1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the Tchibo Cafissimo Compact capsule coffee machine. This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your new appliance. Please read these instructions carefully before first use and keep them for future reference.
2. Safety Instructions
- Always connect the machine to a grounded power outlet.
- Do not immerse the machine, power cord, or plug in water or other liquids.
- Keep the appliance out of reach of children.
- Unplug the machine from the power outlet before cleaning and when not in use for extended periods.
- Do not operate the machine if the power cord or plug is damaged. Contact customer support for repairs.
- Use only Tchibo Cafissimo capsules with this machine.
- Never open the brewing unit during operation. Hot water may escape.
- Ensure the water tank is filled with fresh, cold water before each use.
3. Package Contents
Please check that all items are present in the packaging:
- Tchibo Cafissimo Compact Capsule Coffee Machine
- Removable Water Tank
- Removable Drip Tray with Grid
- Integrated Capsule Collection Bin
- Instruction Manual (this document)
4. Product Overview
Familiarize yourself with the components of your Tchibo Cafissimo Compact machine:

Image 4.1: Cafissimo Compact Components
This image illustrates the key parts of the Cafissimo Compact machine. Visible components include the integrated capsule collection bin, selection buttons for different coffee types, the removable 1.2-liter water tank, and the removable drip tray.
- Integrated Capsule Collection Bin: For drip-free disposal of used capsules.
- Selection Buttons: Dedicated buttons for Espresso, Caffè Crema, and Filter Coffee.
- Removable 1.2-Liter Water Tank: Located at the back, holds enough water for multiple servings.
- Removable Drip Tray: Collects excess liquid and supports your cup.
- Brewing Unit: Where the capsule is inserted for brewing.
- Power Button: To turn the machine on and off.
5. Setup
5.1 Initial Cleaning
- Remove all packaging materials and protective films from the machine.
- Wash the water tank, drip tray, and capsule collection bin with warm water and a mild detergent. Rinse thoroughly and dry.
- Wipe the exterior of the machine with a damp cloth.
5.2 Filling the Water Tank
- Remove the water tank from the back of the machine.
- Fill the tank with fresh, cold tap water up to the 'MAX' mark.
- Place the water tank back onto the machine, ensuring it is securely seated.
5.3 First Rinse Cycle
Before brewing your first coffee, perform a rinse cycle to clean the internal system:
- Place an empty cup under the coffee spout.
- Ensure the water tank is filled.
- Plug the machine into a grounded power outlet.
- Press the power button to turn on the machine. The buttons will flash during heating.
- Once the buttons illuminate steadily, press any coffee selection button (e.g., Caffè Crema button) without inserting a capsule.
- The machine will dispense hot water. Repeat this process 2-3 times.
6. Operating Instructions
6.1 Powering On and Off
- To Turn On: Press the power button. The coffee selection buttons will flash while the machine heats up. They will glow steadily when ready.
- To Turn Off: Press the power button again. The machine also features automatic shutdown after 15 minutes of inactivity.
6.2 Brewing Coffee
- Ensure the water tank is filled with fresh water and the machine is powered on and ready (buttons glowing steadily).
- Lift the lever to open the brewing unit.
- Insert a Tchibo Cafissimo capsule into the capsule holder.
- Close the lever firmly until it clicks into place.
- Place a cup on the drip tray under the coffee spout.
- Select your desired beverage by pressing the corresponding button:
- Espresso Button: For a small, intense coffee.
- Caffè Crema Button: For a medium-sized coffee with a fine crema.
- Filter Coffee Button: For a larger cup of coffee.
- The machine will begin brewing. The selected button will flash during the brewing process.
- Once brewing is complete, the button will glow steadily again. Remove your cup.
- Lift the lever to eject the used capsule into the collection bin. Close the lever.
6.3 Programming Beverage Quantity
You can customize the amount of coffee dispensed for each button:
- Ensure the machine is ready and a capsule is inserted (or no capsule for a rinse cycle).
- Press and hold the desired coffee selection button (Espresso, Caffè Crema, or Filter Coffee).
- The machine will start brewing. Continue to hold the button until your desired beverage quantity is reached in the cup.
- Release the button. The new quantity is now saved for that specific button.
7. Maintenance
7.1 Daily Cleaning
- Drip Tray and Capsule Collection Bin: Empty and rinse these components daily with warm water. Dry thoroughly before reinserting.
- Water Tank: Rinse the water tank daily and refill with fresh water.
- Exterior: Wipe the machine's exterior with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
7.2 Descaling
Regular descaling is crucial to maintain machine performance and extend its lifespan. The frequency depends on water hardness and usage. Refer to the descaling indicator (if present, usually a flashing light) or descale every 1-3 months.
- Empty the water tank, drip tray, and capsule collection bin.
- Fill the water tank with a suitable descaling solution according to the descaler manufacturer's instructions.
- Place a large container (at least 1.2 liters) under the coffee spout.
- Follow the specific descaling procedure outlined in your machine's full manual or the descaler product instructions. This typically involves initiating a descaling program or repeatedly pressing a button to run the solution through the machine.
- After the descaling solution has run through, rinse the water tank thoroughly and fill it with fresh water.
- Run several full water tanks of fresh water through the machine to rinse out any descaler residue.
8. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Machine does not turn on | No power supply | Check if the power plug is securely inserted into a working outlet. |
| No coffee is dispensed | Water tank empty Brewing unit not closed Machine not heated | Fill the water tank. Ensure the lever is firmly closed. Wait until the coffee selection buttons glow steadily. |
| Coffee tastes weak or watery | Incorrect capsule type Machine needs descaling | Ensure you are using Tchibo Cafissimo capsules. Perform a descaling cycle. |
| Water leaks from the machine | Water tank not properly seated Drip tray full | Re-seat the water tank firmly. Empty the drip tray. |
| Buttons are flashing continuously | Machine is heating up Descaling required | Wait for the buttons to glow steadily. If flashing persists after heating, perform a descaling cycle. |
9. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Tchibo |
| Model Number | 305218 |
| Color | Black |
| Dimensions (D x W x H) | Approx. 37.01 cm x 17.5 cm x 26.5 cm |
| Weight | Approx. 5 kg |
| Water Tank Capacity | 1.2 Liters |
| Power/Wattage | 950 Watt |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Special Features | Programmable beverage quantity, Automatic shut-off (15 min) |

Image 9.1: Cafissimo Compact Dimensions
This image provides a visual reference for the machine's height, indicating approximately 26.5 cm.
10. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Tchibo website. If you encounter any issues not covered in this manual or require further assistance, please contact Tchibo customer support. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.





