Difference between revisions of "Gaggia Classic"

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(added video of how to reattach decompression duct)
 
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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. [[File:https://s3.amazonaws.com/store-assets-buckets/products/1632/medlarge/1.jpg?1414644780]]
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{{Getting-Started
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|brand = Gaggia
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|machine_type = Semi-Automatics
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|product_page_title = Gaggia Classic
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|product_banner =  [[File:Wiki_ProductPageBanner_1200x175_GaggiaClassic_v1.jpg| link=]]
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|page_type = set up
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|section1 = The Unboxing
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|anchor1 = Install
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|section2 = Get the Water Flowing
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|anchor2 = Priming
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|section3 = Get it Good & Hot
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|anchor3 = Heating
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|section4 = Get Brewing
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|anchor4 = Brewing
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|section5 = Get Frothing
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|anchor5 = Frothing
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|section6 = The Latte Art Wand
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|anchor6 = Latte Art Wand
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}}
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----
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===The Unboxing===
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{{Content-Columns
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|column_1 =
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# Get the power cord and the accessories out of the water tank.
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#* Remove the drip tray.
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#* Remove the metal tube sticking down on the left side of the machine, between the drip tray and the top of the machine.
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#:Be careful not to twist the metal tube, rather pull straight down. If you accidentally twist and the decompression duct becomes disconnected, follow the instructions in the video on the right to reinstall it.
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#* Remove the water tank and retrieve the accessories. Plug the cord into the back of the machine.
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# Plug the machine directly into an outlet. Don't plug  it into surge protectors, extension cords, or timers.
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# Fill the water tank to the max fill line, making sure the inlet/outlet tubes are submerged.  
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|column_2 =
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[[File:Wiki-YT-HowToReplaceGaggiaDecompressionDuct.jpg|center|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e5Rhnu5FC2c&feature=youtu.be]]
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|media_caption =
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How to Attach the Decompression Duct
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}}
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----
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{{Content-Columns
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|column_1 =
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===Get the Water Flowing===
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# Place a cup under the steam wand. Turn the steam knob to the open position.
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# Flip the power, brew, and steam switches so they're all on.
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# Dispense water until 3-4 oz. has been dispensed into the cup.
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<!-- Hiding this for now, until we get better force priming instructions. #* If no water is coming out after 30 seconds, is water leaving the tank?
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#* If water is not leaving the tank, power off the machine and begin force priming. This is normal. It happens.
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#* Take the priming pump and insert it into the inlet line. Facing the machine, the inlet line is the leftmost of the two. -->
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# Once the machine is primed, close the knob and switch the steam and brew buttons off.
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|column_2 = [[File:Wiki-YT-HowToPrimeYourGaggiaClassic.jpg|center|link=https://youtu.be/ca0LOoReSY8?t=339]]
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|media_caption =Gaggia Classic: Installation
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}}
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----
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{{Content-Columns
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|column_1 =
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===Get it Good & Hot===
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It's time to get heated.
  
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== Machine Description ==
 
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The current iteration of the Classic has replaced the nickel plated carbon steel housing with brushed stainless steel, which is durable and will not rust or flake over time. The [[portafilter]] handle was also upgraded to include a stainless steel dispensing spout. This improved the consistency of the espresso flow when split between 2 demitasse cups or shot glasses. The main design of the portafilter remained the same at one pound of chrome plated brass with a commercial size 58mm diameter. The Classic also uses a chrome plated brass [[grouphead]], which improves heat retention during shot pulls.The Classic now utilizes a [[pannarello]] style frothing nozzle on the steam wand. This nozzle attachment makes it easier for users to create a tight microfoam.Gaggia has replaced the pod adapter with a new style of basket. The new basket acts as both a single pressurized basket and a ESE pod filter, which means it can be used with ground coffee and ESE pods. There is also a double pressurized shot basket available for the unit.The machine draws 1425 Watts which is used to power the 55 Watt Ulka pump and the boiler, which utilizes two separate heating elements for rapid heating. The heating elements are embedded directly into the boiler and do not come into contact with the water. This effectively turns the entire boiler into a heating element allowing for faster more even heating, and prevents corrosion to the elements. A 3-way solenoid valve is also included in this version, which relieves pressure that develops during the brewing process, allowing for drier coffee pucks.
 
  
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==Basic Usage==
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With the machine on, the boiler will be at temperature within a few minutes.  We suggest waiting 10-15 minutes before using the machine, with the portafilter attached while the machine heats. Take this time to enjoy some light reading or call a friend to boast about your new espresso machine.
  
