Sage SES880 User Manual

the Barista Touch

Instruction Book - SES880

™

Contents

IMPORTANT
SAFEGUARDS

2 Sage recommends safety first
8 Components
10 Features
12 Functions
18 Tips
23 Care & Cleaning
27 Troubleshooting

SAGE
RECOMMENDS
SAFETY FIRST

At Sage‰ by Heston
Blumenthal‰ we are very
safety conscious. We design
and manufacture consumer
products with the safety of you,
our valued customer, foremost
in mind. In addition we ask
that you exercise a degree of
care when using any electrical
appliance and adhere to the
following precautions.

READ ALL
INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE
USE AND SAVE FOR
FUTURE REFERENCE

• 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‰ by Heston
Blumenthal‰ appliance
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.

2

• Wires are coloured as
follows:

− Blue = Neutral

− Brown = Live

− Green & Yellow = Earth

• 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’.

− The Green & Yellow
wire must be connected
to the terminal which is
marked with the letter E
or the earth symbol .

• Please note that if a 13
amp plug is used, a 13
amp fuse should be used.

• 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 Barista
Touch™ 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 use the Barista
Touch™ on a sink drain
board.

• Do not place the Barista
Touch™ on or near a hot
gas or electric burner, or
where it could touch a
heated oven.

• Always ensure the Barista
Touch™ is properly
assembled before
connecting to power
outlet and operating.
Follow the instructions
provided in this book.

3

• The appliance is not
intended to be operated
by means of an external
timer or separate remote
control system.

• Never remove the
portafilter during the
brewing operation as
the machine is under
pressure.

• Do not use attachments
other than those provided
with the Barista Touch™.

• Do not attempt to operate
the Barista Touch™ by any
method other than those
described in this book.

• Do not operate the
grinder without the
hopper lid in position.
Keep fingers, hands, hair,
clothing and utensils away
from the hopper during
operation.

• Use only cold, tap water in
the water tank. Do no use
any other liquid.

• Never use the Barista
Touch™ without water in
the water tank.

• Ensure the portafilter
is firmly inserted and
secured into the brewing
head before using the
machine.

• Do not move the Barista
Touch™ whilst in
operation.

• Do not leave the Barista
Touch™ unattended when
in use.

• Do not touch hot surfaces.
Allow the Barista Touch™
to cool down before
moving or cleaning any
parts.

• Do not place anything,
other than cups for
warming, on top of the
Barista Touch™.

• Always switch off the
Barista Touch™ by
pressing the POWER
button to ‘Off’, switch
off at the power outlet
and unplug if appliance
is to be left unattended,
if not in use, before
cleaning, before
attempting to move the
appliance, disassembling,

4

assembling and when
storing the appliance.

• This appliance shall not
be used by children.
Keep the appliance and
its cord out of reach of
children. 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 if they
understand the hazards
involved.

SPECIFIC
INSTRUCTIONS
FOR WATER
FILTER

• Filter cartridge should
be kept out of reach of
children.

• Store filter cartridges in
a dry place in the original
packaging.

• Protect cartridges from
heat and direct sunlight.

• Do not use damaged filter
cartridges.

• Do not open filter
cartridges.

• Keep the appliance and
accessories clean. Follow
the cleaning instructions
provided in this book.

• If you are absent for a
prolonged period of time,
empty the water tank and
replace the cartridge.

5

IMPORTANT
SAFEGUARDS
FOR ALL

• Children should be
supervised to ensure
they do not play with the
appliance.

ELECTRICAL
APPLIANCES

• Unwind the power cord
fully before use.

• Do not let the power cord
hang over the edge of
a bench or table, touch
hot surfaces, or become
knotted.

• To protect against electric
shock do not immerse
power cord, power plug or
appliance in water or any
other substance.

• This appliance is not
intended for use by
persons (including
children) with reduced
physical, sensory or mental
capabilities, or lack of
experience or knowledge,
unless they have been
given supervision or
instruction concerning
use of the appliance by
a person responsible for
their safety.

6

• It is recommended to
regularly inspect the
appliance. Do not use
the appliance if power
cord, power plug or
appliance becomes
damaged in any way. If
damaged or maintenance
other than cleaning is
required, please contact
Sage Customer Service
on 0808 178 1650 |

0333 0142 970 or go to
sageappliances.co.uk.

• Any maintenance, other
than cleaning, should
be performed at an
authorised Sage Service
Centre.

• This appliance is
recommended for
household use only.

• Heating element surface
is subject to residual heat
after use.

• Do not use this appliance
for anything other than its
intended use.

• Do not use in moving
vehicles or boats. Do not
use outdoors. Misuse may
cause injury.

• 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.

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.

WARNING

Fully unwind the cord
before use.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

7

Components

A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

J

A. 250g bean hopper

With locking system for easy removal,

storage and transfer of coffee beans.
B. Integrated conical burr grinder
C. Touch screen control panel

Displays current settings and provides

touch interface.
D. GRIND SIZE selector

Espresso grind settings from fine to coarse.
E. POWER button
F. Integrated removable 54mm tamper
G. Grind outlet
H. Hands free grinding cradle
I. 54mm stainless steel portafilter

With commercial style spouts.

