How can I clean my coffee machine at home?

Deep cleaning your coffee machine at home is easy and effective. A simple and proven method involves a 1:1 solution of white vinegar and water.

Here’s a step-by-step guide, based on extensive testing:

• Prepare the solution: Mix equal parts white vinegar and water in your coffee machine’s water reservoir. Avoid using other types of vinegar, as they may damage the machine.
• Run a brewing cycle: Pour the solution into the reservoir and initiate a brewing cycle as if you were making coffee. Stop the cycle once a significant portion (approximately ¾) of the mixture has been dispensed.
• Soak and Dwell: Allow the vinegar solution to sit in the machine for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour for stubborn build-up. This allows the solution to thoroughly break down mineral deposits and coffee oils.
• Rinse thoroughly: Once the soaking period is complete, empty the reservoir and thoroughly rinse it with clean water. Then, run two or three cycles using only fresh water to flush out any remaining vinegar residue. This step is crucial to eliminate any lingering vinegar taste from your future brews.
• Additional Cleaning Tips: For optimal results, consider cleaning the removable parts (such as the carafe, filter basket, and drip tray) separately with warm, soapy water. A soft brush can be helpful for removing stubborn coffee grounds.

Important Considerations:

• Frequency: Perform this deep clean every 2-4 weeks, or more frequently if you notice a decline in coffee taste or brewing efficiency.
• Machine Type: While this method works for many coffee machines, always refer to your manufacturer’s instructions for specific cleaning recommendations. Some machines might require alternative cleaning procedures.
• Alternative to Vinegar: If you’re sensitive to vinegar odor, you can try using a commercial coffee machine cleaner, following the manufacturer’s instructions precisely.

How can you tell if your coffee machine needs descaling?

Ignoring descaling leads to clogged water pathways, resulting in slower brewing times or dripping after the cycle completes – early signs of machine malfunction. This isn’t just inconvenient; it impacts coffee quality.

Here’s how to spot the need for descaling:

• Slow brewing: Noticeably longer brew times than usual indicate a buildup of limescale.
• Weak coffee: Reduced coffee strength despite using the same amount of grounds suggests restricted water flow.
• Dripping after brewing: Persistent dripping is a clear sign of clogged jets and internal mineral deposits.
• Unusual noises: Gurgling or sputtering sounds during operation often signal scale accumulation.
• Reduced steam pressure (for espresso machines): If your espresso machine struggles to produce sufficient steam, descaling is likely necessary.

The impact of hard water: Hard water contains high mineral content, accelerating limescale formation. Regular descaling, particularly in areas with hard water, is crucial for maintaining optimal performance and prolonging your machine’s lifespan.

Our testing revealed: Machines neglected for extended periods showed a significant reduction in brewing efficiency and a marked increase in repair costs. Proactive descaling prevents these issues and keeps your coffee tasting its best.

• Check your machine’s manual for recommended descaling frequency.
• Use a high-quality descaling solution designed for coffee machines.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully during the descaling process.

Should I clean the inside of my coffee machine?

Cleaning your coffee machine is crucial for its longevity and, more importantly, for the quality of your coffee. The more frequently you use it, the quicker you’ll notice a decline in taste if you neglect regular cleaning. Coffee grounds and limescale build up inside, affecting the brewing process and leading to a bitter, off-tasting brew.

Limescale, in particular, is a serious issue. It’s a mineral deposit that forms from hard water and reduces the efficiency of your machine, potentially shortening its lifespan. It can also negatively impact the taste and aroma of your coffee, leaving it dull and flat.

Regular cleaning involves more than just emptying the drip tray. You should be descaling your machine at least once a month (more often if you use hard water), using a descaling solution specifically designed for coffee machines. This process removes the limescale buildup from the internal components. Additionally, you should clean the brew group regularly—this is the part that comes into direct contact with the coffee grounds—using a brush or a cleaning tablet. Following the manufacturer’s instructions is paramount to avoid damaging your machine.

Beyond the obvious taste improvement, regular cleaning ensures your machine operates efficiently, preventing costly repairs down the line. A clean machine also means consistent coffee temperature and pressure, leading to a more flavorful and enjoyable cup each time.

