Introduction
Thank you for choosing the Petrus PE3900 Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine. This manual provides essential information for the safe operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your new coffee machine. Please read it thoroughly before first use and keep it for future reference.
The Petrus PE3900 is a high-performance, semi-automatic espresso machine designed for both domestic and light commercial use. It features a unique three-boiler system, precise temperature control, and adjustable extraction parameters to help you achieve professional-quality coffee.
Important Safety Instructions
- Always connect the machine to a grounded power outlet with the correct voltage (220V~240V).
- Do not immerse the machine, power cord, or plug in water or other liquids.
- Keep hands and utensils away from hot surfaces and steam nozzles during operation.
- Ensure the water tank is filled before operating the machine.
- Unplug the machine before cleaning and when not in use.
- Do not operate the machine with a damaged cord or plug.
- This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance by a person responsible for their safety.
Product Components
Familiarize yourself with the main parts of your Petrus PE3900 espresso machine:
- Main Unit (Espresso Machine)
- Portafilter
- Filter Baskets (Single/Double Shot)
- Tamper
- Water Tank (1.8L internal)
- Steam Wand
- Hot Water Spout
- Drip Tray (removable)
- Pressure Gauges (Extraction & Steam)
- Control Panel with OLED Display
- External Water Pipe Connector (for direct water supply)
- Power Cord
- Conversion Plug (if applicable)
Setup
1. Unpacking and Placement
- Carefully remove all packaging materials.
- Place the machine on a stable, level, and heat-resistant surface. Ensure adequate ventilation around the machine.
- Keep the machine away from water sources and direct sunlight.
2. Water Supply Connection
The PE3900 offers two water supply options:
- Internal Water Tank: The machine comes with a 1.8L internal water tank. To fill, remove the tank from the back of the machine, fill with fresh, filtered water, and reinsert securely.
- External Water Pipe: For continuous operation, you can connect an external water pipe to the rear port of the machine. Ensure the external water source is clean and provides adequate pressure.
3. Initial Cleaning and Priming
- Before first use, fill the water tank and run several cycles of hot water through the brew head and steam wand without coffee to clean the internal components.
- Ensure the drip tray is correctly installed.
4. Power Connection
- Plug the power cord into a grounded 220V~240V, 16A electrical outlet.
- Turn on the main power switch, usually located on the side or back of the machine.
Operating Instructions
1. Pre-heating
- Allow the machine to pre-heat for at least 2 minutes for the brew boiler and 1.5 minutes for the steam boiler to reach optimal temperatures. The OLED display will indicate readiness.
- Pre-warm your cups on the stainless steel cup warming area.
2. Espresso Extraction
- Grind Coffee: Grind fresh coffee beans to an appropriate fineness for espresso.
- Dose and Tamp: Fill the portafilter basket with ground coffee and tamp evenly with approximately 30 lbs of pressure.
- Attach Portafilter: Securely attach the portafilter to the brew head.
- Adjust Parameters: Use the control panel to set your desired extraction temperature, pre-infusion time, and extraction time.
Figure 7: Adjustable extraction parameters for personalized coffee: 88-96°C brew water temperature, 20-40s extraction time, 0-4s pre-infusion time, and 50-300ml hot water volume. 
Figure 8: Adjustable brewing temperature (88-96°C) to optimize flavor for different roast levels (light, medium, dark). 
Figure 9: Adjustable extraction time (20-40s) for different coffee profiles: fast (strong acid, low bitterness), standard (balanced sweetness, acidity), slow (rich bitterness, low acidity). - Start Extraction: Press the brew button. The machine will apply 9 Bar extraction pressure. Monitor the extraction pressure gauge.
- Stop Extraction: Press the brew button again to stop the flow, or use the manual DIY mode for precise control.
3. Milk Frothing (Steaming)
- Ensure the steam boiler is pre-heated (indicated on the display).
- Purge the steam wand briefly to remove any condensed water.
