Difference between revisions of "Gaggia Classic"

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The Gaggia Classic is a semi-automatic espresso machine which has been a favorite in the industry for home espresso brewing.

Gaggia Classic
Manufacturer: Gaggia
Model Name: Classic
Model Number: 14101
Type: Semi-Automatic

Machine Set-Up/New Users

A key advantage of Semi-Automatic and Prosumer over Super-Automatic units is that you have much more direct control over the unit. For the same reason there is a learning curve for getting the best results. Having a working knowledge of the machine before using it will help ensure a satisfying experience, increase the longevity of the unit, and prevent possible issues/damage that can result from misuse. The information in this section will cover machine set up and basic use. To start the video below provides five useful tips to help you understand your semi-automatic unit:

Descaling

Before going into the set up of the machine it's best to review this topic because of its importance. While not directly related to the setup of the machine it is the single most important aspect of owning a Semi-Automatic espresso machine. Keeping up with the regular maintenance of the machine will ensure that the machine will continue operating without issue. Descaling instructions and other maintenance information can be found in the cleaning and maintenance section of this article.

First Time Use

The machine manual provides a thorough walk-through of the set-up of the unit, but there's so much information it can be mystifying. In this section we will walk you through the most important points of the machine setup.

Initial Setup

When the machine is first unpacked there are several things to consider before even powering the unit on. When first unpacking the unit you may notice water or grounds in the machine. This is normal as all machines are manufacturer tested before leaving the factory.

1. First the power cord will need to be retrieved and inserted into the back of the machine. The power cord is typically packaged in the water tank of the machine along with other accessories.
   1. Remove the drip tray from the machine.
   2. Remove the decompression duct. This is the metal tube sticking down on the left side of the machine. It blocks access to the water tank while inserted. Simply pull down on the tube and it will come out of the machine. Do not twist/turn the tube or it will cause the bolt that holds the tube into place to become unthreaded. Should you accidentally unthread the connecting bolt the video below shows how to re-attach the bolt. To reinstall the tube simply push it back into the same hole.
   3. Remove the water tank and take the accessories out of it. The power cord should also be here. Plug the cord into the back of the machine.
   4. Before reinstalling all of the parts you may want to take this opportunity to fill the water tank. The water tank can also be filled after the parts are reinstalled using the funnel at the top back of the machine. Make sure to have both the inlet and outlet tubes sitting in the tank when you reinstall it.
2. Plug the machine directly into an outlet. Because this is a high power unit it should not be plugged into surge protectors, extension cords, or timers. The cord of the machine can be removed from the machine itself. Please make sure the cord is secure on the end attached to the machine.
3. Fill the water tank to the max fill line, making sure the inlet/outlet tubes are submerged. You are now ready to prime the machine using the instructions in the next section. Do not power the machine on until the priming instructions have been followed.

Priming

Before the machine can be used it must be properly primed and filled with water. Do not power the machine on without first following the steps below.

1. Place a cup under the steam wand.
2. Check to make sure both the inlet/return lines are in the water tank and submerged.
3. Turn the steam knob to the open position.
4. Press the power, brew, and steam switches all on. This will put the machine into hot water dispensing mode. Water will dispense from the wand instead of steam.
5. You should now hear the pump vibrating. After 30 seconds water should start to dispense from the steam wand. Let the water continue to flow out until 3-4 oz. has been dispensed into the cup. If no water is coming out after 30 seconds look into the water tank to see if water is leaving the tank. If there isn't, immediately power the machine off and follow the force priming instructions below. Force priming is normal and expected as the machines are drained to prevent leaking/freezing damage during shipping of the product. The main difference from the video instructions is that you will be inserting the priming pump into the inlet line instead of a socket. The inlet line is the line that has a flat edge, and goes into the left hole leading to the inside of the machine.
6. Once the machine is primed close the knob and shut the steam/brew buttons off.

Heating

The machine is now ready to heat. While the boiler will technically be at temperature within a few minutes and the brew indicator light will come on, the machine is not fully heated yet. We suggest waiting 10-15 minutes before using the machine, and having the portafilter attached during heating. This will allow sufficient time for heat to seep into the entire machine, resulting in less temperature loss from boiler to cup during brewing, and hotter shots.

One important thing to note is that the machine should not be left on for long periods of time without use. This is a small home unit and not designed to be left on for long periods of time. Doing so can cause premature wear of parts, particularly plastic/rubber gaskets and o-rings. It may also cause the machine to overheat and the boiler safety fuse to trip, which will prevent the machine from operating until the fuse is replaced.

