De'Longhi Error Messages Explained: What They Mean and What to Do

De'Longhi automatic coffee machines use alerts and warning lights to tell you when something needs attention. Most are simple reminders you can deal with in seconds, but some point to a fault that needs a technician. Exact wording and symbols vary between models like the Magnifica, Eletta, Rivelia, PrimaDonna and Dinamica, so always check your manual too. Here are the most common ones we see in our Adelaide workshop.

Everyday alerts you can fix yourself

• Fill water tank. The tank is empty or not seated properly. Refill it and push it fully into place.
• Empty grounds container. Empty the grounds container and drip tray, and leave them out for a few seconds so the machine registers they've been emptied before refitting.
• Insert drip tray or grounds container. One of them isn't fully seated. Remove and refit it firmly.
• Insert brewing unit. The brewing unit has been removed or isn't locked in. Refit it until it clicks.
• Close the door. The service door isn't fully closed.
• Add beans. The bean container is empty, or beans are sticking. Refill it and give the beans a gentle stir.

Maintenance reminders

• Descale. The machine is due for descaling based on your water hardness setting. Run the descale program from the menu and let it finish completely. If the light won't clear, see our guide on why the De'Longhi descale light won't turn off.
• Replace water filter. The water softener filter has reached the end of its life. Replace it and register the new filter in the menu.
• Clean milk system. Run the milk cleaning function or clean the carafe as your manual instructs.

Grind and coffee messages

• Grind too fine or adjust grinder. Coffee is flowing too slowly. Adjust the grinder one step coarser while the grinder is running, as your manual instructs.
• Too much ground coffee. Too much pre-ground coffee was added. Use no more than one level scoop.

Alerts that usually need a technician

• General alarm or flashing lights that won't clear. If an alert stays on after you've followed every step, a sensor, component or the control board may need checking.
• Brewing unit won't move or makes grinding noises. This can point to a jammed brewing unit or a motor problem.
• Machine won't heat or keeps switching off. These can be heating or electronic faults.

Before bringing your machine in, try switching it off at the wall for a few minutes and restarting it. If the alert returns, it's time for a professional check.

Approved De'Longhi repairs in Adelaide

Prestige is one of only two approved De'Longhi repairers in South Australia, and the largest. Our factory-trained technicians have full access to De'Longhi technical information and genuine parts, and we handle De'Longhi warranty repairs directly, so just bring your machine in with a copy of your receipt. Find out more about our De'Longhi repairs in Adelaide.

Frequently asked questions

Why does my De'Longhi keep saying empty grounds container when it's empty?

The machine may not have registered the container being removed. Take it out for a few seconds before refitting. If the message persists, a sensor may need checking.

How do I reset my De'Longhi?

Switch it off at the wall for a few minutes and restart it. Factory reset options vary by model, so check your manual before resetting your settings.