Is it worth repairing an espresso machine?

At Steamline Repairs, we get this question all the time—and the honest answer is: it really depends on your machine and the specific issue.

If you’ve got a higher-end or commercial-grade machine, like a Faema, Rancilio, La Marzocco, or Breville Dual Boiler, it’s almost always worth repairing. These machines are built to last and designed to be serviced. A good repair can add years to their lifespan.

For entry-level or pod-based machines, the cost of repair can sometimes come close to the price of a replacement. But that doesn’t mean it’s always a lost cause—minor issues like clogged lines, leaky seals, or electrical faults can often be fixed quickly and affordably.

We always start with a diagnostic check-up. We’ll walk you through what’s going on, what it’ll cost to fix, and whether we’d recommend going ahead with the repair or replacing the machine instead. No pressure, no upsells—just honest, local service.

If you’re not sure what to do with your espresso machine, feel free to contact us. We’re happy to take a look and help you get your cafe back in business or get you back to brewing great coffee at home.

How often should an espresso machine be serviced?

We always recommend regular servicing to keep your machine running smoothly and your coffee tasting its best.

For commercial machines, we recommend servicing every 3 to 6 months, depending on usage. High-volume settings like cafes put a lot more strain on the machine, and preventive maintenance can help avoid costly downtime or repairs later.

For home espresso machines, a general rule of thumb is to schedule a full service once a year. If you’re using the machine daily—especially for multiple drinks a day—it might need attention a bit sooner. Regular service helps prevent buildup, catch wear-and-tear early, and keep all components working efficiently.

Between professional services, it’s also important to stay on top of daily and weekly cleaning routines—like backflushing, descaling and keeping group heads and steam wands clean.

At our shop, we offer routine maintenance packages and can put you on a service schedule that fits your machine and usage. Whether it’s been a while or you just want to keep things in top shape, feel free to contact us, we’re happy to help keep your coffee game strong.

How do I fix my espresso?

If your espresso isn’t tasting quite right, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Here’s how to troubleshoot shots that are too sour, bitter, weak, or just off. The good news is, a few small tweaks can usually make a big difference.

Start by checking your grind size. Espresso needs a fine grind—almost like powdered sugar. If it’s too coarse, the shot will run fast and taste sour. If it’s too fine, it might choke the machine and come out bitter or overly strong.

Next, make sure you’re dosing the right amount of coffee into your portafilter—usually around 18 to 20 grams for a double shot. You’ll also want to tamp firmly and evenly to avoid channeling, where the water flows unevenly through the puck and ruins the extraction.

Pay attention to your shot time. A good double shot typically takes about 25 to 30 seconds to pull. If it’s running too fast or too slow, that’s usually a sign your grind or dose needs adjusting.

And don’t overlook your beans. Fresh, properly stored coffee makes a huge difference. Older beans tend to lose their complexity and won’t give you that rich, balanced shot you’re looking for.

Lastly, a clean machine is a happy machine. Coffee oils and residue build up quickly, so make sure your group head, portafilter, and baskets are clean and well-maintained.

Can an espresso machine be repaired?

Absolutely—espresso machines can be repaired, and in many cases, it’s the smarter and more cost-effective option compared to replacing the whole thing.

Whether it’s a home machine that’s lost pressure, a commercial unit with a leak, or just a stubborn machine that won’t power on, most issues are fixable with the right tools and know-how. We regularly repair everything from worn-out gaskets and clogged lines to broken pumps, heating elements, and electronics.

Of course, the repairability depends on the brand, model, and age of the machine. Higher-end machines like Faema, Rancilio, La Marzocco, Breville, and Rocket are built to last and designed to be serviced. Even mid-range machines can often be brought back to life with the right parts and a little care.

We’ll do a full diagnostic to figure out exactly what’s going on. Then we’ll give you a clear breakdown of the repair options and costs, so you can decide if it’s worth it.

So yes, espresso machines can definitely be repaired—and we’re here to help you get yours back in action.