Brewing & Baskets

The video below discusses the baskets that the machine comes with and what their differences are. For new users the use of pressurized baskets is highly suggest, as it helps compensate any errors in tamp, grind, or dosing. If you are having trouble getting good shot results please consult the section of this article which discusses brewing technique.

The literature that comes with the machine regarding the pressurized baskets is contradictory as instructions are included for both the US and European versions of the machine. The US version comes with pressurized baskets, which require the use of the 2 way pin (also known as the frothing jet device). This is a small black plastic piece that should be installed beneath the brew basket, with the tapered side down. Failure to use this pin with the pressurized baskets will cause coffee to spray from the machine during brewing.

We also suggest working with doubleshots specifically until you are familiar with the machine and pulling shots. Single shots are notoriously hard to brew, and should only be attempted once double shots can be consistently pulled.

The easiest way to swap baskets is to take one of the extra baskets and flip it over. Then use the lip of the extra basket to pry around the edges of the installed basket, which will help it pop out.

Pannarello & Steaming

If you plan on steaming with the machine it is easy to activate the steam function and prepare the machine for frothing.

1. Press the steam button. The machine will switch to using the steam thermostat, which will cause the boiler to heat to steam temperatures. The brew light will indicate when the machine has reached steam temperature.
2. Before steaming you will want to purge the steam wand. Since the wand is room temperature the steam exiting the boiler will immediately condense back into water. To remove this water and reduce the amount of water mixed with steam during frothing we advise purging. To purge simply open the steam knob once the machine has reached steam temperature. Direct the wand into the drip tray or place a cup underneath it to catch the water. Leave the steam knob open until you have mostly steam coming out of the wand. Close the steam knob.
3. The wand is now hot, and you are ready to begin frothing. A chilled frothing pitcher will give the best results for frothing.
4. After frothing is completed the boiler needs to be replenished. This machine is not an auto-fill machine, so if the boiler is not manually refilled after frothing the machine can overheat. Activate the hot water function by making sure the brew, steam, and power buttons are all pressed down. Then open the knob and dispense 1-2 oz. of water through; this will replenish the boiler and clean the inside of the wand.
5. Close the knob, and turn the steam and brew buttons off. Do not leave the steam button on for long periods of time as this can cause the machine to overheat.

If you plan on using the pannarello attachment during frothing it will need to be attached properly. Please refer to the video below for instructions on how to properly attach this nozzle.

If you run into trouble getting a good froth please refer to the section of this article which covers frothing technique.

Portafilter Position

On new machines the portafilter will not fit perpendicular to the machine. This is because the grouphead gasket requires time to wear in before this can happen. As long as you can get the portafilter hand tight onto the machine and brew without leaking then the machine is operating properly. Do not use excessive force when attaching the portafilter or it can damage or break the grouphead gasket. The grouphead gasket will wear in in 1-3 months of use, allowing the portafilter to sit perpendicular once worn enough.

Brew Unit/Pump Noises

When the pump of the machine activated for brewing, refilling, and hot water dispensing it is going to make a loud humming noise. The machine utilizes a vibration style pump. This style pump produces high pressures despite being compact. The pump achieves this through rapid vibration of internal parts, which produces a loud humming noise.

Cleaning & Maintenance

Proper machine maintenance is critical for machine function. Most machine failures are caused by lack of cleaning and many manufacturer warranties do not cover cleaning related breakdowns, so it is important to keep a regular maintenance schedule. Listed below is a suggested maintenance schedule for most semi-automatic espresso machines:

Descaling

Descaling should be done on a minimum bimonthly basis using the product recommended by the manufacturer. The video below shows the correct procedure for descaling this machine type:

Grouphead Cleaning

The grouphead should be taken apart on a monthly basis to remove scale buildup, remove coffee residues, and improve shot flavor.

Steam Wand Cleaning

Steam wands and nozzle attachments should be cleaned daily after the machine is finished being used for the day. Milk residues quickly build up on steam wands and frothing nozzles, so it is important to keep these clean to prevent blockages from forming.

Replacing Group Gasket

The group gasket will typically need to be replaced about every six months to a year. It is not necessary to replace the gasket until leaking at the grouphead occurs, but it is good to have a gasket on hand since the machine cannot be used with a broken gasket.

