Turn it on right before you’re ready to brew —for most Smeg coffee machines, that’s just a minute or two before use so it can warm up properly. For Smeg drip filter machines, the official guide says to close the lid, place the pot on the warming plate, and then turn the machine on; some models also have an Auto Start feature if you want it to begin at a set time.

Practical timing

  • Drip filter machine: switch it on when you’re setting up the coffee and water, then let it brew immediately.
  • Espresso / bean-to-cup machines: turn it on, wait until the indicator lights show it has heated up, and then brew.
  • Auto Start models: you can set them in advance so they turn on automatically at the time you choose.

Simple rule

If you’re asking for everyday use, the safest answer is: turn it on only when you want coffee soon , not long before. That avoids wasting energy and matches how Smeg describes normal operation for its coffee machines.

TL;DR

Turn on a Smeg coffee machine just before brewing ; wait for it to heat up, then start your coffee.