Troubleshooting-Gaggia-Classic-No-Power

No Power

1. Make sure the machine is plugged into an appropriate power source.
   1. Do not use the machine on a surge protector. This machine has a high power draw, more than a typical kitchen appliance such as a refrigerator or a microwave. Surge protectors are typically not rated to handle the amperage this machine requires.
   2. Try using the machine on a different outlet, and make sure the machine is the only appliance plugged into that outlet.
   3. If the machine is being used on a GFI outlet try moving it to a non-GFI outlet for testing. GFI outlets will sometimes trip because of current fluctuation, especially with high power appliances such as an espresso machine. Click here for more detailed information on GFI function. The article mentions that GFI's are set up to detect small fluctuations in current in order to prevent electrocution. The GFI is not able to determine the cause of these fluctuations. Common causes are:
      • The outlet has been exposed to moisture, dust, or debris, which is causing the outlet not to ground properly. This will result in a current fluctuation and the GFI will trip. If the GFI outlet is located on the outside wall of a house moisture caused by high humidity, rain, or other weather can also contribute to these fluctuations.
      • The GFI is old or broken. GFIs contain mechanical parts which can wear out over time or break from misuse.
      • The appliance being plugged into the outlet is fluctuating in current. Some appliances have motors, pumps, sensors, etc. that cause current fluctuations as a part of their normal operation. Espresso machines have both pumps and heating elements which can be on for extended periods of time. It is normal for these parts to have slight current fluctuations during operation. Most GFIs are set to trip after a 4-6 mA fluctuation, which some espresso machines will exceed during operation. This is not because of a ground fault, but because of normal current fluctuations the machine produces.
      • In some cases the GFI will need to be replaced. The GFI may be installed incorrectly causing it to trip, or there may be a ground fault elsewhere on the circuit. Have an electrician examine the GFI and the circuit it is connected to.
   4. If the correct outlet type is being used and the machine is still not powering, try testing another appliance on the same outlet.
2. The power cord of the machine can be removed from the back of the machine as well as from the outlet. Check to make sure the cord is firmly secured in its corresponding socket on the machine. Check the cord for any damage. If the cord is secure and the machine is still not powering on then it may be the cord itself causing the issue. The cord is a standard computer power cord. Swap the cord out with another 3-prong computer power cord and see if the machine powers on. If it does then the machine needs a new power cord.
3. Turn the power button off and unplug the machine. Remove the top of the machine.
   1. Look towards the back of the machine where the power cord goes into the machine. There will be a terminal with two leads. Attached to the leads should be a blue wire on the top lead, and a grey wire on the bottom lead. If one of these wires is loose or detached the machine won't power on. Resecure them and test the power.
   2. Check the machine for any other loose, disconnected, or burned wires. Check the power switch terminals in particular.
4. If the machine recently had a leak, had water spilled on it, or any other exposure to moisture then the machine may be shorting out. Try letting the machine sit unplugged for 48 hours to make sure there isn't a short caused by moisture.