Recommended Cleaning Products

The compatible descaling products for this machine are either Gaggia Decalcifier or Durgol Swiss Espresso Descaler. The best product for cleaning grouphead components and filter baskets is a backflushing powder like Urnex Cafiza.

Troubleshooting

No Crema or Bad Tasting Shots

Typically, issues with crema or the flavor of the shot do not indicate a malfunction of the machine. Instead, this indicates that an adjustment needs to be made in the brewing process or that different beans need to be used.

The following articles review the different variables and offer solutions:

• Tamping The Correct Way and The Effects Of Tamping Pressure
• Grinding Coffee For Espresso
• It is important to use fresh beans, typically beans roasted within the past two weeks are best. Light and medium roasts are best for espresso brewing and richer crema. Storing beans properly is also important, more information can be found here.

If the behavior persists after reviewing these factors then the machine may need to be cleaned. Lack of cleaning can cause burned or bitter flavors, or create flow issues which can result in a weak shot. Navigate to the Cleaning & Maintenance icon above for more information.

Difficulty Frothing

As with brewing, frothing is highly dependent on technique. If the machine is producing steam then an adjustment to technique may need to be made. Frothing is very sensitive to technique, so there is a steep learning curve. The video below shows proper frothing technique:

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How to Froth with a Pannarello Wand

There are also common frothing mistakes which are made that will result in poor or no froth. The video below identifies these mistakes and shows how to correct them:

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Quick Tip: Six Common Milk Frothing Mistakes

This machine also utilizes a special nozzle attachment called a pannarello. The pannarello nozzle needs to be regularly cleaned and properly attached to the machine in order to function. The video below reviews how to attach the pannarello properly. When disassembling the pannarello please make sure all of the separate pieces shown in the video are present. The pannarello should be taken apart frequently and the separate parts should be soaked in some hot water to help remove any built-up milk residues.

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How to Attach a Pannarello Wand

Inside the tube of the pannarello nozzle there should be a plastic insert which must be present in order for this nozzle attachment to work. If this insert is missing or improperly inserted the machine will not be able to create froth. Please check the position of this insert as shown in this troubleshooting document:

Alternatively you can try frothing on the machine without the pannarello attachment. The naked wand can also produce a tight microfoam, and is preferred by some users. The major disadvantage of frothing with the naked wand is that it reduces the length of the steam wand by several inches.

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Flow Issues

The first place to start with any flow issue is cleaning the machine. Before going through these steps please make sure the machine is cleaned according to the Cleaning & Maintenance section of this article.

No Steam From Wand

1. Check the brew function on the machine and see if water is able to flow through the machine for this function.
   1. If the brew water is not flowing either refer to the No Flow At All section of this article
   2. If the brew water flows but is not hot refer to the On But Not Heating section of this article.
2. Turn the hot water function on for the steam wand to test for flow.
   1. If nothing comes through refer to the Only Flow From Brew Head section of this article.
   2. If water does come through try setting the machine to steam mode again and testing for steam. Running the hot water function can help remove blockages in the steam wand assembly.
3. Unplug the machine and remove the top to check for any loose or disconnected wires, and resecure these connections.
4. If nothing else looks wrong then the steam thermostat has probably failed in will need to be replaced. Instructions for replacing the thermostat can be found here.

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How To Replace the Brew and Steam Thermostats on a Gaggia Classic Espresso Machine

Only Flow From Steam Wand

Try these steps in the following order. Between each step test the machine for flow. If flow is restored to the machine do an immediate descale of the unit before returning to normal use.

1. Test the flow of the machine without the portafilter attached. If the machine flows with the portafilter removed then one of the filter baskets is blocking the flow. Clean the baskets by soaking them in a solution of hot water and backflushing powder for 30 minutes, or boiling the baskets for 30 minutes.
2. Make sure the grouphead is completely clean and free of debris. Be sure to completely disassemble and clean the grouphead according to the instructions here.
3. Clean the solenoid valve according to the instructions found below. Should you need a visual represenation of how the solenoid valve comes apart you can find a helpful video showing how to do this by clicking here. You can follow these instructions to help clean the solenoid valve.
4. Do a complete boiler clean and rebuild of the machine using the instructions here.

