My Anita has the following symptoms:
- When I turn the machine on, the red light comes on, the pump starts and the top gauge (boiler gauge?) goes to about 1.1 (normal behavior). The bottom gauge (brew gauge?) only goes to about 3.

- At the time the top gauge reaches around 1.1, the red light turns off, and the green light comes on. (normal behavior). However the pump does not stop. (it just makes a slightly different sound).

- When I open the hot water outlet, the top gauge drops and now water comes out (only steam).

- The water in the reservoir seems to be at the same level.

What I checked:
- If I short the water level sensor to ground, the pump stops
- While the pump is running, I measure the correct voltage at the Boiler Fill Solenoid Valve (but I don't know it it's actually working)

I'm thinking the Boiler Fill Solenoid is not working correctly but I'm not sure... any ideas would be great.

I'm thinking the Boiler Fill Solenoid is not working correctly but I'm not sure...

That is correct - the boiler fill solenoid valve IS NOT opening. Do not operate the machine until problem is resolved as you may be very low on water in the boiler.

Syphon as much water out of the boiler as you can. Remove the hot water tube (item 2) by loosening & removing fittings 1 & 3. An adaptor fitting will remain in the boiler. Fit a hardware store plastic tube over the exposed threads and syphon away. Then fit a smaller plastic tube inside the fitting and syphon the remaining water out.



Remove the top half of the solenoid valve and soak in white vinegar for 30 minutes:



Have some paper towels handy as you will get a little leakage from what you could not syphon out. After the 30 minute soak, reassemble and you should be "good to go". Disconnect one of the heating element leads while the boiler is doing the long fill.

Hi, thanks for the prompt response, and photos.

I do have some questions:

1) When siphoning the water from the boiler, do I disconnect the pipes you have shown in your picture? How do I get the water out? Not really sure what I should be doing here...

2) Regarding your note "Disconnect one of the heating element leads while the boiler is doing the long fill." - is it OK to simply disconnect one of the terminals on the Safety Thermostat on the boiler until the boiler has been filled?

Thanks again - I will be trying this over the weekend.
Anton

Yes, you can alternatively disconnect a lead from the safety switch. Typically, the heating element lead is easier.

I have edited my original response a little.

Turns out my pump was malfunctioning... It wasn't supplying water to the boiler. Managed to install a new pump yesterday and my Anita is back to it's former glory... I do have another issue, but I will post that on a new thread.

I do appreciate all input - this forum is really helpful!

Cheers!