1. Introduction
Welcome to the Mcilpoog TC520 Espresso Machine user manual. This guide provides comprehensive instructions for setting up, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting your new semi-automatic coffee machine. Designed for both beginners and experienced baristas, the TC520 features an integrated conical burr grinder, 15-bar pressure pump, PID temperature control, and a 6-inch large display screen for an effortless coffee brewing experience.
2. Important Safety Instructions
Please read all instructions carefully before using the appliance. Failure to follow these instructions may result in electric shock, fire, or serious injury.
- Do not immerse the coffee machine in water or any other liquid.
- Ensure the power cord is unplugged before cleaning or performing maintenance.
- Do not use strong detergents, abrasive pads, or sharp objects to clean the machine.
- Keep hands and fingers away from hot surfaces and steam nozzles during operation.
- Use only pure water in the water tank; do not exceed 2 liters and ensure water temperature is not higher than 35°C.
- Do not pour more than 150g of coffee beans into the bean box.
3. Product Overview & Components
Familiarize yourself with the various parts of your Mcilpoog TC520 Espresso Machine.

Figure 1: Front view of the Mcilpoog TC520 Espresso Machine, showcasing its cream and chrome finish, large digital display, and portafilter.

Figure 2: Close-up of the 6-inch large display screen, showing extraction pressure, time, and other parameters for stress-free operation.

Figure 3: Overview of key components including the built-in conical burr grinder, dual pumps and boilers, large warm cup area, and 15-bar high-pressure pump.
4. Setup Instructions
- Unpacking: Carefully remove all components from the packaging. Retain packaging for future transport or storage.
- Water Tank Setup: Lift the lid of the water tank located at the top rear of the machine. Pour no more than 2 liters of pure water into the water tank (water temperature should not exceed 35°C). Close the lid securely.
- Bean Box Setup: Ensure the bean box is locked before putting coffee beans. Pour no more than 150g of whole coffee beans into the bean box. The light will be on when the bean box is in a locked state, indicating the grinding function is ready.
- Initial Rinse: Place a cup with a capacity greater than 150ml above the waste water tray. Press the single-cup or double-cup key and wait for the machine to finish rinsing. This cleans the internal system.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Grinding Coffee
The built-in conical burr grinder offers 15 grind settings for optimal freshness.
- Adjust the grind size using the 'FINE' to 'COARSE' dial on the side of the machine.
- Method 1 (Manual Grind): Push downward the handled brewing cup (portafilter) to start grinding. Release when desired amount of coffee powder is reached.
- Method 2 (Button Grind): Press the Grinding key on the display to start grinding. Press again to stop. (Note: Grinding will automatically stop after 13 seconds without operation).
5.2 Brewing Espresso
The 15-bar high-pressure pump and PID temperature control ensure rich crema and optimum flavor.
- Press down the coffee powder in the portafilter with the tamper.
- Transfer the portafilter to the brewing head and lock it into place.
- Place your cup(s) under the portafilter.
- Press the single-cup or double-cup button on the display. The machine will automatically brew the coffee.
5.3 Milk Frothing
The 3-gear frother mixes steam and milk for rich, creamy froth.
- Pour no less than 50ml fresh pure milk into the frothing cup.
- Position the steam rod 1 to 2 cm from the milk surface, close to the 3 o'clock position on the right side of the cup.
- Push the right lever upwards to start steaming. Wait for steam to form.
- Once desired froth is achieved, return the lever to its original position.
5.4 Hot Water Dispensing
- Place a cup under the steam pipe.
- Push the right lever upwards to dispense hot water.
- After gaining the desired hot water, reset the lever to finish the hot water preparation.
5.5 Official Product Videos
Watch these official videos from Mcilpoog for visual guidance on setup and operation.
Video 1: Mcilpoog TC520 Use of video. This comprehensive video demonstrates the unpacking, parts description, how to use, coffee making, hot water preparation, milk foam preparation, descaling, and factory reset functions of the espresso machine.
Video 2: Mcilpoog TC520 Espresso Machine With Grinder. This video focuses on the integrated grinder and its operation, showing how to grind coffee beans directly into the portafilter.
6. Maintenance
Regular cleaning and maintenance ensure optimal performance and longevity of your machine.
6.1 General Cleaning
- Always unplug the power cord before cleaning.
- Remove and clean the drip tray and its metal grate regularly with warm soapy water.
- Clean the portafilter and filter baskets under running water after each use.
6.2 Bean Box and Grinder Cleaning
- Unlock and remove the bean box by twisting the internal knob. Pour out any excess beans.
- Unlock the grinder counter-clockwise and lift it away.
- Use the provided brush to clean the grinder components and the bean box.
- Use a brush to clean the powder outlet where ground coffee dispenses.
6.3 Descaling
The machine will indicate when descaling is needed (descaling mark flashes).
- Place a cup at the coffee outlet and steam outlet.
- Fill the water tank with 1 liter of purified water and add an appropriate amount of descaling agent.
- Press and hold the single and double keys for 3 seconds to activate the descaling function.
- After about 200 seconds, the descaling function will automatically exit and the cleaning lamp will go out.
7. Troubleshooting
7.1 Solution for Water Pumping Failure
If the machine cannot pump out water, consider the following:
- The machine is new and used for the first time.
- The machine has not been used for a long time.
- The water tank is lacking water during the operating process.
Method 1: Put a cup under the steam pipe. When the machine is turned on, push the hot water lever upward, and the steam pipe outlet will automatically spray clean water until about 200ml of clean water is discharged.
Method 2: Use the "manual pump" (included in accessories) to fill the machine with water.
7.2 Powder Blockage Treatment
The powder outlet may be blocked due to the difference, insufficient drying, or improper operation of the user's coffee beans. Clean up as per the grinder cleaning steps in Section 6.2.
7.3 Restore Factory Settings
To restore settings: In standby mode, press the power button and the confirm button (check mark) at the same time. The display screen will flash twice to restore factory settings.
8. Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Mcilpoog |
| Model Name | TC520 |
| Product Dimensions | 12.24"D x 11.85"W x 16.34"H |
| Item Weight | 20.1 pounds |
| Pressure Pump | 15 Bar |
| Water Tank Capacity | 2000ml (2 Liters) |
| Bean Bin Capacity | 5.5oz (approx. 150g) |
| Voltage | 110 Volts |
| Special Feature | Integrated Conical Burr Grinder, PID Temperature Control |
9. Warranty & Support
The Mcilpoog TC520 Espresso Machine is backed with an Unconditional Satisfaction Guarantee and a 12-month Warranty. If you are not 100% satisfied, please contact Mcilpoog customer support immediately for assistance. Our world-class customer support is available 7 days per week.
For further assistance, visit the Mcilpoog Store on Amazon.