Sage BES920UK User Guide

Sage® by Heston Blumenthal‰

Customer Service Centre

Freephone (UK Landline): 0808 178 1650

Mobile Calls (National Rate): 0333 0142 970

www.sageappliances.co.uk

[e-mail]

the Dual Boiler

Instruction Booklet

™

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BES920UK

Registered in England & Wales No. 8223512. Due to continued product improvement, the products illustrated or

photographed in this document may vary slightly from the actual product.

Copyright BRG Appliances 2015.

BES920UK Issue - K15

PAGE HEADER..... PAGE HEADER.....WE RECOMMEND SAFETY FIRST

CONTENTS

3 We recommend safety first

7 Features of your new appliance

8 Know your new appliance

10 Operating your new appliance

21 Coffee making tips & preparation

24 Care & cleaning

28 Troubleshooting

33 Coffees to try

At Sage® by Heston Blumenthal® we are very safety conscious.
We design and manufacture appliances with your safety
foremost in mind. We also ask that you exercise a degree of
care when using any electrical appliance and adhere to the
following precautions.

IMPORTANT SAFEGUARDS

FOR ALL ELECTRICAL
APPLIANCES

• Before using for the first

time please ensure that
your electricity supply is the
same as shown on the rating
label on the underside of the
appliance. If you have any
concerns please contact your
local electricity company.

‰

• Your Sage

Blumenthal
includes a BS 13 amp
moulded mains plug on the
supply cord.

• Should you need to change

this plug, please complete the
rewiring as follows
(after safe disposal of the
moulded plug).

• Please note that a cut off plug

inserted into a socket is a
serious danger risk.

by Heston

‰

appliance

• Wires are coloured as follows:

−Blue = Neutral

−Brown = Live

• As the colours of the wire

may not correspond with
the coloured markings which
identify the terminals in
your plug, please refer to
the following:

−The Blue wire must be

connected to the terminal
which is marked ‘N’.

−The Brown wire must be

connected to the terminal
which is marked with the
letter ‘L’.

• Please note that if a 13 amp

plug is used, a 13 amp fuse
should be used.

• Carefully read all instructions

before operating and save for
future reference.

2 3

PAGE HEADER..... PAGE HEADER.....WE RECOMMEND SAFETY FIRST

WE RECOMMEND SAFETY FIRST

• Remove any packaging

material and promotional
labels or stickers before using
the Sage for the first time.

• To eliminate a choking

hazard for young children,
remove and safely discard the
protective cover fitted to the
power plug of this appliance.

• Do not place the product near

the edge of a bench or table
during operation. Ensure
the surface is level, clean
and free of water and other
substances.

• Do not let the cord hang over

the edge of a bench or table,
or become knotted. Keep
away from hot gas or electric
burner, or where it could
touch a heated oven.

• This appliance can be used

by children aged from
8 years and above if they have
been given supervision or
instruction concerning use
of the appliance in a safe way
and understand the hazards
involved. Cleaning and user
maintenance shall not be
made by children unless they
are aged from 8 years and
above and supervised.
Keep the appliance and its
cord out of reach of children
aged less than 3 years.

• Appliances can be used

by persons with reduced
physical, sensory or mental
capabilities or lack of
experience and knowledge
if they have been given
supervision or instruction
concerning use of the
appliance in a safe way and
understand the hazards
involved.

• Children shall not play with

the appliance.

• Regularly inspect the

supply cord, plug and actual
appliance for any damage.
If found damaged in any
way, immediately cease
use of the appliance and
return the entire appliance
to the nearest authorised
Sage Service Centre for
examination, replacement
or repair.

• Keep the appliance and

accessories clean. Follow
the cleaning instructions
provided in this book.
Any procedure not listed
in this instruction booklet
should be performed at an
authorised Sage Service
Centre.

• The installation of a residual

current device (safety switch)
is recommended to provide
additional safety protection
when using electrical
appliances. It is advisable that
a safety switch with a rated
residual operating current not
exceeding 30mA be installed
in the electrical circuit
supplying the appliance.
See your electrician for
professional advice.

SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS
FOR THE SAGE
DUAL BOILER

• This appliance is

recommended for household
use only. Do not use this
appliance for other than its
intended use. Do not use in
moving vehicles or boats.
Do not use outdoors.

• If the appliance is to be:

- left unattended

- cleaned

- moved

- assembled; or

- stored

• Always switch off the

espresso machine by
pressing the power button to
OFF, switch off at the power
outlet and unplug.

• Ensure the product is

properly assembled before
first use.

• Do not use any other liquid

apart from cold mains/town
water. We do not recommend
the use of highly filtered,
de-mineralised or distilled
water as this may affect the
taste of the coffee and how
the espresso machine is
designed to function.

4 5

PAGE HEADER..... PAGE HEADER.....

WE RECOMMEND SAFETY FIRST FEATURES OF YOUR NEW APPLIANCE

• Ensure the portafilter is firmly

inserted and secured into the
group head before starting an
extraction. Never remove the
portafilter during the brewing
process.

• Do not leave the product

unattended when in use.

• Do not touch hot surfaces.

Allow the product to cool
down before moving or
cleaning any parts.

• Use caution when operating

machine as metal surfaces are
liable to get hot during use.

• Use caution when using the

de-scale feature as hot steam
may be released. Before
de-scaling, ensure drip tray
is inserted. Refer to ‘Care &
Cleaning’.

