Tweet Pin it Reddit
I may get commissions for purchases made through links in this post.

A Complete Guide To Dolce Gusto Genio S Descaling

Dolce Gusto Genio S Descaling
Genio S

The water used to brew your Nescafe pods contains minerals that build up inside your machine. Dolce Gusto Genio S descaling removes those minerals. If left untreated, these minerals can have a negative impact on the temperature and taste of your coffee as well as the machine’s water flow. If your Genio S is not pumping water, it is because of this scale buildup. Keep reading to learn more about how to descale Dolce Gusto Genio S coffee machines. To begin the process, you will need a descaling solution like one of those recommended below.

How Often To Descale Dolce Gusto Genio S Machines?

Dolce Gusto Genio S models will have an alert light that turns on when it is time to descale. However, you don’t have to wait for this signal. A good rule of thumb is that a you should descale your machine at least every 3 or 4 months. You should do this right away if you notice that coffee is coming out of your machine more slowly or that it is cooler than usual.

Descaling is needed whether you are using filtered water, bottled water or tap water with a low to normal mineral count. You should run this deep cleaning cycle more often if your tap has “hard water.” That means it contains higher level of minerals.

Is Dolce Gusto Genio S Descaling With Vinegar A Bad Idea?

You should not use vinegar to descale Dolce Gusto Genio S machines. White vinegar contains 5-8% acetic acid. This type of acid can wear down metal and cause your machine to leak. Plus, vinegar cannot remove oils left by used coffee beans. Since Nescafe specifically warns against using vinegar, doing so may void your warranty.

Instead, the best way to clean your Genio S is with one of the below solutions. They have safe and effective types of acids that won’t damage your machine.

Dolce Gusto Genio S Descaling Solutions

In addition to one of the descaling kits below, you will need to find the dripper funnel accessory that came with your Genio. It may be stored in the bottom plate of the capsule bin. If you lost it, you can buy a replacement.

how to descale dolce gusto - descaler accessory
Dolce Gusto Descaler Accessory

Nescafe Dolce Gusto Descaler by Durgol

The official Dolce Gusto descaler is made by Durgol. This is the solution that Nescafe recommends you use to clean your machine. Each pack comes with two bottles.

DeLonghi EcoDecalk Descaler

De'Longhi Descaler to use when Nespresso half red half green light comes on

If you cannot find the Durgol brand, the DeLonghi EcoDecalk Descaler is another great choice. It is made in Italy with high quality, plant-based lactic acid. This solution can be used to solve a descaling issue with any espresso machine, including those made by Nescafe. A 16.90 fl oz bottle contains enough solution for up to 5 uses.

Dolce Gusto Genio S Descaling Instructions

Note: The same descaling steps apply whether you have a Genio S, Genio S Plus or Genio S Touch model.

Prepare The Machine

  1. Turn the Genio S off. Empty any water in the tank.
  2. Pour the solution into the machine, following the instructions on the descaler packaging.
  3. Open the locking handle. Put the rinsing tool into capsule holder. Insert the capsule holder into the machine. Close the locking handle.
  4. Place an empty large container under the coffee outlet.

Run The Descale Cycle

  1. To enter descaling mode, select XL and turn the control ring 4 times clockwise until the LED starts blinking.
  2. Press the start/stop button. The Genio S will start descaling and will continue in a start-stop process until the tank is empty.
  3. When it is done, you need to wait 2 minutes before taking the next step. The volume display bar will move down during this time and then disappear.
  4. The 4th level of the volume bar will start to flash.

Start A Rinse Cycle

  1. Empty the container and place it under the outlet again. Empty and rinse the water tank. Refill the tank with fresh water only and place back on the machine.
  2. Press the start/stop button to begin the rinse cycle. The rinse cycle will end when the tank is empty.
  3. The descaling orange light will turn off. The selection button will blink red, but steady when the Genio S is ready.
  4. Empty and rinse the water tank. Refill the tank with fresh water only and place back on the unit. Rinse both side of the capsule holder.

Leave a Reply