Gaggia Brera: Descaling Issues
The main issue with descaling the Gaggia Brera comes from the now outdated method in the older versions of the user manual. That method will still work, but it does not work nearly as well as the more automated version in the video below. The process is essentially the same, but the key difference is you will be starting the process from standby rather than having the machine fully powered on. IF ANY SCREEN LIGHTS ARE ON, YOU ARE NOT IN STANDBY MODE. The blinking power button should be all you see before pressing and holding the 2 coffee buttons to begin the descaling process.
If the machine is fully powered on, you may accidentally start a grind and brew cycle, and end up accidentally reprogramming one or both drink buttons in the process. If the light isn’t blinking at all, the machine is fully off rather than in standby, and will not respond to any button presses. Follow the instructions below, and whenever the machine requests a refill for the reservoir, be sure to fill it to the max line. Filling the reservoir half way can result in the process repeating the rinsing and refill request until the reservoir is fully filled:
Gaggia Brera: How to Automatically Descale
Please note that the location of the Brera name on your machine does not necessarily imply the correct age. The official way to check would be the production date on the label on the door across from your brew unit.
Machines manufactured before 2013 do not have an automatic descale cycle. When you are done you have to push and hold "Aroma Strength" button (with the beans on it) to turn off the light. This method CAN work on newer machines as well, but is not recommended.
The other issue with the manual version of the process is you need to press and hold specific buttons at the end of the process in order to clear the descale symbol. If that doesn’t work, the only method to get that descale indicator to clear will be starting the descale process over and making sure it completes properly. The version in the video will automatically stop the process when it completes without having to press and hold any buttons. The machine will return to standby and be ready for normal operation without that symbol on your screen.
If the descaling process seems to be working as it should, but you do not get water dispensing from the coffee spouts (and only from the wand) there’s likely an issue with your brew unit. If you think that might be the case, check out the information below on how to address the brew unit directly:
Note: Do not remove the brew group during the descale process.
If you have low flow and the cycle will not complete there could be other issues and the machine has to come in for service. Could be an issue with the pump, selector valve, or the brew group. Make sure the water tank is seated properly.
Failure of normal wear and tear items such as group gaskets, seals, and shower screens are not covered under warranty. Issues due to scale build-up or lack of maintenance are not covered.