{
  "id": "ec685-coffee-filters",
  "version": "2.0.0",
  "title": "Clean the coffee filters",
  "deviceFamily": "coffee",
  "intent": "Maintenance",
  "summary": "Lift the original tabbed insert, clear its holes and rear outlet, and record the final seated fit.",
  "modelApplicability": [
    "ec685-international"
  ],
  "modelDetails": [
    {
      "id": "ec685-international",
      "family": "coffee",
      "brand": "De’Longhi",
      "series": "Dedica",
      "label": "Dedica EC685 / EC685 EX:4 · International manual",
      "region": "English International manual 57132C8997_01_0626; regional nameplate must match",
      "componentVersion": "Three buttons, steam dial, removable frother and tabbed perforated filter as pictured in this manual",
      "manual": "dedica-manual",
      "help": "With the machine cool, empty and unplugged, check the underside nameplate for EC685 or EC685 EX:4. Compare the frother and tabbed filter with the linked manual. The support page is on a US domain but its download is English International. Use the manual supplied for your regional appliance; no US voltage or electrical compatibility is inferred.",
      "exclusions": [
        "EC680",
        "Dedica Arte EC885",
        "Maestro EC950",
        "Modified steam wand",
        "Different filter design",
        "Regional instructions that differ from this manual"
      ],
      "recognitionSource": "dedica-support"
    }
  ],
  "exclusions": [
    "EC680",
    "Dedica Arte EC885",
    "Maestro EC950",
    "Modified steam wand",
    "Different filter design",
    "Regional instructions that differ from this manual"
  ],
  "prerequisites": [
    "Confirm the nameplate and your regional manual before connecting the appliance. The English International download on a US support page does not establish US electrical compatibility.",
    "For handling or external cleaning: stop delivery, switch off, unplug and wait until the appliance and removable parts are cool. Follow the separate powered steps only after reassembly."
  ],
  "tools": [
    "Sink",
    "Soft drying cloth",
    "Pin for the documented filter holes only"
  ],
  "materials": [
    "Running water"
  ],
  "checks": [
    {
      "id": "safety",
      "prompt": "Is the appliance undamaged, with delivery stopped and parts cool and unplugged for any hands-on work?",
      "sourceId": "dedica-manual",
      "sourceLocator": "p10 §11; p14 §14",
      "options": [
        {
          "id": "yes",
          "label": "Yes",
          "next": "manual-match",
          "advice": "Keep hands clear of outlets during the specific powered water or steam steps below."
        },
        {
          "id": "no",
          "label": "No",
          "next": "service",
          "advice": "Stop for a damaged cord, burning smell, liquid leaking from the appliance body, all lights flashing while the machine does not work, or a holder that remains hot or pressurized. Disconnect when safe and contact De’Longhi Customer Services. Keep the casing, boiler and internal steam circuit closed."
        },
        {
          "id": "unsure",
          "label": "Not sure",
          "next": "prepared",
          "advice": "Save a preparation record and compare the matching manual before continuing."
        }
      ]
    },
    {
      "id": "manual-match",
      "prompt": "Does your EC685 or EC685 EX:4 match English International manual 57132C8997_01_0626, including the three buttons, original frother and tabbed filter?",
      "sourceId": "dedica-support",
      "sourceLocator": "Support center: English (International) Instructions for use; manual pp3,6 §1",
      "options": [
        {
          "id": "yes",
          "label": "Yes",
          "next": "check-1",
          "advice": "Continue only with the controls and parts pictured in this manual."
        },
        {
          "id": "no",
          "label": "No",
          "next": "prepared",
          "advice": "Find the manual supplied for your region and component version. This guide cannot confirm a different version."
        },
        {
          "id": "unsure",
          "label": "Not sure",
          "next": "prepared",
          "advice": "Save a preparation record and compare the matching manual before continuing."
        }
      ]
    },
    {
      "id": "check-1",
      "prompt": "Does this ground-coffee filter have the pull tab and removable perforated insert in figure22?",
      "sourceId": "dedica-manual",
      "sourceLocator": "p10 §11.2; figs22–24",
      "options": [
        {
          "id": "yes",
          "label": "Yes",
          "next": "check-2",
          "advice": "Work with the matching removable insert."
        },
        {
          "id": "no",
          "label": "No",
          "next": "prepared",
          "advice": "A fixed basket or a pod filter follows different instructions; do not pry it apart."
        },
        {
          "id": "unsure",
          "label": "Not sure",
          "next": "prepared",
          "advice": "Save a preparation record and compare the matching manual before continuing."
        }
      ]
    },
    {
      "id": "check-2",
      "prompt": "Has delivery stopped and the detached holder and filter cooled fully for handling?",
      "sourceId": "dedica-manual",
      "sourceLocator": "p7 §4; p10 §11",
      "options": [
        {
          "id": "yes",
          "label": "Yes",
          "next": "steps",
          "advice": "Inspect the cool filter in good light."
        },
        {
          "id": "no",
          "label": "No",
          "next": "prepared",
          "advice": "Wait for cooling; never detach the holder during delivery."
