De'Longhi EC885 DEDICA ARTE Coffee Machine
This document provides essential operating and maintenance instructions for your De'Longhi EC885 DEDICA ARTE coffee machine.
1. Appliance Description
1.1 Description of the Appliance - A
- A1: Water tank lid
- A2: Water tank release lever
- A3: Water tank
- A4: Cup warmer
- A5: Coffee dispensing unit
- A6: Main switch (ON/OFF) [Power Symbol]
- A7: Drip tray grid
- A8: Drip tray water level indicator
- A9: Drip tray
- A10: Tray for Mug or glass (in some models)
- A11: Hot water/steam dispensing spout
- A12: Steam adjustment knob
1.2 Description of the Control Panel - B
- B1: 1-cup button
- B2: ON indicator (white, integrated into button)
- B3: 2-cup button
- B4: ON indicator (white, integrated into button)
- B5: Steam button
- B6: ON indicator (white, integrated into button)
- B7: Descaling indicator (orange) [Orange Descaling Symbol]
1.3 Description of Accessories - C
- C1: Filter holder
- C2: 1-cup filter (symbol [under filter])
- C3: 2-cup filter (symbol [under filter])
- C4: ESE pod filter (symbol [under filter]) (in some models)
- C5: Measuring spoon (in some models)
- C6: Tamper (in some models)
- C7: Steam nozzle cleaning needle
- C8: Water hardness test strip
- C9: Descaler (in some models) [EcoDecalk Icon]
- C10: Milk jug
- C11: Water softening filter (not included; available at authorized service centers)
1.4 Non-included accessories for cleaning, recommended by the manufacturer
For additional information, visit Delonghi.com. WaterFilter Water Softening Filter EAN: 8004399327252
2. Preparing the Appliance
Wash all accessories with warm water and detergent. Then proceed as follows:
- Remove the water tank (A3) and fill it with fresh, clean water, not exceeding the MAX mark.
- Reinsert the tank, pressing gently until the valves on the bottom open.
Attention: Do not operate the appliance without water in the tank or without the tank itself.
Note: It is recommended to adjust water hardness as soon as possible by following the procedure described in section "9. Settings Menu".
3. First Appliance Activation
Before first use, flush the internal circuits of the appliance:
- Plug the appliance into the socket. Press the main switch (A6) [Power Symbol].
- The appliance performs self-diagnosis, indicated by the sequential flashing of the three buttons.
- The [1 Cup Button] and [2 Cup Button] indicators flash, indicating the machine is heating up. When the indicators stop flashing, the machine is ready for flushing the circuit.
- Attach the filter holder to the machine: align the filter holder with the "INSERT" position and turn the knob clockwise until it locks in the "CLOSE" position.
- Place a container with a capacity of at least 0.5 L under the coffee dispensing unit (A5) and the steam spout (A11).
- Press the [1 Cup Button]. Repeat this operation 5 times.
- Turn the steam adjustment knob (A12) to the steam position [Steam Symbol] and dispense hot water. The machine automatically stops dispensing, and the [1 Cup Button] and [2 Cup Button] indicators start flashing. Return the knob to the [OFF Symbol]. This allows water in the pipe to be removed before dispensing steam.
The appliance is now ready for use.
Note: The presence of water in the cavity under the tank is normal. Therefore, periodically dry it with a clean sponge.
4. Making Coffee
- Insert the ground coffee filter (C2) or (C3) into the filter holder (C1).
- Fill the filter with ground coffee. Ensure the coffee is finely ground, suitable for espresso preparation.
- Distribute the ground coffee evenly and tamp it lightly with the tamper (C6). Ensure the coffee is level. You may need to add more coffee.
- Remove excess coffee from the rim of the filter holder and attach it to the machine (as shown in step 7 of preparation).
- Place a cup or cups under the dispensing spouts.
- Ensure the indicators for the coffee dispensing buttons are lit, then press the coffee dispensing button (B1) or (B3).
- The machine will continue to operate and automatically stop dispensing.
- To release the filter holder, turn the knob from right to left.
Note: For correct operation, always check the filter for residual ground coffee from previous use.
During coffee preparation, dispensing can be stopped at any time by pressing the dispensing button again.
If you wish to increase the coffee volume in the cup after dispensing has finished, simply press and hold the previously pressed dispensing button for 3 seconds. Dispensing will automatically stop after a few seconds.
