Food-Grade Lubricants

Food-Grade Lubricants: The Secret to Quiet and Smooth Operation

Proper maintenance of an automatic espresso machine goes beyond simple cleaning. Food-grade lubricants (specialized silicone grease) are essential for reducing friction between moving parts. At coffeeshop.md, we offer NSF-certified lubricants that are safe for contact with water and food products, perfectly compatible with Saeco, Philips, DeLonghi, or Jura mechanisms, available with nationwide delivery in Moldova.

Myth: Any technical grease can be used in a coffee machine

This is a major mistake that can compromise user health and machine integrity. Regular technical grease contains petroleum-based substances that are toxic and can alter the coffee's taste. Furthermore, it can rapidly degrade the material of gaskets and O-rings, causing them to swell or tear. A high-quality food-safe lubricant is heat-resistant, water-repellent (hydrophobic), and tasteless, specifically designed for the sliding rails of a brewing unit.

When and where to apply the lubricant?

Most manufacturers recommend lubrication every 500 cups or after the unit has been washed with strong degreasing detergents. Key points include the brewing unit's sliding tracks, the central shaft, and the gears. Proper lubrication reduces the strain on the internal motor and protects electronic control boards from power surges caused by mechanical resistance, ensuring a quiet and fluid operation.

Pro Maintenance Tips:

• Less is more: Do not over-apply the grease. A thin, uniform layer is sufficient; excess grease can attract coffee grounds, creating an abrasive paste.
• Clean first: Before applying new lubricant, remove old residue and coffee particles with a clean cloth.
• Hydraulic Sealing: Apply a tiny amount of grease to connectors and couplings before assembly to ensure a perfect seal without pinching the O-ring.
• System Check: Monitor the performance of your pumps and valves and water tank components, as a jammed central mechanism can affect the entire system's pressure.

Keep your coffee machine in top condition and avoid expensive repairs. Choose trusted lubricants from coffeeshop.md today!