Display shows E3 and brewing stops; sometimes accompanied by very hot steam or no heating at all on Swan coffee maker.
Safety Warning
This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.
If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.
Possible Causes
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety first: Immediately unplug the coffee maker. Allow it to cool for at least 45 minutes before any inspection.
User-level checks:
- Check water level: Ensure the water reservoir is filled above the minimum line and properly seated. Many Swan models will overheat if run dry and then trigger E3.
- Descale the machine: Mineral buildup can restrict water flow and cause overheating. Run a full descaling cycle following the Swan manual, using descaling solution. Repeat if the machine is heavily scaled.
- Clean the filter basket: A clogged paper or permanent filter can cause back-pressure and overheating. Remove and thoroughly rinse the filter basket and drip outlet.
Advanced checks (for experienced users):
- Remove the base cover to access the thermal fuse and bi-metal thermostat mounted on the heating plate or boiler.
- Visually inspect for discoloration or burn marks. Test continuity of the thermal fuse with a multimeter; an open fuse must be replaced with the same temperature and current rating.
- Check the thermostat for proper operation (closed at room temperature for most coffee makers). Replace if stuck open or shows signs of arcing.
Important: Never bypass a thermal fuse or thermostat. If you are unsure, contact a qualified appliance technician.
Repair Difficulty
Required Part
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