Smeg BCC01 Automatic Coffee Machine

Introduction

We advise you to read this manual carefully, as it contains all the instructions for managing the appliance's aesthetic and functional qualities. For further information on the product, visit www.smeg.com.

Smeg household appliances can always be ideally combined with other products in the series and are also designer objects for the kitchen. We wish you much enjoyment with your appliance.

Important Information and Safety Instructions

Safety First

Keep this user manual carefully. If passing the appliance to another person, this user manual must be handed over with it.

Risk of Electric Shock: This appliance operates with electrical energy. Observe the following safety instructions:

• Do not touch the plug with wet hands.
• Ensure the socket is accessible at all times to allow the plug to be removed if necessary.
• To remove the plug from the socket, grip the plug itself. Do not pull the power cable from the socket by pulling the cable or touching it with wet hands.
• Do not attempt to repair any defects. Switch off the appliance, unplug it from the socket, and contact Smeg technical customer service.
• Damaged power plugs or supply cables must only be replaced by technical customer service to prevent any risks.
• Never immerse the appliance, supply cable, or plug in water or other liquids.
• Caution: Risk of injury! Improper use of the appliance can lead to injuries. Unplug the appliance before cleaning.
• Do not let the supply cable hang over the edge of the table or other surfaces, and do not let it come into contact with hot surfaces.
• Plastic packaging material can cause suffocation. Keep packaging material out of the reach of children.
• Do not place the appliance on or near electric or gas hotplates, or in a heated oven.
• Do not wash in the dishwasher.

Appliance Connection:

Caution! Ensure that the mains voltage and frequency match the specifications on the appliance's rating plate located on the bottom. Connect the appliance only to a properly installed, correctly earthed socket with a minimum rating of 10A. If the socket is incompatible with the appliance plug, have the socket replaced by a qualified person with one of a suitable type. To avoid hazards due to accidental resetting of the thermal cut-out, the appliance must not be supplied through an external switching device, such as a timer, or connected to a circuit that is regularly switched on and off by the user. Do not use adapters. Do not use extension cords. Do not allow liquids to flow onto the plug or the power base. Failure to observe these instructions can result in death, fire, or electric shock.

General Safety and Usage:

• Keep the appliance and cable out of reach of children under 8 years old.
• Children must not play with the appliance.
• Use of this appliance is permitted for persons (including children over 8 years) with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities, or lacking experience and knowledge, only if supervised by an adult or if they have been instructed in the safe use of the appliance and understand the associated risks.
• Cleaning or maintenance work may only be carried out by children over 8 years old under adult supervision.
• Before assembly, disassembly, and cleaning, the appliance must always be disconnected from the mains socket.

Risk of Burns!

• Allow the appliance to cool down before cleaning.
• The coffee machine generates heat and hot water during operation. Avoid contact with boiling water.

Correct and Proper Use:

• Use the appliance only indoors and not above 2000 m altitude.
• Use the appliance only for preparing coffee drinks, grinding coffee beans, or dispensing hot water. Any other use is improper.
• Only fill the water tank with water. Use fresh and clean water.
• Only use original manufacturer spare parts. Using non-manufacturer-recommended spare parts can cause fires, electric shocks, or injuries.
• The appliance is intended for use in household and similar environments, such as: Staff kitchens in shops, offices, and other work environments; Bed and breakfast establishments and farmhouses; By guests in hotels, motels, and residential homes. Other uses, such as in restaurants, bars, and cafes, are considered misuse.
• Do not fill the water tank beyond the indicated maximum fill level.
• Do not use without water in the tank or without the tank.
• Only use coffee beans that are ground; do not put pre-ground coffee into the bean hopper.
• Do not place the appliance inside a closed piece of furniture (e.g., as a built-in unit).

Caution: For cleaning surfaces intended for contact with food, follow the specific cleaning instructions in the user manual.

Manufacturer's Liability: The manufacturer assumes no liability for personal injury or property damage caused by: Use of the appliance deviating from its intended purpose; Failure to read the user manual; Tampering with the appliance, including individual parts; Use of non-original spare parts; Non-compliance with safety instructions.