The symbol shown
indicates that this
appliance should not be
disposed of in normal
household waste. It
should be taken to a
local authority waste
collection centre
designated for this
purpose or to a dealer
providing this service.
For more information,
please contact your local
council office.

TRIPLE HEAT SYSTEM

Dual Stainless Steel Boilers

Dedicated espresso and steam boilers for
simultaneous milk texturing and espresso
extraction at the optimum temperature.

Actively Heated Group Head

Commercial 58mm group head with
embedded element for optimal thermal
stability during extraction.

PRECISION CONTROL

Electronic PID Temperature Control

Electronic temperature control
delivers precise water temperature to
+/- 1°C for optimum espresso flavour.
Programmable.

Regulated Extraction Pressure

Over pressure valve (OPV) limits maximum
pressure for optimal espresso flavour.

Low Pressure Pre-Infusion

Gradually increases water pressure to gently
expand grinds for an even extraction.
Programmable.

Dual Pumps

Dedicated espresso and steam boiler
pumps help maintain constant pressure
throughout extraction.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

LCD Interface

Displays current settings and simplifies
programming functions.

High Volume Instant Steam

Dedicated 950ml steam boiler delivers
instant and continuous steam.

Commercial Steam Wand

Stainless steel 360° swivel-action steam
wand with 3 hole tip for a silkier texture.

Volumetric Control

Manual or programmed 1 & 2 cup shot
volumes. Programmable for either duration
or volume.

Instant Hot Water

Dedicated Hot Water outlet for making
long blacks or pre-heating cups.

58mm Full Stainless Steel Portafilter

Helps to promote a more even extraction
and is easier to clean.

Shot Clock

Displays duration of the espresso shot
being extracted.

Programmable Shot Temp

Allows user to adjust water temperature to
achieve optimal espresso flavour.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

6 7

PAGE HEADER..... PAGE HEADER.....KNOW YOUR NEW APPLIANCE

KNOW YOUR NEW APPLIANCE

A

B
C
D

E
F

G

H

A. Top fill 2.5 litre removable water tank

with integrated water filter and backlit
level indicator.

B. POWER button
C. Backlit LCD interface displays current

settings and simplifies programming
functions.

D. MENU access and DISPLAY mode

buttons

E. Espresso pressure gauge monitors

extraction pressure.

F. Integrated & removable 58mm tamper
G. Actively heated 58mm group head with

embedded element for thermal stability
during extraction.

H. 58mm full stainless steel portafilter
I. Convection heated 6 cup warming tray
J. Manual and programmable 1 & 2 cup

volume controls

K. Easy to operate steam lever for instant

and continuous steam.

I

J

K

L

M

N

O

A

P

Q

L. Dedicated hot water outlet delivers

instant hot water for long blacks &
pre-heating cups.

M. 360° swivel action steam wand

with 3 hole tip for a silkier texture.

N. De-scale access point
O. Integrated tool storage tray
P. Drop down swivel foot for

easy manoeuvrability.

Q. Removable drip tray with Empty Me!

indicator.

NOT SHOWN

15 bar Italian pump
Dual stainless steel boilers
Electronic PID temperature control
Over pressure valve
Low pressure pre-infusion
Power save mode powers down and

switches machine off.

Safety thermal cut-out protection

R

Z

Y

ACCESSORIES

R. Stainless steel frothing jug
S. Single & dual wall filter baskets

(1 & 2 cup)

T. Water filter holder with filter
U. Cleaning disc
V. Allen key
W. Cleaning tool
X. Espresso cleaning tablets
Y. Water hardness test strip
Z. Razor™ precision dosing tool

Single Wall

S

X

Dual Wall

W

LCD INTERFACE

Display Modes

• Shot Temp

• Shot Clock Timer

• Clock

Programmable Functions

• Shot Temp

• Shot Volume - 1 & 2 cup

• Pre-Infusion

• Auto Start

T

U

V

8 9

PAGE HEADER..... PAGE HEADER.....OPERATING YOUR NEW APPLIANCE

OPERATING YOUR NEW APPLIANCE

WARNING

Both the STEAM LEVER and
HOT WATER dial must be in the
CLOSED position for the machine to
enter START UP mode.

BEFORE FIRST USE

Machine Preparation

Remove and discard all labelling and
packaging materials attached to your
espresso machine. Ensure you have
removed all parts and accessories before
discarding the packaging.

Clean parts and accessories (water tank,
portafilter, filter baskets, jug) using warm
water and a gentle dish washing liquid and
rinse well.

The water filter located inside the water tank
will need to be removed before washing the
water tank.

Conditioning the Water Filter

• Remove filter from the plastic bag and

soak in a cup of water for 5 minutes.

• Rinse filter under cold running water.

• Wash the stainless steel mesh in

the plastic filter compartment with
cold water.

• Insert the filter into the filter holder.

• Set Date Dial 2 months ahead.

• To install filter, push down to lock

into place.

• Slide the water tank into position and

lock into place.

NOTE

To purchase filters contact
Sage Customer Service Centre
0808 178 1650 or visit
www.sageappliances.co.uk

FIRST USE

Initial Start Up

• Fill tank with cold tap water.

• Dip Water Hardness Test Strip into

water tank for 1 second & set aside.

• Check Steam Lever and Hot Water dial

are in the CLOSED position.

• Press POWER On.

• A pumping sound will be heard

indicating empty boilers are being
filled with water for the first time.

