Does Adelaide water cause scale in coffee machines?
Yes, water used in Adelaide coffee machines can contribute to scale build-up, although the amount of scale depends on the water supply, filtration system and how frequently the machine is used.
Scale forms when minerals contained in water are heated and deposited inside the coffee machine. Over time, these deposits can accumulate inside boilers, pipes, valves, solenoids and other hydraulic components.
Common symptoms of scale can include:
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Reduced water flow
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Poor steam performance
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Temperature instability
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Noisy operation
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Restricted valves or solenoids
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Longer heating times
Coffee machines are particularly susceptible because they repeatedly heat water and, in many machines, water remains inside the boiler between uses.
Will a normal drinking-water filter prevent scale?
Not necessarily. Many drinking-water filters are designed primarily to improve taste and reduce chlorine or sediment. Coffee equipment may require filtration specifically designed to reduce hardness and scale.
Adelaide's High Chloride levels.
Our team is highly regarded in water quality, we were part of the La Marzocco "Chorides and Aggressive Water" Educational Seminar in Milan. The core message of these seminars is clear: chlorides are the most destructive element for espresso machines, causing irreversible pitting corrosion in stainless steel boilers.
Complete Cafe Services has more information in our guide to water filtration for coffee machines.
Regular cleaning, appropriate water filtration and periodic professional servicing can significantly reduce the likelihood of scale-related problems.
If you have an espresso machine in Adelaide and are unsure about its condition, see our coffee machine servicing and repairs information.
Written by Kayne Ensten — Director / Technical Specialist, Complete Cafe Services
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