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== Cleaning & Maintenance ==
 
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{{SemiAutomaticMaintenance}}
 
  
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The compatible descaling products for this machine are either [https://www.wholelattelove.com/products/gaggia-decalcifier-4adf31c1-5733-464a-91c2-ffbda32ef649 Gaggia Decalcifier] or [https://www.wholelattelove.com/products/durgol-swiss-espresso-descaler Durgol Swiss Espresso Descaler]. The best product for cleaning grouphead components and filter baskets is a backflushing powder like [https://www.wholelattelove.com/products/urnex-cafiza-espresso-machine-cleaner Urnex Cafiza].
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Just don't leave it on forever. The machine won't like that.
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|column_2 =  [[File:Get_hot.jpg|center|600px|caption]]
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|media_caption =
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}}
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----
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{{Content-Columns
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|column_1 =
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===Get Brewing===
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# Grind your beans into the portafilter.
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# Tamp your grounds with about 30 lbs. of pressure.
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# Lock the portafilter into the brew group.
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# Flip the brew switch down to brew.
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#* Aim for 2 to 2.5 oz. in about 25 seconds.
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|column_2 = [[File:Wiki-YT-BasicEspressoTechnique-DialingGrindSize.jpg|center|link=https://youtu.be/iwHdm5GtNHI]]
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|media_caption = How To: Basic Espresso Technique - Dialing in Grind Size
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}}
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----
  
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== Troubleshooting ==
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===How to Use Gaggia Espresso Machine Filter Baskets===
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{{Content-Columns
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|column_1 =
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For new users, we recommend that you pop in the pressurized basket and 2-way pin into your portafilter. The 2-way pin is a small, black plastic piece that should be installed beneath the brew basket, with the tapered side down. The pressurized basket takes it easy on you when it comes to the nuance of tamping, grind size, and dosing. To swap baskets, you can use the lip of a spare basket to pry the installed basket out of the portafilter.
  
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===No Crema or Bad Tasting Shots===
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For now, stick with double shots until you're comfortable pulling a shot. If you are having trouble getting good results, give us a call. We've got your back.
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|column_2 =
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[[File:Wiki-YT-HowToUseGaggiaEspressoMachineFilterBaskets.jpg |center|link=https://youtu.be/DSZR7YwPFvA]]
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|media_caption =  
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How to Use Gaggia Filter Baskets
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}}
  
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Bad tasting shots or shots with poor crema do not typically indicate an issue with the machine; rather it indicates that an adjustments needs to be made to the brewing technique or some other external factor.
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----
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{{Content-Columns
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|column_1 =
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===Get Frothing===
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If you plan on steaming with the machine, but don't know how, we've got some tips for you.
  
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The following articles review the different variables and offer solutions:
 
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*[https://www.wholelattelove.com/community/videos/1854/quick-tip-what-is-the-right-way-to-tamp Tamping The Correct Way] and [https://www.wholelattelove.com/community/videos/1562/making-an-espresso-tamp-pressure-and-its-effect-on-shot-timing The Effects Of Tamping Pressure]
 
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*[https://www.wholelattelove.com/community/videos/1725/quick-tip-how-to-grind-for-espresso Grinding Coffee For Espresso]
 
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*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 higher crema content. Storing beans properly is also important, more information can be found [https://www.wholelattelove.com/community/blogs/2528/keeping-it-fresh-how-to-store-your-coffee-beans here].
 
  
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#Press the steam button. Wait to reach temperature. Easy.
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#Purge the steam wand.
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#* Open the steam knob. Leave the steam knob open until mostly steam is jetting out.
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#* Close the steam knob.
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# You are now ready to begin frothing.
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|column_2 =[[File:Wiki-YT-HowToFrothingWithYourGaggiaClassic.jpg|center|link=https://youtu.be/jCn9NjTuGLM?t=305]]
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|media_caption =Gaggia Classic: How to Use
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}}
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----
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{{Content-Columns
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|column_1 =
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===The Latte Art Wand===
  
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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. Refer to the [[Gaggia Classic#Cleaning & Maintenance|Cleaning & Maintenance]] portion of this article for more information.
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For more stylish creations and finer control while frothing milk, the Latte Art Pannarello Wand attachment turns the Classic into a tiny Barista.
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|column_2 = [[File:Wiki-YT-HowToGaggiaLatteArtPannarelloWand.jpg|center|link=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Suk60t1Bdhk]]
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===Difficulty Frothing===
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|media_caption =How To: The Gaggia Latte Art Pannarello Wand
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}}
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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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[[Category:Gaggia]]
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<div style="text-align: center;">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ocjpPcMApNI</div>
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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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<div style="text-align: center;">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i0Q6Tl-V_uc</div>
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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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<div style="text-align: center;">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5yUuKvEtAkk</div>
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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.
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<div style="text-align: center;">[[File:InsertOutOfPlace.jpg]]</div>
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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===
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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|Cleaning & Maintenance]] section of this article.
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====No Steam From Wand====
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#Check the brew function on the machine and see if water is able to flow through the machine for this function.
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##If the brew water is not flowing either refer to the [[#No Flow At All|No Flow At All]] section of this article
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##If the brew water flows but is not hot refer to the [[#On But Not Heating|On But Not Heating]] section of this article.
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#Turn the hot water function on for the steam wand to test for flow.
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##If nothing comes through refer to the [[#Only Flow From Brew Head|Only Flow From Brew Head]] section of this article.
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##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.
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#Remove the top of the machine to check for any loose or disconnected wires, and resecure these connections.
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#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 [https://www.wholelattelove.com/community/videos/1210/how-to-replace-the-thermostat-on-a-gaggia-classic-espresso-machine here].
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====Only Flow From Steam Wand====
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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|Cleaning & Maintenance]] section of this article. If cleaning does not resolve the behavior go through the steps below.
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#Make sure the grouphead is completely clean and free of debris. Be sure to completely disassemble and clean the grouphead according to the instructions [https://www.wholelattelove.com/community/videos/1098/how-to-clean-your-gaggia-semi-automatic-s-brew-group here].
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#
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====Only Flow From Brew Head====
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====No Flow At All====
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===Machine Is Leaking===
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====Coffee Spraying From Portafilter====
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====Between Portafilter & Grouphead====
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====From Head Of Machine====
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====From Bottom Of Machine====
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====From Steam Wand====
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===Machine Not Heating Or Powering On===
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====No Power====
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====Brew Not Heating====
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====Steam Not Heating====
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====On But Not Heating====
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===Pannarello Nozzle Not Staying Attached===
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===Portafilter Handle Not Fitting On Machine===
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==Diagrams & Manuals==
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==Specifications==
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Latest revision as of 13:30, 15 March 2019

