Shades of Coffee Steam Valve - Common issues and causes / resolution
The Shades of Coffee steam valve can always be serviced, with all wear items being available within our valve service kit (and other sub kits containing o-rings, etc.). Through servicing the valve it is always possible to bring it back to full "as new" functionality.
To assist with the identification of issues, along with the reasons for them and both the fix as well as any preventative actions - we've provided the following information to assist customers facing any valve issues / leakage:
| Issue | Reason | Fix | Link | Prevention |
| Leak from valve shaft near steam control knob | Valve shaft o-rings excessively worn | Replace 2 x valve shaft o-rings | Occasional lubrication of shaft o-rings with silicone grease approx every two months | |
| Dripping from steam tip when valve closed | Usually due to flattening of valve seal cushioning o-ring; possibly damaged or deformed PTFE seal. | Replace 1 x valve seal cushioning o-ring (possibly with a thicker one - kits contain 3 different thicknesses); possibly replace the PTFE seal if damaged/deformed. | (Note that o-ring set does NOT include PTFE seal) | Less forceful closure of the valve. Close until steam / water stops flowing, not until firmly closed. |
| Leakage from the valve port where the steam wand attaches | Wand mounting nut not tightened sufficiently; or Steam wand o-ring worn / damaged. | Tighten steam wand nut; Replace steam wand o-ring | Ensure wand attachment nut is tight | |
| Valve action too stiff | Valve not sufficiently lubricated | Lubricate valve shaft thread and 2 x shaft o-rings with silicone grease. | Reapply grease approx every two months |
Note that where "Entire Service Kit" or "Valve o-ring set" is listed within the Links column, this is because the part is contained within the this kit / set - but is also available as an individual part within the alternative link below it.