Consider the frequency of your coffee consumption when establishing your cleaning schedule. Daily use warrants more frequent cleaning than occasional use. Proactive maintenance keeps your coffee machine in peak condition, delivering delicious coffee for years to come.

How do I prepare a solution for cleaning my coffee machine?

To effectively descale your coffee machine, use a solution of citric acid: mix 3-4 teaspoons (30-40 grams) per 1 liter of water. Avoid exceeding this concentration; higher levels can damage your machine’s internal components.

Important Considerations:

• Water Type: Use filtered water for optimal results. Tap water’s mineral content can vary, potentially impacting descaling effectiveness and leaving residue.
• Machine Type: Always refer to your coffee machine’s instruction manual for specific descaling recommendations. Some models may require a different cleaning agent or process.
• Frequency: Descale your machine regularly, ideally every 2-3 months or more frequently depending on water hardness and usage.

Step-by-Step Descaling Process:

• Prepare the citric acid solution as described above.
• Pour the solution into the water reservoir.
• Initiate the machine’s descaling cycle or follow manufacturer instructions. This usually involves running a brew cycle with the solution.
• After the cycle completes, run two or three cycles with plain, filtered water to thoroughly rinse the machine and remove all traces of the cleaning solution.

Testing and Observation: After descaling, observe the coffee produced for any lingering off-flavors or discoloration. If these persist, repeat the descaling process. If problems continue, contact the manufacturer.

How can I descale my coffee maker at home?

Descaling your coffee maker with vinegar: A quick and easy guide

Vinegar is a surprisingly effective and readily available descaling agent for your coffee maker. Here’s how to tackle those pesky mineral deposits using this household staple:

• Mix the solution: Combine 2-3 tablespoons of 9% white vinegar with 1 liter of water. The ratio isn’t critical, but more vinegar may be needed for heavily scaled machines. Always use white vinegar, as colored vinegars can stain.
• Run the solution: Pour the vinegar solution into your coffee maker’s water reservoir, just as you would with regular water. Run a brewing cycle as you normally would. The vinegar will work its magic, dissolving the mineral build-up.
• Rinse thoroughly: After the cycle completes, discard the vinegar solution. Run at least three cycles using only plain water to completely rinse the machine. You should no longer smell any vinegar after this process.

Important Considerations:

• Frequency: The frequency of descaling depends on your water hardness and how often you use your coffee maker. For hard water areas, descaling every 2-3 months is recommended. Softer water might allow for longer intervals.
• Alternative: Citric acid offers a similar descaling effect. For this method, dissolve 1-2 tablespoons of citric acid in 1 liter of water and repeat the process. Both methods are effective, choose the one readily available to you.
• Machine type: Always check your coffee maker’s manual for specific descaling instructions. Some machines might have specific requirements or warnings.
• Stubborn scale: For extremely stubborn scale, you may need to repeat the process or consider a commercial descaling solution designed for coffee makers.

Keeping your coffee maker clean prolongs its life and ensures consistently delicious coffee. Regularly scheduled descaling is essential for maintaining optimal performance.

How do I turn on the coffee machine’s cleaning cycle?

Switching on the cleaning cycle of your new coffee machine is straightforward. First, power on your machine and allow it to complete the initial heating and self-rinsing cycle. This is crucial for optimal performance and longevity.

Next, navigate to the machine’s menu. The exact wording varies by model, but you’ll generally find a section labeled something like “Maintenance,” “Care,” or “Cleaning.” Look for a sub-option titled “Descaling,” “Calc,” or “Clean.”

• Understanding Descaling: Descaling removes mineral deposits (lime scale) that build up from hard water. These deposits can significantly affect your coffee’s taste and even damage the machine’s internal components. Regular descaling is essential.
• Frequency: How often you need to descale depends on water hardness. Check your machine’s manual for recommended intervals. Hard water areas will require more frequent descaling (e.g., every 2-3 months) compared to areas with soft water.
• Using the Right Solution: While the machine may prompt you to use a specific descaling solution, you might find that using a combination of white vinegar and water (usually a 50/50 mix) is a cost-effective alternative. Always follow your machine’s instructions regarding the type and amount of descaling solution to use.

Following these steps ensures your coffee machine maintains peak performance and extends its operational lifespan. Remember to consult your user manual for model-specific instructions.

What shouldn’t be used to clean a coffee machine?

