Mixing citric acid/sour salt for decalcifying / descaling

December 17th, 2008, 1:25 pm

I have been told by posters that I can buy bulk food grade citric acid (also called Sour Salt, although that version comes in large crystals) to decalcify my Gaggia Classic. I still need more info though, apart from the difficulty I am having finding it in any supermarket.

1) Are there different concentrations, and are the sour salt crystals of a different concentration than the citric acid?

2) How much should I use (of each type, if you know) for 1 tank of water (or per how much water?)

Thanks in advance for any replies....

#2: Post by **another_jim** » December 17th, 2008, 1:28 pm

It's usually not carried in supermarkets, except Indian ones; try home brewing or soap/cosmetics making supplies vendors on the web.

2 tablespoons per liter is roughly the strength of regular lemon juice (try a sip). For the Gaggia, use about 1 to 1.5 table spoons per liter.

December 17th, 2008, 1:37 pm

i bought my bulk citric acid from a natural foods market. in your area, try whole foods or any market that sells bulk herbs (for homeopathic medicine). its very cheap too. hope this helps, and good luck.

#4: Post by **cafeIKE** » December 17th, 2008, 2:45 pm

If you can't find locally,
Citric Acid @ AmericanSpice.com

#5: Post by **Stuggi** » December 18th, 2008, 6:43 am

Citric acid salts are also carried by most pharmacies.

#6: Post by **espressme** » December 31st, 2008, 9:30 pm

Just for information,
Pharmacy for 14oz. $14.95, Home Brewer supplier: 1# $3.75
-Richard