Product Description and Components (Fig. A)

The appliance comprises the following main parts:

• 1. Appliance body
• 2. Bean hopper lid
• 3. Bean hopper
• 4. Water tank lid
• 5. Water tank (1.4 L)
• 6. Grinding degree selection knob
• 7. Grinder protection cover
• 8. Brew group access flap
• 9. ON/OFF button
• 10. Control panel
• 11. Height-adjustable coffee spout
• 12. Used coffee grounds container
• 13. Drip tray (inner)
• 14. Drip tray (outer) with level indicator
• 15. Brew group
• 31. Cleaning brush
• 33. Water hardness test strips

Rating Plate: The rating plate contains technical data, serial number, and identification marks. The rating plate must never be removed.

Before First Use (Fig. A)

• Carefully unpack the appliance and remove all packaging material.
• Rinse the removable parts with lukewarm water: water tank (5), lids (2, 4), flap (8), used coffee grounds container (12), drip trays (13, 14), and brew group (15). Ensure all parts are intact and free from cracks before use.

Component Assembly (Fig. B)

• Place the appliance on a level surface and position the drip tray (14).
• Connect one end of the power cable to the socket on the back of the appliance and the other end to a mains socket.

Controls and Alarms (Fig. A, C, D)

ON/OFF Button (9): Pressing this button powers the appliance on or off.

Dispensing Program Change Button (20): This button allows switching between the "White" and "Orange" dispensing menus. The "White" menu illuminates white LEDs, while the "Orange" menu illuminates orange LEDs. Refer to the "Controls and Alarms" section for details on special functions.

Water Tank Empty Alarm (21): The corresponding indicator light flashes when the tank (5) is missing, empty, or below the minimum fill level. Insert the tank or fill it with water.

Coffee Bean Shortage Alarm (22): The corresponding indicator light illuminates to show that the coffee beans in the hopper (3) have reached the minimum level or are depleted. Refill the bean hopper.

Used Coffee Grounds Container Alarm (23): The LED illuminates when the used coffee grounds container (12) is full. Empty the container.

Flashing Indicator Light: The used coffee grounds container (12) or the inner drip tray (13) is not fitted correctly; the coffee machine will be blocked until these parts are correctly reinserted.

Brew Group Alarm (24):

• LED flashes: The door is open, or the brew group is missing or not correctly inserted; the appliance is blocked until the brew group is correctly inserted or the door is closed.
• LED illuminates: Indicates that it is recommended to clean the brew group, its housing, and the accessible compartment.

Descaling Alarm (25):

• LED illuminates: Indicates that a descaling cycle is highly recommended.
• Indicator light flashes: All coffee machine functions are blocked, and a descaling cycle must be performed to resume operation.

Grinding Degree Selection Knob (6) (Fig. D): The appliance features a knob (6) for adjusting the coffee grind. Turning the knob clockwise towards "A" increases the grind coarseness. Turning it counter-clockwise towards "B" reduces the grind coarseness, resulting in finer coffee grounds (Fig. D). Adjust the knob to match the desired grind setting.

Operation

Grind Adjustment: The coffee grind must be adjusted when the grinder is operating, or during initial setup if the bean hopper is completely empty. Adjusting the knob while the grinder is stationary and filled with beans can damage the grinding unit.

Using the Appliance (Fig. E-G-H):

• Lift the lid (4) and fill the tank (5) with fresh water, ensuring not to exceed the maximum fill level. Replace the lid (4).
• Lift the bean hopper lid (2) and add coffee beans to the bean hopper (3).
• Ensure the drip tray (14) is correctly positioned.
• Press the ON/OFF button (9). The appliance will begin the heating phase, and the buttons will blink sequentially. After heating, an internal rinse cycle will run, and the appliance will be ready for use. For first-time use, it is recommended to prepare at least one coffee to allow all circuits to run in. It is also recommended to set the water hardness during the first use (see "Setting Water Hardness").

After 20 minutes of inactivity, the appliance switches off. If at least one coffee has been prepared, a rinse cycle is performed. Press the ON/OFF button (9) to switch the appliance back on.