To avoid splashing, never remove the filter holder while the coffee machine is dispensing. Always wait a few seconds after dispensing has finished.
4.1 Tamping Coffee
Pressing the ground coffee is crucial for obtaining good espresso.
- Excessive pressure will result in slow dispensing and a strong taste.
- Insufficient pressure will result in fast dispensing and a weak taste.
4.2 Tips for Hotter Coffee
- Pre-heat your cups by rinsing them with hot water.
- Attach the filter holder (C1) with the filter (C2) or (C3) inserted, without adding coffee. Using the same cup as for coffee preparation, press the [1 Cup Button] and dispense hot water to pre-heat the cup.
- Increase the coffee temperature in the settings menu (see "9. Settings Menu").
- During operation, the cup warmer (A4) becomes hot; place cups on it for use.
5. Making Espresso with ESE Pods
- Insert the ESE pod filter (C4) into the filter holder (C1).
- Place the pod in the center of the filter. Always follow the instructions on the pod packaging for correct insertion into the filter.
- Attach the filter holder to the machine.
- Place a cup under the dispensing spouts.
- Ensure the indicators for the coffee dispensing buttons are lit, then press the coffee dispensing button (B1).
- The machine will continue to operate and automatically stop dispensing.
- To release the filter holder, turn the knob from right to left.
5.1 Choosing a Pod
Use pods that comply with the ESE standard, indicated by the following symbol. The ESE standard is a system adopted by major pod manufacturers, allowing for quick and easy espresso preparation.
Notes:
- When using pods, you can prepare one serving at a time.
- During coffee preparation, dispensing can be stopped at any time by pressing the dispensing button again.
- If you wish to increase the coffee volume in the cup after dispensing has finished, simply press and hold the previously pressed dispensing button for 3 seconds. Dispensing will automatically stop after a few seconds.
- To avoid splashing, never remove the filter holder while the coffee machine is dispensing. Always wait a few seconds after dispensing has finished.
- Refer to section "4.2 Tips for Hotter Coffee".
6. Programming Coffee Volume
The machine is programmed for standard portion sizes. To change these quantities, proceed as follows:
- Place one or two cups under the filter holder spouts.
- Press the desired programming button ([1 Cup Button] or [2 Cup Button]) and hold it down.
- The machine will start dispensing coffee, and the other coffee dispensing button will flash, indicating that the machine is in programming mode.
- When the desired coffee volume is reached in the cup, release the button. Dispensing will stop, and the indicator will flash, saving the quantity in memory.
Factory Setting | Programmable Quantity |
---|---|
35 ml | approx. 15 to 90 ml |
70 ml | approx. 30 to 180 ml |
7. Making Cappuccino
- If using tall glasses, remove the drip tray (A9) and place the glass on the special tray (A10).
- Prepare espresso in cups that are large enough.
- Fill the milk jug (C10) with cold milk from the refrigerator. The milk volume will increase 2-3 times.
- Press the [Steam Button] (B5). The indicator will flash. When the indicator lights up steadily, the machine is ready to dispense steam.
- Place the milk jug under the steam dispensing spout (A11), immerse the spout, and turn the knob to the steam position [Steam Symbol].
- To froth the milk, immerse the steam dispensing spout just below the milk surface, allowing air to mix with the milk and steam.
- Keep the steam dispensing spout near the surface, trying not to draw in too much air, which creates large bubbles.
- Immerse the steam dispensing spout deeper into the milk, creating a vortex.
- When the desired temperature (ideal value – 60 °C) and foam density are reached, stop dispensing steam by turning the steam adjustment knob to the [OFF Symbol].
- Pour the frothed milk into the cups with the previously prepared espresso. Cappuccino is ready.
Add sugar to taste and, if desired, a sprinkle of chocolate shavings.
Notes:
- If you need to prepare several cappuccinos, first prepare several cups of coffee and only then froth the milk for all portions.
- To exit the steam dispensing function, press any button. The [1 Cup Button] and [2 Cup Button] indicators will flash, indicating that you need to close the steam knob (symbol [OFF Symbol]). If both indicators flash simultaneously, indicating that the temperature is too high for coffee preparation, refer to section "7.3 Cooling Cycle".
- Recommended steam dispensing duration: no more than 60 seconds.
7.1 Tips for Optimal Use:
- Recommended milk quantity for each cappuccino serving: 100 ml.
- For dense and creamy foam, use milk from the refrigerator (temperature around 5 °C).
