Espresso machine pump got noisy

August 28, 2010 11:09 AM

Espresso machine pump has become noisy...aargh.

I have a Capresso Ultima 121 espresso machine, about 6 years old (no warranty). I have been taking immaculate care of it (reverse osmosis water, regular descaling as per instructions, daily cleaning).

Lately the pump has gotten quite noisy, but it still works well. I checked inside and did not find any breaks, or other places where the pump might be sucking air.

To repair here in Canada is at least $180 (new pump). Newegg.ca sells it for $269 + $18 shipping. Buy new, is the choice.

My question: Is the machine about to die soon, and I should buy right away, or will it run for quite a while being noisy?

posted by mbarryf to Food & Drink (2 answers total)

Response by poster: No answer needed. I just ordered a new one.
posted by mbarryf at 4:10 PM on August 28, 2010

I'm going to answer anyway, in case anyone else runs into this issue or you still want to use the machine as a backup. A loud pump that is still pumping water just fine probably has come loose from it's rubber mountings and is touching part of the case; when those little vibratory pumps die they either get gradually quieter (as mineral buildup constricts water passageways) or they just stop entirely (electrical failure ie. burning out due to operation outside of the maximum duty cycle). If and when the pump dies though, this is most likely the one it takes: http://www.espressotec.com/store/pc/Ulka-120V-EAX5-Vibration-Pump-Brass-piston-9p627.htm
posted by bizwank at 11:35 PM on August 30, 2010