How to Properly Maintain and Clean an Espresso Coffee Machine
Espresso machines make use of pressure to push water through coffee grounds. This type of brewing produces more strength than drip coffee. The machines require nine bars of pressure to extract the flavor from the ground.
There are three types of espresso machines. They are semiautomatic, manual and fully automatic. Semiautomatic machines let you manage grinding, tamping and extraction time. They are a great compromise between machine control and human consistency.
Simple to use
The top espresso machines are simple to use. They feature an adjustable thermostat to keep water at the right temperature and a pressure-pump that raises the amount of water used per shot. The higher pressure allows grounds to dissolve more quickly and creates a foam of the perfect consistency. These machines also include a milk mixer to make espresso-based drinks such as lattes and cappuccinos.
The steam-driven electric machines make use of an airtight container to heat water until it reaches boiling, and then release the pressure into a shot espresso. They are small and cost-effective however they only allow 1 or 2 bar of pressure. This is less than the ideal 9 bars for espresso.
Semi-automatic espresso machines function by infusing hot water into a pre-ground and pre-tamped portafilter of beans. The barista is the one responsible for the extraction process, but has to manually measure grind, grind and then tamp each cup of beans. Although this kind of machine is more expensive than other models it offers greater control and stability, says Jai of Blank Street Cafe.
Full-automatic espresso machines remove the barista from the brewing process, making them easier to use than semi-automatic models. They usually come with grinders that plug into the portafilter. They automatically grind and dose the beans and can be adjusted to create various drinks. Some machines come with an automatic milk hopper that can make frothy milk and pour it to you.
Easy to clean
Espresso machines make a stronger and more full-bodied shot making use of higher temperatures and pressure than drip coffee makers. They also have a milk-frothing system that lets you to make cappuccinos and lattes. They also require more frequent maintenance than drip machines which includes descalers and regular cleaning. Fortunately most espresso machines are easy to clean. A few of the models that we have listed are designed to make this process simpler.
Most espresso machines have an in-built portafilter that holds the grounds of coffee when brewing. Some models have a grouphead that is a set of pieces that actually do the extraction. To keep these parts free of grit and gunk it is recommended to flush your machine back every week. This involves cleaning and brushing the portafilter, locking it, and running the brew cycle multiple times. Backflushing is routinely done in many coffeehouses. However, at professional espresso machine home, it should only be done once every week.
It is best to use softened or filtered water, as it reduces the accumulation of minerals and the requirement to descale. It is essential to remember that a small amount of water is needed to extract. Too much will overpower the taste, while too little could result in the cup being weak and salty of coffee. Maintaining your machine in good condition will ensure that it will continue to function well and taste great for as long as you own it.
Easy to maintain
An espresso machine is an amazing piece of equipment which allows you to serve a large range of coffee drinks. But unlike your average carafe, an espresso machine requires a higher amount of pressure and temperature to achieve the desired results. To achieve this, the machine should be cleaned and maintained properly. Fortunately, you don't need to be a professional in order to keep your espresso machine operating smoothly.
First, you'll need to thoroughly clean the gasket of your group each week. In this area, coffee oils can accumulate and cause the bitter taste in the espresso. To remove this, flush the group using a solution of water and espresso machine cleaner. You'll also want to scrub the group screen and the nooks and crevices with a nylon brush or Coffeetool.
The drip tray is essential to be cleaned regularly as it holds all the coffee waste after each brewing cycle. This could become a breeding ground for bacteria and mold which can affect the taste of your coffee. Additionally, it is important to clean the outside of your machine often to keep milk and coffee residue from building up.
You should consider using a milk system cleanser, which is designed to clean all components that come in contact with milk. These products are available in a majority of supermarkets. They are also simple to use.
Repairs are easy
A coffee maker or espresso maker is a great appliance for your home or office. But, as with any electrical appliance, it may malfunction at times. This can be frustrating especially if the coffee or espresso machine ceases to function. Most of these problems can be fixed easily. In many instances, these problems are caused by a simple error or poor maintenance.
First, ensure that the machine is powered and switched on. It is also essential to examine the water tank for blockages or clogs. If the issue persists, it is possible to call in a professional technician.
Some of the most common issues that coffee and espresso machines encounter are power outages, no heating, a defective steam wand or an inability to create enough pressure. These issues are typically fixed, but some require more in-depth cleaning and troubleshooting. These tasks must be carried out with extreme caution and care because many parts can be damaged and fragile.
Seek help from a professional if are not sure how to fix your espresso or coffee machine to avoid costly repairs. You should also use the correct tools and follow safe procedures when fixing coffee or espresso machines. Be aware that certain brands require that their espresso or coffee machines are serviced at a certified national repair center.