This is a generic set of 2 rubber group gaskets and includes a paper shim gasket in case the portafilter slides over to the right or choose silicon for longer lasting, easier to install and remove.
If you notice that there's water leaking from the area above the portafilter, known as the group head, then your gasket is probably to blame. When changed your coffee cream will improve as you will have achieved the maximum extraction pressure of 9 bars. (The pressure will be constant as the filter basket has a full seal.)
When should I change the group gasket?
For commercial machines, we recommend replacing rubber gaskets every 6 months and silicon every 12 months,
For home machines, we recommend replacing rubber gaskets every 12 months and silicon every 18 months,
The longer you leave it the more difficult it will be to remove them. The group seals become brittle over time due to heat from the portafilter and with age. When removing the old one it will probably fall apart as it will be so brittle. We recommend that you always keep spare gaskets.
Easy to replace - all you need is patience and a awl or a sharp screw driver.
Remove the shower screen with a screwdriver.
Remove the old gasket: Use an awl to remove the gasket or sharp screwdriver - it will come away in pieces as it will be brittle.
Insert gasket with narrow part 1st and lock on with portafilter - to tighten gasket into place.
Screw back the shower screen.
Changing the group gasket every year will make this job relatively easy to do.
When to replace: When the coffee starts to over flow from handle, when making a coffee. You won't have the correct pressure to extract the coffee, leaving a diluted watery taste in the coffee.
Galway, Ireland
