Breville Espresso Machine No Pressure? Try This Fix [2026]

Quick Fix Summary

The most common reason a Breville espresso machine shows no pressure during extraction is that the coffee puck is not providing enough resistance. In about 80% of cases, you can fix it by using a finer grind, a proper dose (about 18 g in a 54 mm double basket or 19-20 g in a 58 mm), and a firm, level tamp. If pressure is still low, remove the water tank filter and run a cleaning backflush to clear coffee oils and scale from the group and three-way solenoid.

What Causes This Problem

Breville machines like the Barista Express (BES870), Barista Pro (BES878), Bambino/Bambino Plus (BES450/BES500), the Infuser (BES840), and Dual Boiler (BES920) rely on a vibration pump and a pressure relief system to achieve about 9 bar at the puck. When the gauge stays at zero or you get weak, fast shots, one or more of the following issues is usually to blame:

• Grind, dose, and tamp are not creating puck resistance. Espresso pressure is generated against the resistance of a compacted coffee bed. If the grind is too coarse, the dose too low, or the tamp uneven/light, water flows too freely and the pump cannot build pressure. The result is a fast blond shot and a gauge that sits near zero.
• Clogged or dirty components. Coffee oils and fines can clog the portafilter basket holes, the shower screen, or the internal three-way solenoid valve. When blocked, water may divert through the over-pressure path into the drip tray, or the pump may cavitate and fail to build pressure at the group.
• Scale buildup or a restricted water path. Limescale can accumulate in the pump, OPV (over pressure valve), solenoid valve, or narrow passages, reducing flow and preventing pressure from building. A spent or swollen tank filter can also choke the inlet.
• Airlock or priming issues. If the machine was run with the tank empty or after a deep clean, air can be trapped in the pump and lines. A vibration pump does not self-prime well with air pockets and may buzz without moving water, resulting in no pressure at the group.
• Component failure or leaks. A failing vibration pump (often a ULKA EP5/EX5 on many models), a stuck OPV, a faulty three-way solenoid, or a worn group head gasket that leaks around the portafilter can all cause low or no brew pressure. Internal leaks will reduce the pressure available at the puck.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting

Start with simple checks that do not require tools. Work through each step in order; after each change, pull a test shot and note the pressure gauge (if equipped) and shot time. Target 25-35 seconds for a double, with the gauge around the espresso zone (about 9 bar) on models with a dial.

1. Confirm water tank status and seating.

   Fill the tank to max with fresh water and make sure it is firmly seated. Verify that the float magnet moves freely; a stuck float can confuse water level sensors. Remove the charcoal water filter (Breville BWF100) if it is older than 3 months or suspect; a clogged filter will starve the pump and cause low pressure.

2. Use the right basket and prep a proper puck.

   Ensure you are using a non-pressurized (single-wall) basket for true pressure feedback. For 54 mm portafilters (Barista Express/Pro/Bambino), dose about 18 g in the double basket; for 58 mm (Dual Boiler/Oracle), dose 19-20 g. Grind finer than drip, tamp firmly and level, and ensure the puck surface is even to provide resistance.

3. Adjust grind and shot time.

   On built-in grinders, start near a finer midrange setting (for example, 8-12 on a Barista Express as a ballpark) and adjust one step at a time. If the gauge stays low and shots run under 20 seconds, grind finer and/or increase dose. If the machine chokes or drips, grind a hair coarser or reduce dose slightly.

4. Remove variables with a hot water and no-basket test.

   Remove the portafilter and run water through the group for 10-15 seconds. Healthy flow without the basket indicates the pump can move water; the pressure gauge will not rise without resistance, which is normal. If group flow is weak or inconsistent, you may have an airlock, scale, or a restriction.

5. Prime the system to clear airlocks.

   Open the hot water tap (if your model has one) and run water for 30-60 seconds. Then open the steam wand and run steam with the knob open for 30 seconds to draw water through the boiler/thermoblock. This helps the vibration pump purge air and re-prime after running dry.

6. Clean the portafilter basket and spouts.

   Remove the basket from the portafilter. Soak baskets and spouted portafilters in warm water with an espresso cleaner (e.g., Cafiza) for 15-30 minutes, then rinse and brush all holes clear. A clogged basket restricts flow in weird ways and can confuse pressure readings.

