If you own a Philips coffee machine, you might have noticed two different maintenance alerts: Calc Clean and Descaling.
While both help to keep your machine in top condition, they serve different purposes — and mixing them up can lead to performance issues.
In this guide, we’ll break down what each process does, when to use it, and how to run it properly.
☕ What Is Calc Clean?
Calc Clean is a combined cleaning and descaling cycle found on some Philips and Saeco models, especially those with the AquaClean filter system.
It’s designed to:
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Remove light limescale buildup
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Flush coffee residues from internal parts
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Extend the time between full descaling cycles
When it triggers: Usually after a certain number of cups brewed, or when the filter is replaced.
Key notes:
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Works only if AquaClean filter is installed and activated in the menu.
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The process is shorter and less intense than a full descaling.
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Uses Philips/Saeco descaler (not vinegar or citric acid).
🧼 What Is Descaling?
Descaling is a more thorough cleaning process that removes heavy limescale deposits from the water circuit, boiler, and valves.
It’s essential when:
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You live in a hard water area
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You don’t use AquaClean, or it’s expired
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Your machine’s descale light turns on
What it does:
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Fully dissolves mineral buildup
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Restores optimal water flow and brewing temperature
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Prevents blockages and pump damage
🔍 Main Differences Between Calc Clean and Descaling
| Feature | Calc Clean | Descaling |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Light maintenance + filter reset | Heavy-duty limescale removal |
| Trigger | Filter replacement or timer | Descale light alert |
| Time required | 10–15 min | 20–40 min |
| Water hardness impact | Low | High |
| Uses AquaClean filter | Yes | Optional |
| Descaler type | Philips/Saeco liquid | Philips/Saeco liquid |
| Models | Mostly AquaClean-enabled | All |
📅 When to Use Each
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If you have AquaClean – Run Calc Clean whenever you replace the filter. Descaling will be needed only after 5,000 cups or when prompted.
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If you don’t have AquaClean – Ignore Calc Clean and follow the Descaling alert.
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If your water is very hard – Descale more frequently, even if you use AquaClean.
⚠️ Mistakes to Avoid
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Skipping descaling because Calc Clean was done — they are not interchangeable.
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Using vinegar — it can damage seals and leave a smell/taste.
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Not resetting the filter after Calc Clean — the machine will prompt again too soon.
📌 Internal Links for Context
🙋 FAQ
Is Calc Clean the same as descaling?
No. Calc Clean is a lighter cleaning cycle meant for AquaClean-enabled machines, while descaling is a full mineral removal process.
Do I need to do both?
Yes — Calc Clean when you change the AquaClean filter, and descaling when prompted or every 1–2 months if no filter is used.
Can I use vinegar for Calc Clean or Descaling?
No. Philips explicitly advises against vinegar due to potential damage and taste issues.
Will skipping Calc Clean damage my machine?
Not immediately, but it can reduce filter efficiency and lead to faster scale buildup.
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2025