Below is a general, step-by-step guide for starting up a La Marzocco Linea Micra espresso machine.
While this overview should help you get up and running, always refer to your official La Marzocco user manual for the most accurate, model-specific information and for safety instructions.
Table of Contents
Setting up the Machine
Follow these steps to setup the machine:
- Plug in the machine’s power cord.
- Fill the water reservoir with water that meets La Marzocco’s standards.
- Switch the power on.
- When you switch on the machine, you’ll see the red and blue lights begin to blink. Turn the brew paddle to the “on” position, allowing water to run through the grouphead for around 10 seconds, then it should automatically shut off. Move the paddle back to “off” and wait approximately five minutes for the machine to warm up. Once both lights stay solid, the machine is ready to start brewing espresso.
Brewing Espresso
Follow these steps to brew espresso:
- Check the portafilter basket. Use the 14g basket for a classic Italian espresso, or the 17g or 21g basket for a modern-styled espresso. You can either weigh out the corresponding dose, or fill the basket to the line if you don’t have a scale.
- Give the grounds a level tamp, pressing until you feel the puck gently push back. Lock the portafilter into the grouphead. For a quick check, lock it in and remove it before brewing. If you see an impression from the brew screw on the puck, tamp more firmly, swap to a bigger basket, or try grinding a bit finer.
- Turn the brew paddle on and watch the espresso pour for about 25–35 seconds, then switch it off. Ideally, you’ll end up with double the weight of espresso compared to your dose of coffee.
Tips
- If the espresso gushes out too quickly, adjust your grinder to a finer setting. If it drips too slowly, switch to a coarser grind. Keep tweaking until you find that perfect flow.