7. Clean the group shower screen and brew path.

   Unplug and cool the machine. Remove the screw(s) that hold the shower screen; soak and scrub the screen and dispersion plate in cleaner, then reinstall. Built-up coffee oils here reduce even flow and can cause channeling and poor pressure.

8. Run a cleaning backflush cycle.

   Insert a silicone cleaning disc (blind filter) in the portafilter, add one Breville BEC250 cleaning tablet, and lock in. On models with a Clean Me cycle (e.g., Barista Express BES870): turn the machine off, then press and hold the 1 CUP and 2 CUP buttons and the POWER button together to start the automated clean. On other models without automation, run the pump for 10 seconds, stop for 10 seconds, and repeat 5-6 times; you should hear pressure build and vent to the drip tray. This clears the three-way solenoid and brew passages.

9. Descale to remove limescale restrictions.

   If you have hard water or the machine has not been descaled recently, run a descale. Fill the tank with a descaling solution per the packet directions. Many Breville machines have a descale mode; consult your manual for your model. For example, some models enter descale by a specific button combination, then guide you through running solution through the group, hot water, and steam paths. After descaling, thoroughly rinse the tank and run 2-3 full tanks of fresh water through all paths to remove residue.

10. Check for leaks at the group and replace the group head gasket if needed.

    If you see water spilling around the portafilter during a shot and the gauge will not rise, the group seal may be worn. 54 mm machines (Barista Express/Pro/Bambino) use a 54 mm silicone group gasket; 58 mm machines (Dual Boiler/Oracle) use a 58 mm gasket. Replacement is straightforward: remove the shower screen, pry out the old gasket, clean the recess, press in the new gasket, reinstall the screen, and test. A fresh seal helps the machine build pressure against the puck.

11. Inspect the water path for restrictions.

    Check that the silicone intake tube in the water tank is not kinked and that any mesh inlet screen is clean. If your model uses a tank check valve, make sure it is not stuck with scale. Removing the tank and running water through the outlet by hand can confirm flow.

12. Observe OPV behavior and drip tray return.

    During a backflush, look in the drip tray for a strong burst of water; this indicates the OPV and three-way solenoid are venting properly. If water constantly pours into the tray during a normal shot and the gauge remains low, the OPV may be stuck open or miscalibrated. On most Breville consumer machines, OPV adjustment is not user-accessible; if this is happening, a service inspection is recommended.

13. Evaluate pump performance via the hot water outlet.

    Switch to the hot water outlet and run for 10-15 seconds. Good flow here but low pressure only at the group suggests a brew circuit restriction (solenoid or block). Weak or pulsating flow everywhere, accompanied by a loud buzzing, indicates a failing or air-bound vibration pump. Many Breville models use a ULKA EP5/EX5 120 V pump; replacement often restores pressure.

14. Test the three-way solenoid function.

    After a shot or backflush run, listen for a click and watch for water dumping into the drip tray. No click and no dump indicate a stuck solenoid, which a thorough backflush sometimes clears. Persistent solenoid blockages or electrical failures require replacement by a qualified technician.

15. Reset shot volumes to defaults.

    Incorrectly programmed shot volumes can give the impression of low pressure by ending shots too early. On many Breville machines with a Program button (e.g., Barista Express/Infuser), press and hold PROGRAM until the machine beeps to reset volumes to factory defaults. On models with a screen (Barista Pro/Touch), go to Settings > Factory Reset or Shot Volume Reset. Re-test with a standard double shot.

16. Replace consumables and re-test.

    If you are still seeing no pressure, replace the water tank filter (BWF100) and consider new baskets if yours are worn or damaged. Use fresh, properly roasted beans; stale coffee resists less and can flow too quickly. Pull a test shot after each change to isolate the fix.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my Breville Barista Express show no pressure on the gauge?

The most common reason is that the coffee bed is not providing enough resistance: grind too coarse, dose too low, or a weak/uneven tamp. Start by dosing about 18 g in the 54 mm double basket, grinding finer, and tamping firmly and level. If the gauge still sits at zero, backflush with a cleaning disc and tablet to clear the three-way solenoid and check that the water tank filter is not clogging the inlet.

How do I fix no pressure after descaling my Breville?