• Machine will prompt you to set water

hardness. Refer for test strip for your
water hardness. Use the Arrow UP or
Arrow DOWN keys to select water
hardness 1–5. Press Menu to set.
Machine will beep to confirm selection.

• Machine will reach operating temperature

and go into STANDBY mode.

Flushing The Machine

When the machine has reached STANDBY
mode, run the following 3 steps:

1. Press 2 Cup button to run water

through group head.

2. Run Hot Water for 30 seconds.

3. Activate Steam for 10 seconds.

TIP

You can manoeuvre your machine
about the bench using the drop down
swivel foot located under the drip tray.

START UP

Press the POWER button to switch the
machine ON. The POWER button will flash
and the LCD screen will display the current
espresso boiler temperature.

When the machine has reached operating
temperature, the POWER button light will
stop flashing and the MANUAL, 1 CUP and
2 CUP buttons will illuminate.

The machine is now in STANDBY mode
ready for use.

NOTE

You will not be able to select 1 CUP,
2 CUP or CLEANING CYCLE during
START UP.

AUTO OFF

The machine will turn off completely if not
used for a continuous 20 minutes period.

LCD INTERFACE

Display modes

3 modes can be displayed on the LCD
screen: Shot Temp, Shot Clock or Clock.

Press UP or DOWN arrow to change the
display mode between shot clock & clock.
Shot temp will be displayed during an
extraction.

1. Shot Temp

Displays selected extraction temperature
(default set at 93°C), but can be changed
from 86°C - 96°C. See ‘Extraction
Temperature’, page 15.

2. Shot Clock

Temporarily displays duration of last
espresso extraction in seconds.

3. Clock

Temporarily displays current time (default
set at 12.00am if time has not been set).

10 11

PAGE HEADER..... PAGE HEADER.....OPERATING YOUR NEW APPLIANCE

OPERATING YOUR NEW APPLIANCE

GENERAL OPERATION

1 CUP

Press 1 CUP once to extract a single shot
of espresso at the pre-programmed
duration (30secs). The extraction will start
using the low pressure pre-infusion.

The machine will stop after 1 CUP volume
has been extracted and will return to
STANDBY mode.

2 CUP

Press 2 CUP button once to extract
a double shot of espresso at the
pre-programmed duration (30secs).
The extraction will start using the low
pressure pre-infusion.

MANUAL

The MANUAL button allows you to
control the espresso pour volume to suit
your preference.

Press MANUAL button once to start the
espresso extraction. The extraction will
start using the low pressure pre-infusion.

Press MANUAL button again to
stop extraction.

NOTE

To stop an extraction at any time,
press the 1 CUP, 2 CUP or MANUAL
button and the machine will return to
STANDBY mode.

STEAM

For instant steam, move STEAM LEVER to
OPEN position. The Steam LED will be On.

To turn STEAM off, move STEAM LEVER to
CLOSED position. The machine will return
to STANDBY mode.

CAUTION: BURN HAZARD

Pressurised steam can still be released,
even after machine has been switched off.

Children must always be supervised.

HOT WATER

For instant hot water, rotate the
HOT WATER dial to OPEN position.
The Hot Water LED will be On.

LCD PROGRAMMING FUNCTIONS

To program the machine, press MENU
button once. The LCD will display all
programming functions. Continue to
press MENU button to select your
desired function.

At any stage during programming, press
EXIT to return to STANDBY mode.

NOTE

The MENU button is disabled when
the machine is extracting espresso or
delivering hot water.

The machine will stop after 2 CUP volume
has been extracted and will return to
STANDBY mode.

12 13

To turn HOT WATER off, rotate the
HOT WATER dial to CLOSED position.
The machine will return to STANDBY mode.

NOTE

You cannot run hot water and extract
espresso at the same time.

PAGE HEADER..... PAGE HEADER.....OPERATING YOUR NEW APPLIANCE

OPERATING YOUR NEW APPLIANCE

SHOT DURATION

1 CUP Duration Programming

Press MENU button until SHOT VOL icon
flashes and 1 CUP is displayed on the LCD
screen.

Press 1 CUP button to start water flow from
the group head.

Press 1 CUP again once required extraction
duration has been reached.

The machine will beep twice to indicate the
new 1 CUP duration has been set.

2 CUP Duration Programming

Press MENU button until SHOT VOL icon
flashes and 2 CUP is displayed on the LCD
screen.

Press 2 CUP button to start water flow from
the group head.

Press 2 CUP again once required extraction
duration has been reached.

The machine will beep twice to indicate the
new 2 CUP duration has been set.

SHOT VOLUME

1 CUP Volume Programming

Press MENU button until SHOT VOL
icon flashes and 1 CUP is displayed on
the LCD screen.

Dose & tamp the portafilter with ground
coffee. Press 1 CUP button to start espresso
extraction. Press 1 CUP again once desired
volume of espresso has been extracted.

The machine will beep twice to indicate the
new 1 CUP volume has been set.

2 CUP Volume Programming

Press MENU button until SHOT VOL
icon flashes and 2 CUP is displayed on
the LCD screen.

EXTRACTION TEMPERATURE

Press MENU button until SHOT TEMP
icon flashes. The LCD will display the
current shot temperature setting.

Press UP or DOWN arrow to adjust
SHOT TEMP to the desired setting
(range 86°C – 96°C).

AUTO START

To use AUTO START, first ensure clock
has been set.

