ROK Espresso Maker/cleaning and maintenance
From Whole Latte Love Support Library
Flushing The Screen
At the end of each day the machine is used we suggest flushing the grouphead with plain water several times to clear out any coffee grinds/residues. Simply follow the same procedure as pulling a shot, but do not add any coffee to the portafilter basket. The group gasket and shower screen are the same part on this machine, so it is important to keep this part clean so that the machine can continue flowing/extracting properly, and so that the portafilter will seal properly when attached.
Grouphead Cleaning
Once a month the grouphead should be taken apart for a more thorough cleaning. Bad flavors and coffee residues will buildup in the grouphead over time, so it is important to clean the grouphead regularly.
- Tip the machine on its side and remove the four allen screws from the bottom of the grouphead assembly. A 3 mm. allen key will be needed to remove the screws.
- Once the screws are removed the portafilter holding plate and the shower screen can be removed.
- Use a grouphead brush or an old tooth brush to brush down the grouphead where these components were removed from. Gently clean the shower screen as well using warm water and soap. While you clean these components the portafilter, filter baskets, and the portafilter holding plate should all be soaked in a solution of hot water and [backflushing powder] for 5-10 minutes to remove old coffee residues. Do not soak any plastic components in this solution as backflushing powder can deteriorate plastic.
- Reassemble the machine and run a few blank shots of just plain water through the machine.
Milk Frother Cleaning
After each use the milk frothing device should be cleaned to prevent milk residues from building up on the screen the create the froth, and to keep the device sanitary.To clean the milk frothing simply take a solution of warm water and dish soap or vinegar, and use the frother like you are frothing milk. Then rinse the device thoroughly with warm water.
Screen/Gasket Replacement
The screen/gasket should be replaced every 6 months to a year, depending on how heavily the machine is used. Instructions for accessing this part can be found in the grouphead cleaning portion of this article. Since the gasket is the same on both sides you may be able to use the same gasket for longer by simply flipping it over.