The Bertazzoni CM24 built-in coffee machine descaling safety procedure keeps the heating element, boiler, and brew group operating efficiently while ensuring that the descaling agents used do not contaminate your beverages or damage internal components. Regular descaling is essential in regions with hard water and should always be performed with the correct materials and the proper rinse sequence.
Why this matters
Calcium and magnesium scale deposits build up inside the CM24’s boiler and water circuit every time water is heated. Over time, scale reduces heating efficiency, increases cycle time, and can cause the heating element to overheat or crack. Inadequate rinsing after descaling leaves acidic residue in the water path — residue that will be present in the next beverages brewed. Using aggressive or incompatible descaling agents can also damage rubber seals and plastic components inside the brew group.
Warning signs
- The CM24 display showing a descaling reminder indicator (refer to your manual for the specific icon)
- Longer than normal brew times for espresso or hot water, suggesting restricted flow through scaled pipes
- A chalk-white powdery residue visible around the water tank or in the drip tray
- Coffee or water dispensed at a noticeably lower temperature than normal
Inspection schedule
Descale the CM24 when the machine’s descaling indicator activates — typically every two to four months in hard water areas, less frequently with softened or filtered water. Do not bypass or reset the indicator without actually completing the descaling cycle, as the reminder is based on volume and temperature cycles that the machine tracks internally.
What to do
- Use only Bertazzoni-approved or food-safe citric-acid-based descaling products. Do not use vinegar, bleach, or industrial scale removers — these can damage seals and leave harmful residues.
- Follow the CM24’s guided descaling program as described in the owner’s manual — do not interrupt the cycle once started, as this can leave descaling solution in the boiler.
- Wear gloves when mixing descaling solution and avoid skin or eye contact with the concentrate. Keep the solution out of reach of children during the process.
- Complete a minimum of two full rinse cycles with fresh water immediately after the descaling cycle finishes. Taste the water dispensed in the final rinse — if any acidity is detectable, run an additional rinse cycle.
- For descaling product recommendations or if the machine does not respond to the descaling program correctly, contact Bertazzoni North America at 1-866-905-0010.
When to call a technician
If the descaling cycle does not complete, the machine displays an error code during descaling, or flow problems persist after a completed descaling and rinse sequence, the boiler or water pump may require professional servicing. A Bertazzoni-trained technician can perform internal boiler flush and component inspection that goes beyond what the guided descaling cycle addresses.