NOTE

Clock must first be set prior to
activating the auto start feature.
Refer to page 16.

Auto Start ON/OFF

Press MENU button until AUTO START
icon flashes and the current Auto Start
setting (ON or OFF) is displayed on the
LCD screen.

Press UP or DOWN arrow to set the
AUTO START to ON or OFF.

NOTE

1 & 2 cup volumes use duration to
control espresso volume as default
setting. Access the Advanced
Menu (page 17) if you wish to use
Volumetric controls for these volumes.

14 15

Dose & tamp the portafilter with ground
coffee. Press 2 CUP button to start espresso
extraction. Press 2 CUP again once desired
volume of espresso has been extracted.

The machine will beep twice to indicate the
new 2 CUP volume has been set.

The new SHOT TEMP setting will
be displayed on the LCD screen.

The optimum temperature will depend
on the origin of the coffee beans, their
freshness and degree of roast.

We recommend a temperature range of
between 90°C-95°C for optimal flavour.

Press EXIT button. Machine will beep once
to confirm setting.

PAGE HEADER..... PAGE HEADER.....OPERATING YOUR NEW APPLIANCE

OPERATING YOUR NEW APPLIANCE

If AUTO START is ON, the LCD will
display a Clock icon.

Press MENU button and the current
Auto Start time will be displayed on the
LCD screen.

Press UP or DOWN arrow to adjust
AUTO START to the desired time.

(default AUTO START time set at 7:00am).
Press EXIT button. Machine will beep once

to confirm setting.

SET CLOCK

Press MENU button until SET CLOCK
icon flashes. The current Clock Time will
be displayed on the LCD screen.

Press UP or DOWN arrow to adjust the time.

Press EXIT button. Machine will beep once
to confirm setting.

CLEAN CYCLE

Press MENU button until CLEAN CYCLE
icon flashes and PUSH is displayed on the
LCD screen.

To start the CLEAN CYCLE press the
illuminated MANUAL button.

The CLEAN CYCLE icon will flash and
the machine will start to countdown from
370 seconds.

ADVANCED ESPRESSO FUNCTIONS

Press & Hold - 1 CUP

Press & hold 1 CUP to bypass the
pre-infusion phase and deliver water to
the group head at the full 9 bar pressure.
Release button to stop extraction. This
function can be used when purging the
group head.

Press & Hold - 2 CUP

Press & hold 2 CUP to bypass the
pre-infusion phase and deliver water to
the group head at the full 9 bar pressure.
Release button to stop extraction. This
function can be used when purging
the group head.

Press & Hold - MANUAL

Press & hold the MANUAL button to
deliver water to the group head at low
pre-infusion pressure. When MANUAL
button is released, water will continue at
the full 9 bars of pressure. Press MANUAL
button again to stop extraction.

This function can be used to manually
control the pre-infusion duration.

ACCESS ADVANCED MENU

To access the Advanced Menu:
With machine OFF, press and hold the

1 CUP button, then press the POWER
button.

TURN

POWER OFF

POWER

Resetting default settings

The machine has the following
default settings:

1. Temperature – 93°C

2. Pre-Infusion – Duration Pr07

3. Pre-Infusion – Power PP60

4. Steam temperature – 135°C

5. Auto Start – OFF

6. Audio – LO

7. Water Hardness – 3

8. Espresso Volume durations –

30/30 secs

To reset machine to original default settings,
first enter Advanced Menu. rSEt will be
displayed on the LCD. Press the MENU
button to reset the machine to the default
settings. The machine will beep 3 times
to confirm.

The machine will then prompt you to set the
water hardness. Select your water hardness
using the UP & DOWN arrows & press
MENU to confirm or press EXIT to return
to STANDBY mode.

THEN PRESS

& HOLD

The machine will return to STANDBY
when the cleaning cycle has ended.

Refer to cleaning instructions on page 24.

16 17

POWER

PAGE HEADER..... PAGE HEADER.....OPERATING YOUR NEW APPLIANCE

OPERATING YOUR NEW APPLIANCE

Temperature Unit - ˚C/˚F (SEt)

Temperature Unit will be displayed on the LCD
screen as SEt. Press MENU to Select.
Use UP and DOWN arrows to select desired
temperature unit. Press MENU to set.
Machine will beep once to confirm selection.
Press EXIT to return to STANDBY mode.

Steam Temperature (StEA)

Adjust Steam Temperature to control the
pressure of the steam being delivered. Lower
steam temperature to texture smaller volumes
of milk or have more control. Raise steam
temperature to texture larger volumes of milk.

Press MENU to Select STEAM.
Use UP and DOWN arrows to select required

steam temperature.
Press MENU to set.
Machine will beep once to confirm selection.

Machine Audio (Snd)

Machine Audio refers to the volume level
of the ‘beeps’ heard.

• HI - high volume

• LO - low volume

• OFF - volume off

Press the MENU button to select Audio.
Press UP or DOWN arrows to select

desired volume. Press MENU to set. Machine
will beep once to confirm selection.

Volumetric Control (vOL)

Use this function to set Duration or Volume to
control the espresso output.

Press the MENU button to select. Use the UP
or DOWN arrows to select FLo or SEc. Press
MENU to set. Machine will beep once to
confirm selection.

ADVANCED FEATURES

Pre-Infusion Programming

With machine in STANDBY mode, press
UP and DOWN arrows together to enter
Pre-Infusion programming mode.

