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LUCCA A53 Pro Espresso Machine: Setup Guide

Congratulations on your new LUCCA A53 Pro! This guide contains everything you need to set up and operate your dual boiler espresso machine.

Setup video coming soon!

Step 1: Unboxing & Inspection

  • Remove the machine from the box and place it on a stable, level surface.
  • Before turning on the machine, inspect for damage that may have occurred during shipping. If you notice any damage, contact Clive Coffee immediately.
  • Save all packaging, as this is needed for returns and repairs.

Step 2: Water Source Selection

The LUCCA A53 Pro can operate in two modes:

Tank Mode (TA):
Water is supplied from the internal 2.4L reservoir.

Plumbed Mode (PL):
Water is supplied via a direct plumbing connection to your water line.

To select your water source:

  1. Locate the selector switch on the bottom of the machine
  2. Turn the switch to:
    • TA for reservoir/tank operation
    • PL for plumbed operation

Note: The machine ships set to TA (tank) mode by default.

Step 3: Water Quality

  • Before introducing water to your machine, test it to ensure it's adequately soft. We recommend water hardness between 75-150 ppm (parts per million).
  • To learn more about our recommendations for water quality, contact us.
  • Once you've confirmed your water quality is adequate:
    • Tank Mode: Fill the 2.4 L reservoir on the left side of the machine. You can slide the reservoir out to fill it, OR remove it entirely by lifting up the water supply tubing.
    • Plumbed Mode: Connect the machine to your water line using the optional plumb kit (sold separately). Ensure proper installation and water pressure.

Note: Do not use zero water or reverse osmosis without remineralization, as the machine will not register that the reservoir has been filled. If you use reverse osmosis or distilled water, you must remineralize it. We recommend using Third Wave Water mineral packets.

Step 4: Electrical Connection & Initial Power-Up

    • Plug your machine directly into a grounded socket (do not use an extension cord).
    • The machine comes with a 20-amp plug and includes a 15-amp converter cord. Most home outlets are 15 amp. Use the converter unless you have a dedicated 20-amp outlet.
  • NOTE: If using the machine on a 20-amp outlet, you will experience increased performance (faster heat-up time and recovery between drinks).
  • Make sure the drip tray is fully seated.
  • The connection to ground is obligatory. The manufacturer & Clive Coffee shall not be held in any way liable if this accident-prevention regulation is not observed.
  • Take care not to damage the power supply cable by bending, crushing, or straining.

Control Panel Display Overview

Screenshot 2026-03-06 at 10.41.07 AM

P1 - Hot Water Button
Activates hot water dispensing from the hot water spout.

P2 - Single Dose Button
Programmable volumetric dosing for single shots.

P3 - Double Dose Button
Programmable volumetric dosing for double shots.

P4 - Boiler Button
Controls steam boiler operation and access to programming mode.

P5 - ON/STBY Button
Power the machine on/off and control the standby mode.

P6 - Free Flow Button
Manual/continuous coffee extraction (press again to stop).

LED Indicators

1 - Group Temperature LED
Displays the brew group temperature setting (listed in Fahrenheit, 197-203 degrees). LED flashing indicates that the machine is heating to the set temperature. LED fixed indicates the temperature has been reached. 

2 - Water Level LED
Fixed: Adequate water in reservoir/plumbed supply

Step 5: First Start-Up Sequence (Tank Mode)

During the initial setup of the A53 Pro, the machine is in TA (tank mode) by default, and you must manually fill the boilers. Press and hold the P5 (ON/STBY) button for 5 seconds to turn the machine on. 

  1. Once on, press the P5 (ON/STBY) button for 3 seconds to enter programming mode
  2. The shot timer display will show either TA (tank mode) or PL (plumb mode), indicating the current water mode.
  3. Press P5 (ON/STBY) to toggle between modes if needed to match your selection.
  4. Press P5 (ON/STBY) for 3 seconds to confirm and return to standby.

Initial Boiler Fill (Tank Mode Only):

If operating in tank mode, you must manually fill the brew group on first use:

  1. With the machine in standby (the P5 temperature LED flashes), press P5 and P1 (hot water & power buttons) simultaneously.
  2. This activates the water refill function.
  3. Ensure the reservoir is adequately filled (the L2 low-water indicator will illuminate if the level is too low).
  4. The machine will immediately start filling the boilers.

Step 6: Powering On & Heating — After the Initial Boiler Fill 

  1. Press and hold the P5 (ON/STBY) button for 5 seconds to power on the machine (the Power LED will remain lit).
  2. Ensure that your portafilter is locked into the group head so that it can warm up with the machine.
  3. The machine will perform a 2-second system check.
  4. Both boilers will begin heating (the brew boiler is prioritized first in 15-amp mode. If your machine is plugged into a 20-amp outlet, both boilers will heat simultaneously, reducing initial start-up time. 
  5. P4 (BOILER LED) will flash while the steam boiler heats, then become fixed when at temperature.
  6. L1 (TEMPERATURE LED) will flash while the brew group heats, then become fixed when at temperature.

NOTE: From a cold start, it takes approximately 15 minutes for both boilers to fully heat and be ready to brew espresso and steam milk.

Additional Resources: 

If you need help dialing in your equipment or pulling shots, check out the articles below or contact our coffee experts and technicians.