ESPRESSO MACHINE MONTHLY + DESCALE CHECKLIST

Use once a month, plus whenever scale symptoms show up.

[ ] Check for leaks around the tank, drip tray, and under the machine
[ ] Inspect the portafilter gasket for wear or flattening
[ ] Check the shower screen for buildup
[ ] Wash the drip tray and water tank thoroughly
[ ] Wipe vents, switches, and knobs
[ ] Ask whether taste or flow issues are actually maintenance-related

Descale when:
[ ] Steam or hot-water performance drops
[ ] Flow is restricted after normal cleaning
[ ] Your manual says you are overdue
[ ] Hard-water scale symptoms are obvious

Before descaling:
[ ] Read your machine manual
[ ] Review the descale guide
[ ] Confirm the correct process for your machine type

Guides:
https://espressofoundry.com/blog/espresso-machine-maintenance-checklists/
https://espressofoundry.com/blog/how-to-descale-an-espresso-machine/