Introduction
Thank you for choosing the Nivona NICR 520 fully automatic coffee machine. This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your appliance. Please read these instructions carefully before first use and keep them for future reference.
The Nivona NICR 520 is designed to deliver high-quality coffee beverages with ease, featuring a digital display, 15-bar pump pressure aroma system, and a quiet conical grinder for fresh coffee every time.
Safety Instructions
Always observe the following safety precautions to prevent damage or injury:
- Ensure the appliance is connected to a properly grounded power outlet.
- Do not immerse the machine, power cord, or plug in water or other liquids.
- Keep children away from the appliance during operation.
- Unplug the machine before cleaning or if it will not be used for an extended period.
- Do not operate the machine if the power cord or plug is damaged.
- Only use original Nivona spare parts and accessories.
- The machine is not dishwasher safe.
Product Overview
Familiarize yourself with the main components of your Nivona NICR 520 coffee machine.

Image: Front view of the Nivona NICR 520 Fully Automatic Coffee Machine, showcasing its matte black finish, digital display, coffee spout, and drip tray. A small cup of espresso is placed on the drip tray.
- Digital Dialog Display: For intuitive operation and status indicators.
- Bean Container: Holds approximately 250g of coffee beans.
- Water Tank: Removable, with a capacity of 2.2 liters.
- Conical Grinder: Made of hardened steel for precise and quiet grinding.
- Brewing Unit: Removable for hygienic cleaning.
- Coffee Spout: Height adjustable up to 14 cm.
- Milk Frother: Manual professional frother for milk-based beverages.
- Drip Tray & Coffee Grounds Container: Collects excess water and used coffee grounds.
Setup
1. Unpacking
- Carefully remove the coffee machine and all accessories from the packaging.
- Remove all protective films and packaging materials.
- Place the machine on a stable, level, and heat-resistant surface.
2. Initial Cleaning
Before first use, clean the water tank, drip tray, and coffee grounds container with warm water and a mild detergent. Rinse thoroughly.
3. Filling the Water Tank

Image: Top view of the Nivona NICR 520 coffee machine with the lid open, revealing the water tank and bean hopper compartments. This illustrates where to add water and coffee beans.
- Remove the water tank from the side of the machine.
- Fill the tank with fresh, cold tap water up to the MAX mark.
- Reinsert the water tank securely into the machine. The machine features automatic level monitoring for water.
4. Filling the Bean Container
- Open the aroma protection lid on top of the machine.
- Pour fresh coffee beans into the bean container. Do not overfill.
- Close the aroma protection lid to maintain bean freshness.
Operating Instructions
1. First Use / Rinsing
- Plug in the machine and switch it on.
- The display will guide you through the initial setup and rinsing process. Follow the on-screen instructions.
- Place a container under the coffee spout during the rinsing cycle.
2. Brewing Coffee
- Place a cup under the coffee spout. Adjust the spout height as needed (up to 14 cm).
- Select your desired coffee strength and quantity using the digital display and controls. Coffee strength is adjustable in 3 steps.
- Press the start button to begin brewing.
3. Adjusting Settings
- Coffee Temperature: Selectable in 3 steps via the menu.
- Coffee Strength: Adjustable in 3 steps before brewing.
- Grinding Degree: Adjustable in 3 steps using the grinder adjustment knob inside the bean container (only adjust while the grinder is running).
- ECO Mode: Activate the energy-saving ECO mode via the menu to reduce power consumption.
4. Milk Frothing
The Nivona NICR 520 features a manual professional frother. Use the included milk hose for best results.
- Fill a suitable container with cold milk.
- Insert the milk hose into the milk container and attach it to the frother nozzle.
- Activate the steam function via the display.
- Immerse the frother nozzle into the milk and froth until desired consistency is achieved.
- After frothing, clean the milk system immediately by running steam through the nozzle.
Maintenance
Regular cleaning and maintenance ensure optimal performance and longevity of your coffee machine.
1. Daily Cleaning
- Empty and rinse the drip tray and coffee grounds container daily.
- Wipe the exterior of the machine with a damp cloth.
2. Cleaning the Brewing Unit
The brewing unit is removable for hygienic cleaning.
- Switch off the machine and unplug it.
- Open the service door and remove the brewing unit.
- Rinse the brewing unit thoroughly under running warm water. Do not use detergent.
- Allow it to air dry completely before reinserting.
3. Descaling
The machine will prompt you when descaling is required. Use Nivona descaling solution as per the instructions on the product and the machine's display.
4. Cleaning the Milk System
After each use of the milk frother, ensure it is cleaned by running steam through it. Periodically, perform a more thorough cleaning using a milk system cleaner.
Troubleshooting
Refer to this table for common issues and their solutions.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No coffee is dispensed. | Water tank empty, beans empty, brewing unit blocked. | Fill water tank, fill bean container, clean brewing unit. |
| Coffee is too weak. | Grinding degree too coarse, coffee strength setting too low. | Adjust grinding degree finer, increase coffee strength setting. |
| Machine displays 'Descale'. | Limescale buildup. | Perform descaling program as per instructions. |
| Milk frother not producing foam. | Frother nozzle blocked, milk not cold enough. | Clean frother nozzle, use cold milk. |
Specifications
Key technical details of the Nivona NICR 520:

Image: The Nivona NICR 520 coffee machine shown with its approximate dimensions: 30cm height, 32cm depth, and 22cm width. This provides a visual reference for its physical size.
- Model: NICR 520 (CafeRomantica 520)
- Brand: Nivona
- Capacity: 2.2 Liters (water tank)
- Color: Matte Black
- Material: Plastic
- Wattage: 1465 Watts
- Voltage: 230 Volts
- Pump Pressure: 15 bar
- Bean Container Capacity: Approx. 250g
- Special Features: Removable tank, integrated coffee grinder, milk frother, programmable, water filter compatible.
- Input: Buttons
- Filter Type: Reusable
- Dishwasher Safe: No
Warranty and Support
Your Nivona NICR 520 coffee machine comes with a 2-year manufacturer's warranty. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use.
For warranty claims, technical support, or service inquiries, please contact your authorized Nivona dealer or visit the official Nivona website for contact information specific to your region. Please have your proof of purchase and the machine's serial number ready when contacting support.





