Water leaks from between cylinder and metal frame (location 1)
If water is leaking from area number 1 in the photo above, you likely have an issue with the cylinder. It’s possible the cylinder is not correctly locked into place or has been damaged. To ensure the cylinder is properly inserted, follow the directions on the FAQ article ROK or [Presso cylinder has come loose].
If after checking that the cylinder is correctly inserted you are still getting water leaks, it’s possible the cylinder is damaged (e.g. inserting the portafilter in too hard) and will need replacing. Spare part are available from our websites and demonstration videos are here [How to take a ROK or Presso apart for cleaning, repairs or restoration] and [I can’t get the cylinder out of my ROK or Presso]
Related articles:
Presso cylinder has come loose
How to take a ROK or Presso apart for cleaning, repairs or restoration
I can’t get the cylinder out of my ROK or Presso
Water leaks from around the top of the portafilter (location 2)
Firstly, if water is leaking from your ROK in area number 2 in the photo above, resist the urge to push the portafilter in with greater force as this can damage both the portafilter and the plastic cylinder.
The first possibility is that you are grinding your coffee too fine or using too much coffee. This can create excessive pressure, leading to water leaks and potential damage to the plastic plunger inside the cylinder. Try grinding your coffee slightly coarser and putting less coffee in the portafilter basket.
If water continues to leak around the portafilter, it may be damaged. Check the side tabs on the portafilter to see if they have been bent upward (see photo for extreme example). The side tabs can bend if the portafilter is inserted with excessive force. Bent tabs will prevent the portafilter from making a tight seal allowing pressure and water to escape around the portafilter. If the tabs on your portafilter are bent, the portafilter will need replacing.