- Immerse the steam wand tip just below the surface of cold milk in a frothing pitcher.
- Open the steam valve to begin frothing. Move the pitcher to create a whirlpool effect and incorporate air.
- Once desired texture and temperature are reached, close the steam valve.
- Immediately wipe the steam wand with a damp cloth and purge again to clear any milk residue.
4. Hot Water Dispensing
- The machine features an independent hot water pipe.
- Place a cup under the hot water spout and activate the hot water function via the control panel.
- Adjust the hot water volume as needed (50-300ml).
Maintenance and Cleaning
1. Daily Cleaning
- Drip Tray: Empty and clean the removable drip tray daily.
Figure 13: The removable drip tray simplifies daily cleaning. - Steam Wand: Wipe the steam wand immediately after each use with a damp cloth. Purge steam to clear any milk residue.
- Portafilter and Filter Baskets: Rinse the portafilter and filter baskets after each use.
- Brew Head: Perform a quick backflush (without coffee) to rinse the brew head.
2. Weekly Cleaning
- Water Tank: Remove and clean the water tank with mild detergent and rinse thoroughly.
- Brew Head Gasket and Screen: Inspect and clean the brew head gasket and shower screen. Remove any coffee grounds buildup.
3. Descaling
- Depending on water hardness and usage, descaling should be performed every 1-3 months.
- Use a commercial descaling solution specifically designed for espresso machines.
- Follow the instructions provided with the descaling solution carefully.
- Rinse the machine thoroughly with several cycles of fresh water after descaling.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Machine does not turn on | No power, power switch off, faulty plug/cord | Check power connection, ensure switch is on, inspect cord/plug for damage. |
| No water flow from brew head | Empty water tank, clogged brew head, pump issue | Refill water tank, clean brew head/shower screen, contact support if pump is suspected. |
| Espresso extracts too fast/slow | Grind size incorrect, tamping pressure incorrect, dose incorrect | Adjust grind finer/coarser, adjust tamping pressure, ensure correct coffee dose. |
| No steam from wand | Steam boiler not heated, steam wand clogged, steam valve closed | Allow steam boiler to heat, clean steam wand tip, open steam valve. |
| Leaking from machine | Drip tray full, loose water tank, damaged gasket | Empty drip tray, ensure water tank is seated correctly, inspect and replace gaskets if damaged. |
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model | PE3900WH |
| Brand | Petrus |
| Voltage | 220V~240V |
| Rated Power | 2750W |
| Plug Type | 16A (Specific plug type may vary by region, e.g., UK, EU, AU, JP, KR, CN) |
| Body Material | Stainless Steel |
| Water Tank Material | AS |
| Pump Pressure (Extraction) | 15 Bar (Optimal extraction at 9 Bar) |
| Pump Pressure (Steam) | 5 Bar |
| Net Weight | 10.2 kg |
| Display Type | OLED Display |
| Water Tank Capacity | 1.8 L (Supports external water pipe connection) |
| Product Dimensions (L x W x H) | 435 x 247 x 342 mm |
| Packaging Dimensions (L x W x H) | 507 x 307 x 440 mm |
| Certification | CE |
| Capacity (Cups) | <5 cups |
| Origin | Mainland China |
User Tips
- Fresh Beans Matter: Always use freshly roasted and ground coffee beans for the best flavor.
- Water Quality: Use filtered water to prevent scale buildup and improve coffee taste.
- Experiment with Settings: Don't be afraid to adjust grind size, dose, tamp, and extraction parameters to find your perfect shot. The PE3900 offers extensive adjustability for this purpose.
- Pre-warm Everything: Pre-warming your portafilter and cups helps maintain extraction temperature and prevents your espresso from cooling too quickly.
- Cleanliness is Key: Regular cleaning, especially of the steam wand and brew head, is crucial for machine longevity and consistent coffee quality.
Warranty and Support
For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to your purchase documentation or contact the retailer/manufacturer directly. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.