Never clean your coffee machine with vinegar, lemon juice, or other harsh cleaning agents, even those of natural origin. While seemingly harmless, these acidic substances can actually damage the delicate internal components of your machine over time. Extensive testing in our labs has shown that acidic cleaners can corrode metal parts, leading to leaks, malfunctions, and ultimately, premature failure.

Furthermore, the abrasive nature of some cleaning solutions can scratch sensitive surfaces, reducing the machine’s lifespan and potentially affecting the taste of your coffee. Always refer to your machine’s manufacturer’s instructions for recommended cleaning methods and approved cleaning agents. Using the wrong cleaner invalidates many warranties.

Instead of harsh chemicals, opt for manufacturer-approved descaling solutions or a simple solution of water and mild dish soap, focusing on gentle scrubbing and thorough rinsing. Regular, gentle cleaning will keep your machine in optimal condition for years to come.

How do I make a descaling solution?

Tired of limescale build-up ruining your kettle’s efficiency and your tea’s taste? Say goodbye to stubborn mineral deposits with this simple, effective, and surprisingly inexpensive descaling solution: lemon acid.

One packet of citric acid goes a long way. For a single descaling treatment, simply add a single tablespoon (approximately 15-20 grams, depending on the brand) to your kettle.

Instructions:

• Add one tablespoon of citric acid to your kettle.
• Add 500 milliliters of water.
• Boil the mixture. Repeat boiling after 20-30 seconds.
• Let the solution sit in the kettle for 90 minutes to allow the citric acid to work its magic on the limescale.
• Empty the kettle and rinse thoroughly.

Why Citric Acid? Citric acid is a natural, food-grade acid that effectively dissolves mineral deposits. It’s a far safer and more environmentally friendly alternative to harsh chemical cleaners often found in commercial descaling products.

Tips & Tricks:

• For heavily scaled kettles, you may need to repeat the process.
• Always rinse the kettle thoroughly after descaling to remove any remaining citric acid residue.
• This method is also effective for descaling coffee machines and other appliances prone to limescale build-up. Always consult your appliance’s manual before attempting to descale.
• For severe limescale, consider soaking the kettle parts in a solution of citric acid and water for a longer duration before boiling.

Safety Note: Always handle citric acid with care. Avoid contact with eyes and skin. In case of contact, rinse thoroughly with water.

What’s a good alternative to descaling a coffee machine?

Tired of limescale ruining your coffee’s taste? While dedicated descaling solutions are effective, vinegar offers a surprisingly good and budget-friendly alternative. Its mildly acidic nature effectively breaks down mineral deposits, leaving your coffee maker sparkling clean.

Here’s why vinegar works so well:

• Cost-effective: Vinegar is significantly cheaper than commercial descaling solutions.
• Readily available: You likely already have it in your pantry.
• Effective against limescale: The acetic acid in vinegar dissolves mineral deposits, restoring your coffee maker’s efficiency.

However, remember these important points:

• Use white vinegar: Avoid colored or flavored vinegars, as they may leave behind residues.
• Rinse thoroughly: After using vinegar, run several cycles of plain water through your machine to eliminate any lingering vinegar smell or taste. This is crucial for avoiding a vinegary taste in your next cup.
• Check your machine’s manual: Some coffee machine manufacturers advise against using vinegar. Always consult your user manual before attempting this method.
• Frequency: The frequency of descaling depends on your water hardness and usage. Hard water requires more frequent descaling.

Beyond vinegar, consider these preventative measures:

• Use filtered water: Filtered water significantly reduces the amount of minerals contributing to limescale buildup.
• Regular cleaning: Regularly wiping down the exterior and emptying the drip tray prevents the accumulation of coffee grounds and oils.

How do I clean the inside of my espresso machine?

Cleaning your espresso machine’s internals is crucial for maintaining optimal flavor and preventing costly repairs. While a simple rinse won’t suffice, a thorough cleaning should be a regular part of your espresso routine.

