If you want to keep your machines life longer, regular descaling is as important as cleaning. Descaling is important to remove the limescale build-up in the various parts of the machine such as the pipes and the pumps.
Just spare 30 minutes every month to descale your machine and it will serve you for a longer period. Most machines come with a descaling mode; all you need to do is read the manual on the steps that you need to follow and then descale your machine.