Should You Buy an Espresso Machine?
Espresso machines require a higher degree of temperature and pressure than a regular coffee maker. They also make an intense and full-bodied cup of coffee.
Dual boilers are the best choice because they let you steam milk and make espresso simultaneously. This is a significant improvement from single boiler machines.
Features
Making cafe-quality espresso at home used to require the use of a lot of skills however modern machines have made it possible for even novices to make a good shot. One of the key features is the pressure gauge, which lets you see the pressure of water in the pump during operation. It can help prevent the channeling process that can lead to weak shots. This feature is present in higher-end models.
Another important aspect is a pre-infusion that helps to ensure that all of the grounds are covered with water, which is essential to extract the coffee. This feature is also found on high-end machines, and reduces the chance that the coffee will ignite.
It is also important to consider whether you would like to purchase semi-automatic or automatic machines. Super-automatic machines are foolproof and lets you create milk drinks and espresso at the touch of a button. These machines are costly and might not suit you for those who prefer to do the grinding, tamping, and steaming of milk yourself.
You can pick an automatic semi-automatic that comes with the bean hopper and grinder for a more customized experience. These machines have a more traditional appearance and allow you to control the espresso process, such as grind settings and temperature. These machines are less expensive however they require more effort from the user.
Cost
There are a variety of choices to consider when choosing an espresso machine. The decision is based on how you intend to use it and what features are most important to you. In general, more features equate to more costs. You may be considering whether you'd prefer to be able to start and stop brewing by hand or if an entirely automated model is more appealing.
The most basic espresso machines come with portsafilters and a milk container that is connected via hand. They require regular cleaning of the portafilter and the milk jug. Descaler treatments are typically required every two months to ensure that the machines are in good working order. Some models are equipped with filters which reduce hardness and improve the flavor.
Professional espresso machines come with dual boilers that allow you to make coffee and steam milk simultaneously. This helps save time and effort, as well as makes sure that each function is properly heated to the proper temperature. A
professional espresso maker in your home will allow you to make delicious cappuccinos and other drinks.
Certain espresso machines have a manual control for grinder regulation, amount of ground coffee and tampering pressure to give you the feeling of a barista in your home. These machines are more expensive than semi-automatics, but they're perfect for people who are interested in making coffee.
Types
Be sure to consider your options before deciding whether to buy or lease an espresso machine. A machine that is leased will require less upfront money, but you'll be obligated to an agreement that can increase your maintenance costs in the future. The purchase will cost more initially but you'll be able to own your equipment outright.
The espresso maker you choose will depend on the kind of coffee you're serving as well as your needs. The majority of models come with steam wands, which can heat and froth milk to make cappuccinos or lattes. Many models come with a removable, dishwasher safe jug to make large quantities of iced drinks and coffee.
There are models that are completely automated, that grind, measure and tamp your beans, and also use pre-measured pods for an added convenience. They usually score the
best espresso machine under 500 in Lab tests for their user-friendliness, but will cost more than a manual or semi-automatic model.
There are multi-boiler and single boiler machines that are more stable in temperature than other models which allows you to consistently make delicious espresso. These machines are more expensive and take up more space on counters.
Maintenance
Your coffee will taste better if you maintain your espresso machine properly. Regular cleaning and descaling also extends the life of the espresso machine. Cleaning it regularly will prevent the build-up of rancid coffee oils, which can alter the flavor of your espresso.
Giorgio recommends that you look for a coffee maker that has the option of a brew group that is removable and an easy-to-clean drip tray. He suggests you save time and money by not needing to clean the drip tray, as well as avoiding the cost of a separate coffee frother.
Also, you should look for an espresso maker with a high water pressure, which will help you achieve an even extraction of flavor and a thick crema. A high-quality machine will have a pressure of at least nine bars.
Take note of the space available in your kitchen and if you plan to plum it. If you're restricted in cabinet space, consider a portable model. You can use it without the necessity of connecting the water line. A drip-free machine will help you avoid the hassle of emptying out the waste bin after each use. You should also ensure that you buy an espresso machine with a water tank that is easy to fill, take out and clean.
