Draining an HX boiler for storage and shipping

[laservet]

I will be selling my Giotto. Any idea how to drain the boiler to ready it for storage or shipping?

TIA,

Paul

[HB]

If it were summertime, I would be satisfied with leaning the machine to one side and using the boiler's steam pressure to drive out the water. But in winter, I would feel better draining it more thoroughly. Taking off one of the top fittings (e.g., the vacuum breaker) and siphoning the boiler should remove most of the water.

While I've never tried it, some have recommended running a mixture of "antifreeze" made from water and cheap vodka through the system if shipping to really, really cold climates. Other related topics: Packing & shipping tips for a 40lbs. espresso machine, more on shipping, and storage.

[erics]

I see that you purchased a GS3 from Cafe Pronto who also happens to sell other machines. Maybe they could prep your Giotto for shipment and it would be relatively inexpensive if you brought it to them undressed. I guessing that they have a fully equipped service dept that is quite knowledgeable in this area. Short of that - see below.

Unscrew the small water feed connection to the boiler from the fill solenoid.
Unscrew the copper tube connecting the OPV outlet to the lower hx fitting.
Unscrew the large nut connecting the lower thermosyphon line to the hx fitting.
Unscrew pstat connection at boiler and let drain.
Unscrew gage line connections at both ends and blow out with flex tubing.

[laservet]

Thank you both for the reply. I'll try it myself and if I can't get it acceptably empty I will take it to Williamsburg Coffee. Todd knows the machine, he replaced the pump on it about two years ago, and he's 5 minutes away instead of the 4 hour drive to Cafe Pronto.

[Lever_Man]

Hi.

Due to an upcoming move, and the necessity to store my Elektra A3 for up to 5 months, can anyone give me specific instructions how to drain this puppy and prep it? It has been off for a little over a week.

Any detailed instructions would be appreciated.


Thank you.

John


p.s. My sister won't allow me to hook up the beast at her house. She doesn't want me to get too comfortable at her place, and she says this will be a good incentive to find my own place quickly.

p.s.s. One of the criteria for a new home will be a prominent kitchen location for the A3. In the mean-time, I am re-adjusting to the La Pavoni. I love the La Pavoni, but its no A3!

[HB]

John, I merged your topic with another on the same subject...

Due to an upcoming move, and the necessity to store my Elektra A3 for up to 5 months, can anyone give me specific instructions how to drain this puppy and prep it? It has been off for a little over a week.

Will it be stored in an unheated space? If so, pay particular attention to emptying the boiler and heat exchanger. Above Eric suggests loosening key fittings to allow for drainage/expansion in the event of freezing.

Another alternative... I've winterized home plumbing by pressurizing the system with air to blow it clear of water. I haven't tried it with an espresso machine, but I think it would work well provided you disconnected the heating element first. If you have any doubts about your handyman abilities, I recommend letting a certified espresso repair technician do the job. It would be a small price to pay for the peace of mind.

[laservet]

If it were summertime, I would be satisfied with leaning the machine to one side and using the boiler's steam pressure to drive out the water. But in winter, I would feel better draining it more thoroughly. Taking off one of the top fittings (e.g., the vacuum breaker) and siphoning the boiler should remove most of the water.

While I've never tried it, some have recommended running a mixture of "antifreeze" made from water and cheap vodka through the system if shipping to really, really cold climates. Other related topics: Packing & shipping tips for a 40lbs. espresso machine, more on shipping, and storage.

I followed your advice, similar advice posted at the bottom of this page:

http://www.espressotec.com/store/pc/cs_warranty.asp