Press MENU button to move between
Pre-infusion Duration and Power.

Pre-Infusion Duration

The LCD will display the current
Pre-Infusion Duration.

Press UP or DOWN arrow to vary time.

We recommend a range of between
5 - 15secs as being optimum.

Pre-Infusion Power

The LCD will display current
Pre-Infusion Power.

Press UP or DOWN arrows to vary power.

ALERTS

STEAM LED Flashing At START UP

The machine will not enter START UP mode
when the STEAM LEVER is in the OPEN
position and the STEAM LED is flashing.

Move the STEAM LEVER to the
CLOSED position for the machine to
enter START UP mode.

HOT WATER LED Flashing At START UP

The machine will not enter START UP mode
when the HOT WATER dial is in the OPEN
position and the HOT WATER LED is flashing.

Move the HOT WATER dial to the
CLOSED position for the machine to
enter START UP mode.

HOT WATER LED Flashing

The HOT WATER LED will flash when
the HOT WATER function has been operating
for longer than 1 minute.

Move the HOT WATER dial to
CLOSED position for machine to
enter STANDBY mode.

FILL TANK

The machine will detect a low water level. The
FILL TANK icon will be displayed on the LCD
screen.

If FILL TANK icon is displayed, add
water to tank until machine returns to
STANDBY mode.

We recommend a range of between 55–65
as being optimum. Press EXIT to confirm
setting and return to STANDBY mode.

18 19

PAGE HEADER..... PAGE HEADER.....OPERATING YOUR NEW APPLIANCE

COFFEE MAKING TIPS & PREPARATION

CLEAN ME!

The machine will detect when 200 extractions
have been carried out since the last clean cycle.

The CLEAN ME! icon will be displayed
on the LCD screen the next time the machine
enters START UP mode.

For information on how to clean the machine,
refer to the CLEAN CYCLE instructions on
page 24.

PRE-HEATING

Heating your cup or glass

A warm cup will help maintain the coffee’s
optimal temperature. Pre-heat your cup by
rinsing with hot water from the Hot Water
outlet and place on the cup warming tray.

Heating the portafilter and filter basket

A cold portafilter and filter basket can
reduce the extraction temperature enough to
significantly affect the quality of your espresso.
Always ensure the portafilter and filter basket
are pre-heated with hot water from the Hot
Water outlet before initial use.

NOTE

Always wipe the filter basket dry before
dosing with ground coffee as moisture
can encourage channelling where
water bypasses the ground coffee
during extraction.

SELECTING FILTER BASKET

SINGLE WALL Filter Baskets

Use Single Wall filter baskets when grinding
fresh whole coffee beans.

Single Wall filter baskets allow you to
experiment with grind, dose and tamp to
create a more balanced espresso.

DUAL WALL Filter Baskets

Use Dual Wall filter baskets if using
pre-ground coffee.

Dual Wall filter baskets regulate the pressure
and help to optimise the extraction regardless
of the grind, dose, tamp pressure or freshness.

• Use the 1 cup filter basket when brewing

single cups and the 2 cup filter basket
when brewing two cups, stronger single
cups or mugs.

THE GRIND

When grinding coffee beans, the grind size
should be fine but not too fine. The grind size
will affect the rate at which the water flows
through the ground coffee in the filter basket
and the taste of the espresso.

If the grind is too fine (looks like powder and
feels like flour when rubbed between fingers),
the water will not flow through the coffee even
when under pressure. The resulting espresso
will be OVER EXTRACTED, dark in colour and
bitter in flavour.

If the grind is too coarse the water will flow
through the ground coffee in the filter basket
too quickly. The resulting espresso will be
UNDER EXTRACTED lacking in colour
and flavour.

COFFEE DOSE AND TAMPING

• Wipe coffee basket with a dry cloth.

• Use the 1 cup filter basket when brewing

single cups and the 2 cup filter basket
when brewing two cups, stronger single
cups or mugs.

20 21

• Using Single Wall filter baskets, grind

enough coffee to fill the coffee basket.

• Tap the portafilter several times to

collapse and distribute the coffee evenly
in the filter basket.

PAGE HEADER..... PAGE HEADER.....COFFEE MAKING TIPS & PREPARATION

GRIND SHOT TIME

BITTER • ASTRINGENT

UNDERDEVELOPED • SOUR

COFFEE MAKING TIPS & PREPARATION

• Tamp down firmly (using approx.

15 – 20kgs of pressure). The amount
of pressure is not as important as
consistent pressure every time.

• As a guide to dose, the top edge of the

metal cap on the tamper should be level
with the top of the filter basket AFTER the
coffee has been tamped.

TRIMMING THE DOSE

• Insert the Razor™ dosing tool into the

coffee basket until the shoulders of the
tool rest on the rim of the basket.
The blade of the dosing tool should
penetrate the surface of the tamped
coffee.

• Rotate the Razor™ dosing tool back and

forth while holding the portafilter on an
angle over the knock box to trim off
excess coffee grinds. Your coffee filter
basket is now dosed with the correct
amount of coffee.

• Wipe excess coffee from the rim of the

filter basket to ensure a proper seal is
achieved in the group head.

NOTE

If the extraction is too fast, make the
grind finer & repeat above steps.

If the extraction is too slow, make the
grind coarser and repeat above steps.