K

L

M

N

O

P

Q

J. Removable wet & dry coffee separator

drip tray

With Empty Me! tray full indicator.

K. 2L removable water tank

With replaceable water filter to reduce

impurities and scale.
L. Group Head
M. Dedicated hot water outlet
N. Extra-tall cup clearance for tall mugs
O. Easy clean steam wand

For automatic milk texturing.
P. Milk temperature sensor
Q. Storage tray (located behind drip tray)

Houses accessories when not in use.

8

All parts of the Barista Touch™
that come into contact with coffee,
water and milk are BPA Free.

1

6

4 5

2

3

7 8 9

ACCESSORIES

1. Stainless steel milk jug

2. Cleaning disc

3. Cleaning tablets

4. Dual Wall filter baskets (1 cup & 2 cup)
Use with pre-ground coffee.

5. Single Wall filter baskets (1 cup & 2 cup)
Use when grinding fresh whole coffee
beans.

10

11

6. Water filter and holder

7. Cleaning brush

8. The Razor™ precision dose trimming tool

9. Allen key
To disassemble shower screen
(see page 26).

10. Steam wand cleaning tool

11. Water hardness test strip

9

Barista Touch
Features

COLOUR TOUCH SCREEN
CONTROL PANEL

Swipe & Select from the drinks menu.
Adjust your shot volume, milk texture or milk
temperature, then save it as your personal
favourite.

AUTOMATIC HANDS FREE MILK
TEXTURING

Automatically textures milk to the selected
temperature and style from silky smooth
latté to creamy cappuccino. Automatic purge
removes residual milk from the steam wand
when returned to the downward position.

RAPID HEAT UP

Innovative heating system achieves ideal
extraction temperature in 3 seconds.

INTEGRATED CONICAL
BURR GRINDER

Stainless steel conical burrs maximise ground
coffee surface area for a full espresso flavour.
Upper and lower burrs are removable for
cleaning.

ADJUSTABLE GRIND SIZE

Espresso grind settings from fine to coarse for
optimal extraction.

ADJUSTABLE GRIND AMOUNT

Adjust the amount of fresh ground coffee
dosed into the filter basket to suit the fineness
or coarseness of the grind.

AUTOMATIC DOSING

Use the FILTER SIZE button to tell the
machine if you are using a 1 CUP or 2 CUP
filter basket. The grinder will dispense the
required amount of ground coffee for a single
or double cup dose.

HANDS FREE GRINDING

Auto stop for hands free grinding directly into
the portafilter.

THE RAZOR™ DOSE
TRIMMING TOOL

Patented twist blade trims down the puck
to the right level for precision dosing and a
consistent extraction.

ADJUSTABLE TEMPERATURE
CONTROL

For optimum coffee flavour.

PID TEMPERATURE CONTROL

Electronic PID temperature control for
increased temperature stability.

INSTANT HOT WATER

Dedicated hot water outlet for making
Long Blacks and pre-heating cups.

LOW PRESSURE PRE-INFUSION

Applies low water pressure at the start of
the extraction to gently expand grinds for
an even extraction.

VOLUMETRIC CONTROL

Preset 1 & 2 cup volumes, manual over-ride or
programmable shot volumes.

DRY PUCK FEATURE

Removes excess water from the ground coffee
in the filter basket after extraction for easy
disposal of the coffee puck.

10

Assembly

BEFORE FIRST USE

Machine Preparation

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

Remove the packaging and the plastics bags
containing the water filter and water filter
holder. Clean parts and accessories (water tank,
portafilter, filter basket, jug) using warm water
and a gentle dish washing liquid. Rinse well
then dry thoroughly.

INSTALLING THE WATER FILTER

• Remove the water filter and water filter holder
from the plastic bag.

• Soak the filter in cold water for 5 minutes.

• Wash the filter holder with cold water.

• Insert the filter into the two parts of the filter
holder.

• To install the assembled filter holder into the
water tank, align the base of the filter holder
with the adapter inside the water tank.
Push down to lock into place.

• Fill the water tank with cold water before
sliding back into position at the back of the
machine and locking into place.

NOTE

• Set the reminder for next month of
replacement. We recommend to replace the
filter after 3 months.

Replacing the water filter after three months
or 40L will reduce the need to descale the
machine. Filter can be purchased at Sage
webpage.

NOTE

DO NOT use highly filtered, demineralised or
distilled water in this machine. This may affect
the taste of the coffee.

11

Functions

FIRST USE

1. Press POWER button to turn the

machine on.

2. Follow the instructions on screen to guide

you through first use setup.

3. After completing setup, the machine will

tell that it is ready to use.

Your Barista Touch is now ready

Select the guide to find out more about your Barista Touch

or exit to proceed to your drink selection

GuideExit

The machine is now in STANDBY mode.

4. Touch "Guide" and the machine will guide

you step by step to make your first coffee.
Touch the  and go to the Drinks Menu or

to repeat the Setup. To repeat the Guide at

<

any time, go to Settings Menu.