- When the machine is ready to froth milk, before proceeding, place an empty container under the steam dispensing spout and open the knob for a few seconds to expel all air from the steam circuit. Close the steam knob and proceed with preparation.
7.2 Cleaning the Steam Nozzle
- After each use, remove milk residue from the steam nozzle with a cloth. For more thorough cleaning, it is recommended to use EcoMultiClean. This product ensures hygiene as it removes milk proteins and fats. It can also be used to clean the entire machine.
- Dispense steam for a few seconds to thoroughly clean the nozzle.
- Allow the dispensing unit to cool. To maintain the long-term functionality of the dispensing unit, use the cleaning needle (C7) to keep the hole clean.
7.3 Cooling Cycle:
If, after using the steam function, both the [1 Cup Button] and [2 Cup Button] indicators flash simultaneously, indicating that the boiler needs to cool down to reach the correct temperature for espresso preparation, follow these steps:
- Place a container under the steam dispenser.
- Turn the steam adjustment knob to dispense steam and hot water; the [1 Cup Button] indicator will flash.
- When the [1 Cup Button] and [2 Cup Button] indicators flash, it means the boiler has cooled down. Close the steam adjustment knob (when the boiler has cooled, dispensing will stop). The coffee machine is ready for use.
8. Dispensing Hot Water
- Place a container under the steam dispensing spout (A11).
- Wait for the coffee dispensing indicators (B1) and (B3) to light up.
- Turn the knob (A12) to the steam position [Steam Symbol]. Hot water will dispense from the steam dispensing spout.
- To stop dispensing hot water, turn the knob to the [OFF Symbol].
Recommended hot water dispensing duration: no more than 60 seconds.
9. Settings Menu
9.1 Entering the Menu:
Press and hold the [1 Cup Button] for 10 seconds, until all three buttons flash sequentially.
9.2 Selecting a Setting:
Corresponding Setting | Press to Select Setting | Press to Change Setting | |
---|---|---|---|
Water Hardness | Press [1 Cup Button] to select [Low Hardness] | Press [1 Cup Button] to select [Medium Hardness] | Press [1 Cup Button] to select [High Hardness] |
Auto-off Timer | Press [1 Cup Button] to select 5 minutes (* 5 min.) | Press [1 Cup Button] to select 30 minutes (* 30 min.) | Press [1 Cup Button] to select 3 hours |
9.3 Exiting the Menu:
After 15 seconds of inactivity, the machine will automatically exit the settings menu.
Note: The indicator for the changed setting will flash rapidly, confirming the change. After 15 seconds of inactivity, the machine will automatically exit the settings menu and be ready for use.
(*) Only for EC885 EX4 models
10. Factory Settings (Reset)
This procedure restores the machine to its factory default settings.
Proceed as follows:
- Place the steam dispensing spout (A11) in the drip tray (A9).
- Enter the programming menu.
- Turn the steam adjustment knob (A12) to the [Steam Symbol]/[OFF Symbol] position.
- Press the [1 Cup Button]. Three indicators will flash simultaneously, confirming the restoration of factory settings.
- The [1 Cup Button] and [2 Cup Button] indicators will flash, indicating that you need to close the steam knob (symbol [OFF Symbol]). After closing the steam knob, the appliance is ready for use.
11. Machine Cleaning
The following parts require periodic cleaning:
- Drip tray (A9)
- Coffee filters (C2), (C3), and (C4)
- Coffee dispensing unit (A5)
- Water tank (A3)
- Steam dispensing spout (A11), as indicated in section "7.2 Cleaning the Steam Nozzle".
Warning!
- Never wash any components or accessories of the machine in a dishwasher.
- Do not use solvents, abrasive detergents, or alcohol to clean the coffee machine.
- Do not use metal objects to remove scale or coffee deposits, as they may scratch metal or plastic surfaces.
- If the machine is idle for more than a week, it is recommended to rinse it before the next use, as indicated in section "3. First Appliance Activation".
Caution!
- Never immerse the machine in water; it is an electrical appliance.
- Before any cleaning operation on the external parts of the appliance, turn it off, unplug it from the socket, and let it cool down.
11.1 Cleaning the Drip Tray
Warning! The drip tray is equipped with a float indicator (red) for the water level. Before the indicator emerges from the cup holder, empty the tray and clean it. Otherwise, water may overflow and damage the coffee machine, the supporting surface, or the surrounding area.
- Remove the drip tray (A9).