Dispensing Program Change: Two dispensing menus are stored: White and Orange. Press the button (20) to switch between programs. In the "White" menu, all buttons light up white; in the "Orange" menu, they light up orange. Refer to the "Controls and Alarms" section for special functions. The selected dispensing menu (White or Orange) is saved even after the appliance is switched off.

Beverage Dispensing:

• The position of the coffee spout (11) can be adjusted according to the cup used. For very tall cups, the drip tray (14) can be removed.
• Place a small or large cup under the spout.
• Press the button for the desired function. The brewing process will automatically complete for each selected function. Refer to the "Controls and Alarms" section for specific functions. All buttons will illuminate at the end of dispensing.

Dispensing can be interrupted at any time by pressing the dispensing button. Remember to reinsert the tray (14) after each dispensing.

It is normal for the first coffees to not reach the correct temperature after a prolonged period of inactivity (over 20 minutes). For tips on obtaining hot coffee immediately, see the "What to do if..." section.

Individual Quantity Setting: For each type of beverage, the dispensed coffee or water quantity can be set individually.

• Place a small or large cup under the spout.
• Press and hold one of the beverage buttons for at least 3 seconds. The selected button will blink, and the appliance will emit two tones to indicate the program change.
• When the desired quantity is reached, interrupt dispensing by pressing the button again. An acoustic signal will confirm the quantity has been saved.

Any individually set beverage quantities will be saved for future use.

To reset to the manufacturer's original settings, press and hold buttons (9) and (20) simultaneously for at least 3 seconds. The appliance will emit a tone to indicate the reset of factory settings.

Switching Off the Appliance:

• Ensure the drip tray (14) is correctly positioned.
• If water is missing, the appliance will remain in the rinse position until the tank is refilled.
• Press the button (9). The buttons (16), (17), (18), (19) will blink sequentially. If at least one coffee has been prepared, the appliance will perform a rinse cycle. Once the rinse cycle is complete, the appliance will switch off.

Appliance Settings (Fig. C-G): A programming menu allows you to set water hardness and acoustic signals.

Activating/Deactivating Acoustic Signals: Acoustic signals can be deactivated/activated by pressing and holding buttons (17) and (20) for three seconds. Button (17) will blink three times to confirm the setting.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Setting Water Hardness: The appliance is factory-set to "Hard water level". You can program the appliance according to your local water hardness to reduce the frequency of descaling.

If you do not know your water hardness, use the supplied test strip (33) and follow the instructions:

• Remove the test strip from its packaging.
• Immerse the strip completely in a glass of water for about one second.
• Remove the strip from the water and shake it gently. Read the results after about one minute.
• If the strip shows 5 blue markings, select "Soft water".
• If the strip shows 1 or 2 pink markings, select "Medium water".
• If the strip shows 3, 4, or 5 pink markings, select "Hard water".

To access the water hardness programming, press and hold buttons (16) and (20) simultaneously for at least 3 seconds. LEDs (21), (22), (23) will illuminate and blink simultaneously.

Select the water hardness using the table below with button (16). The LED corresponding to the selected hardness will illuminate, and the others will turn off.

To save the selected hardness, press and hold buttons (16) and (20) simultaneously for at least 3 seconds, or do not press any button for 15 seconds.

To prolong the machine's life and preserve coffee aroma and taste, it is recommended to use the Smeg water softener filter (optional, not included). For installation and operation, follow the instructions provided with the accessory. Once installed, set the water hardness to "Soft" according to the previous instructions.

Cleaning and Maintenance (Fig. C, E, F, G, H, I, L):

Improper Use - Risk of Surface Damage:

• Do not clean the coffee machine with a steam jet.
• Do not use cleaning agents containing chlorine, ammonia, or bleach on surface-treated parts with metal surfaces (e.g., anodized, nickel-plated, chrome-plated).
• Do not use abrasive or corrosive cleaning agents (e.g., powdered products, stain removers, and metal sponges).
• Do not use rough, abrasive materials or sharp metal spatulas.

Manual Rinse:

• Ensure "White" is selected and buttons (16), (17), (18), (19) are illuminated white.
• When the machine is ready for dispensing and the drip tray is fitted, press buttons (20) and (19) for at least 3 seconds: The machine will rinse the coffee circuit (dispensing 11). All buttons will illuminate at the end of the rinse cycle.