The Cleaning Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

• Prepare the Cleaning Solution: Dilute espresso machine cleaner according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Don’t skimp on this step; using too little cleaner won’t effectively remove coffee oils and residue. Using a high-quality cleaner specifically designed for espresso machines is paramount; avoid harsh chemicals that can damage parts.
• Disassemble and Clean: Remove the portafilter and its basket. Use a small nylon brush, ideally a dedicated group head brush, to scrub the basket, portafilter, and group head gasket thoroughly. Pay special attention to the crevices and corners where coffee oils tend to accumulate. A stiff brush helps dislodge stubborn residue.
• Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse all parts under warm running water until all traces of the cleaning solution are gone. Ensure no cleaner residue remains; residual cleaner can impact the taste of your espresso.
• Backflush (Optional but Recommended): Most espresso machines allow for a backflush. This involves running the cleaning solution through the group head in reverse, flushing out any lingering oils and residue from the internal components. Always consult your machine’s manual for instructions, as the process can vary.
• Regular Maintenance: This deep cleaning should be performed weekly, or even more frequently if you brew espresso multiple times a day. Daily rinsing of the portafilter and basket will also prevent the buildup of coffee oils and extend the life of your equipment.

Tips for Success:

• Invest in quality tools: A good quality brush specifically designed for espresso machine cleaning makes the process much easier and more effective.
• Be patient: Thorough cleaning takes time. Don’t rush the process; take your time to ensure all parts are completely clean.
• Consult your manual: Always refer to your espresso machine’s manual for specific cleaning instructions and recommendations.

Ignoring regular cleaning can lead to:

• Changes in espresso taste: Coffee oils left in the machine can negatively affect the taste of your espresso.
• Machine malfunction: Buildup can clog internal components, leading to poor performance or even damage.
• Reduced lifespan: Consistent cleaning helps prolong the life of your valuable espresso machine.

Why shouldn’t you clean a coffee machine with citric acid?

Using lemon juice to descale your coffee machine might seem like a natural, eco-friendly solution, but it’s a risky one. While mild acidity can help remove limescale, a strong lemon acid solution can damage aluminum components found in many coffee machine models. The highly concentrated citric acid in lemon juice can corrode these parts, leading to leaks, malfunctions, and potentially shortening the lifespan of your appliance.

Always refer to your coffee machine’s instruction manual for the recommended descaling solution and procedure. Manufacturers usually specify a particular type of descaling agent and the appropriate concentration to ensure safe and effective cleaning without harming the internal workings. Using a commercially available descaling solution formulated for coffee machines is always the safest bet, as these are designed to be effective yet gentle on the machine’s materials. Improper descaling can void your warranty, so following the manufacturer’s instructions is crucial.

Beyond aluminum, strong acidic solutions can also damage rubber seals and plastic components. The aggressive cleaning action might compromise the integrity of these seals, leading to future leaks. Instead of risking damage to your expensive appliance with DIY solutions, invest in a quality descaling product specifically designed for coffee machines. This will help maintain the longevity and optimal performance of your beloved coffee maker.

How can I tell if my coffee machine is completely descaled?

Knowing when your coffee machine needs descaling is crucial for maintaining its performance and longevity. Poor coffee flow, a thin stream instead of a robust one, is a major sign. You’ll also notice increased noise; the machine might sound louder or have strange sounds coming from the motor. The crema, that beautiful layer on top of your espresso, will become watery and thin, a clear indication of scale buildup. Finally, if you notice water leaking into the drip tray, it’s a definite sign that your machine is overdue for descaling.

Now, regarding how you know it’s clean: after running a descaling cycle (following the manufacturer’s instructions meticulously!), your coffee should flow smoothly again. The noise should revert to its normal level. Most importantly, you’ll notice a significant improvement in the quality of your coffee; the crema should be rich and velvety, and the taste should be clean and vibrant, free from any metallic or bitter aftertaste indicative of mineral deposits. If the improvements aren’t evident, you might need to repeat the descaling process, or consider using a more powerful descaling solution (always check compatibility with your machine first!). Regular descaling, say every 3-6 months depending on water hardness and usage, is key for preventing these issues and prolonging the life of your beloved coffee maker. Using filtered water significantly reduces the frequency of descaling.

What’s the best homemade descaling remedy?

Vinegar is a surprisingly effective and readily available natural descaling agent for your kitchen appliances. Its high acidity readily combats limescale buildup, a common problem in coffee makers and kettles. Simply mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water.

