umm, do I need more coffee? I've already had too much but I am now looking at long term and haven't figured out OE's reply as relates to long term - actually, I think OE is replying for short term storage (as the topic indicated) so I need to figure how it relates to long -term

I don't have room for both Creminas on my counter -

I'm going to be using my 2003 model Cremina - but can't bring myself to self the 87 model.

Normally, I would leave short term stored with water in the tank.

However, I'm thinking that for long term, wouldn't I be better to drain the tank? I plan to take it on road trips, but usually only make a couple of road trips a year.

My water is pretty soft

Ken,

On my older Gaggia Factory I would drain the boiler completely while the machine was still a little warm so that all moisture would evaporate. Doing this will require you to pump the lever a few times with the machine tilted to direct the water into the hole in the group head so that it drains back into the boiler, or you could drop the piston and lube the seals while you are at it. Either way, you'll get all the water out. There is no harm in it being left completely empty. After all, they are shipped that way.

When putting back in use, just flush the boiler a few times before emptying completely and topping off with the water you plan on using.