Cleaning the Appliance Body: To maintain the exterior surfaces in good condition, they must be cleaned regularly after each use and once cooled down. Clean with a soft cloth dampened with water.

Never immerse the appliance body (1) in water or other liquids. Allow the appliance to cool down before cleaning.

For cleaning the empty bean hopper (3), use the supplied special brush to remove beans and residue. Always perform this cleaning operation with the appliance switched off.

General Cleaning: For the appliance to function correctly and ensure beverage quality, simple daily cleaning tasks are recommended, such as cleaning the drip trays (13, 14) and the used coffee grounds container (12). Regular cleaning of certain machine components, such as the brew group (15) or water tank (5), is also recommended. Refer to the specific cleaning instructions.

Cleaning the Outer Drip Tray (14): The drip tray (14) has a red float (27) that protrudes through the cup grid as soon as the maximum liquid level is exceeded. Remove and empty the tray (14) and the cup grid (28). Clean the tray (14) and grid (28) under running water with neutral detergent. Dry the parts and reassemble them on the appliance.

Cleaning the Used Coffee Grounds Container (12) and Inner Tray (13): Always empty the coffee grounds container when the appliance is switched on. This is the only way to reset the coffee grounds counter. The counter resets at least 15 seconds after opening the various components, after which LED 23 blinks.

• Remove the tray (14).
• Remove the used coffee grounds container (12) with its tray (13) by turning it outwards.
• Empty the coffee grounds from the container (12).
• Clean the container (12) and tray (13) under running water with neutral detergent.
• Thoroughly dry the components and reassemble them in the machine. When emptying the grounds container, ensure the inner tray is also freed from residual water.

Daily cleaning of the used coffee grounds container and inner container is recommended. It is normal for residual water to be present in the inner container. Clean and dry.

Cleaning the Water Tank (5):

• Remove the lid (4) and tank (5) from the appliance using the appropriate handle.
• Clean the tank (5), rinse it under running water with neutral detergent, and reassemble it on the appliance.

Limescale inside the tank may cause appliance malfunctions. Ensure the tank is always clean and free from limescale deposits.

Cleaning the Brew Group (15): It is recommended to clean the brew group at least once a week.

• The coffee machine indicates when brew group cleaning is recommended (LED 24 solid).
• With the machine switched on, press the flap (8) in the lower area until it releases, then pull it upwards.
• Press the two release springs (29) on the sides of the brew group (15) and remove it from the appliance (Fig. L).
• Wash the brew group (15) under running water and dry it.
• Also, carefully clean its housing and the conduit using the supplied cleaning brush (31), as shown in Figure F.

Before reassembling the various parts, dry them thoroughly. Reinsert the flap (8) and check that it is correctly positioned. Open the flap and clean the brew group with the appliance switched on. This is the only way to reset the counter. The counter resets at least 10 seconds after opening the various components, after which LED 24 turns off. It is recommended to perform a manual rinse cycle each time this operation is carried out. See "Manual Rinse". Do not wash the brew group in the dishwasher, as this could irreparably damage it. Coffee powder residue may be found in the brew group area. Thorough cleaning is recommended with each brew group cleaning. Use the supplied brush to remove all residue from the brew group compartment. Before closing the side door, dry all components and internal parts with a dry cloth.

Descaling: The coffee machine indicates when descaling is necessary based on the set water hardness (see "Setting Water Hardness" for setting water hardness). The illumination of LED (25) indicates that a descaling cycle must be performed to avoid affecting coffee taste and damaging the appliance. However, it is still possible to prepare a limited number of coffees and other beverages. Flashing LED (25) indicates that a descaling cycle is necessary to continue preparing beverages. To perform a descaling cycle, proceed as follows:

• Place a container with a capacity of at least 1.4 L under the spout (11).
• Ensure "White" is selected and the buttons illuminate white.
• Fill the tank (5) up to the "MAX" level with a water-descaler solution in the quantity recommended by the manufacturer.
• With the appliance ready for dispensing, press and hold buttons (20) and (18) simultaneously for at least 3 seconds. Button (18) will flash orange, and LED (25) will remain constantly illuminated throughout the descaling cycle.
• It is necessary to remain near the appliance for the entire duration of the descaling cycle, as user intervention may be required, such as refilling the tank (5). The total cycle duration is approximately 30 minutes.
• During the descaling cycle, the appliance will pause several times to allow the descaler to act. Wait for the cycle to complete.