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How to Clean the Group Head

Only Flow From Brew Head

1. Remove the pannarello nozzle attachment from the steam wand and test the flow using the hot water function. If flow is restored then the pannarello nozzle needs to be fully disassembled and cleaned and then properly reattached.
2. If the flow is still blocked then there may be a blockage in the steam wand itself. Clean the wand by using a pipe brush that has synthetic or plastic bristles; metal bristles can damage the wand. Then soak the wand in a solution of hot water and backflushing powder for ten minutes. Test flow again.
3. The solenoid valve may be blocked and should be cleaned according to the instructions found here:

No Flow At All

If the machine is not outputting any water follow the instructions below. Once flow is restored make sure to pull a full 8 oz. of water using the hot water function to ensure the machine is correctly primed.

1. Check the water tank to make sure it is filled to the max line.
2. Make sure the inlet lines are in place and not blocked by anything.
3. Activate the hot water function on the machine. You should hear a vibration noise coming from the machine to indicate that the pump is activated.
   1. If you can't hear anything coming from the machine then there may be a loose or disconnected wire inside of the machine. Unplug the machine and open up the top to inspect the inside for any loose or disconnected wires, particularly at the pump or the front switch panel. Firmly secure any loose wires and test flow again using the hot water function.
   2. If you hear the machine vibrating then the pump is turning on. Unplug the machine and open the top to inspect the inlet line to make sure it isn't kinked or pinched. If the hose is kinked straighten it out and then plug the machine in again to test for flow.
4. The pump of the machine may be vapor locked, requiring a force prime of the unit.
   1. To force prime this unit take a kitchen syringe, turkey baster, or priming pump and fill it with water.
   2. Insert the tip of it into the inlet line of the machine.
   3. Activate the hot water function of the machine. When you hear the pump kick on quickly force water with your priming tool.
   4. Immediately turn the machine off to prevent air from being drawn into the line.
   5. Repeat this process multiple times. After 3-4 manual primes you should start to see water spitting from the steam wand. Once this happens you can put the inlet line back into the tank and try to prime the machine normally by pulling 8 oz. of water through the machine using the hot water function.

5. If no water flows from the machine and the pump just hums, rather than making it's normal sound or a louder rattling sound, the pump most likely needs to be replaced. Instructions for replacing the pump can be found below and a replacement pump can be purchased here

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How to Replace the Pump

Machine Is Leaking

Coffee Spraying From Portafilter

This machine utilizes pressurized baskets. If coffee is spraying from the spouts of your portafilter during brewing then one of the pressurized baskets is being used without the required 2-way pin in place. A pressurized basket can be identified by holding the basket it up to light; pressurized baskets will only have one hole that you can see through. The 2-way pin must be inserted into the portafilter below the basket when pressurized baskets are being used. Non-pressurized baskets, the ones that have a lot of holes you can see through if held to light, do not require the use of a 2-way pin.

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How to Use Gaggia Filter Baskets

Between Portafilter & Grouphead

If the machine is leaking from between the grouphead and the portafilter then the grouphead gasket is either pushed out of place and needs to be reinserted properly, or the gasket is worn out. Typically grouphead gaskets will wear out from 6 months to a year depending on how heavily the machine is used. Premature wear to this gasket can be caused by using excessive force when attaching the portafilter, or leaving the machine on for long periods of time without use. It is important to distinguish where the leaking is occurring. If the gasket is leaking from farther up in the machine and coming down around the grouphead then refer to the section of this article which discusses leaking from the top of the machine instead.

If the leaking is coming from between the portafilter and grouphead where you twist the handle on, then the gasket will need to be replaced. Instructions for replacing the gasket of this machine can be found below and replacement gaskets are available for purchase here. You can try using the instructions to clean and reseat the current gasket. If that does not resolve the leak then the gasket will need to be replaced. The gasket can get stuck in the grouphead from wear or excessive heat exposure. To remove the gasket take some self-tapping screws and partially screw them into the group gasket. Make sure not to go all the way through the gasket because you can scratch/dent the grouphead if you go too far. Then use a pair of pliers to pull on the screws and the gasket will pulled out with them.

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How to Replace the Group Gasket

From Top Of Machine

A leak from the top (or head) of the machine typically indicates a loose connection or broken part inside the machine. If the leaking is coming from between the portafilter and the grouphead then refer to the section of this article which covers changing the group gasket. Otherwise follow these steps to identify the source of the leak. It may be necessary to run the machine with the top removed in order to identify the leak.

