8.9. Long Term Storage - VBM Lollo HX User Manual

8.9. Long Term Storage

The boiler and heat exchanger contain water. Because of that, if your Vibiemme is not going to be used
for a while or is being placed into storage, some factors must be considered.
The first is temperature. If it can be avoided the machine should never be stored where it will be subjected
to freezing temperatures. If water in the machine is allowed to freeze, a lot of damage can be done as the
water expands when it turns to ice. Try to avoid damage by freezing.
Although there are steps that can be taken to remove some of the water in the boiler, heat exchanger,
brewhead, and all the pipes and hoses, it is very difficult to get all the water out. If you suspect that your
Vibiemme may be left where it could be subjected to freezing conditions, check with your local RV supply
store. They sell antifreeze chemicals designed to be used in drinking water systems. Be sure that the
additives are safe to use on brass, copper, plastic, and chrome parts. Follow the instructions precisely.
After treating with these chemicals, tape over the power plug and tape a note to the machine and the
power cord at the plug end warning of the addition of these chemicals, and add a warning to completely
flush the machine before use! Be sure to completely flush the system before energizing the heating
element when putting the machine back into service.
WARNING: Neither damage from these sorts of chemicals nor damage from freezing are covered
by the warranty. Use of these chemicals and storage in freezing conditions is to be done at your
own risk.
When placing a machine back into service after storage, even if not stored in such extreme conditions as
mentioned above, you must flush out the machine with fresh water to remove any stale water that was
left in the boiler, the heat exchanger, and in the various pipes and hoses. To do so:
1 - Turn the Power Switch to position I. After the initial cycle of the pump stops, turn the Power
Switch to position II and wait for pressure to build in the boiler.
2 -When the boiler pressure is at or above .5 bar, open the Hot Water Valve and pump about 6 ounces
of water into an appropriate vessel. Repeat that four times, waiting between glasses for the pump to stop
which signifies that the boiler has been refilled.
3 - Now pull three or four double shots without using coffee, then do a clean water backflush.
4 - Check the reservoir water level (unless plumbed-in)
5 - Allow the machine to fully warm up and you are ready, once again, to make espresso.
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