Finding water in the Magnifica drip tray does not automatically mean the machine is leaking. Water from automatic rinsing and normal internal operation is directed into the tray, so the level will gradually rise even when no drinks have been spilled. On Magnifica S models, watch the red level indicator and empty the tray before it rises through the cup tray. If water is appearing underneath the machine, remove the complete drip-tray assembly, empty and dry it, dry the worktop and then run the machine again so you can establish whether fresh water is escaping.

The Magnifica S has a condensate tray as well as the main drip tray. When you remove the drip tray and grounds container, check the condensate tray and empty it if necessary. This is particularly important when the complaint is that water seems to be collecting internally or appearing around the tray area despite the main drip tray not looking excessively full. Clean and correctly reinstall the complete tray assembly before testing again.

If clean water appears underneath the Magnifica even when the machine has not brewed a drink, investigate the water supply side first. Remove the water tank, inspect it for damage and check the outlet area underneath. Clean and dry the tank compartment, reinstall the tank fully and observe whether water begins accumulating again. A leak that develops simply from leaving a full tank installed points you towards the tank/inlet side rather than the coffee dispensing circuit.

Magnifica S manuals specifically identify the coffee spouts as components requiring regular cleaning. If one outlet becomes restricted, coffee or rinse water may dispense unevenly and run down the front rather than cleanly into the cup or drip tray. Inspect both holes in the adjustable coffee dispenser and clear deposits carefully; the model-specific support guidance recommends using a toothpick when a spout is blocked.

This is a particularly useful Magnifica-specific check. On Magnifica Evo models, water appearing on the surface underneath the machine — sometimes accompanied by small puffs of steam from the drip-tray area — is specifically associated with the drip-tray grille having been left out after cleaning. Reassemble the drip tray completely, including the grille, before assuming there is an internal leak.

The timing of the leak can tell you a great deal. Clean water appearing while the machine is standing unused points towards the tank or inlet side. Water appearing during startup or shutdown rinsing points towards the rinse/drain path or tray area. Water appearing primarily while coffee is being made makes the brewing circuit, infuser area or coffee outlet more relevant. If substantial water is entering the inside of the machine rather than the drip tray, stop using it and have the hydraulic circuit inspected rather than repeatedly brewing to locate the leak.