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How to Choose a Good Espresso Maker Contrary to super-automatic machines that take care of everything, manual espresso makers require you to grind the beans, press them, and pull each shot with the click of a button. Some models also include a milk frother that allows you to make espresso and foamed milk simultaneously. Find a machine that has 9 to 15 bar of pressure, as this is ideal for producing a great shot. Certain machines feature automatic pressure regulation. This is a fantastic feature for those who are just starting out. User-Friendliness A good machine should have a simple interface, says Nicole Papantoniou, the director of Good Housekeeping's Kitchen Appliances and Innovation Lab. “If you're a person who likes to play around with settings you may require a more customizable machine,” she says. “But when you're trying to get the basics down it shouldn't be a problem to understand how to make use of the machine.” The majority of espresso machines are in three categories: automatic, semi-automatic and super-automatic. Automated machines that have the push button to brew allow you to choose the coffee size you prefer. Some are also programmed to assist you in perfecting a recipe. These machines scored the highest in our laboratory tests. Semi-automatics, with levers that you pull to initiate and stop the brew process, let you grind and tamp your own beans; they also have a built-in grinder for grinding and tamping. They're cheaper than fully automated models and can make a number of small espressos or coffee drinks at the same time. Some have steam wands for heating and the frothing of milk, which can be handy for cappuccinos and lattes. These machines usually have a bit of a learning curve and could require a little manual effort, but they usually have more consistency than a fully automated model. To make a shot, you must place the ground beans into the portafilter, which is locked into the grouphead (a handle-attached part located at the front of the machine). You then tamp the grounds, which ensures that all beans are evenly distributed and then pressed together under high pressure, creating a rich tasty, smoky cup. Certain models also come with a special portafilter designed to help the grounds to settle into an even layer. Other models have a double-walled filter that helps create an even more dense extraction. Steam-driven machines heat water simultaneously to steam and brew and can result in over-extraction. Pump-driven machines, which employ an electric motor to push the water through the grounds can avoid this problem because they generate lower temperatures. The result is a balanced espresso with smooth, sweet taste. Cleaning is easy To make the best coffee, you need an espresso machine that is clean. Coffee oils can adhere to metal surfaces and over time become rancid, giving your coffee a bitter, musty flavor. They can also block the water lines, which can lead to costly repairs and replacements. Make sure your espresso machine is clean to avoid these problems and prolong its lifespan and improve the taste and quality of each cup you make. We suggest that you clean the chamber of brewing, as as any other removable parts using a specific cleaner designed for espresso machines. We recommend using filtered tap water to reduce the accumulation of mineral deposits inside your espresso machine. Urnex Cafiza tablets are a great option to perform a regular backflushing, especially for machines with an a group head. Cleaning your espresso machine is a relatively simple and quick process. Simply wipe down the brew basket, drip tray, and steam wand after each use with a designated damp cloth only intended for this purpose (change it frequently throughout the day, and then sanitize the pan using the aid of a sanitizing solution). We also recommend wiping or cleaning the group head and portafilter with a toothbrush daily, and backflushing it at least once a week or as directed by your manufacturer. Backflushing involves getting rid of the portafilter, replacing it with a blind filter then running a sequence of dispensing water or cleaning chemicals until you see clear. Some machines come with an integrated backflushing program, for others, you'll need to remove the portafilter and fill it up with an aqueous solution of water and cleaning chemicals. Choosing the right cleaning solution is essential to the health of your espresso machine. You should look for a formula that is powerful enough to penetrate and dissolve residues such as coffee oils grimes, calcium, and limescale. Be sure to consider compatibility with the brand of your espresso machine and also the ability to wash off without leaving damaging residue. These simple steps will improve your espresso experience, and will extend the life of your machine. Regular cleaning and maintenance, such as the use of a descaling agent once every couple of months, will aid in preventing damage caused by mineral deposits. Additionally, you will get consistently excellent espresso by keeping the brew-chamber, tamper and shower screen clean. Easy Maintenance Regular cleaning and maintenance is essential as espresso machines become more accessible to consumers. This prevents the accumulation of minerals that could damage the machine and affect its performance. It also extends the life of the machine and prevents it from requiring costly repairs or replacement parts. In addition, proper maintenance can help improve the quality of the espresso produced by the machine. If you're purchasing an espresso machine for home or for use in a coffee shop, it's essential to know what the maintenance process looks like for each model. Generally, smeg espresso machine require cleaning on a weekly basis, and a complete descale every two to four weeks. Cleaning involves wiping down the steam wand, brew group, and other components with the help of a soft brush or cloth to remove debris. Also, it's an ideal idea to backflush the machine every week to eliminate any residue left from previous coffee brews. Some models require lubrication in addition to cleaning in order to work properly. To ensure that it works properly and reduce wear, you should lubricate the brew group with silicone oil. In certain models, you may be required to change the filter. If the filter requires replacement, it must be done every month. A basic, fully automated espresso machine is more difficult to maintain and has an increased level of difficulty to maintain than a professional or premium model. With a basic machine, you'll need to clean and descale the brew group and the water tank on a regular basis, and clean the milk system every day. Additionally, you'll have to backflush the machine every week and clean it with the use of a specific cleaner. With a high-end or professional espresso machine, you won't need to clean the brew group or steam wand as often. Furthermore, many of these models come with a smart water filter that makes decaling unnecessary, saving you time and hassle. It may be necessary to clean your machine in order to eliminate any remaining oil from the pipes. If you're buying an appliance for your at-home use or for commercial coffee shops, it's crucial to plan ahead and create an annual maintenance plan to avoid costly repairs or replacement parts. Easy of Service Espresso is a complicated process starting with the weighing of the beans, to grinding them properly to tamping them with enough pressure. Therefore anything that makes it simpler and more reliable is a plus. This could be a fast warming time, the possibility of setting a specific brew time, or an easy-to-control steam wand to texturize milk. Consider smeg espresso machine -automatic machine If you are just beginning or want to simplify your workflow. It will handle everything for you. All you have to do is press a button and then wait. These machines are attractive to new baristas because they make you feel like a professional without requiring a high level of proficiency. There are a variety of espresso machines, but the type that is right for you will depend on your personal preferences and how much work you'd like to complete. Manual espresso machines are smaller and easier to transport however they will require you to do all the work. You can also control the temperature better since you control every step of the brewing. The other type of espresso machine is semi-automatic. These machines are bigger and more automated than manuals but not as elegant as super-automatics. It is possible to make a number of drinks with these machines, and they typically come with grinders and tampers built-in. If you're looking for an espresso machine, look for the number of kinds it can make at once. Also, take a look at the brew capability and whether it has a built-in coffee grinder or requires one. Find features that help you prepare milk-based beverages, such as an adjustable cup or the frothing arm. The last thing to do is check the filtration system of the machine and how it's set up. It's essential to select an water filter that is able to manage the hardness of your water. You might need to clean the portafilter more often and flush the system more often when you don't. A good filter can ensure your shots are great and a system equipped with an AquaClean water-hardness filter can help reduce the buildup of limescale.