Breville Barista Express maintenance tips after 2 years of daily use

I've been using my Barista Express every single day for 2 years. Here's what I've learned about keeping it running well:

1. Descale every 2-3 months, not when the light comes on (that's too late)

2. Replace the shower screen annually — $8 part, huge difference in extraction

3. Clean the grinder burrs every 6 months with Grindz tablets

4. Don't leave water in the tank overnight — helps prevent scale buildup

5. Buy the bottomless portafilter — better feedback on your technique and easier to clean

The machine is still going strong. Build quality is solid if you maintain it properly.