1. Turn the machine off and unplug it.
2. Open the top of the machine. Check for any loose hoses, broken hoses or hoses with pinhole leaks, or any other fittings that are leaking.
   1. If you find a loose hose reconnect it to the appropriate fitting.
   2. Hoses that are broken or have pinhole leaks will need to be replaced.
   3. Other loose fittings can typically be resecured by screwing the part down. Plumbers tape or a sealing compound may be necessary to provide a good seal.
3. Check the pump connections to make they are secure.
   1. Examine the pump to see if there are any cracks in it. If the machine was exposed to subfreezing conditions without being properly drained it can cause the pump to crack. Replace the pump if it is cracked.
   2. Make sure both the inlet line and the outlet line on the pump are securely connected. Check the brass elbow connection on the pressure side of the pump. If there is leaking coming from this elbow joint then it will need to be resecured. Apply a foodsafe sealing compound to the threading of the elbow and screw it back into the pump. Let the compound cure for 24 hours and the leak should be gone.
4. Examine the boiler assembly.
   1. If there is leaking coming from between the boiler and the grouphead there are two possible causes.
      1. If there is leaking all around the edge where these assemblies meet they are not sealing properly.
         1. First try tightening the eight allen screws that secure the boiler and grouphead together. There are four allen screws at the bottom of the boiler assembly inside the machine, and the other four bolts are located externally beneath the head of the machine.
         2. If it continues to leak then the o-ring that seals these two assemblies has slipped out of place or is worn out and needs to be replaced. Try unscrewing the boiler and the grouphead by removing the eight allen screws mentioned in the previous steps. Clean the o-ring off and reseat it and screw the boiler assembly back into place.
         3. If this does not resolve the leak then the o-ring is worn out and needs to be replaced. Replacement o-rings can be purchased here.
      2. If the leaking is mainly coming from the side of the boiler that faces the front of the machine then the boiler is probably cracked. This will happen if the machine is exposed to subfreezing temperatures without being drain properly, or the machine is dropped. The boiler will need to be replaced.
   2. If you find a crack anywhere else on the boiler then the machine was exposed to subfreezing temperatures without being drained properly or the machine was dropped. The boiler will need to be replaced.
5. Examine the decompression duct to the left of the boiler and the steam wand to the right of the boiler. If either of these are leaking make sure the fittings are tightened down securely.

From Bottom Of Machine

1. Check the water tank and drip tray to make sure that are no cracks or breaks where water can escape. Make sure they are properly positioned on the machine.
2. Ensure that the return line is sitting inside the water tank. If the tube is outside of the tank, or pushed up into the machine it will cause a leak. Position it so that it is sitting inside the water tank.
3. Make sure the decompression duct is installed. The decompression duct is a metal tube located to the left of the grouphead. If this tube is missing, water relieved after brewing will not be properly directed into the drip tray.

From Steam Wand

1. If the wand is leaking from the end of the wand it means the steam valve is not fully closed.
   1. Try tightening the knob down firmly. Pressure from the boiler will leak through the wand if the steam valve is not securely closed.
   2. If it feels like the knob is spinning in place then the knob may be broken. Try removing the knob and manually turning the steam valve closed. An adjustable wrench or a pair of pliers can help with this. If this stops the leak then the steam knob will need to be replaced.
   3. Descale the machine according to the instructions in the Cleaning & Maintenance section of this article. Scale buildup inside of the steam valve will prevent the valve from closing fully and can cause permanent damage to the valve. After the machine has been descaled run 4-6 tanks of water through the wand using the machine's hot water function to ensure any debris or scale in the valve is fully removed.
   4. If the leaking persists then the steam valve will need to be replaced. Instructions for replacing the steam valve can be found in the video below

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How to Replace the Steam Valve

1. If the wand is leaking from where it connects to the machine then the wand is not sealing properly to the steam valve assembly.
   1. Make sure the wand is securely screwed in. At the top of the wand is a hex shaped stainless steel threaded fitting which screws into a corresponding brass fitting that is part of the steam valve assembly. Use an open ended wrench or adjustable wrench to make sure these two parts are firmly screwed together.
   2. If tightening the wand onto the steam valve assembly does not resolve the leaking issue then the o-ring that goes between these parts may be dirty, damaged, or out of place. Unscrew the assemblies and inspect the o-ring. Clean the o-ring off, reseat it around the threaded end of the wand, and screw the wand back into the machine. If the leaking persists this o-ring will need to be replaced.

Machine Not Heating Or Powering On

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.

