So the Appartamento steam tap turns smoothly and seals tightly again
The Appartamento has a steam and water tap that works via a spindle: the knob sits on the outside, and the spindle runs through the housing to the valve seat and carries the gasket. Every round of milk frothing means a temperature change and several turns under load for it.
After some years, this shows in two places. The knob becomes stiff because the shaft is no longer smooth. And the tap no longer seals properly – it keeps hissing quietly, or the wand drips even though everything is closed.
When it's due
The steam wand drips or hisses with the tap closed. The knob is stiff or has play. A new gasket only lasts a short time. Scoring or a circumferential wear groove is visible on the shaft. Or the machine is going in for a major service and the valve assembly is being completely overhauled.
At a glance
| Type |
Valve spindle for the steam and water tap |
| Location |
Steam and water valve assembly, behind the knob |
| Fits |
Rocket Appartamento |
| Scope of delivery |
One spindle. Gaskets, spring, knob and cover are separate items. |
| Part number |
R229905953 |
| Specification |
We have no documentation of dimensions or material for this number. |
| Brand |
Rocket |
| Installation |
Installation by a specialist recommended |
Who it's for
For Appartamento owners who froth milk every day and want their steam tap to seal properly again – and for service businesses that repair a valve assembly instead of replacing it completely.
Important for installation
The spindle sits in the steam path. Disconnect the machine from the mains, let it cool down completely and depressurise it before opening the valve assembly. We recommend installation by a specialist and deliberately do not provide step-by-step instructions here.
What goes with it
The 12 × 5,8 mm blanking gasket for the steam and water shaft, the gasket for the steam and water tap, the spindle for Premium Plus and Evoluzione as a sister item, and the Rocket Appartamento spare parts section.
From our workshop in Bern and Zurich
Our routine, not a manufacturer's requirement: after frothing, we briefly purge the wand once more and only then wipe it. This flushes milk residue out of the tip before it dries – and, as a side effect, shows us every day whether the tap still closes properly. If you hear it keep hissing after you've turned it off, you already have your answer. Then a cappuccino as a check: Very Nutty for milk, Nutty Delight as an all-rounder, Cozy Chocolate when you'd like it sweeter. More under coffee beans.
No returns
Original spare parts are excluded from exchange and return. They are sourced specifically for each order and cannot be resold after being installed or test-fitted on a machine. So before ordering, check the model, year of manufacture and serial number of your machine – or drop us a quick line and we'll check the fit together. Your rights in the case of defective goods remain unaffected.
Does the spindle fit every Appartamento?
The part number is R229905953 and the item description names the Appartamento. The series has changed over the years, including with the TCA generation – send us the serial number and we'll check the fit.
Is a gasket included?
No. Only the spindle is supplied. Gasket, spring, knob and cover are separate items.
Is it enough to replace just the gasket?
As long as the shaft is smooth, yes. If it has a wear groove, it will destroy every new gasket again – then the spindle needs to be replaced too.
Is this an electrical part?
No, it is purely mechanical. However, it sits in the steam path, hence installation by a specialist.
Can I see the part at your Showroom?
Yes. We're in Bern at Gerberngasse 44 and in Zurich at Hagenholzstrasse 50b. Bring your machine's serial number and we'll check the fit together at the counter.
Questions about the fit? Write to us at [email protected]. We deliver across Switzerland and to Liechtenstein in 2-4 working days.
