Should You Buy an Espresso Machine?
Espresso machines require higher pressure and temperature than your standard coffee maker. They also make more concentrated and full-bodied coffee.
You'll want a model that has dual boilers, which allow you to make espresso and steam milk simultaneously. This is an important upgrade from single boiler machines.
The following are a few examples of
Even beginners can now get an excellent shot of espresso. The pressure gauge is an essential feature, since it allows you to check the pressure inside the pump while it's operating. This will help avoid the channeling that can cause weak shots, and it's found on the higher-end models.
Another feature that is important is a pre-infusion that helps to ensure that the grounds are covered with water, which is crucial to extract the coffee. This feature is also found on high-end machines, and reduces the possibility that the coffee will burn.
Whether you want to buy semi-automatic or automatic machines is another thing to consider. Super-automatic machines are dependable and allow you to make milk drinks and espressos at the touch of an button. However, these machines can be expensive and may not be suited to your taste if you prefer to get hands-on with grinding, tamping and milk steaming.
You can opt for a semi-automatic with an espresso hopper and grinder for a more personal experience. These machines have a more traditional appearance and let you alter the aspects of the espresso process, including grind settings, strength and temperature. They're available at a more affordable cost, but they require some effort from the user.
Cost
There are many options available when it comes to choosing an espresso machine. The choice depends on how you intend to use it and which features are important to you. Generally speaking, more features will mean more cost. You might want to think about whether you'd prefer to be able to begin and stop brewing on your own or if a fully automatic model is more appealing.
Basic espresso machines for domestic use are equipped with a portafilter, a milk container and a portafilter which can be connected manually. They require daily cleaning of both portsafilters as well as containers for milk. Descaler treatments are usually required every two months to keep the machines in good condition. Depending on the manufacturer, there are water filters built in that help reduce hardness and improve taste.
Professional espresso machines come with dual boilers that allow you to steam and brew milk at the same time. This reduces time and effort, and it makes sure that each function is heated at the correct temperature. A professional espresso maker in your kitchen makes it easy to make delicious cappuccinos as well as other drinks.
Some espresso machines offer a manual control of grinder regulation, amount of ground coffee and tampering pressure to give you the experience of a barista in your home. These machines are more expensive than semi-automatic models however they're an excellent option for people who enjoy the process of making coffee.
Types
Consider your options carefully before deciding whether to purchase or lease an espresso machine. Leased machines will require less upfront money, but you'll be tied to an agreement that may increase your maintenance costs as time passes. You'll pay more upfront coffee espresso machines however, the equipment will be yours.
The type of espresso maker you select will depend on the kind of coffee you're serving and your preferences. Many models come with steam wands that can heat and froth milk to make cappuccinos or lattes. Many also have a removable, dishwasher-safe jug for making large batches of coffee or iced drinks.
There are models that are fully automated that grinds, measures and tamps your beans and utilizes pre-measured pods to make it easier. These models are the most user-friendly during Lab tests, but they are more expensive than semi or manual automated models.
There are single and multi-boiler machines that are more temperature stable than other models that allow you to make consistently flavorful espresso. However, they take up more counter space and cost more.
Maintenance
A well-maintained espresso machine will ensure that your coffee tastes its best. Regular cleaning and descaling also prolongs the life of your espresso machine. Cleaning regularly will stop the accumulation of rancid coffee oils which can alter the taste of your espresso.
Giorgio suggests that you choose a machine that has a removable brew unit and drip tray that is easy to clean. He says you will save time and money by not having to clean the drip tray, as well as getting rid of the expense of an additional coffee maker.
A high water pressure will assist in creating a rich, even crema and a consistent extraction. A high-quality machine should be able to achieve a pressure of at least nine bars.
Take note of the space available in your kitchen and if you're planning to plumbed it with water. If you're limited with storage space in your cabinet, consider buying a portable model or a drip-free one that can be used without connected to a water line. A drip-free model will help you avoid the hassle of emptying a waste bin after every use. It is also important to ensure that you purchase an espresso maker equipped with a tank for water that is simple to fill, remove and clean.