NOTE

If your water hardness is either 4 or 5 when
tested, we strongly recommend you change to
an alternate water source.

Filtered, bottled spring or mineral water will
extend both the life of your built-in filter and
descale intervals as well as superior taste.
Please ensure to test the water hardness of the
alternative water source you've chosen and
input into the machine accordingly. Avoid
using overly filtered water, like RO water
unless some mineral content is being added
back to the final water. Never use distilled
water, or water with no or low mineral content
as this will affect both the taste.

GRINDING OPERATION

Insert bean hopper into position on-top of the
machine. Turn dial to lock into place.
Fill hopper with fresh beans.

TIP

We recommend quality 100% Arabica beans
with a 'Roasted On' date stamped on the bag,
not a 'Best Before' or 'Use By' date. Coffee beans
are best consumed between 5–20 days after
the 'Roasted On' date. Stale coffee may pour too
quickly from the portafilter spouts and taste
bitter and watery.

12

DRINK SELECTION

Cappuccino

To enter Drinks Menu screen, touch the Home icon . Swipe & select your drink.
Touch the 'Help & Tip' icon to see Barista Touch™ Guide.

Select your drink

Long Black Latte Flat White

NOTE

Please keep the touch screen dry and clean to ensure that the machine functions properly.

DRINK SCREEN

In this screen, you can customise your drink by touching the oval shaped buttons. You cannot
adjust the Grind Size by touching the button, use the dial on the side of the machine.

'Home' icon

Grind duration
(single / double /
custom)

Grind size

Drink chosen

Cappuccino

Grind

15s

14

Brew setting: touch this button to scroll

Espresso - single shot / double shot / custom extraction time

Long Black - small / medium / large

Brew

Double

Hot Water

Milk

65º

'Setting' icon

Milk temperature

4

Milk froth level

13

SETTING GRIND SIZE

Selecting Your Filter Basket

Choose and insert the Filter Basket into the
Portafilter for the number of coffees or strength
you are making. Use the Single Cup Filter
Basket for making a single cup or a weaker
tasting espresso. Use the Double Cup Filter
Basket for making 2 cups or a stronger tasting
espresso, usually for mugs or larger cups.
See 'TIPS' for more detailed guide.

In the touchscreen, select the chosen filter
basket by touching the toggle option under the
'Grind' button.

The grind size will affect the rate of water flow
through the coffee in the filter basket and the
flavour of the espresso. When setting the
grind size, it should be fine but not too fine
and powdery. When trying a new coffee, it may
take 2 or 3 tries to identify the correct grind
size for your coffee.

There are numbered settings on the
touchscreen. The smaller the number,
the finer the grind size. The larger the
number, the coarser the grind size.

Automatic Dosing

• Ensure the hopper is locked into position and
is filled with fresh coffee beans.

• Ensure the filter basket is completely dry
before placing the portafilter into the
grinding cradle.

• Touch the 'Grind' button once, or push and
release the portafilter to engage the grinding
activation switch. Then allow fresh ground
coffee to fill the portafilter.

• Grinding will automatically stop, however if
you wish to stop grinding before the cycle has
finished, push and release the portafilter.

NOTE

Manual Dosing

• If you prefer to manually dose, with the
portafilter inserted in the grinding cradle,
push and hold the portafilter to engage the
grinding activation switch. Continue holding
until the desired amount of ground coffee has
been dosed.

• To stop grinding, release the portafilter.
This will release the grinding activation
switch and stop the grinding function.

Tamping the Ground Coffee

• Once grinding is complete, carefully
withdraw the portafilter from the grinding
cradle.

• Tap the portafilter several times to collapse
and distribute the coffee evenly in the filter
basket.

• Tamp down firmly using approx. 30–40lbs
(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

The Razor™ precision dose trimming tool
allows you to trim the puck to the right level for
a consistent extraction.

It is normal for the portafilter to appear
overfilled with ground coffee.

14

the Razor

Precision dose trimming tool

™

• Insert the Razor™ dose trimming tool into
the filter basket until the shoulders of the tool
rest on the rim of the basket. The blade of
the dose trimming tool should penetrate the
surface of the tamped coffee.

• Rotate the Razor™ dose trimming tool back
and forth while holding the portafilter on
an angle over a knock box to trim off excess
coffee grinds. Your filter basket is now dosed
with the correct amount of coffee.

ESPRESSO EXTRACTION

Touch the 'Brew' button on the display to start
extraction. You can switch between single shot,
double shot or Custom by touching the 'Single',
'Double' or Custom button. The duration times
are preset, but can be customised.

Brew

Brew

Brew

22

s

• Wipe excess coffee from the rim of the filter
basket to ensure a proper seal is achieved in
the group head.

Purging the Group Head

Before placing the portafilter into the group
head, run a short flow of water through the
group head by touching the 'Hot Water'
button. This will 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 center
until resistance is felt.

Single

Double

Custom

MANUAL OVERRIDE

Press and hold the 'Brew' button (approx 2secs)
to enter manual extraction mode. Touch the
Brew button to start the extraction, touch the
Brew button to stop the extraction.

NOTE

• The amount of espresso extracted in the cup
will vary depending on your grind size and
grind amount settings.