How to Use Vinegar to Descale:

• Prepare the Solution: Mix equal parts white vinegar and warm water in a suitable container. Avoid using colored or flavored vinegars, as they may leave residue.
• Run a Cycle: Pour the vinegar solution into your appliance’s reservoir, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Run a full brewing or boiling cycle.
• Rinse Thoroughly: After the cycle is complete, rinse the appliance thoroughly with several cycles of plain water to remove all traces of vinegar. This is crucial to eliminate any lingering taste or smell.

Important Considerations:

• Frequency: The frequency of descaling depends on water hardness and usage. Descaling every 1-3 months is generally recommended for coffee machines. For kettles, it depends on frequency of usage and water hardness.
• Appliance Compatibility: While vinegar is generally safe for most appliances, always check your manufacturer’s instructions. Some appliances may have specific descaling recommendations or may be damaged by vinegar.
• Stubborn Limescale: For extremely stubborn limescale, you may need to repeat the process or consider a longer soak time with the vinegar solution. Commercial descaling solutions are also available for particularly severe build-up.
• Alternative Methods: Citric acid is another natural descaling option, offering similar results to vinegar. It’s available in powder form and can be dissolved in water.

Note: Never use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on your appliances, as this can damage the internal components.

How do I turn off the cleaning indicator light on my coffee maker?

The CLEAN indicator light on this innovative coffee maker is cleverly deactivated. Simply hold down the TIMER button for over three seconds while the current time is displayed. This intuitive design feature eliminates any unnecessary fuss. For added convenience, note that this method only works when the display shows the time – not during brewing cycles or other operational states. This small detail speaks volumes about the thoughtful engineering behind the appliance. The user-friendly interface is a definite highlight, contributing to the overall positive user experience.

Can lemon acid be used to clean a coffee machine?

Mineral deposits in drip coffee makers significantly impact performance and coffee taste. A build-up of these deposits reduces heating efficiency and can impart an unpleasant, off-flavor to your brew. Citric acid is an excellent and readily available solution for cleaning your coffee maker.

Its effectiveness stems from its ability to dissolve mineral scale, effectively removing the residue that clogs your machine. However, it’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding cleaning solutions, as some machines are more sensitive than others. Improper use could damage sensitive internal components.

Here’s a simple guide on using citric acid for cleaning:

• Prepare the solution: Mix one or two tablespoons of citric acid (depending on the severity of the buildup and the size of your coffee maker’s water reservoir) in a full reservoir of water.
• Run a cleaning cycle: Run the coffee maker through a complete brewing cycle with the citric acid solution. Do not add coffee grounds.
• Rinse thoroughly: After the cycle completes, run two or three more cycles using plain water to completely rinse away the citric acid residue. This is critical to avoid any lingering citric taste in your subsequent brews.
• External Cleaning: Regularly wipe down the exterior of your coffee maker with a damp cloth to maintain its overall cleanliness and appearance.

Important Considerations:

• Frequency: The cleaning frequency depends on water hardness and usage. For areas with hard water, monthly cleaning is recommended. For areas with softer water, less frequent cleaning may suffice.
• Alternatives: While citric acid is effective, other descaling solutions are available, including commercial coffee maker cleaning solutions. Always refer to your coffee maker’s manual for approved cleaning methods.
• Vinegar Caution: Although vinegar is often suggested, it can leave behind a lingering odor that is difficult to remove completely, potentially affecting the taste of your coffee. Citric acid provides a cleaner and more effective solution in most cases.

How do I remove the coffee machine waste?

Cleaning your coffee machine’s waste is surprisingly simple. First, power off the machine. Next, locate and open the brewing unit compartment. Carefully remove the drip tray and grounds container.

Empty the grounds into the trash. Don’t forget to clean any leftover coffee grounds from the brewing unit and compartment using a sponge or cloth. A soft-bristled brush can be particularly effective in reaching hard-to-clean areas.

Thoroughly rinse the brewing unit under running water. Make sure to remove all coffee residue. Allow it to air dry completely before reinstalling.

Pro-tip: For a deeper clean, consider using a coffee machine cleaning solution once a month. These solutions are designed to break down coffee oils and prevent buildup that can affect the taste of your coffee and the machine’s efficiency. Follow the instructions on the packaging carefully.

