The steam wand is bubbling the milk, not frothing

Here are some possible reasons why the milk steamer flow is diminished and steam is not coming out of the bottom of the machine:

Clogged steam wand: The steam wand might be clogged with milk residue, which can restrict the flow of steam. Try cleaning the steam wand with a damp cloth or a pipe cleaner.

Faulty steam valve: The steam valve might be faulty or damaged, which can cause a decrease in steam pressure. In this case, you may need to replace the valve.

Blocked milk frother: The milk frother might be blocked with milk residue, which can prevent the milk from frothing properly. Try cleaning the milk frother with a damp cloth or a pipe cleaner.

Faulty milk frother: The milk frother might be faulty or damaged, which can cause a decrease in milk flow and prevent proper frothing. In this case, you may need to replace the milk frother.

If none of these solutions work, it's best to contact DeLonghi's customer service for further assistance

If you are getting steam out of the wand I suggest you practice and work ha and to learn how to froth up the milk. The machine does not froth up, it is the operator who does. You basically need to keep the wand just below the milk level and keep moving very slowly up and down always trying to stay below the milk level. If the container is wide you may need to swirl as you moving.

Hi There,

You are not getting enough steam, to produce the froth and there no blockage. I suggest you replace the thermostats. Takes 10 min max.. Gaggia thermostat set

This problem developed on my Sirena machine about a week ago. Stopped frothing milk, but still produced lots of steam. In fact, it was splattering milk everywhere, just not producing foam. Cleaned the steam wand (including air intake) and descaled the machine (even though its only 3 months old) to no avail. Called Saeco customer support (1-800-933-7876) and the very helpful rep immediately identified the problem. Inside the Panarello steam wand is a removable plastic tube. The tip of this tube should protrude about 1/8" beyond the end of the steam wand. Mine was not. Using the eraser end of a pencil, I pushed the inner tube downward into position and, voila, I now have froth again.

This problem developed on my Sirena machine about a week ago. Stopped frothing milk, but still produced lots of steam. In fact, it was splattering milk everywhere, just not producing foam. Cleaned the steam wand (including air intake) and descaled the machine (even though its only 3 months old) to no avail. Called Saeco customer support (1-800-933-7876) and the very helpful rep immediately identified the problem. Inside the Panarello steam wand is a removable plastic tube. The tip of this tube should protrude about 1/8" beyond the end of the steam wand. Mine was not. Using the eraser end of a pencil, I pushed the inner tube downward into position and, voila, I now have froth again.

This is usually a sign it needs a de-scale. you can get a de-scale solution from most coffee machine retailers. Vinegar can be to harsh and ruin your seals. After frothing your milk make sure you let some steam through without milk to clear milk that can be sucked up wand. You can get cleaning instructions of Saeco web site. Good luck

I have the same problem as well, talked to a repair shop and it's definitely a "send in" or warranty repair. I was told it's an o-ring issue. I have no water coming out of the steam wand and it goes into the dispense tray instead.

I think you have a chrome steam wand end.
To froth properly, there is a very small hole on the side of the chrome steam wand that injects small bubbles into the milk, the hole is located aprox 1/4" down from top of the chrome wand, if this hole blocks up you can only heat the milk, not froth. I commonly use a stripped tin tie wire or a sewing needle to clear the hole . Clean the hole,do not enlargen the hole.

The stainless steel cover has a very small hole near the top. The hole allows a venturi action - meaning air molecules are entrained with the steam flow to increase the affect. Milk will clog the hole, but warm water and a guitar string, cheese wire, even a staple - something thin - will work to clean it out.
After frothing either clean the entire stainless steel piece or at least occlude the end at the same time as shooting through some steam. I usually use a kitchen sponge with the abrasive pad attached. The pad helps insulate the heat and provides the necessary resistance to force any milk out the small hole.
Yes, I hate living with this also. In fact I am considering machining a different steam tube assembly.
Red

If the milk scalds, you're getting it hot enough. It sounds like you're not incorporating enough air into the milk when frothing.
Make sure that the holes in the tip of the steam wand are clear. Soak in water for 5-10 min. and wipe with a cloth (no abrasives) and clear the holes with a paper clip end. Blow the wand out nice and hard.
How is your steam pressure? It should be about 1.2 bar.
It could also be your technique. The wand should never be more than 3 cm into the milk. For cappuccino froth, keep the tip right at the surface of the milk, lowering the pitcher as the level rises. You should hear a "shushing" sound, no squealing.

Good luck!