• Touching the 'Brew' button during a preset
shot volume will immediately stop the
extraction.

• For optimal flavour when using a 1 CUP filter
basket, you should extract approx. 30ml.
When using a 2 CUP filter basket, you should
extract approx. 60ml.

LOCK TIGHT

15

TEXTURING MILK

Different brands and types of milk and milk
alternatives will texture differently. You may
need to adjust the froth level accordingly. Start
with fresh cold milk. Fill milk jug to below the
spout position. Lift steam wand and insert into
milk jug. Lower steam wand, ensuring it is fully
down. The milk jug should rest on the milk
temperature sensor located on the drip tray
and milk should cover the ring around steam
wand tip. The toggle button under the 'Milk'
button will show you whether you placed the
milk jug correctly.

NOTE

Prior to texturing milk, it is recommended to
momentarily purge the steam wand by first
touching the 'Milk' button. Touching the button
again will stop steam delivery.

MANUAL MILK TEXTURING

Auto milk texturing and auto shut-off are
disabled during manual milk texturing mode.
Lift the steam wand. Start frothing by touching
the button. When frothing is done, touch the
Milk button to stop.

Wipe the wand & tip with a clean damp cloth.
Lower steam wand to the down position and
the wand will automatically purge.

MAX
MIN

MILK MUST

COVER THIS

RING

NOTE

Use the indicator on the screen for the correct
milk jug position.

Under the 'Milk' button, temperature level
and froth level are displayed. They are preset
based on the drink you've chosen but you can
customise by touching those options.

To start, touch the 'Milk' button. The screen will
display the temperature of the milk as it heats.
Milk texturing will stop automatically when the
selected milk temperature is reached.
Lift steam wand to remove milk jug. Wipe the
wand & tip with a clean damp cloth. Lower
steam wand to the down position and the wand
will automatically purge.

CAUTION: BURN HAZARD

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

Children must always be supervised.

NOTE

• When the machine creates steam, a pumping
noise can be heard. This is the normal
operation of the Italian pump.

• After 90 seconds of continuous steaming,
the machine will automatically disable the
steam function.

• Use exclusively the stainless steel milk jug
included in the pack to froth milk. The use of
container made of glass or plastic material to
froth milk may lead to dangerous conditions.

LONG BLACK

There are 3 preset Long Black settings –
Small (180ml), Medium (240ml), and Large
(360ml). Grind dose & tamp your portafilter &
insert into the group head. Position your cup
underneath the portafilter spouts & the hot
water spout. The hot water is delivered first,
and espresso will be extracted after that.

16

HOT WATER

Add New

The HOT WATER function can be used to
pre-heat cups or add hot water manually.

To start & stop hot water, touch 'Hot Water' on
the screen.

Hot water limit is approximately 90 seconds.
Depending on the size of your cup, you may
need to touch the 'Hot Water' button to stop
pouring.

NOTE

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

ADDING NEW DRINK

Touch 'Add New' in the menu screen to create
a customised drink. You can adjust parameters
based on a standard style and save your own.

+

Alternatively, after manually adjusting
parameters touch the small icon to save
the current setting.

TIPS

Ensure the drip tray is firmly pushed in
place and emptied whenever the Empty Me!
indicator is displayed.

Clean Cycle

The Cleaning Cycle cleans the shower screen
and back-flushes the group head.

Cleaning Steam Wand

This will show how to clean the steam wand
to remove any blockage for better steaming
performance.

Descale Cycle

Descaling prevents excess mineral and scale
build-up. A pop-up message will let you know
when it is time for descaling.

Brew Temperature

It allows you to adjust the recommended
extraction temperature.

Default Milk Temperature

It allows you to adjust default temperature level
on all milk base drinks.

Water Hardness

It is to test water to set how often you need to
descale the machine.

Screen Brightness

You can adjust brightness of your touch screen.

Sound Volume

You can adjust volume for alerts and reminders.

Demo Mode

It is for on-screen Barista Touch™
demonstration sequence.

AUTO OFF MODE

The machine automatically switches to
AUTO OFF mode after 30 minutes.

SETTINGS

To enter settings menu, touch the icon
on the upper right of the screen.

Quick Start Guide

Machine will guide you on screen, step by step
to make an actual coffee.

Factory Reset

Use this function to reset all programmable
values back to the factory settings and delete all
custom drinks.

17

Tips

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 portafilter and filter basket
dry before dosing with ground coffee as
moisture can encourage ‘channeling’ where
water by-passes the ground coffee during
extraction.

SELECTING A FILTER BASKET

Single Wall Filter Baskets

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

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

1 CUP 2 CUP

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.

1 CUP 2 CUP

NOTE

• Regardless of whether you use Single Wall or
Dual Wall filter baskets, use the 1 CUP basket
when brewing a single cup and the 2 CUP
basket when brewing two cups or a stronger
single cup or mug.

• You will need to adjust the grind amount and
size if switching from a single basket to a
double basket, or vice versa.

The provided filter baskets are designed for:
1 CUP basket = approx. 8–10g.
2 CUP basket = approx. 15–18g.