PURGING THE GROUP HEAD

• Before placing the portafilter into the

group head, run a short flow of water
through the group head by pressing
and holding the 1 CUP button. This
will purge any ground coffee residue
from the group head and stabilise
the temperature prior to extraction.

INSERTING THE PORTAFILTER

Place the portafilter underneath the group
head so that the handle is aligned with
the INSERT position. Insert the portafilter
into the group head and rotate the handle
towards the centre until resistance is felt.

EXTRACTING ESPRESSO

• Place pre-warmed cup(s) beneath the

portafilter and press the 1 CUP or
2 CUP button for the required volume.

• As a guide, the espresso will start

to flow after 8-10 seconds (infusion
time) and should be the consistency
of dripping honey.

• If the espresso starts to flow after less

than 6 seconds you have either under
dosed the filter basket and/or the
grind is too coarse. This is an
UNDER EXTRACTED shot.

• If the espresso starts to drip but doesn’t

flow after 15 seconds, the grind is too
fine. This is an OVER EXTRACTED
shot.

A great espresso is about achieving the
perfect balance between sweetness, acidity
and bitterness.

The flavour of your coffee will depend on
many factors, such as the type of coffee
beans, degree of roast, freshness, coarseness
or fineness of the grind, dose of ground coffee
and tamping pressure.

Experiment by adjusting these factors
just one at a time to achieve the taste
of your preference.

EXTRACTION GUIDE

OVER EXTRACTED

UNDER EXTRACTED

TOO FINE OVER 40 S EC

OPTIMUM 25- 35 SECBALANCED

TOO COAR SE UNDER 20 SEC

TEXTURING MILK

• Always start with fresh cold milk.

• Fill the jug just below the “V” at the

bottom of the spout.

• Position the steam tip above the drip

tray and lift the steam lever to purge the
steam wand of any condensed water.

• Insert the steam tip 1-2cm below

the surface of the milk close to the
right hand side of the jug at the
3 o’clock position.

• Lift the steam lever.

• Keep the tip just under the surface of the

milk until the milk is spinning clockwise,
producing a vortex (whirlpool effect).

• With the milk spinning, slowly lower the

jug. This will bring the steam tip to the
surface of the milk & start to introduce
air into the milk. You may have to gently
break the surface of the milk with the tip
to get the milk spinning fast enough.

• Keep the tip at or slightly below the

surface, continuing to maintain the
vortex. Texture the milk until sufficient
volume is obtained.

• Lift the handle of the jug to lower the tip

beneath the surface, but keep the vortex
of milk spinning. The milk is at the
correct temperature (60-65°C) when the
jug is hot to touch.

• Move the steam lever to the CLOSED

position BEFORE taking the tip out of
the milk.

• Set the jug to one side, lift the steam

lever to purge out any residual milk
from the steam wand and wipe steam
wand with a damp cloth.

• Tap the jug on the bench to collapse

any bubbles.

• Swirl the jug to “polish” and re-integrate

the texture.

• Pour milk directly into the espresso.

• The key is to work quickly, before the

milk begins to separate and the crema
dissipates.

HINTS & TIPS

• Always use freshly ground coffee

for a superior flavour and body.

• Use freshly roasted coffee beans,

with a roasted-on date and use within
2 weeks of roasted-on date.

• Store coffee beans in a cool,

dark and dry container. Vacuum
seal if possible.

• Buy coffee beans in small batches

to reduce the storage time and store
no more than one week’s supply at
any time.

• Grind beans immediately before

brewing as ground coffee quickly
loses its flavour and aroma.

22 23

PAGE HEADER..... PAGE HEADER.....CARE & CLEANING

CARE & CLEANING

CLEANING CYCLE

• CLEAN ME! will be displayed on

LCD to indicate when a cleaning cycle
is required (approx. 200 shots).

• Insert the supplied cleaning disc,

followed by 1 cleaning tablet into the
1 CUP filter basket.

• Insert the portafilter and lock into

group head.

• Ensure the water tank is filled with cold

tap water.

• Ensure the drip tray is empty & inserted.

• Press MENU button until

CLEAN CYCLE icon flashes and
PUSH is displayed on the LCD screen.

• To start the Clean Cycle press the

illuminated MANUAL button.

• The CLEAN CYCLE icon will flash and

the machine will start to countdown
from 370 seconds.

• When the cleaning cycle has finished,

remove the portafilter and ensure
the tablet has completely dissolved.
If the tablet has not dissolved, repeat
the steps above, without inserting a
new tablet.

• Rinse the filter basket and portafilter

thoroughly before use.

INSTALLING WATER FILTERS

• Soak filter in a glass of water for

5 minutes.

• Rinse the filter and mesh under

running water.

• Assemble filter into filter holder.

• Set replacement date forward 2 months.

• Install filter holder into water tank.

• Insert water tank into the machine.

Ensure the latch is locked into position.

NOTE

Change filters every 2 months.
To purchase filters contact Sage
Customer Service Centre UK
Phone: [phone] or visit
www.sageappliances.co.uk

CLEANING THE STEAM WAND

• Wipe the steam wand with a damp cloth

& purge directly after texturing the milk.

• If the any of the holes in the tip of the

steam wand become blocked, ensure
the STEAM LEVER is in the CLOSED
position and clean using the pin on the
end of the cleaning tool.

• If steam wand remains blocked, remove

the tip using the integrated spanner in
the cleaning tool and soak in hot water.
Screw tip back onto the steam wand
using the integrated spanner in the
cleaning tool.

