilling the boiler. To physically check, the machine needs to be cold , unplugged from the electrical outlet, and the direct water supply turned off, then remove the vacuum breaker valve and inspect visually.

       

       

       

    38. There are constant drips from water tap and steam tap. I think I need to replace the seal gasket from the end of the shaft in hot water/steam valve. Can you please tell me which one will be appropriate for my machine?
    39. 0 votes
      Q There are constant drips from water tap and steam tap. I think I need to replace the seal gasket ...... Read more answer now
      Asked by Fred on November 29, 2017 6:33 pm
      Answered by the admin

      Please review the procedure here. It is very important that you check which gaskets is in your machine BEFORE ordering.