PrimaDonna Elite uses the Water circuit empty message to request pump priming through the water spout, not a grinder adjustment. Treat the display or symptom as a clue, not as proof that a pump, grinder or board must be replaced. Change one user-accessible condition at a time and let every shutdown finish. The hydraulic system contains air and cannot yet deliver a stable stream after an empty tank or maintenance. The display explicitly asks to press OK for filling; a low-water icon alone only requires refilling and seating the tank. Fill and seat the tank, fit the hot-water spout, place a large cup below it and press OK until flow becomes normal. Let delivery stop automatically, then request one hot-water dose. A repeated empty-circuit message needs De’Longhi service.
Models covered
Safety first
- Keep water out of the bean hopper, grinder and electrical openings. Never reach inside a running grinder or force a hot, pressurised component.
What the symptom may indicate
Checks in the right order
- Confirm the pattern
The hydraulic system contains air and cannot yet deliver a stable stream after an empty tank or maintenance.
- Prepare safely
Finish the automatic shutdown, unplug the machine and let hot surfaces cool. Remove only the tank, tray, brew group or cleaning accessory named by the manufacturer.
- Apply the official check
Fill and seat the tank, fit the hot-water spout, place a large cup below it and press OK until flow becomes normal.
- Retest once
Let delivery stop automatically, then request one hot-water dose. A repeated empty-circuit message needs De’Longhi service.
Stop and get qualified help when
- Stop for a harsh grinder noise, repeated electrical error, uncontrolled leak, burning smell or a symptom that returns after the one official retest.
Next step
Repair, replace a part, or arrange a diagnosis?
Use the checks and stop conditions above to choose a cautious next step. A symptom alone never proves that the appliance has failed.
Resolve it without buying anything
Complete the 4 user-accessible checks in order. If normal operation returns and no warning sign remains, no replacement is indicated.
Replace only the confirmed part
If the checks isolate a worn or blocked component, match its complete reference to the exact appliance model before ordering.
This guide does not identify a replacement part. Do not order a generic component from the symptom alone.
Arrange a diagnosis before replacing the appliance
Stop at any warning sign listed above. A qualified diagnosis should confirm that repair is unsafe, unavailable or uneconomical before an appliance replacement is considered.
Sources used
- De’Longhi — De’Longhi's official material documents “PrimaDonna Elite: Water circuit empty, press OK” and the user checks retained here.
Last checked: 30 August 2026