Gaggia Classic

Set-Up & Use

Cleaning & Maintenance

Troubleshooting

Diagrams & Manuals
Wiki-NavIcons-NewUser Selected.jpg

Set-Up & Use

Wiki-NavIcons-Clean-Maintenance.jpg

Cleaning & Maintenance

Wiki-NavIcons-Troubleshooting.jpg

Troubleshooting

Wiki-NavIcons-Diagrams.jpg

Diagrams & Manuals




The Unboxing

  1. Get the power cord and the accessories out of the water tank.
    • Remove the drip tray.
    • Remove the metal tube sticking down on the left side of the machine, between the drip tray and the top of the machine.
    Be careful not to twist the metal tube, rather pull straight down. If you accidentally twist and the decompression duct becomes disconnected, follow the instructions in the video on the right to reinstall it.
    • Remove the water tank and retrieve the accessories. Plug the cord into the back of the machine.
  2. Plug the machine directly into an outlet. Don't plug it into surge protectors, extension cords, or timers.
  3. Fill the water tank to the max fill line, making sure the inlet/outlet tubes are submerged.
Wiki-YT-HowToReplaceGaggiaDecompressionDuct.jpg

How to Attach the Decompression Duct


Get the Water Flowing

  1. Place a cup under the steam wand. Turn the steam knob to the open position.
  2. Flip the power, brew, and steam switches so they're all on.
  3. Dispense water until 3-4 oz. has been dispensed into the cup.
  4. Once the machine is primed, close the knob and switch the steam and brew buttons off.
Wiki-YT-HowToPrimeYourGaggiaClassic.jpg

Gaggia Classic: Installation


Get it Good & Hot

It's time to get heated.


With the machine on, the boiler will be at temperature within a few minutes. We suggest waiting 10-15 minutes before using the machine, with the portafilter attached while the machine heats. Take this time to enjoy some light reading or call a friend to boast about your new espresso machine.


Just don't leave it on forever. The machine won't like that.

caption


Get Brewing

  1. Grind your beans into the portafilter.
  2. Tamp your grounds with about 30 lbs. of pressure.
  3. Lock the portafilter into the brew group.
  4. Flip the brew switch down to brew.
    • Aim for 2 to 2.5 oz. in about 25 seconds.
Wiki-YT-BasicEspressoTechnique-DialingGrindSize.jpg

How To: Basic Espresso Technique - Dialing in Grind Size


How to Use Gaggia Espresso Machine Filter Baskets

For new users, we recommend that you pop in the pressurized basket and 2-way pin into your portafilter. The 2-way pin is a small, black plastic piece that should be installed beneath the brew basket, with the tapered side down. The pressurized basket takes it easy on you when it comes to the nuance of tamping, grind size, and dosing. To swap baskets, you can use the lip of a spare basket to pry the installed basket out of the portafilter.

For now, stick with double shots until you're comfortable pulling a shot. If you are having trouble getting good results, give us a call. We've got your back.

Wiki-YT-HowToUseGaggiaEspressoMachineFilterBaskets.jpg

How to Use Gaggia Filter Baskets



Get Frothing

If you plan on steaming with the machine, but don't know how, we've got some tips for you.


  1. Press the steam button. Wait to reach temperature. Easy.
  2. Purge the steam wand.
    • Open the steam knob. Leave the steam knob open until mostly steam is jetting out.
    • Close the steam knob.
  3. You are now ready to begin frothing.
Wiki-YT-HowToFrothingWithYourGaggiaClassic.jpg

Gaggia Classic: How to Use


The Latte Art Wand

For more stylish creations and finer control while frothing milk, the Latte Art Pannarello Wand attachment turns the Classic into a tiny Barista.

Wiki-YT-HowToGaggiaLatteArtPannarelloWand.jpg

How To: The Gaggia Latte Art Pannarello Wand

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