        },
        {
          "id": "unsure",
          "label": "Not sure",
          "next": "prepared",
          "advice": "Save a preparation record and compare the matching manual before continuing."
        }
      ]
    }
  ],
  "branches": [
    {
      "checkId": "safety",
      "optionId": "yes",
      "next": "manual-match"
    },
    {
      "checkId": "safety",
      "optionId": "no",
      "next": "service"
    },
    {
      "checkId": "safety",
      "optionId": "unsure",
      "next": "prepared"
    },
    {
      "checkId": "manual-match",
      "optionId": "yes",
      "next": "check-1"
    },
    {
      "checkId": "manual-match",
      "optionId": "no",
      "next": "prepared"
    },
    {
      "checkId": "manual-match",
      "optionId": "unsure",
      "next": "prepared"
    },
    {
      "checkId": "check-1",
      "optionId": "yes",
      "next": "check-2"
    },
    {
      "checkId": "check-1",
      "optionId": "no",
      "next": "prepared"
    },
    {
      "checkId": "check-1",
      "optionId": "unsure",
      "next": "prepared"
    },
    {
      "checkId": "check-2",
      "optionId": "yes",
      "next": "steps"
    },
    {
      "checkId": "check-2",
      "optionId": "no",
      "next": "prepared"
    },
    {
      "checkId": "check-2",
      "optionId": "unsure",
      "next": "prepared"
    }
  ],
  "steps": [
    {
      "title": "Identify the insert",
      "text": "On the cool detached filter, locate the small pull tab shown in figure22. Record whether you are cleaning the one-cup or two-cup ground-coffee filter.",
      "observation": "The insert and its tab match the manual; a different basket stays intact.",
      "sourceId": "dedica-manual",
      "sourceLocator": "p10 §11.2; p6 §1.3",
      "requiredFields": [
        "filter-kind"
      ],
      "id": "step-1"
    },
    {
      "title": "Lift by the tab",
      "text": "Pull the tab to lift out the perforated insert. Set the holder and filter on a clean surface without levering the metal.",
      "observation": "The removable insert comes out by its documented tab. Stop if it is stuck or damaged.",
      "sourceId": "dedica-manual",
      "sourceLocator": "p10 §11.2 step1; fig22",
      "requiredFields": [],
      "id": "step-2"
    },
    {
      "title": "Rinse both filter pieces",
      "text": "Rinse the insert and filter under running water. Look at the perforations and the small hole on the back of the filter.",
      "observation": "Water clears loose coffee residue; the rear outlet is visible.",
      "sourceId": "dedica-manual",
      "sourceLocator": "p10 §11.2 steps2–3; figs23–24",
      "requiredFields": [],
      "id": "step-3"
    },
    {
      "title": "Clear only the indicated holes",
      "text": "If a documented hole remains blocked, clear it carefully with a pin and rinse again. Do not enlarge holes or scrape other metal surfaces.",
      "observation": "The holes are open without visible damage; a damaged filter requires the matching replacement.",
      "sourceId": "dedica-manual",
      "sourceLocator": "p10 §11.2 step3; fig24; §11 cleaning cautions",
      "requiredFields": [],
      "id": "step-4"
    },
    {
      "title": "Dry and seat the insert",
      "text": "Wipe the pieces dry with a cloth. Put the perforated insert back into its seat and press it all the way down.",
      "observation": "The insert is present and fully seated, with no loose edge.",
      "sourceId": "dedica-manual",
      "sourceLocator": "p10 §11.2 steps4–5",
      "requiredFields": [
        "insert-seated"
      ],
      "id": "step-5"
    },
    {
      "title": "Record the cleaning interval",
      "text": "Record today’s clean. After each later use, rinse the filter under plenty of running water and press the insert to check its seating. Repeat this deeper clean when residue remains or at least monthly.",
      "observation": "The next action is chosen from the filter’s condition and the manual’s monthly minimum.",
      "sourceId": "dedica-manual",
      "sourceLocator": "p10 §11.2",
      "requiredFields": [],
      "id": "step-6"
    }
  ],
  "outcomeChecks": [
    {
      "id": "outcome-1",
      "text": "The perforations and the rear outlet are clear of visible residue.",
      "sourceId": "dedica-manual",
      "sourceLocator": "p10 §11.2; figs22–24"
    },
    {
      "id": "outcome-2",
      "text": "The dry perforated insert is fully seated before the holder is reused.",
      "sourceId": "dedica-manual",
      "sourceLocator": "p10 §11.2; figs22–24"
    }
  ],
  "stopConditions": [
    "Stop for a damaged cord, burning smell, liquid leaking from the appliance body, all lights flashing while the machine does not work, or a holder that remains hot or pressurized. Disconnect when safe and contact De’Longhi Customer Services. Keep the casing, boiler and internal steam circuit closed."