Brew Not Heating

1. Check to make sure the machine is set to heat for the brew function.
2. Give the machine sufficient time to heat up. It can take up ten minutes for this machine to be sufficiently heated for brewing. Make sure the portafilter is attached during heating.
   1. Make sure the brew indicator light has come on to indicate the machine is heated.
   2. While the water in the boiler may have heated to the correct temperature within minutes the grouphead may still be cold. If the grouphead is still cold then the temperature of the brew water will be drastically reduced once the water exits the boiler and comes into contact with other cooler components. This is why it is important to give the machine at least ten minutes to fully heat.
3. If the water coming from the brew head is completely cold then the brew thermostat will need to be replaced. Thermostat replacement instructions can be found below and replacement brew thermostats can be purchased here.

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How to Replace the Thermostats

Steam Not Heating

1. First make sure that there isn't any sort of flow issue by looking at the section of this article that discusses steam wand blockages.
2. Make sure the machine is set to steam mode, and that the indicator light has come on to indicate that the machine is heated for steam.
3. It is normal to have water come through the steam function for the first 5-10 seconds of steaming. This happens because the hot steam condenses back into water after it leave the boiler and come into contact with the room temperature steam valve and wand assemblies. For this reason you should do a process called purging.
   1. To purge the steam wand place an empty cup under the steam wand and turn the steam knob to the open position.
   2. Let the steam come through for 5-10 seconds, until there is significantly less water and a strong jet of steam.
   3. Close the knob, and begin your normal frothing process.
4. If the steam ready light comes on immediately when selected and the machine does not heat up to steam temperature, the steam thermostat will need to be replaced. Thermostat replacement instructions can be found below and replacement steam thermostats can be purchased here.

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How to Replace the Thermostats

Pannarello Nozzle Not Staying Attached

If the pannarello nozzle attachment is not staying on the machine, or it keeps blowing off during steaming, then it is either not attached properly or is plugged with milk residues and needs to be cleaned. Please refer to the cleaning and attachment instructions covered in the frothing issues section of this article.

Portafilter Handle Not Fitting On Machine

1. On new machines the portafilter will not fit perpendicular to the machine. This is because the grouphead gasket requires time to wear in before this can happen. As long as you can get the portafilter hand tight onto the machine and brew without leaking then the machine is operating properly. Do not use excessive force when attaching the portafilter or it can damage or break the grouphead gasket.
2. Too much coffee may be dosed into the portafilter. If there is too much coffee in the portafilter is can press into the shower screen and prevent the portafilter from attaching properly. Reduce the amount of coffee in the portafilter or test the machine with an empty portafilter. If the portafilter attaches properly then the filter basket was simply overdosed.
3. Check the filter baskets for dings, dents, or any sort of warping. A filter basket that is malformed can prevent the portafilter from attaching. Try attaching the portafilter with the basket removed, or with a different basket to see if it fits on correctly.
4. The group gasket has slipped out of place or needs replacing. Please refer to the section of this article which discusses gasket issues for instructions on how to test the gasket or replace it.
5. The grouphead may be damaged. If the machine was dropped or the grouphead was struck hard, then it can damage the grouphead. The grouphead would need to be replaced. This is not a normal occurrence and only happens if the machine has been mishandled.

Machine Is Making Loud Noises

1. If the noises are occurring specifically during steaming, and it sounds like a loud pinging, then the sleeve insert on the pannarello assembly is not in the proper position:
2. If there is a knocking or metallic banging sound while the pump is activated then the pump is probably off of its mounting. You can use the pump replacement instructions as a guide to help reposition the pump correctly:

Too Much Steam/Milk Boiling

If you think your wand is producing too much steam, or your milk looks like it is boiling, then you may need to make an adjustment to your frothing technique. Boiling milk, or milk that is getting to hot before frothing is completed is an indication that incorrect frothing technique is being used. Review the section of this article that addresses frothing difficulties for more information.

Steam Test Instructions

If the machine is within the specified steam test range, then the machine is producing the correct amount of steam and an adjustment to frothing technique is necessary. Using a carafe that is chilled in a freezer before frothing is helpful for keeping the milk cooler for longer, allowing for more time to froth before the milk begins to scald.

Diagrams & Manuals

Gaggia Classic
Electrical Diagram:
Hydraulic Diagram:	Not Available
Machine Manual:
Parts Diagram:
Service Manual	Not Available
Startup Guide:

Specifications