CLEANING THE FILTER BASKETS
AND PORTAFILTER

• The filter baskets and portafilter should

be rinsed under hot water directly after
use to remove all residual coffee oils.

If the holes in the filter baskets become
blocked, dissolve a cleaning tablet in
hot water and soak filter basket and
portafilter in solution for approx.
20 minutes. Rinse thoroughly.

CLEANING THE SHOWER SCREEN

• The group head interior and shower

screen should be wiped with a damp cloth
to remove any ground coffee particles.

• Periodically run hot water through the

machine with the filter basket and
portafilter in place, without ground
coffee, to rinse out any residual coffee.

CLEAR WATER BACK-FLUSH

• Insert the cleaning disc into the 1 cup

filter basket.

• Insert portafilter into the group head.

• Press the 1 CUP button to build pressure

in the basket.

• Repeat several times to remove residual

coffee oils in the espresso water paths.

CLEANING THE DRIP
& STORAGE TRAY

• The drip tray should be removed,

emptied and cleaned after each use or
when the drip tray indicator is showing
Empty Me!

• Remove grill from the drip tray.

Wash the drip tray in warm soapy water.
The Empty Me! indicator can also be
removed from the drip tray.

• The storage tray can be removed and

cleaned with a soft, damp cloth (do not
use abrasive cleansers, pads or cloths
which can scratch the surface).

CLEANING THE OUTER HOUSING
& CUP WARMING TRAY

• The outer housing and cup warming tray

can be cleaned with a soft, damp cloth.
Polish with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use
abrasive cleaners, pads or cloths which
can scratch the surface.

NOTE

Do not clean any of the parts or
accessories in the dishwasher.

24 25

PAGE HEADER..... PAGE HEADER.....CARE & CLEANING

THEN PRESS

CARE & CLEANING

DESCALE

(dESC)

NOTE

Only descale your Oracle via the
descale menu.

1 – Prepare for Descale

a) Empty the drip tray and insert

into position.

b) With the machine off, press and hold the

1 CUP button, then press and hold the
POWER button together for 3 seconds.
rSEt will appear on the LCD.

& HOLD

POWER

c) Press UP or DOWN arrow to the ‘dESC’

then press MENU to confirm.

2 – Empty Boilers

a) Remove the grey silicone cover on the

lower front panel marked DESCALE
ACCESS.

REMOVE

b) Place a cloth over the drip tray to prevent

steam escaping.

c) Use a flat head screw driver to rotate the

right valve counter-clockwise SLOWLY
until fully open. As the valve opens, steam
may be released.

NOTE

If there’s no water released into the drip
tray, press and hold the 1 CUP button for
3 seconds. This will release water from
the boiler.

When the water is completely empty, close
the valve by rotating screws clock-wise until
seated. Do not overtighten screws to avoid
damages to the valves.

d) Repeat the above process on the left valve.
e) Empty the drip tray, use caution as the drip

tray may be hot.

f) Empty water tank, remove water filter.
g) Dissolve 1 sachet of Sage Descaler™ into

1 litre of warm water. Pour solution into
the water tank.

NOTE

If water tank has not been removed,
replaced or is empty, “FILL TANK”
will appear on the LCD.

3 – Begin Descale

a) Press 1 Cup button and the LCD screen will

show countdown time (20 minutes).

During this time, the machine will fill boilers
with descale solution and heat to temperature.
There may be some water flow through the
group head during this time.

Allow the countdown timer to reach 0 as this
allows solution sufficient time to dissolve scale
build up. However you can proceed to the next
step at any time by pressing the 1 Cup button.

b) Place a cloth over the drip tray to stop

steam escaping.

c) Empty boilers by repeating steps

2c and 2d.

d) Empty drip tray and insert back to place.
e) Empty water tank then rinse and fill with

clean water to the MAX line. Lock water
tank back into position.

4 – Flush Boilers

a) Press 1 Cup button and the LCD screen will

show countdown time (20 minutes).

During this time, the machine will fill boilers
with fresh clean water and heat to temperature.
You can proceed to the next step at any time by
pressing the 1 Cup button.

b) Place a cloth over the drip tray to stop

steam escaping.

c) Empty boilers by repeating steps

2c and 2d.

d) Empty drip tray and insert back to place.
e) Empty water tank then rinse and fill with

clean water to the MAX line. Lock water
tank back into position.

5 – Repeat Step 4 Flush Boilers

We recommend flushing boilers again to
ensure any residual descale solution is
released from the boilers.

Press POWER button to escape the Descale
mode. The descale process is now complete
and ready to use.

26 27

PAGE HEADER..... PAGE HEADER.....TROUBLESHOOTING

TROUBLESHOOTING

PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSES WHAT TO DO

The Hot Water LED
flashes when the machine
is turned On.

The Steam LED flashes
when the machine is
turned On.

Water does not flow from
the group head.

FILL TANK displayed
on LCD, but water tank
is full.

No Steam or Hot Water. • Machine is not turned

No Hot Water. • Water tank is empty. Fill water tank.

• Hot Water dial is open. Turn the Hot Water dial to

the CLOSED position.

• Steam Lever is open. Move the Steam Lever to

the CLOSED position.

• Machine has not

reached operating
temperature.

• Water tank is empty. Fill Tank.

• Water tank not fully

inserted & locked.

• Water tank is not fully

inserted and locked
into position.

on.

