Another self-learned tech exploit
Today, I learned a new skill. When we recently noticed a small sliver of silicone in the coffee grounds, it was clear (unlike the grounds) that something was out of sorts with our most useful appliance. Some quick research clarified things; there’s a silicone ring that is seated between the shower head and the portafilter. Or, rather, within touching range.
Our machine manufacturer sells such things. Via Amazon, as a plus. One quick order and a short wait; the postal people did the rest. Which threw the responsibility into my world. I waited, a couple of days. Long enough to visualize not only the task ahead but the appropriate tools. For those who need to know: a small screwdriver (flat blade) and a small flashlight (because seeing is always good when probing the innards of any apparatus).
Power off. Water tank and bean hopper removed. Flip the beast onto its back and then with a quick poke (actually, several pokes), the old “steam ring” was out in the air. I could see where we had lost the sliver. The new ring, much cleaner, went into place without resistance. I was already due to run the cleaning cycle, so a little later I had my coffee machine ready to work its magic.
As learned through years of maintaining other people’s stuff, I put the old ring into a plastic sack along with a date and comments. Emergency supply, given that the piece had been removed from service while functional. And, my list of jobs I can complete under pressure (OK, under no pressure) has increased. A good day, don’t you think?
