Water filter - compatible with DeLonghi ECAM (type: DLSC002 / SER3017)

This cartridge replaces the water filter in DeLonghi machines that use the DLSC002 type, also listed as SER3017. That covers the ECAM range of fully automatic espresso machines and the BCO420-BCO410 combination machines. It does not fit the EAM or ESAM series, so check your machine's model code before you buy: the series letters are the part that matters.

What the filter does is take chlorine, lead and copper out of the tap water you put in the machine. Chlorine is the one you are most likely to notice, because it carries straight through into a black coffee and flattens it; filter it out and the roast does the talking instead of the water.

What the filter does not replace is descaling. Scale comes from the hardness of your water, and this cartridge does not completely prevent limescale build-up, so carry on descaling the machine at least twice a year. Always take the filter out of the tank before you start a descaling programme. Descaler is not meant to run through the cartridge, and leaving it in risks damaging the filter or blocking it.

When to replace it

One cartridge is good for 50 litres of water, which works out at roughly 400 cups of coffee or 1,000 espressos. We would change it every two months at the latest even if you have not got through the 50 litres, whichever of the two comes round first.

• Fits: DeLonghi ECAM series and BCO420-BCO410 combination machines
• Filter type: DLSC002 / SER3017
• Not suitable for: EAM and ESAM series
• Removes: chlorine, lead and copper
• Capacity: 50 litres, roughly 400 cups of coffee or 1,000 espressos
• Replace: every two months at the latest
• Take the filter out before descaling

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