First start-up

Place it and fill the tank

The manual's installation and filling steps.

1. Stand the machine on a level surface with 10 cm clear on each side and behind, somewhere between 5 and 36 °C.
2. Lift the tank lid at the back of the cup tray.
3. Fill the tank to the MAX mark, about 1.8 litres, with filtered water of the right hardness (water).
4. Put a softener bag in the tank, as the manual recommends.
5. Close the lid.

Switch on and fill the boiler

The manual's steps, in order.

1. Check the lever is down (vertical, off).
2. Switch on. The lamp lights blue.
3. Open the steam knob: you should hear the pump fill the boiler. When it stops, close the knob.
4. Wait for the boiler gauge to read about 1 bar.
5. Open the steam knob for 5 seconds to let steam out, then close it. The manual calls this highly important: it clears the vacuum that could suck milk into the boiler.
6. Wait for 1 bar again.

Run a cup through, then let it heat

Still the manual. It says to do the cup of water only once, at first use.

1. Put a cup or jug under the group.
2. Raise the lever fully and run off a cup of hot water.
3. Lower the lever.
4. Lock the portafilter into the group.
5. Let it heat for 12 to 15 minutes before the first shot.

The display's heating icon follows the boiler only, so it can clear before the group is ready (Whole Latte Love).

Rocket Giotto Fast V: every job