NOTE

You may need to experiment with how much
coffee is dosed into the filter basket or how
long the grinder needs to run to achieve the
correct dose. For example, when using a finer
espresso grind with the Single Wall filter
baskets, you may need to increase the grind
amount to ensure the filter basket is correctly
dosed.

18

THE GRIND

If 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 color 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 and lacking in colour
and flavour.

EXTRACTING ESPRESSO

• Place pre-warmed cup(s) beneath the
portafilter and touch the 'Brew' button for the
desired volume.

• Due to pre-infusion time, the espresso will
not start to flow immediately.

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.

19

EXTRACTION GUIDE

LOCK TIGHT

Hot Water

Grind

15s

Grind

15s

CORRECT EXTRACTION UNDER EXTRACTION OVER EXTRACTION

• Flow starts after 8-12 secs

• Flow slow like warm honey

• Crema is golden brown with a ne
mousse texture

• Espresso is dark brown

AFTER EXTRACTION

REMOVE USED
GRINDS

Used grinds will form
a coffee 'puck'. If the
puck is wet, refer to
the 'Under Extraction'
section.

RINSE FILTER
BASKET

Keep the lter basket
clean to prevent
blockages. Without
ground coffee in the lter
basket, lock the
portalter into the
machine and run hot
water through.

OVER EXTRATED

BITTER • ASTRINGENT

• Flow starts after 1-7 secs

• Flow fast like water

• Crema is thin and pale

• Espresso is pale brown

• Tastes bitter/sharp, weak and watery

• Flow starts after 13 secs

• Flow drips or not at all

• Crema is dark and spotty

• Espresso is very dark brown

• Tastes bitter and burnt

SOLUTIONS SOLUTIONS

TURN

Adjust & re-test

ALWAYS TAMP TO LINE

Adjust & re-test

INCREASE

GRIND AMOUNT

Adjust & re-test

Tamp using 15-20kgs
of pressure. The top
edge of metal cap on the
tamper should be level
with the top of the lter
basket AFTER tamping.

Trim the puck to the
right level using the

™

precision dose

Razor
trimming tool.

TURN

Adjust & re-test

ALWAYS TAMP TO LINE

Adjust & re-test

Tamp using 15-20kgs
of pressure. The top
edge of metal cap on the
tamper should be level
with the top of the lter
basket AFTER tamping.

Trim the puck to the
right level using the
Razor
trimming tool.

GRIND GRIND DOSE TAMP

Too fine Too much

Use razor to trim

Too heavy

DECREASE

GRIND AMOUNT

Adjust & re-test

™

precision dose

BALANCED

UNDER EXTRACTED

UNDERDEVELOPED • SOUR

20

Optimum 8–10g (1 cup)

15–18g (2 cup)

Too coarse Too little

Increase dose & use razor to trim

30–40lbs
(15–20kg)

Too light

HINTS & TIPS

• Fresh, quality coffee beans will give you the
best possible extraction.

• We recommend quality 100% Arabica beans
with a ‘Roasted On’ date stamped on the bag,
not a ‘Best Before’ or ‘Use By’ date.

• Coffee beans are best consumed between
5–20 days after the ‘Roasted On’ date.
Ideally only grind directly before the
extraction to maximise flavour.

• Buy coffee beans in small batches to reduce
the storage time.

• Store coffee beans in a cool, dark and dry
container. Vacuum seal if possible.

TEXTURING MILK

There are two phases to texturing milk.
The first is stretching the milk to aerate it and
the second is swirling the milk to make it silky
smooth. These two operations should blend
into one.

• Always start with fresh cold milk.

• Fill milk jug to below the spout position.
At a minimum, there should be enough milk
to cover the ring around steam wand.

• To remove any condensed water from the
system, ensure the steam wand is in the down
position over the drip tray then touch the
Milk button, allow steam to flow for a few
seconds, then touch the Milk button to stop.

• When texturing milk automatically, ensure
the steam wand is fully down.

HINTS & TIPS

For optimum milk texturing performance it
is critical that the holes around the steam tip
are clear. Even partially blocked holes may
affect the ability of the steam wand to produce
sufficient foam.

Always wipe the wand and tip with a damp
cloth BEFORE returning the wand to the down
position. Wiping the wand will remove the
majority of milk and allow the automatic purge
feature to more effectively remove any
residual milk.

After texturing is complete

• Tap the jug on the counter-top 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.

For manual texturing

• Lift the steam wand and insert the steam tip

0.4-0.8 inch / 1-2 cm below the surface of the
milk close to the right hand side of the jug at
the 3 o’clock position. Then start frothing by
touching the button once again.

• 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. Use the touch screen
to monitor the milk temperature. We
recommend 55°C–65°C.

• Touch the Milk button to stop steaming
BEFORE lowering the jug and taking the
tip out of the milk.

21

ADJUSTING CONICAL BURRS

F

I

N

E

C

O

A

R

S

E

PUSH

F

I

N

E

C

O

A

R

S

E

F

I

N

E

C

O

A

R

S

E

F

I

N

E

C

O

A

R

S

E

Some types of coffee may require a wider grind range to achieve an ideal extraction or brew.
A feature of your Barista Touch™ is the ability to extend this range with an adjustable upper burr.
We recommend making only one adjustment at a time.

