Operation Manual

BASCP_EN
V03 | 08.2012
57
www.schaerer.comWater quality
Determining the water hardness
A water hardness test must be performed to determine whether a water filter is needed. If the
water values are poor, trouble-free operation of the machine cannot be ensured.
The water values must also be entered when the machine is taken into service and can be
readily adjusted in the machine menu. On the basis of the entered values, the machine calcu-
lates the time to the next filter change (if a filter is in use) and the time to the next decalcification
routine.
► Check whether a house filter system is already connected upstream from the machine.
Option 1: Requesting information from the drinking water supplier
► Ask the local drinking water supplier for information on the water hardness (total hardness)
of the drinking water.
Option 2: Performing a test
► Determine the water hardness using the test strips included in the scope of delivery.
► Dip the test strip into the tap water for ca. 1 sec.
► Remove the test strip and wait for ca. 1 min.
 The test strips changes colour.
► Compare the water analysis result with the "Total hardness" table in the "Water values"
chapter.
► Install a water filter if the test result is poor.
Filter technology
To protect the coffee machines and the coffee quality against hard or soft water, filters are
used. Filters are essential for the care and maintenance of the machine, not to mention for hy-
giene, and for the best quality of coffee.
Even when using a filter, it is still necessary to measure the water values once a year. Water
is a living element and therefore changes frequently.
In most water, the carbonate hardness is markedly lower than the total hardness. This is a
good indicator for determining whether the water is straight from the mains or if it first passed
through a house filter system.
See "Filter equipment" in this chapter or, for machines that are operated with drinking water,
see the chapter entitled "Service and maintenance" - "Installing a water filter for the internal
drinking water tank".
The service partner can provide detailed information on filter options and versions and can in-
stall this equipment at your location.