Gasket and shower screen

What is under the group

ECM gives owners this job (manual, section 10.5, twelve pictures). The shower screen clips into the gasket, and the two prise out together with a flat screwdriver. There is no screen screw in ECM's method or parts list. Behind them sits the brass sprayer (diffuser).

How often: ECM says change the gasket and screen when the group drips round the portafilter. Clive Coffee says the gasket every 12 to 18 months and the screen about yearly.

Screen and gasket out

The manual's method, pictures 1 to 6.

1. Switch off (green lamp out) and unplug.
2. Let the machine cool to room temperature.
3. Take out the portafilter.
4. Prise the shower screen and gasket out together with a flat screwdriver.
5. Pull both out completely.
6. Clean the group with the brush.

New gasket and screen in

The manual's method, pictures 5 to 12.

1. Hold the new gasket with its rounded side up, towards the group.
2. Lock the shower screen firmly into the gasket.
3. Push the screen and gasket up into the group.
4. Take the portafilter without a basket.
5. Clamp it into the group and turn it until the screen is locked firmly into the gasket.
6. Take it out and lock it in again: it should now go in easily. The group is ready.

ECM Synchronika II: every job