Allow time for the machine
to reach operating
temperature. The POWER
light will stop flashing
when machine is ready.

Push water tank in fully
and close the latch.

Push water tank in fully
and close the latch.

Ensure the machine is
plugged in, switched On
at the power outlet and the
POWER button is On.

PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSES WHAT TO DO

The machine is ‘On’ but
ceases to operate.

Steam pouring out of
group head.

Espresso just drips from
the portafilter spouts.

• Coffee is ground

too finely.

• Too much coffee in the

filter basket.

• The filter basket may be

blocked.

Turn machine Off. Wait
for 60 minutes and turn
machine back On.

If problem persists, call
Sage Customer Service UK.

Turn machine Off. Wait
for 60 minutes and turn
machine back On.

If problem persists, call
Sage Customer Service UK.

Use slightly coarser grind.

Lower dose of coffee using
the RAZOR™ dosing tool.

Use the fine pin on the
provided cleaning tool
to clear the outlet hole(s)
on the underside of the
filter basket. If it continues
to be blocked, dissolve a
cleaning tablet in hot water
and soak filter basket and
portafilter in the solution
for approx. 20 minutes.
Rinse thoroughly.

No Steam. • Steam Wand is blocked. Use the pin on the cleaning

tool to clear the holes. If
the steam wand continues
to be blocked remove the
tip of the steam wand using
the spanner in the cleaning
tool and soak in hot water.

28 29

PAGE HEADER..... PAGE HEADER.....TROUBLESHOOTING

TROUBLESHOOTING

PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSES WHAT TO DO

Espresso runs out too
quickly.

and/or

Pressure gauge not
reaching 9 bar.

• The coffee is ground

too coarse.

• Not enough coffee in

the filter basket.

• Coffee not tamped

firmly enough.

Use slightly finer grind.

Increase dose of coffee and
use the RAZOR™ dosing
tool to trim off excess
coffee after tamping.

Tamp between 15-20kgs
of pressure.

If the above suggestions
do not help, check the
machine. Place an EMPTY
Dual Wall filter basket
into the portafilter (either
1 CUP or 2 CUP). Press
the MANUAL button. If
the pressure gauge reads
over 5 bar the machine is
OK. Ensure correct dose
by using the RAZOR™
dosing tool. If the dose
is correct, make the
grind finer.
If the pressure gauge reads
below 5 bar, contact Sage
Customer Service Centre

PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSES WHAT TO DO

No crema. • Coffee beans are stale. Buy freshly roasted coffee

with a roasted-on date.

Ensure you use Dual Wall
Filter Baskets with
pre-ground coffee.

Ensure portafilter is rotated
to the right until the handle
is past the centre and is
securely locked in place.
Rotating past the center
will not damage the
silicone seal.

Clean excess coffee from
the rim of the filter basket
to ensure a proper seal in
group head.

Always ensure filter basket
and portafilter are dried
thoroughly before filling
with coffee, tamping and
inserting into the group
head.

Espresso runs out
around the edge of the
portafilter.

and/or

Portafilter comes out of
the group head during an
extraction.

• Using Single Wall

Filter Baskets with
pre-ground coffee.

• Portafilter not inserted in

the group head correctly.

• There are coffee

grounds around the
filter basket rim.

• Filter basket rim is

wet or underside of
portafilter lugs are wet.
Wet surfaces reduce the
friction required to hold
the portafilter in place
whilst under pressure
during an extraction.

Coffee not hot enough. • Cups not preheated. Rinse cups under hot water

outlet and place on cup
warming tray.

• Milk not hot enough

(if making a cappuccino
or latte etc).

30 31

Heat milk until side of
the jug becomes hot
to touch.

Unable to set auto
start time.

E1, E2 or E3 error
message on LCD screen.

• Too much coffee in the

filter basket.

• Clock not set. Set clock.

• An error that cannot

be reset by the user
has occurred.

Trim coffee dose using the
RAZOR™ dosing tool after
tamping.

Contact Sage Customer
Service Centre UK.

PAGE HEADER..... PAGE HEADER.....

TROUBLESHOOTING COFFEES TO TRY

PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSES WHAT TO DO

Coffee puck is sticking to
the shower screen.

Pumps continue to
operate / Steam is very
wet / Hot water outlet
leaks.

• This is normal and

happens occasionally.
The dry puck feature
creates a slight
vacuum on top of the
coffee puck which
will occasionally hold
the puck against the
shower screen instead
of leaving it in the filter
basket.

• Using de-mineralised

or distilled water which
is affecting how the
machine is designed to
function.

We recommend using cold,
filtered water. We do not
recommend using water
with no/low mineral
content such as
de-mineralised or distilled
water. If the problem
persists, contact Sage
Customer Service Centre.

CAPPUCCINO

A single shot of espresso with textured milk and garnished
with drinking chocolate.

ESPRESSO

Intense and aromatic, it is also known as an espresso or short
black and is served in a small cup or glass.

LATTÉ

A latté consists of a single espresso with textured milk and
approx. 10mm of foam.

MACCHIATO

Traditionally served short, the macchiato is also poured as a
long black with a dash of milk or a dollop of textured milk.

LONG BLACK

Add hot water first, then a shot of espresso (single or double)
so that crema is maintained.

RISTRETTO

A ristretto is an extremely short espresso of approximately
15ml, distinguished by its intense flavour and aftertaste.

32 33