User Manual for De'Longhi ECAM 21.116.B Coffee Machine
Comprehensive user guide for the De'Longhi ECAM 21.116.B bean-to-cup coffee machine. Includes setup, operation, cleaning, descaling, and troubleshooting instructions.
Quick answers from the manual
Quick answer
- The De'Longhi ECAM 21.116.B is a bean-to-cup coffee machine. To operate, fill the bean container and water tank, then select your desired coffee type using the control panel buttons. Regular maintenance, including cleaning the infuser and descaling when prompted, is required for optimal performance. p. 8, 9, 11, 14
Key actions
- Brewing coffee p. 12
- Cleaning the infuser p. 14
- Descaling p. 15
First start
- Initial setup p. 9
Problems and fixes
Adjust grinding dial one click clockwise towards 7.
p. 16, 18Maintenance and reset
- Descaling reset p. 15
Technical specifications
| Parameter | Value | Meaning | Pages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Voltage | 220-240 V~ 50/60 Hz | Power supply requirements | p. 15 |
| Pressure | 15 bars | Pump pressure | p. 15 |
Where to find it in the PDF
- Control Panel p. 2
- Appliance Parts p. 3
Table of contents
Manual images
Click an image to enlargeQuick Guide
This guide helps you set up and operate your De'Longhi ECAM 21.116.B coffee machine. For the first use, fill the water tank to the MAX line, plug in the machine, and turn the main switch on the back to the I position. The machine will perform an automatic rinse cycle. You may need to make 4-5 coffees before the machine provides optimal results.

Description of the Appliance
The machine features a control panel with various buttons for selecting coffee strength, quantity, and functions like steam delivery or descaling. Key components include the bean container, water tank, infuser, coffee spouts, and a cappuccino maker for frothing milk.


Operation
Making Coffee: Fill the bean container with coffee beans. Place a cup under the spouts and press the button corresponding to the desired coffee type (espresso or long coffee). You can adjust the coffee taste using the selection dial and the coffee mill settings.
Making Cappuccino: Fill a container with about 100ml of milk. Press the steam button, wait for the light to flash, immerse the cappuccino maker in the milk, and turn the steam dial to the I position to froth.
Energy Saving: The machine includes an energy-saving mode to reduce power consumption, which can be enabled or disabled via the control panel.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Regular maintenance is essential for machine longevity:

- Drip Tray and Grounds Container: Empty and clean regularly when the indicator shows it is full.
- Infuser: Clean at least once a month. Ensure the machine is off before removing the infuser.
- Water Tank: Clean regularly with a damp cloth.
- Cappuccino Maker: Clean after every use to prevent milk residue buildup.
Descaling
Descale the machine when the descaling light flashes on the control panel. Use only De'Longhi descaler. Follow the procedure by pouring the descaler into the tank, adding water, and running the descaling cycle as described in the manual.
Troubleshooting
If the machine displays alarms or malfunctions, refer to the 'Explanation of Lights' and 'Troubleshooting' sections. Common issues like 'coffee not hot' can often be resolved by preheating cups or rinsing the infuser. If coffee delivery is too slow, adjust the grinding dial one click clockwise.
Practical help
Common problems
Warm the cups by rinsing them with hot water or warm the infuser by pressing the rinse button.
Turn the grinding adjustment dial one click anticlockwise towards 1 while the mill is in operation.
Turn the grinding adjustment dial one click clockwise towards 7 while the mill is in operation.
Clean the cappuccino maker thoroughly as described in the cleaning section.
Before use
- Check the appliance for visible damage.
- Ensure the machine is placed on a flat surface with at least 3cm clearance on sides and 15cm above.
- Fill the water tank to the MAX line.
- Ensure the main switch on the back is in the I position.
- Perform the initial rinse cycle as instructed.
Specs in practice
- Water tank capacity
- 1.8 litres
- Coffee beans container capacity
- 250g max
Images and diagrams
- Control panel: Buttons for power, coffee selection, steam, and maintenance.
- Infuser: Located behind the service door, requires monthly cleaning.
- Grinding dial: Located inside the bean container, adjust only while the mill is running.
- Cappuccino maker: Removable nozzle for frothing milk.
Model compatibility
- Use only De'Longhi descaler.
- Use skimmed or semi-skimmed milk at refrigerator temperature for best frothing results.
- Do not use caramelised or candied coffee beans.
Manual page author
David Miller
Documentation analyst
Organizes user manual content into clear summaries, with attention to model details, product context, and everyday usability.