The crew coffee machine (an Electrolux unit) had an issue where a pump solenoid was continuously energised. I opened it and noted that there are three triacs used for switching the heater, pump and possibly a diverter. Although the small TO92 cased triac associated with the running pump was not showing the usual signs of being short circuit, I decided to swap it out anyway. I couldn't find the same triac, but found one with a similar spec.
The small TO92 cased triacs seem to be quite commonly used for switching solenoid valves in home appliances like clothes washers.
The new triac did the trick and the unit now runs again.

12 thoughts on “Repair of crew coffee machine.”
  1. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Maged Soliman says:

    Hi, I have a similar coffee machine (just wish 2 buttons for different coffee sizes) and my issue is that when I press the coffee button, the machine sounds like it's working, but no water comes down. Would you know what the issue is? It sounds like it's working then after a few seconds the 'working' noise dulls, then nothing happens. Your assistance is much appreciated.

  2. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Kyle McNicoll says:

    When is the coffee maker getting the DMX upgrade?

  3. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Anthony Sinfield says:

    Shame we didn't see the fault finding technique, you didn't just randomly change a triac, you knew where to look and that's the bit I want to get better at. 🙂

  4. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars p1unge says:

    Clive, what do you do for a living?

  5. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Minecraft Child says:

    I have a fair bunch of TRIACS laying around my inventory and because you mention about how they are used in motors, I'm a bit confused how that works because I want to put my TRIACS to good use.
    Is it to do with 3-sinewave input motors?

  6. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Donald Sleightholme says:

    wondering if a solid state hard drive could be upgraded with a speaker that simulates a hard drive clicking noise sound when accessing?

  7. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars elco400 says:

    You've got the gaff in the background in case anything else goes wrong

  8. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Aadil Shah says:

    I'll stick with my Bialetti stove top percolator! 😛

  9. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars n3ur081 says:

    that is a romanian coffee machine, Electrolux is a romanian company!

  10. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars camohoj says:

    send out to Greggs and get a bacon butty with the coffee.

  11. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Madness832 says:

    I always get a bit of a chuckle when I hear of a British person talking about coffee. Thought tea was the stereotypical drink. 🙂

  12. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars ElfNet Designs says:

    I had to repair some Furman lighted power filters that had bad TRIACs in them last week. The lamps would not work so I replaced the TRIACs with some generic replacements and they are good again

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.