  ],
  "sources": [
    {
      "id": "dedica-manual",
      "title": "De’Longhi EC685 / EC685 EX:4 instructions (57132C8997_01_0626)",
      "url": "https://library.delonghigroup.com/assetbank-delonghi/action/directLinkImage?assetId=296204&download=true",
      "checkedAt": "2026-10-13",
      "use": "Sections 2–4, 7–8, 11–14: exact-version archived manual reviewed for setup, cleaning, descaling, rinses and troubleshooting",
      "license": "Manufacturer copyright. Original workflow based on manual facts; PDF not redistributed.",
      "region": "English International",
      "locator": "p10 §11.2; figs22–24"
    },
    {
      "id": "dedica-support",
      "title": "Dedica Style EC685.TB EX:4 support center",
      "url": "https://www.delonghi.com/en-us/s/EC685.TB%20EX%3A4",
      "checkedAt": "2026-10-13",
      "use": "Official entry to the English International manual, not proof of US electrical specifications",
      "license": "Linked only.",
      "region": "English International",
      "locator": "EC685.TB EX:4 → English (International) → Instructions for use, 57132C8997_01_0626"
    }
  ],
  "assets": [
    {
      "path": "/assets/coffee/filter-parts.svg",
      "title": "Tabbed filter: lift, rinse, reseat",
      "alt": "A tabbed perforated insert sits inside the original coffee filter. Lift by the tab, inspect the small rear outlet, then press the insert fully home.",
      "kind": "Original schematic of user-accessible parts or control sequence; not to scale",
      "sourceId": "dedica-manual",
      "sourceLocator": "See the individual task steps for the corresponding manual figures and sections."
    }
  ],
  "relatedIds": [
    "ec685-no-coffee",
    "ec685-spout-rinse",
    "ec685-holder-fit"
  ],
  "specs": [
    {
      "name": "Deep filter cleaning interval",
      "value": 1,
      "unit": "month",
      "condition": "At least once a month; earlier if still dirty.",
      "sourceId": "dedica-manual",
      "sourceLocator": "p10 §11.2; figs22–24"
    }
  ],
  "updatedAt": "2026-10-13",
  "estimatedDuration": null,
  "group": "ec685-filter",
  "locator": "p10 §11.2; figs22–24",
  "recordFields": [
    {
      "id": "filter-kind",
      "label": "Ground-coffee filter cleaned",
      "type": "select",
      "required": true,
      "dependsOnStep": "step-1",
      "options": [
        {
          "value": "one-cup",
          "label": "One-cup filter C2"
        },
        {
          "value": "two-cup",
          "label": "Two-cup filter C3"
        }
      ]
    },
    {
      "id": "insert-seated",
      "label": "The perforated insert is present and pressed fully into its seat",
      "type": "checkbox",
      "required": true,
      "dependsOnStep": "step-5"
    },
    {
      "id": "cleaned-on",
      "label": "Cleaning date",
      "type": "date",
      "required": true,
      "dependsOnStep": "step-6"
    }
  ],
  "consumables": [
    {
      "name": "Fresh clean water",
      "specification": "Fill the tank no higher than MAX.",
      "fit": "EC685 / EC685 EX:4 matching this manual.",
      "exclude": "Do not operate with an empty tank or with the tank removed.",
      "sourceId": "dedica-manual",
      "sourceLocator": "p6 §2"
    },
    {
      "name": "Soft cloth",
      "specification": "Dampen for the exterior; use a clean cloth to dry removable parts.",
      "fit": "External surfaces and removable parts named in the task.",
      "exclude": "Solvents, abrasive cleaners, alcohol, dishwasher cleaning or immersing the appliance.",
      "sourceId": "dedica-manual",
      "sourceLocator": "p10 §11 and §11.4"
    }
  ],
  "maintenance": {
    "trigger": "After each coffee; residue remains; monthly deep clean is due.",
    "intervalText": "Rinse after each use. Remove and deep-clean the tabbed insert if still dirty and at least once a month.",
    "basis": "manufacturer",
    "sourceId": "dedica-manual",
    "sourceLocator": "p10 §11.2"
  },
  "outcomes": [
    "The perforations and the rear outlet are clear of visible residue.",
    "The dry perforated insert is fully seated before the holder is reused."
  ],
  "fitChecks": [
    {
      "id": "manual",
      "label": "Manual and region",
      "accepted": "international-57132",
      "options": [
        {
          "value": "",
          "label": "Choose the version you can confirm"
        },
        {
          "value": "international-57132",
          "label": "EC685 / EX:4: English International 57132C8997_01_0626 matches my appliance"
        },
        {
          "value": "different",
          "label": "My manual revision, region or model differs"
        },
        {
          "value": "unknown",
          "label": "I am not sure"
        }
      ],
      "help": "The US support-domain link serves an English International manual. It does not establish US electrical compatibility."
    },
    {
      "id": "parts",
      "label": "Controls and removable parts",
      "accepted": "original",
      "options": [
        {
          "value": "",
          "label": "Choose the version you can confirm"
        },
        {
          "value": "original",
          "label": "Original three buttons, steam dial, removable frother and tabbed filter insert"
        },
        {
          "value": "modified",
          "label": "Modified steam wand or different filter"
        },
        {
          "value": "other",
          "label": "EC680, EC885, EC950 or other controls"
        },
        {
          "value": "unknown",
          "label": "I am not sure"
        }
      ],
      "help": "Compare the removable parts and control illustrations before following a cleaning sequence."
    }
  ]
}