The descaling cycle ends when the solution in the tank (5) is finished and button (18) lights up white, and LEDs (21) and (25) illuminate.

• Fill the tank (5) up to the "MAX" level with clean water to perform a rinse cycle. Then press button (18) to start the rinse cycle. Button (18) will blink, and LED (25) will remain illuminated throughout the wash cycle. The rinse cycle is complete when the buttons illuminate white.

If LED (25) continues to illuminate at the end of descaling, it indicates that another descaling cycle is required because the descaler solution used was insufficient for the entire cleaning process.

Risk of Personal Injury: The descaler contains acids that can irritate skin and eyes. Strictly follow the manufacturer's instructions and safety warnings on the packaging in case of contact with skin or eyes. Use only Smeg-recommended descalers to avoid damage to the coffee machine.

"System Empty" Procedure: The "System Empty" procedure is recommended before long periods of non-use and before consulting a service technician.

• Start the procedure by pressing and holding buttons (16) and (19) simultaneously for three seconds. Button (17) and button (19) will blink simultaneously.
• The entire amount of water in the tank will be discharged through the coffee circuit.
• The pump will remain operational, albeit with interruptions, to empty the internal water circuits. The appliance switches off at the end of the procedure.

The "System Empty" procedure requires a few minutes and On/Off cycles. Do not switch off the appliance until the entire procedure is completed.

Any other maintenance intervention must be carried out by a customer service representative.

Troubleshooting

Problem: The appliance does not switch on.

• Possible Cause: Plug not inserted. Solution: Insert the plug.
• Possible Cause: Plug not inserted correctly. Solution: Insert the plug into the machine's socket.
• Possible Cause: ON/OFF button (9) not working. Solution: Press the button to switch on the appliance.
• Possible Cause: ON/OFF button (9) not working. Solution: Contact authorized customer service.

Problem: The appliance is switched on but does not work.

• Possible Cause: Water tank empty or missing (LED 21 flashes). Solution: Ensure the tank is correctly inserted, or fill it with water, or rinse it to remove limescale.
• Possible Cause: Coffee bean shortage (LED 22 flashes). Solution: Add coffee beans to the bean hopper.
• Possible Cause: Used coffee grounds container (LED 23 flashes). Solution: Empty the used coffee grounds container. Note: To empty, the drawer must be removed while the appliance is running for at least 15 seconds. Alarm 23 flashes to indicate the counter has been successfully reset.
• Possible Cause: Used coffee grounds container not correctly inserted or inner drip tray missing. Solution: Reassemble the components.
• Possible Cause: General alarm (LED 24 flashes). Solution: Check if the insert is correctly fitted and the door is closed.
• Possible Cause: General alarm (LED 24 solid). Solution: Open the access flap, remove the brew group, check and clean the functional area. If the problem persists, contact an authorized service center.
• Possible Cause: Alarm for required descaling active (LED 25 flashes). Solution: Perform a descaling cycle.

Problem: The machine stops during dispensing.

• Possible Cause: Tank removed during dispensing or water level below minimum. Solution: Ensure the tank is correctly inserted or fill it with water.
• Possible Cause: Side door opened during dispensing. Solution: Close the side door.
• Possible Cause: Incorrect water level indication in the tank due to limescale deposits. Solution: Clean the tank thoroughly and reinsert the tank. Descale if necessary.
• Possible Cause: Water accidentally poured into the tank cavity. Solution: Remove the container and thoroughly dry its compartment.

Problem: Coffee is not hot.

• Possible Cause: Cups were not preheated. Solution: Warm the cups by rinsing them with hot water (Hint: You can use the hot water function).

Problem: Coffee is not very strong or creamy.