- Remove the cup grid (A7), empty the water, and wipe the tray with a cloth, then reassemble it. Remove the glass or cup tray (A10), wash it with water, dry it, and reassemble it.
- Reinstall the drip tray.
11.2 Cleaning Coffee Filters
Coffee filters are designed to produce the best coffee crema. To remain effective, filters must always be clean and free of coffee residue.
- After each use, rinse the filter with plenty of running water. Then, press the perforated filter to ensure it is correctly inserted into the housing.
- Check that the opening on the back of the filter is not clogged.
If the filter is still dirty, or at least once a month, clean the coffee filters as follows:
- Remove the perforated filter by pulling the tab.
- Rinse the filters with running water. Check that the holes are not clogged. If necessary, clean them with the needle.
- Dry with a cloth.
- Reinsert the perforated filter and press it firmly.
ESE Pod Filter
- Rinse with running water. Check that the holes are not clogged. If necessary, clean them with the needle.
11.3 Cleaning the Coffee Dispensing Unit
After preparing approximately 200 servings of coffee, rinse the dispensing unit by dispensing about 0.5 L of water (press the coffee dispensing button without using ground coffee).
11.4 Other Cleaning
- Do not use solvents, abrasive detergents, or alcohol to clean the coffee machine. A soft, damp cloth is sufficient.
- Regularly clean the filter holder.
11.5 Cleaning the Water Tank
- Periodically (approximately once a month) and each time the water softening filter is replaced (if fitted), clean the water tank with a damp cloth and a small amount of mild detergent.
- Remove the filter (if fitted) and rinse it under running water.
- Reinstall the filter (if fitted), fill the tank with fresh water, and reinstall it.
- (Only for models with water softening filter) Dispense 100 ml of water.
12. Descaling
Perform descaling when the orange indicator for the [Steam Button] flashes. Warning!
- Before use, read the instructions and the descaler label (C9) on the product packaging. It is recommended to use only De'Longhi descaler. Using unsuitable products or infrequent descaling may cause malfunctions not covered by the manufacturer's warranty. The descaler may damage sensitive surfaces. If the product is accidentally spilled, dry it immediately.
Descaling Procedure:
- Ensure the filter holder is not installed; place a container under the hot water dispensing unit and the boiler outlet.
- Dilute the descaler solution with water in the tank, filling it to the MAX level.
- Press and hold the [1 Cup Button] for 10 seconds until 3 buttons flash sequentially.
- Turn the steam adjustment knob to the steam position [Steam Symbol].
- Press the [1 Cup Button] to start descaling.
- The descaling program will start, and the descaling liquid will dispense from the steam dispensing spout. The descaling program automatically performs a series of rinses at set intervals to remove scale from inside the coffee machine until the water tank is completely empty.
Note: During descaling, and also for cleaning the coffee circuit, briefly close the steam knob from time to time to dispense a small amount of descaler from the coffee dispensing unit. Dispensing stops, and the orange indicator continues to flash, indicating that the descaling cycle is still running.
After this, you must perform rinsing.
- Empty the container used to collect the descaler solution, and place it back under the dispensing units.
- The machine is ready for rinsing with fresh, clean water. Remove the water tank, empty it, rinse it with running water, fill it with clean water up to the MAX mark, and reinstall the tank.
- Ensure the steam adjustment knob is in the [OFF Symbol] position, then press the [1 Cup Button] to start rinsing. During descaling, and also for cleaning the coffee circuit, briefly close the steam knob from time to time to dispense a small amount of water from the coffee dispensing unit.
- Perform a second rinse, repeating steps 7 to 9.
- When the water tank is empty, the orange indicator will go out, and descaling will be complete. The [1 Cup Button] and [2 Cup Button] indicators will flash.
- Close the steam adjustment knob by turning it to the [OFF Symbol].
- Fill the tank with clean water.
The machine is ready for use.
Note: If the descaling cycle was interrupted incorrectly (e.g., due to power failure), it is recommended to repeat it. For EC885 EX4 models only: If the descaling function is activated accidentally, you can stop it by pressing and holding the [1 Cup Button] for at least 10 seconds. In case the descaling cycle was not completed due to a power outage, upon power restoration, the machine will still be in descaling mode; therefore, wait for the cycle to finish, after which the machine will be "ready for use".
