Sealing Insights

Leaking or Low-Pressure Coffee Machine? The O-Ring Could Be the Problem!

2025-02-13 20:18
If your coffee machine is leaking, losing pressure, or just not working as well as it should, the problem might be a worn-out O-ring. These little seals help keep everything tight and running smoothly by preventing leaks and maintaining pressure. But with so many different types and sizes out there, how do you know which O-ring is the right one for your machine?

Leaking or Low-Pressure Coffee Machine?
The O-Ring Could Be the Problem!

If your coffee machine isn’t holding pressure, making uneven espresso shots, or even leaking, the problem could be worn-out O-rings. These tiny but necessary seals help keep everything tight in areas like the boiler, steam wand, and water pump.

With all the heat, steam, and coffee oils they’re exposed to, O-rings naturally wear down over time, which can lead to leaks, performance issues, and expensive repairs. To keep your machine working like new, it’s important to use high-quality, heat-resistant, and food-safe O-rings that can handle the job.
Durable, heat-resistant O-rings prevent leaks and keep your coffee machine running smoothly. Replace them before problems arise.
To keep your machine running smoothly, it’s crucial to choose durable, heat-resistant, food-safe O-rings that won’t wear out prematurely.

The Right O-Ring Material for Your Coffee Machine

Not all O-rings are suitable for coffee machines. The best materials for coffee machine O-rings are:
  • Silicone O-Rings (Best for Food Safety & High Temperatures)
Silicone is an excellent choice for food-grade O-rings because it is flexible, heat-resistant, and non-reactive. It withstands temperatures from -50°C to +230°C, making it ideal for steam wands, water lines, and boiler seals.
  • Viton® (FKM) O-Rings (Best for High-Pressure Machines)
Viton® O-rings provide superior resistance to heat, pressure, and coffee oils, with a temperature range of -20°C to +200°C. These high-performance O-rings are commonly used in commercial espresso machines where durability is essential. Viton® is actually a trade name for a type of fluorocarbon rubber, also known as FKM. While Viton® is a widely recognised brand, FKM refers to the same class of material known for its excellent chemical resistance and ability to withstand extreme conditions.
  • EPDM O-Rings (Best for Steam Resistance)
EPDM O-rings are highly resistant to hot water and steam, making them a good choice for sealing water connections in coffee machines. However, they are less resistant to coffee oils compared to Viton® (FKM).
For the best results, always choose food-safe, high-temperature O-rings designed specifically for coffee machines.

How to Choose the Right Size O-Ring for Your Coffee Machine

First, check your coffee machine’s manual—it should have the exact size you need. If you don’t have that info, take an old O-ring and measure the inner diameter and thickness.

You can also use an O-ring sizing chart to find the closest match.

At O-Ring Express, we’ve got replacement O-rings for all kinds of coffee machines in different sizes and materials. If you’re not sure which one to get, just reach out—we’re happy to help!

When to Replace Coffee Machine O-Rings

Over time, O-rings wear out because they’re constantly exposed to heat, pressure, and coffee oils. If your coffee machine isn’t working as well as it should, it might be time to replace the O-ring.

Here’s how you can tell: If you see cracks, flattening, or general wear, that’s a sign it needs changing. Leaks from water or steam are another big giveaway. And if your machine isn’t building enough pressure, which affects how your coffee is extracted, the O-ring could be the problem.

If you notice any of these issues, swapping out the O-ring can help get your machine running smoothly again.
For home coffee machines, replacing O-rings once a year helps maintain performance. Commercial espresso machines may require more frequent replacements due to higher usage.

Where to Buy Coffee Machine O-Rings
in Australia?

If you’re looking for replacement O-rings for your coffee machine, O-Ring Express has you covered. We’re a trusted supplier in Australia, offering food-safe, high-temperature O-rings designed to handle the heat and pressure of coffee machines.

We stock Silicone, Viton, and EPDM O-rings in a range of sizes, so you can find the perfect fit. Plus, we offer fast shipping across Australia, so you won’t have to wait long to get your machine back in action.

Don’t let a worn-out O-ring ruin your coffee! Order high-quality O-rings online today from O-Ring Express and keep your machine running like new.
Final Thoughts
If your coffee machine leaks or loses pressure, don't panic—it's probably just a worn-out O-ring. And let's be honest, no one wants a sad, under-extracted espresso!

At O-Ring Express, we offer temperature O-rings that can withstand heat and endless coffee brewing. We stock silicone, vitamin, and EPDM O-rings in all the correct sizes so that you can find the perfect fit. It's kind of like finding the proper coffee-to-milk ratio for a flat white.

We offer fast shipping across Australia, so your coffee machine won't be out of action for long.

Don't let a tiny O-ring stand between you and a perfect brew. Order now from O-Ring Express—because great coffee waits for no one!
Contacts
Phone: (03) 8592 99 08
Mobile & Text: 0439 413 966
Email: info@oringexpress.com