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How to Choose a Good Espresso Maker Manual espresso makers are different from super-automatic machines that take care of everything. You need to grind the coffee beans, tap the beans, and then pull every shot with the press of the button. Some models include the ability to use a frother to make both espresso and foamed milk at the same time. You should select a machine that has between 9 and 15 bars of pressure. This is the best pressure for a great shot. Some models have automatic pressure regulation, which is a good option for those who are new to the sport. Easy of Use Nicole Papantoniou is the director of Good Housekeeping's Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab. She says that a decent machine should have an easy-to-use interface. “If you're looking to experiment with settings, you might require a more customizable machine,” she says. “But if you're just trying to learn the basics it shouldn't be too difficult to understand how to make use of the machine.” Most espresso machines come in three categories: semi-automatic, automated and super-automatic. Automatics, with the ability to brew using a button and allow you to choose your desired coffee size and some are also programmable, which can assist you in developing and perfecting your recipe over time. These types of machines tended to be the top performers in our lab tests. Semi-automatics, that have a lever that you pull to start and stop the brew cycle, let you grind and tamp your own beans; Some also come with an integrated grinder for grinding and tamping. These models are more affordable and can make multiple small espressos at the same time. Some models have steam wands for heating and frothing milk, which can be useful for cappuccinos or lattes. These machines usually have a little learning curve and could require a bit of manual effort, but they generally offer more consistency than a fully automated model. To make a shot, you must place the beans that you have ground into the portafilter, which is locked into the grouphead (a handle-attached part located at the front of the machine). Then you tamp down the grounds to ensure that they're evenly dispersed. This results in an incredibly flavorful and rich cup. Certain models also come with a special portafilter designed to aid the grounds to settle into an even layer. Other models feature a double-walled filter to provide a greater extraction. Steam-driven machines heat the water simultaneously for steaming and brewing which can lead to over-extraction. Pump-driven machines, that use an electric motor to force the water through the grounds, can avoid this problem because they generate lower temperatures. The result is a balanced smooth, sweet and smooth espresso. Ease of Cleaning A clean espresso machine is crucial to making excellent coffee. Coffee oils can adhere to metal surfaces, and then, over time, turn rancid, giving your coffee a musty, bitter flavor. They can also block water lines, resulting in costly repairs and replacements. Cleaning your espresso machine prevents these issues, prolongs its life span and enhances the flavor and quality in every cup of coffee you make. To ensure that your machine is in good condition, we recommend cleaning the brewing chamber as well as any other removable parts of the machine using cleaners made specifically for espresso machines. We recommend using water that has been filtered to reduce the accumulation of mineral deposits inside your espresso machine. Urnex Cafiza tablets can be used to perform a regular backflushing, especially on machines with a group head. Cleaning your espresso machine is a relatively easy and fast process. Clean the drip tray, and steam wand after each use using a designated damp cloth that is exclusively used to clean the machine (change it frequently throughout the day, and then sanitize the pan with a sanitizing agent). We also recommend cleaning/wiping the portafilter and group head with a brush daily and backflushing it once a week or as recommended by your manufacturer. Backflushing involves removing the portafilter and putting a blind filter in its place, followed by a cycle of dispensing cleaning chemicals and water until it is clear. electric espresso maker come with built-in backflushing programs; for others, you will need to remove the portafilter and then fill it with water and cleaning chemicals. The quality of your espresso maker depends on the cleaning solution you select. You must choose an ingredient that is strong enough to dissolve and penetrate residues such as coffee oils grimes, calcium and limescale. Also, consider compatibility with your espresso machine brand, as well as its ability to rinse out without leaving harmful residue. Making the effort to complete these small tasks can improve the experience of your espresso and prolong the life of your coffee maker. Incorporating routine cleaning and maintenance with a descaling solution every few months can help reduce the damage caused by mineral deposits, and keeping the tamper, brew chamber portafilter, brew chamber, and shower screen free from coffee residues will ensure that you will always enjoy consistent, delicious espresso. Easy Maintenance As espresso machines become more accessible to the public, regular cleaning and maintenance is essential. This helps prevent the accumulation of minerals, which can damage and interfere with the performance of your machine. This will also help extend the life span of the machine, preventing it from needing expensive repairs or replacement parts. Proper maintenance can also improve the quality and taste of the espresso produced by the machine. Whether you're purchasing an espresso machine to use at home or to use in a coffee shop, you need to understand what the maintenance procedure looks like for each model. In general, all models require cleaning on a weekly basis and a complete descale every two to four weeks. Cleaning involves wiping the brew group as well as the steam wand using a soft cloth or brush to get rid of any dust. Additionally, it's a good idea to backflush the machine on a weekly basis to eliminate any residue left from previous coffee brews. In addition to cleaning, some models require lubrication in order to function correctly. Brew groups that require lubrication should be greased with silicone oil to ensure that it is working as it should and to reduce wear. In some models, it is also necessary to replace the filter. If the filter needs replacing, it is recommended to do it on a monthly basis. A basic, fully automated espresso machine has an increased level of maintenance than a premium or professional model. If you're using a basic model, you'll need to clean and descale the brew groups and the water tank on a weekly basis and clean the milk system on a daily basis. Additionally, you'll have to backflush the machine every week and clean it with a special cleaner. With a high-end or professional espresso machine, you won't have to clean the brew group or steam wand as often. In addition, the majority models will come with a water filter that makes descaling unnecessary, which saves you time and effort. There is a need to degrease the machine, however, to get rid of any oil that remains in the pipes of the machine. If you are purchasing a coffee maker for your home or commercial cafe, it's essential to develop an annual maintenance plan to prevent costly repairs or replacement parts. Service is easy Making espresso is a finicky process, from weighing the beans to grinding them in a proper manner to tamping them at the right pressure. Therefore anything that makes it easier and more reliable is welcome. This could be a fast heat up time or the ability to set a specific time for brewing or a simple to control steam wand for texturing milk. You should consider a machine that is super-automatic If you are just beginning or if you are looking to speed up your process. It will take care of everything for you. You only have to push the button, and then wait. These machines are especially appealing for new baristas because they let you look like a professional, without the need for a high level of skill. There are a variety of different kinds of espresso machines. The type that is right for you will depend on your personal preferences and the amount of work you want to put in. Manual espresso machines are smaller and easier to transport but they do require you to perform all the work. You can also control the temperature more effectively, since you are controlling each step of the brewing process. The other main kind of espresso machine is semi-automatic. They are a little bigger and more automated than manuals, however they aren't as streamlined as the super-automatics. It is possible to make a number of drinks on these machines, and they typically have built-in grinders and tampers. Check how many types of espresso it can produce at once when you are looking for an Espresso machine. Find out the brew capacity and whether it includes a coffee grinder. Find features that help you prepare milk-based drinks, like an adjustable hopper or the frothing arm. Lastly, look at the filtering system of the machine and how it's set up. It's crucial to select an appropriate filter to handle your water's hardness level. If you don't, you might have to flush your system more often and clean the portafilter regularly. A good filter can help you get great photos, and a device that has an AquaClean filter for water hardness will reduce limescale.