13. Indicator Lights
Indicators | Action | Meaning |
---|---|---|
[Power Symbol] | Switching on the main switch (ON/OFF) | The machine performs self-diagnosis, indicated by the sequential flashing of the indicators. |
[1 Cup Button], [2 Cup Button] | Machine ON | Indicators flash: the machine is heating up for further coffee preparation. Indicators are steady: the machine is ready for coffee preparation. |
[Steam Button] | Steam knob open | Flashing indicators: close the steam knob. |
[1 Cup Button], [2 Cup Button] | Cooling cycle required | Perform the actions indicated in section "7.3 Cooling Cycle". |
[1 Cup Button], [2 Cup Button] | Water tank empty or machine not dispensing coffee | Indicators flash rapidly. See section "3. First Appliance Activation". |
[Steam Button] | Steam function required | Indicator flashes: the machine is heating up for further steam dispensing. Indicator is steady: the machine is ready for steam dispensing. |
[Orange Descaling Symbol] | Descaling required | Perform descaling: the operation is complete when the indicator goes out. |
14. Troubleshooting
Problem | Cause | Solution |
---|---|---|
Espresso not dispensed | No water in the tank | Fill the tank. |
Blocked coffee dispensing spouts on the filter holder | Clean the spout openings on the filter holder. | |
Filter clogged or perforated filter missing | Clean as indicated in section "11.2 Cleaning Coffee Filters". | |
Tank not fitted correctly, and bottom valves not open | Press the tank gently to open the bottom valves. | |
Scale buildup in the water system | Perform descaling as described in section "12. Descaling". | |
Espresso leaks from the edges of the filter holder, not from the spouts | Filter holder not fitted or dirty | Fit the filter holder correctly and turn it firmly until it stops. |
Boiler gasket lost elasticity or is dirty | Replace the boiler gasket for espresso preparation at the central technical support. | |
Blocked openings on the filter holder spouts | Clean the spout openings on the filter holder. | |
Filter clogged or perforated filter missing | Clean as indicated in section "11.2 Cleaning Coffee Filters". | |
Filter holder does not attach to the machine. | Too much coffee in the filter. | Use the measuring cup included in the kit and select the correct filter for preparation. |
Light-colored coffee crema (coffee flows out of the spout quickly). | Ground coffee not tamped enough. | Tamp the ground coffee more firmly. |
Insufficient amount of ground coffee | Increase the amount of ground coffee. | |
Coffee grind too coarse. | Use only ground coffee for espresso machines. | |
Inadequate quality of ground coffee. | Change the type of ground coffee. | |
Dark coffee crema (coffee flows out of the spout slowly). | Ground coffee tamped too hard. | Reduce the tamping pressure. |
Excessive amount of ground coffee. | Reduce the amount of ground coffee. | |
Clogged espresso boiler channel. | Clean as indicated in section "11.3 Cleaning the Coffee Dispensing Unit". | |
Filter clogged. | Clean as indicated in section "11.2 Cleaning Coffee Filters". | |
Coffee grind too fine or coffee too wet. | Use only ground coffee for espresso machines; ensure it does not contain moisture. | |
After dispensing coffee, the filter holder sticks to the boiler channel. | Scale buildup in the water system. | Perform descaling as indicated in section "12. Descaling". |
Reinsert the filter holder, dispense coffee, then remove the filter holder. | ||
Machine does not prepare any drinks, and all indicators flash for a few seconds. | No water in the tank. | Fill the water tank. |
Tank not fitted correctly, and bottom valves not open. | Press the tank gently to open the bottom valves. | |
Clogged espresso boiler channel. | Clean as indicated in section "11.3 Cleaning the Coffee Dispensing Unit". | |
Filter clogged. | Clean as indicated in section "11.2 Cleaning Coffee Filters". | |
Scale buildup in the water system. | Perform descaling as described in section "12. Descaling". | |
Machine does not work, all indicators flash. | Immediately disconnect the appliance from the mains and contact an authorized service center. | |
No milk foam is produced when preparing cappuccino. | Milk not cold enough. | Milk should be at refrigerator temperature. |
Cappuccinator dirty. | Clean the cappuccinator as described in section "7.2 Cleaning the Steam Dispensing Spout". | |
Scale buildup in the water system. | Perform descaling as indicated in chapter "12. Descaling". |
15. Register Your Product
Register your De'Longhi appliance now to receive exclusive benefits and stay updated.
Visit us at: De'Longhi Appliances via Seitz, 47 31100 Treviso Italy delonghi.com