1

77

Remove wire
handle from both
sides of the burr

14

2

Hold hopper over container & turn
dial to release beans into container

88

Move adjustable
top burr, 1 number,
coarser or finer

15

Lock hopper Check your

extraction

AIR TIGHT

CONTAINER

9

6

5

4

Align the number
with the handle
opening

7

Align hopper
into position

10

8

Insert wire
handle from both
sides of the burr

4

Run grinder
until empty

11 12

Push upper burr
firmly into
position

53

Remove hopperUnlock hopper

Lock upper burr

6

Remove upper
burr

13

Align hopper
into position

22

Care & Cleaning

COLOUR TOUCH SCREEN DISPLAY

Please keep the touch screen dry and clean to ensure that the machine functions properly.

REPLACING THE WATER FILTER

1 6

22 3

Assemble water
filter parts

Ensure parts are
connected

Install filter in
tank

54

Fill tank and wait
for 5min to soak
filter

Install water tankSet current month

!

Replace filter after
90 days or after
40L

The provided water filter helps prevent scale build-up in and on many of the inner functioning
components. Replacing the water filter after three months or 40L will reduce the need
to descale the machine.

The limitation of 40L is based on water hardness level 4. If you are in level 2 area,
you can increase this to 60L.

NOTE

To purchase water filters visit Sage webpage.

CLEANING CYCLE

There will be a message prompt when a cleaning cycle is required. This is a back-flushing cycle
and is separate from descaling. Follow the instruction on the screen.

DESCALING

After regular use, hard water can cause mineral build up in and on many of the inner functioning
components, reducing the brewing flow, brewing temperature, power of the machine, and taste of
the espresso. Even if you used the provided water filter, we recommend you to descale if there is
scale build-up in the water tank.

Go to 'Settings' and select 'Descale cycle'. Follow the instructions on the screen.

WARNING

Do not immerse power cord, power plug or appliance in water or any other liquid. The water tank
should never be removed or completely emptied during descaling.

23

CLEANING THE CONICAL BURR GRINDER

Unlock hopper

Unlock top burr

with brush

burr with brush

with brush

3 75

PUSH

2

41 6

Remove hopper

Unblock the grinds
exit chute using the
brush or a pipe
cleaner

5

1 3

6

7

42

TURN

TURN

TURN

This grinder cleaning cycle removes oil build-up on the burrs which can impede performance.

Empty hopper Replace hopper Lock hopper Run grinder

L

O

N

C

G

I

K

L

A

Remove top burr

ADVANCED CLEANING FOR THE CONICAL BURR GRINDER

This step is only required if there is a blockage between the grinding burrs and the grinder outlet.

Set 'GRIND SIZE'
to '1' (finest)

88 99 10

Clean chute
with brush

WARNING

11109988

Clean top burr

LOOSEN NUT

Use 10mm socket.
Rotate 'Clockwise'
to loosen the nut
only

Clean lower

Set 'GRIND SIZE'
to '30' (coarsest)

11

3

2

1

1.

FELT WASHER

2. METAL WASHER

3.

GRIND FAN

Insert washers &
grind fan using
long-nose pliers

SPRING

WASHER

Insert lower burr
(drive pin &
cavity to align).
Insert flat washer
& spring washer

empty

Unlock hopper Remove hopper

12

Clean chute

SPRING
WASHER

Unlock & remove
top burr

12

FLAT

WASHER

Remove nut, spring
& flat washer.
Carefully remove
lower burr

13 14

TIGHTEN NUT

Rotate 'Counter­Clockwise' to
tighten nut

Insert & lock top
burr

FLAT

WASHER

Remove grind fan
& washers
using long-nose
pliers

Set 'GRIND SIZE'
to '15'. Replace &
lock hopper

1

2

3

1. GRIND FAN

2. METAL WASHER

3. FELT WASHER

Care should be taken as the grinder burrs are extremely sharp.

24

CLEANING THE STEAM WAND

• The steam wand should always be cleaned
after texturing milk. Wipe the steam wand
with a damp cloth.

• If any of the holes in the tip of the steam
wand become blocked, it may reduce frothing
performance.

• Go to 'Settings' > 'Steam wand cleaning' and
follow the guide on the screen.

CLEANING THE FILTER BASKETS
AND PORTAFILTER

• The filter baskets and portafilter should be
rinsed under hot water immediately after use
to remove all residual coffee oils.

• If any of the holes in the filter basket become
blocked, use the pin on the end of the
provided cleaning tool to unblock the hole(s).

• If the hole(s) remain 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 purge the machine. Place an
empty filter basket and portfilter into the
group head. Touch the 'Hot Water' button
and run a short flow of water to rinse out
any residual coffee.

CLEANING THE DRIP &
STORAGE TRAY

• The drip tray should be removed, emptied
and cleaned at regular intervals, particularly
when the drip tray full indicator is showing
EMPTY ME!

