delonghi magnifica s only one coffee spout is working, the other is dry

Diagnosis

The issue where only one spout dispenses coffee on the De'Longhi Magnifica S ECAM22110SB is almost always caused by a physical obstruction at the exit point of the coffee delivery system. Because the machine uses a single brewing chamber that splits into two separate channels via a diverter, a blockage in one channel will not stop the other from flowing, but it will cause the coffee to take the path of least resistance through the open spout. This blockage typically consists of "coffee cake"—highly compacted oils and fine grounds that have solidified over time—or a localized buildup of calcium carbonate (limescale) if you use hard water. In some cases, a small piece of plastic debris or a stray coffee bean fragment can lodge itself in the narrow aperture of the spout. You can confirm this by observing the flow: if the working spout is flowing with slightly more pressure than usual while the other remains bone dry, the internal diverter is functioning, and the clog is located specifically in the outlet nozzle of the dormant spout.

How to Fix It

To clear the blockage and restore dual-flow functionality, follow these precise steps:

1. Power down the machine completely and unplug the power cord from the wall outlet to ensure safety during the cleaning process.
2. Remove the drip tray and the waste coffee container to gain full access to the brewing area.
3. Locate the two coffee spouts. Take a fine-gauge sewing needle or a professional coffee machine cleaning pin (approximately 0.5mm in diameter).
4. Gently insert the pin into the dry spout. Do not force it; move the pin in a circular motion to break up the compacted coffee oils and grounds.
5. While the pin is inserted, use a damp microfiber cloth to wipe away any visible residue from the exterior of the spout.
6. Remove the Infuser (the brew unit) by pressing the two red release buttons on the sides of the unit. Rinse the infuser under warm water, paying close attention to the area where the coffee exits the filter basket.
7. Reinsert the infuser, ensuring it clicks firmly back into place.
8. Plug the machine back in and run a "Hot Water" cycle through the steam wand first to prime the pump, then brew a single espresso to verify that both spouts are now flowing equally.

If That Didn't Work

• Perform a deep descale using a dedicated De'Longhi EcoDecalk solution. Limescale can narrow the internal channels of the diverter before the coffee even reaches the spout. Run a full descaling cycle (approx. 45 minutes) to dissolve mineral deposits that a pin cannot reach.
• Check the Infuser Gasket. If the O-ring (the rubber seal) on the brew unit is worn or cracked, coffee may be leaking internally into the machine chassis rather than being pushed through the second spout. Replace the gasket using a food-grade silicone lubricant.
• Inspect the Coffee Diverter Valve. If the spouts are clear but one is still dry, the internal valve that splits the flow may be stuck. This requires removing the outer casing of the machine and manually toggling the diverter arm to ensure it is seated correctly against the brew unit.
• Use a pressurized air canister. With the drip tray removed, blow compressed air directly into the dry spout from the outside. This can often force a stubborn plug of coffee grounds back into the brew chamber where it can be flushed out during the next cycle.

Heads Up

• Avoid using metal skewers or thick nails to clear the spouts, as you can permanently deform the plastic aperture, leading to an uneven "streaming" flow.
• Lubricate the brew unit (Infuser) every 500 cups using a small amount of food-grade grease on the sliding rails to prevent mechanical misalignment that can affect flow.
• Always use filtered water or a softening filter in the tank to prevent the calcium buildup that leads to these localized blockages.
• Clean the brew unit weekly by rinsing it under lukewarm water; never use soap or detergents on the infuser as this removes the essential lubrication from the seals.