Maintenance Schedule:

• Daily: Empty the drip tray and grounds container.
• Weekly: Rinse the brewing unit and wipe down the exterior.
• Monthly: Use a coffee machine cleaning solution.

Note: Always refer to your machine’s instruction manual for specific cleaning instructions. Different models may have slightly different procedures.

How do I prepare a citric acid solution for cleaning a coffee machine?

OMG, you guys, cleaning your coffee machine just got a *major* upgrade! Forget those boring old cleaning solutions, we’re talking lemon acid detox for your beloved appliance! Think of it as a spa day for your coffee maker – it deserves it, right?

First, you’ll need the star of the show: citric acid! I swear, this stuff is a miracle worker. Grab yourself a luxurious, oversized jar – you’ll be using it all the time after you see the results. We’re talking 3-4 teaspoons (30-40 grams) of this magic powder. Don’t skimp, though, it’s worth the investment for a sparkling clean machine!

Now, mix this amazing powder with a full liter (about a quart) of fresh, sparkling water – the purer the water, the better. Trust me, using fancy bottled water will elevate this experience. Avoid using tap water, it could contain minerals that might affect the cleaning process. And remember, less is more when it comes to the citric acid concentration! You don’t want to risk damaging your precious coffee machine! Going overboard is a total fashion faux pas in cleaning, so stick to the recommended amount.

Pour this gorgeous mixture into your machine’s water reservoir. It’s like giving your coffee machine a luxurious facial! Then, run your descaling program. Sit back, relax, and maybe treat yourself to a fancy coffee while you wait. It’s the ultimate self-care routine for both you and your coffee maker!

This little trick is a total game-changer. You’ll be amazed at how effectively it removes coffee stains and limescale buildup. This process will keep your coffee maker functioning like a dream and prolong its lifespan! It’s a total must-have cleaning tip that you need to add to your arsenal!

How do I clean my coffee maker using the cleaning cycle button?

Cleaning your new coffee maker is a breeze thanks to its convenient self-cleaning cycle. Simply fill the water reservoir ⅓ full with distilled white vinegar and top it off with water to the ⅔ mark. This ratio is key for effective cleaning without damaging your machine. Distilled white vinegar is preferred because it’s free of minerals that can leave residue.

Next, press and hold the self-cleaning button. You’ll see the cleaning indicator light begin to flash, signifying the cycle has started. Release the button; the machine will do the rest! This automated process thoroughly cleans the internal brewing system, eliminating coffee oils and mineral buildup that can affect taste and longevity. Remember to run a few cycles with plain water afterwards to rinse away all traces of vinegar before making your next cup.

Pro-Tip: For optimal performance and to extend the lifespan of your coffee maker, perform this self-cleaning cycle at least once a month or more frequently if you notice a change in taste or smell.

How do I make the clean indicator light come on my Braun coffee maker?

OMG, that Braun descaling light! You *know* it means your precious coffee maker needs some TLC. Don’t worry, I’ve got this!

The Descaling Drama: After your descaling program finishes, that lovely green light will finally go out. *Immediately* dump that nasty descaling solution – think of all the precious coffee it’s robbed us of! Rinse the carafe like your life depends on it (because, let’s be honest, it kinda does for the coffee!).

The Purification Ritual: Fill the water reservoir to the MAX with fresh, sparkling water. Think of it as a spa day for your coffee maker! We’re talking about the best, purest water you can find – bottled spring water, for the ultimate experience!

• Run two full brew cycles. Yes, TWO. This isn’t some quickie fix; we’re talking about a complete, thorough cleanse. Every last trace of that descaling solution must be banished!
• Optional Upgrade: Between cycles, consider using a coffee machine cleaning tablet. They’re amazing! It’s like a deep conditioning treatment for your coffee maker. Look for ones specifically designed for Braun machines for ultimate compatibility.
• Post-Spa Pampering: After those two cycles, admire your sparkling clean coffee maker. Give it a little pat (don’t actually pat it, that’s weird). It deserves a reward – maybe a fancy, gourmet coffee bean blend?

Pro-Tip: Prevent future descaling drama by using filtered water regularly! It’s a small price to pay to keep that gorgeous green light happily OFF.

Another Pro-Tip: Regularly check your Braun’s user manual. The details on descaling may vary slightly depending on the model. You can find great manuals online, too!