This document serves as an instruction manual for a Bosch filter coffee machine, covering models TKA3M..., TKA4M..., and TKA6M.... It provides comprehensive information on the appliance's function, technical specifications, usage, and maintenance.
Function Description:
The Bosch filter coffee machine is designed for brewing filter coffee in private households. It operates at room temperature and is suitable for typical household processing quantities and times. The machine can be used at altitudes up to 2000 meters above sea level. Depending on the model, it comes with either a thermos jug or a glass jug and a warming plate. A key feature is the Aroma Intense program, which brews coffee for a longer duration to achieve a more intense aroma. The appliance also includes an automatic descaling indicator and an auto switch-off function for energy saving and safety.
Important Technical Specifications:
The coffee machine features a removable water tank with a water level indicator, a removable water tank cover, and a removable filter holder with a drip stop. The filter housing is swivel-mounted for easy access. The thermos jug models (TKA6M...) typically have a capacity of around 8 cups, while glass jug models (TKA3M..., TKA4M...) also have an 8-cup capacity and a warming plate. The appliance connects to an AC power supply via a properly installed earthed socket, and the domestic electrical installation's protective conductor system must be correctly installed. The water hardness can be adjusted to "soft," "medium," or "hard" settings, corresponding to German hardness degrees (°dH) of 1-8.4, 8.4-14, and >14, respectively, and French hardness degrees (°fH) of 1-14, 14-25, and >25. The auto switch-off time can be adjusted to 20, 40, or 60 minutes, with 40 minutes being the factory setting for glass jug models.
Usage Features:
- First Use Preparation: Before initial use, the appliance should undergo a cleaning process with a mixture of 5 cups of water and 1 cup of vinegar, followed by two rinsing cycles with 6 cups of plain water. The appliance should be switched off and allowed to cool for 5 minutes between each rinsing process.
- Water Filling: The water tank should be filled with fresh, cold, non-carbonated water, observing the minimum and maximum marking lines. It should never be filled with milk, ready-made drinks, or instant products.
- Coffee Brewing: For optimal coffee temperature and full aroma, at least 3 cups of coffee should be brewed. Approximately 6g of medium-ground coffee is recommended per cup. Ground coffee should be stored in a cool place or frozen, and opened packages should be tightly sealed to preserve aroma.
- Aroma Intense Program: This program can be activated or deactivated within the first minute of brewing by pressing the "Aroma" button. When active, the symbol lights up white, indicating a longer brewing time for a more intense aroma.
- Water Hardness Setting: The preset water hardness can be adjusted by pressing and holding the "Aroma" and "Descale" buttons for at least 3 seconds, then selecting the desired setting using the On/Off button within 7 seconds. This ensures timely descaling notifications.
- Auto Switch-off Adjustment: The duration after which the appliance automatically switches off can be customized. This is done by pressing and holding the "Descale" button for at least 3 seconds, then selecting the desired time (20, 40, or 60 minutes) using the On/Off button within 7 seconds.
- Thermos Jug Handling: The thermos jug is designed with a non-hermetic seal to prevent suction. It should not be transported horizontally to avoid leaks. Carbonated drinks should not be stored or transported in it. Rinsing the thermos jug with hot water before use helps keep coffee warm longer.
Maintenance Features:
- Descaling: The appliance features an automatic descaling indicator. Descaling is required when the "Descale" and On/Off buttons flash during brewing, or when the "Descale" button flashes during warming (for glass jug models). Regular descaling prolongs the appliance's lifespan, ensures proper function, prevents excessive steam, shortens brewing time, and saves energy. When using commercial descalers, follow the manufacturer's instructions. Avoid descalers containing phosphoric acid. If tap water is very hard, descaling should be performed more frequently than indicated.
- Cleaning: All parts should be thoroughly cleaned and rinsed after each use. Stubborn deposits in the thermos jug can be removed with a solution of baking soda, dishwasher granules, or denture tablets. To prevent odors and bacteria, the thermos jug should be stored with the lid open.
- Drip Stop Maintenance: If the drip stop leaks, the filter holder should be removed, and the drip stop cleaned under running water. Pressing the drip stop several times towards the filter holder with a finger can help resolve leaks.
- General Cleaning Restrictions: Do not use cleaning agents containing alcohol or spirits, sharp, pointed, or metallic objects, or abrasive cloths or cleaning agents.
- Food Contact Surfaces: Surfaces that come into contact with food must be cleaned before each use to prevent bacterial formation. Dairy products, baby food, or similar foodstuffs should not be stored or kept warm in the thermos jug.
- Disposal: The appliance should be disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner, in accordance with European Directive 2012/19/EU (WEEE). Information on current disposal methods can be obtained from specialist dealers or local authorities.