• Possible Cause: Coffee ground too finely. Solution: Turn the knob counter-clockwise to increase the grinder's coarseness. Note: Some blends require a coarser grind than others. To avoid damaging the machine, adjust the grind while the grinder is operating.

Problem: Dispensing is slow or drips.

• Possible Cause: Coffee ground too finely. Solution: Turn the knob clockwise to increase the grinder's coarseness. Note: Some blends require a coarser grind than others. To avoid damaging the machine, adjust the grind while the grinder is operating.
• Possible Cause: Dispensing unit is clogged. Solution: Perform a manual rinse cycle as described in the "Cleaning and Maintenance" section.

Problem: A descaling cycle was performed, but the appliance does not work.

• Possible Cause: The entire cycle has not been completed. Solution: Ensure you have completed the descaling cycle and the subsequent rinse. After the first cycle, the appliance requires a rinse cycle. Follow the instructions in the "Cleaning and Maintenance" section.
• Possible Cause: Tank not filled to the maximum level during the descaling cycle or subsequent rinse. Solution: Fill the tank, ensuring the container under the dispenser is emptied. Press button 18 again to continue.
• Possible Cause: LED 21 illuminates, indicating low water in the tank. Solution: Fill the tank to allow the appliance to perform a final rinse.

Problem: The appliance does not switch off.

• Possible Cause: The appliance emits two beeps and the button LEDs turn off. Solution: Contact authorized customer service.
• Possible Cause: Drawer locked. Solution: Switch the appliance off and on again to return internal parts to their correct position.
• Possible Cause: Error in the hydraulic circuit. Solution: Ensure there is water in the tank and wait for the circuit to reset. The appliance will automatically return to its starting position. If the problem persists, contact an authorized service center.
• Possible Cause: All buttons blink simultaneously. Solution: If the problem persists or for other malfunctions, contact the nearest customer service.

Disposal Information (For Germany)

This electrical or electronic appliance is marked with a crossed-out waste bin on wheels. The appliance must therefore be collected and disposed of separately from unsorted municipal waste. It must not be disposed of in household waste. The appliance can be handed in, for example, at a municipal collection point or at a retailer (see below for their return obligations in Germany). This also applies to all components, sub-assemblies, and consumables of the appliance to be disposed of. Before the old appliance can be disposed of, all old batteries and rechargeable batteries that are not enclosed by the old appliance must be separated. The same applies to lamps that can be removed from the old appliance without destroying them. The end-user is also responsible for deleting personal data on the old appliance.

Recycling Tips: Help recycle all materials marked with this symbol. Do not dispose of such materials, especially packaging, in household waste, but use the provided recycling bins or the corresponding local collection systems. Recycle electrical and electronic appliances for environmental and health protection.

Retailer Return Obligations: Retailers selling electrical and electronic equipment on at least 400 m² of sales area, or those commercially supplying them to end-users, are obliged to take back an end-user's old appliance of the same type, which essentially performs the same functions as the new appliance, free of charge at the point of sale or in its immediate vicinity. This also applies to food retailers with a total sales area of at least 800 m² who offer and market electrical and electronic equipment several times a year or permanently. Such retailers must also, upon request of the end-user, take back small electrical appliances (i.e., those not exceeding 25 cm in any external dimension) free of charge in their retail store or in its immediate vicinity; in this case, the return must not be linked to the purchase of a new electrical or electronic appliance, but may be limited to three old appliances per appliance type. The place of delivery is also the private household if the new electrical or electronic appliance is delivered there; in this case, the collection of the old appliance is free of charge for the end-user. The aforementioned obligations also apply to sales using distance communication methods, if retailers have storage and shipping areas for electrical and electronic equipment or total storage and shipping areas for food that correspond to the sales areas mentioned above. However, the free collection of electrical and electronic equipment is then limited to heat exchangers (e.g., refrigerators), displays, monitors, and appliances that contain displays with a surface area of more than 100 cm², and appliances where at least one of the external dimensions exceeds 50 cm. For all other electrical and electronic appliances, the retailer must ensure suitable return options within a reasonable distance from the respective end-user; this also applies to small electrical appliances (see above) that the end-user wishes to return without purchasing a new appliance.