1. Introduction to De'Longhi SoftBalls
The De'Longhi SoftBalls are an innovative solution designed to prevent the formation of limescale within the water tank of your coffee machine. By actively reducing mineral buildup, these spheres help to extend the lifespan of your appliance and ensure that the sensory properties of your water remain unaltered, leading to consistently creamy and aromatic coffee.

Image: De'Longhi SoftBalls packaging, showing two bags of anti-limescale spheres.
2. Setup and Installation
To begin using your De'Longhi SoftBalls, follow these simple steps:
- Remove Water Tank: Carefully remove the water tank from your coffee machine.
- Empty and Clean: Empty any remaining water and clean the tank thoroughly.
- Insert SoftBalls: Open one bag of De'Longhi SoftBalls and place the spheres directly into the empty water tank.
- Refill Water Tank: Fill the water tank with fresh, clean water as you normally would.
- Reinstall Tank: Place the water tank back into your coffee machine, ensuring it is securely seated.

Image: Two boxes of De'Longhi SoftBalls, ready for use.
3. Operating Instructions
Once installed, the De'Longhi SoftBalls work continuously to prevent limescale buildup. No special operation is required from your side; simply use your coffee machine as usual. The spheres will automatically treat the water as it passes through the tank.
The primary function of SoftBalls is preventative. For optimal performance and to maintain the quality of your coffee, ensure regular replacement as outlined in the Maintenance section.
4. Maintenance and Replacement
For continuous and effective limescale prevention, it is recommended to replace the De'Longhi SoftBalls approximately every three months. This ensures the active ingredients remain potent and continue to protect your coffee machine.
- Remove Old SoftBalls: When it's time for replacement, remove the water tank from your machine and discard the old SoftBalls.
- Clean Tank: Clean the water tank thoroughly before inserting new spheres.
- Insert New SoftBalls: Follow the setup instructions (Section 2) to install a fresh bag of De'Longhi SoftBalls.
Complementary Descaling (for existing limescale)
While SoftBalls prevent new limescale, existing buildup may require a dedicated descaling solution. De'Longhi offers official descaling products for this purpose. Refer to your coffee machine's manual for specific descaling procedures.
Video: Learn how to clean and descale your De'Longhi machine for better coffee. This video demonstrates the use of a descaling and cleaning kit to maintain optimal machine performance and coffee quality.
Video: An overview of the De'Longhi Descaling Kit, which includes descaler solution and filters. This kit is designed for comprehensive maintenance of your coffee machine.
Video: A user's perspective on using a descaling and cleaning kit for their coffee machine, highlighting its benefits for machine longevity and coffee taste.
Video: An official demonstration of a descaler solution for espresso machines, detailing the process to remove limescale and ensure proper machine function.
5. Troubleshooting
De'Longhi SoftBalls are a passive preventative measure. If you experience issues with your coffee machine, such as reduced water flow, altered coffee taste, or error messages related to limescale, it is likely that existing limescale buildup needs to be addressed with a dedicated descaling solution. The SoftBalls primarily prevent new buildup.
Always refer to your specific coffee machine's instruction manual for troubleshooting steps related to machine operation and descaling procedures.
6. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product Dimensions | 4.41 x 1.18 x 4.45 inches; 1.76 ounces |
| Item Model Number | DLSC551 |
| Manufacturer | Delonghi |
| Brand | De'Longhi |
| Item Form | Granule (spheres) |
| Specific Uses For Product | Coffee Maker (anti-limescale) |
| Material Feature | Organic |
| Date First Available | December 8, 2023 |
7. Safety Information
Ingredients: Anti-limescale balls
Legal Disclaimer: Statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or health condition.
Always keep product out of reach of children. Do not ingest. In case of accidental ingestion, seek medical advice immediately.
8. Warranty and Support
For specific warranty information regarding your De'Longhi SoftBalls or your coffee machine, please refer to the documentation provided with your original purchase or visit the official De'Longhi website. For further assistance or technical support, please contact De'Longhi customer service.