• Remove the grill from the drip tray.
Lift the coffee grind separator and dispose
of any coffee grounds. The EMPTY ME!
indicator can also be removed from the drip
tray by pulling upwards to release the side
latches. Wash all parts in warm soapy water
with a soft cloth. Rinse and dry thoroughly.

• The storage tray (located behind the drip
tray) can be removed and cleaned with a soft,
damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleansers,
pads or cloths which can scratch the surface.

NOTE

All parts should be cleaned by hand using
warm water and a gentle dish washing liquid.
Do not use abrasive cleansers, pads or cloths
which can scratch the surface. Do not clean
any of the parts or accessories in the
dishwasher.

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 cleansers,
pads or cloths which can scratch the surface.

STORING YOUR MACHINE

Before storing, press the POWER button to
switch the machine off and remove the plug
from the power outlet. Remove unused beans
from the hopper, clean the grinder (see
page 24), empty the water tank and the drip
tray. Ensure the machine is cool, clean and dry.
Insert all accessories into the storage tray.
Store upright. Do not place anything on top.

WARNING

Do not immerse power cord, power plug or
appliance in water or any other liquid.

25

USING THE ALLEN KEY

Over time, the silicone seal surrounding the
shower screen will need to be replaced to
ensure optimum brewing performance.

1. Press the POWER button to switch the
machine off and unplug the cord from the
power outlet.

2. Carefully remove the water tank and drip
tray, taking particular care if they are full.

3. Using a skewer or similar, clean the center
of the screw of any residual coffee.

4. Insert the shorter end of the Allen Key
into the center of the screw. Turn counter­clockwise to loosen the screw.

Clean center of screw
before inserting Allen Key.

6. Remove the silicone seal with your fingers
or a pair of long-nose pliers. Insert the new
seal, flat side first, so the ribbed side is
facing you.

7. Re-insert the shower screen, then the screw.
With your fingers, turn the screw clockwise
for 2-3 revolutions then insert the Allen Key
to tighten until the screw is flush with the
shower screen. Do not overtighten screw.

8. Re-insert the drip tray and water tank.

Contact Sage Consumer Support or visit the
Sage webpage for replacement silicone seals or
for advice.

5. Once loosened, carefully remove and retain
the screw and the stainless steel shower
screen. Make note of the side of the shower
screen that is downwards. This will make
re-assembly easier. Wash the shower screen
in warm soapy water, then dry thoroughly.

26

TRANSPORTING AND STORING

Press the POWER button to switch the
machine off and remove the plug from the
power outlet. Remove unused beans from the
hopper, clean the grinder, empty the water
tank and the drip tray. Ensure the machine is
cool, clean and dry. Insert all accessories into
the storage tray. Store upright. Do not place
anything on top.

Troubleshooting

PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSES EASY SOLUTION

Water does not flow
from the group head.

No hot water.

Espresso only drips
from the portafilter
spouts or not at all.

Water tank is empty. Fill tank.

Water tank is not fully inserted and
locked into position.

Machine needs to be descaled.

Coffee is ground too finely and/
or too much coffee in filter basket
and/or over tamping and/or filter
basket is blocked.

Coffee is ground too finely. Use slightly coarser grind.

Too much coffee in the filter basket. Lower dose of coffee.

Coffee tamped too firmly. Tamp between or 15–20kg of pressure.

Water tank is empty. Fill tank.

Water tank is not fully inserted and
locked into position.

The filter basket may be blocked. Use the pin on the end of the provided

Push water tank down completely to
lock into place.

Perform descale cycle.

See below, ‘Espresso only drips from the
portafilter spouts or not at all’.

Refer to ‘Setting the Grind Size’, page 14
and ‘Over Extraction’, page 20.

Refer to ‘Dosing’, page 14 and
‘Over Extraction’, page 20.
After tamping, trim the coffee dose
using the Razor™ dose trimming tool.

Push water tank down completely to
lock into place.

cleaning tool to unblock the hole(s).
If the hole(s) remain blocked, dissolve
a cleaning tablet in hot water and
soak filter basket and portafilter in
solution for approx. 20 minutes.
Rinse thoroughly.

Water doesn't come
through (the machine
makes loud noise).

Machine needs to be descaled.

Water tank is empty or water level
is below MIN.

There is an error on purging
setting.

Perform descale cycle.

Fill tank.

Perform factory reset ('Settings' >
'Factory Reset').

27

PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSES EASY SOLUTION

Espresso runs out
too quickly.

Espresso runs out around
the edge of the portafilter.

No steam. Machine has not reached operating

Coffee is ground too coarsely. Use slightly finer grind.

Not enough coffee in the filter
basket.

Coffee tamped too lightly. Tamp between or 15–20kg of pressure.

Portafilter not inserted
in the group head correctly.

There are coffee grounds around
the filter basket rim.

Too much coffee in the filter basket. Lower dose of coffee.

The silicone seal surrounding the
shower screen needs to be replaced
to ensure the portafiler is properly
secured into the group head.

temperature.

Refer to ‘Setting the Grind Size’, page 14
and ‘Under Extraction’, page 20.

