Delonghi ECP 3420 Leaking at Grouphead

[vestal imp]

Hi EAF,

I am having an issue where my machine drips at the grouphead when the machine is on. The problem gets worse when the machine is set to steam modes. I suspected the issue was due to a worn out valve spring. So I ordered a new one, replaced it,and the issue still persists. Any ideas?

This video was from a few weeks ago, that I took while contacting support to get the part. They’re not particularly helpful so I’m turning to you all for help. The issue is now worse and drips far more frequently (~1.5drip/sec)

Delonghi ECP 3420 Leaking at Grouphead

[stray barn]

is the steam valve fully closed?

[vestal imp]

yeah - it actually stops dripping when the valve is open while steaming

[cloud plover]

Take a piece of tin foil and completely cover your group handle so no water can come out. Turn it on like your brewing espresso and count to 5 seconds and then turn it off. It will put back pressure on the valve that’s not closing all the way and may fix it for you

you could buy Cafiza and a cleaning disk and YouTube back flushing and use filtered water to complete this properly but my Hack should work

[vestal imp]

I’m not entirely sure what you mean - do I put the tin foil between the portafilter and grouphead to block flow?

how is back pressure possible without a solenoid

[cloud plover]

If the back flush doesn’t free up. You can try this

https://youtu.be/Vg6D5w27go4?si=3X81IwDzCjMflg13

[vestal imp]

I tried this - it definitely slowed down the drips, but it's not completely fixed. Maybe I need to stretch out the spring even more.

[cloud plover]

^

[vestal imp]

rip :(