Descaling can dislodge scale and trap air pockets. Prime the pump by running the hot water outlet for 60 seconds and the steam wand for 30 seconds with the knob open to draw water through the system. Then run a backflush with a blind disc and cleaning tablet to clear loosened debris from the solenoid and OPV. Remove the tank filter temporarily and test again; if pressure returns, replace the filter (BWF100).

Does grind size really affect pressure that much?

Yes. Espresso pressure is created against the resistance of the puck. A finer grind with proper dose and tamp increases resistance so the pump can reach the target 9 bar. If the grind is too coarse, water flows through too easily and the gauge remains low. Always adjust grind in small increments and aim for 25-35 seconds for a double shot.

How do I backflush a Breville espresso machine?

Insert a silicone blind disc in the portafilter and add a Breville BEC250 cleaning tablet. Lock in the portafilter. On models with a Clean Me cycle (like the Barista Express), turn the machine off, then press and hold 1 CUP + 2 CUP + POWER to start the automated clean. Otherwise, run the pump for 10 seconds, stop for 10 seconds, and repeat 5-6 times. You should see water discharge into the drip tray when the valve opens. Rinse by repeating the cycle with fresh water and no tablet.

Can I replace the Breville pump myself if there is no pressure?

It is possible for experienced DIYers, but it requires opening the machine, dealing with mains voltage, and working around pressurized hot water components. Many models use a ULKA EP5/EX5 vibration pump; the part itself is not expensive, but access and reassembly can be tricky. If the machine is under warranty or you are not comfortable with electrical safety, it is best to have a certified technician perform the work.

When to Call a Professional

Call a certified repair technician if you encounter any of the following:

• No water flow or loud pump buzzing even after priming. This points to a failed pump or a severe blockage.
• Constant water dumping into the drip tray during a shot. A stuck OPV or failed three-way solenoid likely needs replacement.
• Water leaking inside the case or electrical smells. Internal leaks, tripping a GFCI, or signs of overheating require immediate professional attention.
• Repeated pressure failures despite cleaning/descaling. Persistent issues often indicate component failure rather than maintenance.
• Machine under warranty. DIY repairs can void coverage; contact Breville support.

Estimated repair costs (parts and labor vary by region):

• Vibration pump replacement (ULKA EP5/EX5): $40-$80 for the part, plus $120-$200 labor.
• Three-way solenoid valve: $30-$60 for the valve, plus $120-$180 labor.
• OPV service or replacement: $30-$60 for parts, $120-$180 labor (often done with a full service).
• Group head gasket and shower screen: $10-$30 parts, $60-$100 labor if done by a shop (often a DIY job).
• Full service and descale with diagnostics: $200-$350 depending on model and shop.

Replacement Parts

Here are common parts and consumables that address no-pressure issues. Use the correct size for your model (54 mm for most Barista/Infuser/Bambino models, 58 mm for Dual Boiler/Oracle). Always verify compatibility before purchase.

• Breville BWF100 Water Filter - Replace every 2-3 months to maintain flow and taste.
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• Breville Espresso Cleaning Tablets (BEC250) - For backflushing and brew path cleaning.
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• 54 mm Group Head Gasket (Silicone) - Fits many Barista/Infuser/Bambino models; replace if leaking at the group.
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• 58 mm Group Head Gasket (Silicone) - Fits Dual Boiler/Oracle models.
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• 54 mm Shower Screen - Replace a clogged or damaged screen to restore even flow.
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• 58 mm Shower Screen - For 58 mm groups like the Dual Boiler.
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• ULKA EP5/EX5 Vibration Pump (120 V) - Common replacement pump for many Breville machines.
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• Breville 3-Way Solenoid Valve - Replaces a stuck or failed brew solenoid (model specific).
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• Blind Filter / Cleaning Disc (54 mm) - Required for backflushing on 54 mm machines.
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• Blind Filter / Cleaning Disc (58 mm) - Required for backflushing on 58 mm machines.
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• Non-Pressurized Double Basket (54 mm) - For proper pressure and espresso extraction.
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• Descaling Solution - Removes limescale from internal paths.
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With careful puck prep and routine cleaning, most Breville no-pressure issues are easy to fix at home. If you have worked through the steps above and still cannot build pressure, prioritize safety and contact Breville support or a qualified espresso technician for a proper diagnosis.