Gaggia Espresso Group Valve Cleaning

by Whole Latte Love Updated: August 25, 2023 2 min read
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Learn how to clean a group valve for a Gaggia Color, Dose or Pure espresso machine through this step-by-step video. We recommend the group head of your espresso machine be cleaned every six months to avoid common issues. If you are able to get steam and hot water through the steam arm, but are unable to get water through the brew head, this will show you how to clean the Group Valve Assembly.

Step-by-Step Instructions. Please read the entire instructions before you start.

  1. Unplug the machine and make sure it is cool before beginning.
  2. Remove the reservoir, drip tray, drip pan and lay the espresso machine on its back.
  3. Locate the shower screen. It is where you lock the portafilter handle to the group head. Use a short Philips head screwdriver to remove the shower screen.
  4. Now look up inside the group head. In the center you will see the group valve. If you do not have a screwdriver of this size, a Nickel is nearly a perfect fit for these slots and can be used instead.
  5. There are two slots parallel to one another on each side. Turn it counter clockwise to remove it completely.
  6. Behind the group valve you will find a spring and valve seat. The valve seat is the rubber stopper at the end of the spring. Clean the stopper with a stiff brush. You can also clean your group head with a stiff brush and some descaler to remove coffee buildup.
  7. This is also good opportunity to clean the shower screen as well. The cleaner they are, the better your coffee will taste.
  8. DO NOT use a pin to clean out any holes in the screen. It can cause future clogs because it will enlarge the small holes. Make sure you can see through the holes. Be sure to scrub the screen well.
  9. Now reassemble the group head in reverse order. Do not tighten the group valve too much or water will not exit the boiler. Tip the unit back up and install the drip pan, drip tray and water reservoir. Fill the reservoir and plug the machine in and you are ready to go.