Replacing the water filter every 3 months or after approximately 40 litres of water helps reduce limescale build-up, improves water quality and can reduce how often your machine needs descaling.

Step 1 – Remove the Old Filter

Remove the water tank from the back of the machine and take out the existing water filter and holder.

Step 2 – Prepare the New Filter

• 
  Remove the new filter and holder from the packaging.
  
• 
  Soak the filter in cold water for 5 minutes.
  
• 
  Rinse the filter holder with cold water.
  

Step 3 – Set the Replacement Reminder

Turn the reminder dial on the filter holder to indicate the next replacement month. Sage recommends replacing the filter every 3 months.

Step 4 – Assemble the Filter

Insert the filter cartridge into the two sections of the filter holder, ensuring it is securely fitted together.

Step 5 – Install the Filter

Place the assembled filter holder into the water tank, aligning the base with the adapter inside the tank. Push down firmly until it locks into place.

Step 6 – Refill the Water Tank

Fill the water tank with fresh cold tap water, slide it back into the machine and ensure it is fully seated before use.

Engineer's Tip

Using a genuine Sage water filter and replacing it on schedule helps protect the heating system from limescale, improves coffee flavour and extends the time between descaling cycles. Avoid using distilled or demineralised water, as it can affect both the taste of your coffee and the machine's performance.

Getting the grind size right is one of the biggest factors in producing great espresso. The Sage Barista Touch allows you to adjust the grind using the Grind Size dial on the side of the machine.

Step 1 – Choose the Correct Filter Basket

Select the filter basket you are using on the touchscreen before grinding:

• 
  1 Cup for a single espresso.
  
• 
  2 Cup for a double espresso or a stronger coffee.
  

Step 2 – Start with the Current Grind Setting

The Barista Touch has numbered grind settings. Smaller numbers produce a finer grind, while larger numbers produce a coarser grind.

Step 3 – Adjust One Step at a Time

When using a new coffee bean, make small adjustments and test each shot before changing again. It often takes 2–3 attempts to find the ideal setting for a particular coffee.

Step 4 – Read the Espresso

Your espresso will tell you whether the grind needs adjusting:

If the coffee pours too quickly:

• 
  The grind is too coarse.
  
• 
  Turn the grind size dial towards a smaller number to make the grind finer.
  

If the coffee drips slowly or barely pours:

• 
  The grind is too fine.
  
• 
  Turn the grind size dial towards a larger number to make the grind coarser.
  

Step 5 – Aim for the Perfect Extraction

A well-adjusted grind should produce:

• 
  Espresso that begins flowing after around 8–12 seconds.
  
• 
  A slow, steady stream that looks like warm honey.
  
• 
  A rich golden-brown crema.
  
• 
  A balanced flavour with sweetness, body and minimal bitterness.
  

If the Standard Grind Range Isn't Enough

The Barista Touch also features an adjustable upper burr, allowing you to extend the overall grind range for different coffee beans. Sage recommends making only one upper burr adjustment at a time, then checking the extraction before making further changes.

Keeping the steam wand clean is essential for producing smooth, silky milk and preventing blockages.

After Every Milk Drink

1. Wipe the steam wand immediately with a clean, damp cloth after texturing milk.
   
2. Lower the steam wand back into the down position.
   
3. The Barista Touch will automatically purge the steam wand to remove any milk residue from inside the tip. Allow this purge cycle to complete.
   

If Steam Performance Drops

If the steam wand isn't producing enough steam or the milk isn't frothing properly:

1. Open the Settings menu on the touchscreen.
   
2. Select Steam Wand Cleaning.
   
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to clean and unblock the steam wand.
   

If the Steam Tip is Blocked

• Check that all holes around the steam tip are clear, as even partial blockages can reduce milk frothing performance.
  
• Use the supplied Steam Wand Cleaning Tool to clear any blocked holes if required.
  

Engineer's Tip

Always wipe the steam wand before lowering it back into position. This removes most of the milk residue, allowing the automatic purge to clean the inside of the wand much more effectively and helping prevent stubborn milk build-up.