Espresso machine backflush

Applies to: daily cleaning of the group heads on any espresso machine with a three-way solenoid valve.

1. First, backflush with plain water only to clear loose grounds.
2. Run the group 3–4 times, ~5 seconds on and off each.
3. Add the cleaning powder to the blind basket, then lock in.
4. Roughly 3–5 g (about half a level teaspoon) — follow the product label.
5. Run the backflush cycle to force detergent solution back through the group and valve.
6. About 5 seconds on, 10 seconds off, repeated 5 times.
7. Remove the portafilter, rinse the blind basket, and backflush with plain water again until no foam remains.
8. Repeat until the runoff is completely clear — detergent residue tastes bitter in the next shot.
9. Wipe the group gasket and screen, and brush around the group head.
10. Pull and discard one shot before serving, to confirm no detergent taste.