Increase dose of coffee.
Refer to ‘Dosing’, page 14 and ‘Under
Extraction’, page 20. Tamp then use the
Razor™ dose trimming tool to trim off
excess coffee.

Ensure portafilter is completely inserted
and rotated until resistance is felt.

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

Refer to ‘Dosing’, page 14.
After tamping, trim the coffee dose
using the Razor™ dose trimming tool.

Refer to ‘Using the Allen Key’,
page 26.

Allow time for the machine to reach
operating temperature.

Pulsing/pumping sound
while extracting espresso
or steaming milk.

28

Water tank is empty. Fill tank.

Water tank is not fully inserted and
locked into position.

Machine needs to be decalcified.

Steam wand is blocked. Refer to ‘Cleaning the Steam Wand’,

The machine is carrying out the
normal operation of the pump.

Water tank is empty. Fill tank.

Water tank is not fully inserted and
locked into position.

Push water tank down completely
to lock into place.

Perform descale cycle.

page 25.

No action required as this is the normal
operation of the machine.

Push water tank down completely to
lock into place.

PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSES EASY SOLUTION

Coffee not hot enough. Cups not pre-heated. Rinse cups under hot water outlet and

Portafilter not pre-heated. Rinse portafilter under hot water outlet.

Milk not hot enough
(if making a cappuccino
or latté etc).

Water temperature needs
to be adjusted.

No crema. Coffee tamped too lightly. Tamp betweens or 15–20kg of pressure.

Coffee is ground too coarsely. Use slightly finer grind.

Coffee beans or pre-ground coffee
are not fresh.

The filter basket may
be blocked.

place on cup warming tray.

Dry thoroughly.

Make sure sensor is in contact. Adjust
milk temperature setting on screen..

Increase the brew temperature in
'Settings' menu.

Refer to ‘Setting the Grind Size’, page
142 and ‘Under Extraction’, page 20.

If grinding fresh whole coffee beans,
use freshly roasted coffee beans with
a ‘Roasted On’ date and consume
between 5–20 days after that date.

If using pre-ground coffee, use within
a week of grinding.

Use the pin on the end of the provided
cleaning tool to unblock the hole(s).
If the hole(s) remain blocked, dissolve
a cleaning tablet in hot water and
soak filter basket and portafilter in
solution for approx. 20 minutes.
Rinse thoroughly.

Single Wall filter baskets are being
used with pre-ground coffee.

Water leaking. Auto purge feature. Immediately

after the espresso, hot water and
steam functions, the machine will
purge water into the drip tray. This
ensures the thermocoil is at the
optimal temperature.

Water tank is not fully inserted and
locked into position.

The silicone seal surrounding the
shower screen needs to be replaced
to ensure the portafiler is properly
secured into the
group head.

Ensure you use Dual Wall filter baskets
with pre-ground coffee.

Ensure the drip tray is firmly pushed in
place and emptied whenever the Empty
Me! indicator is displayed.

Push water tank down completely to
lock into place.

Refer to ‘Using the Allen Key’,
page 26.

29

PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSES EASY SOLUTION

Machine is on but
ceases to operate.

No ground coffee
coming from grinder.

Too much/too little
ground coffee is
being delivered to
the filter basket.

Too much/too little
espresso is being
delivered to the cup.

Grinder is making
a loud noise.

The safety thermal-cut out may
have activated due to the pump or
grinder overheating.

No coffee beans in hopper. Filler hopper with fresh coffee beans.

Blocked grinder chamber or chute. Clean and clear grinder chamber

Water / moisture in grinder
chamber and chute.

Grind amount settings are incorrect
for particular grind size.

Grind amount and/or grind size
settings and/or shot volumes
require adjustment.

Blockage or foreign object
in grinder.

Press the POWER button to switch the
machine off and unplug from the power
outlet. Allow to cool for about
30–60 minutes.

If problem persists, call Sage Support.

and chute. Refer to ‘Advanced Cleaning
for the Conical Burr Grinder’, page 24.

Clean and clear grinder chamber and
chute. Refer to ‘Advanced Cleaning
for the Conical Burr Grinder’, page 24.
Ensure burrs are thoroughly dry before
re-assembling. It is possible to use a
hair dryer to blow air into the grinder
chamber.

Use the grind duration button to
increase or decrease the grind
amount. Refer to ‘Dosing’, page 12 and
‘Extraction Guide’, page 18.

Adjust the grind amount and/or grind
size settings. Refer to ‘Setting the Grind
Size’, page 12, ‘Dosing’, page 14 and
‘Extraction Guide’, page 20.

Remove hopper, check for debris or
blockage. If necessary, clean and clear
grinder chamber and chute. Refer to
‘Cleaning the Conical Burr Grinder’,
page 24.

30

31

Sage® by Heston Blumenthal

Freephone (UK Landline): 0808 178 1650

Mobile Calls (National Rate): 0333 0142 970

www.sageappliances.co.uk

[e-mail]

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might have in the future. If you wish,
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and click on ‘Product Registration’.

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We welcome your comments and ideas
in assisting our ongoing development.

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and click on ‘Support’.

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3 months, 6 months and 9 months after the date of purchase.

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 2017.

SES880 UKM – A17