Should You Buy an Espresso Machine?
Espresso machines require a higher degree of pressure and temperature than a regular coffee maker. They also make more concentrated and full-bodied coffee.
Dual boilers are the ideal choice, since they let you steam milk and make espresso simultaneously. This is an important improvement over single boiler espresso machines.
Features
Even the most novice of people can now enjoy an excellent shot of espresso. The pressure gauge is a key feature, as it lets you check the pressure of water inside the pump while it's operating. This can help to prevent channeling, which leads to weak shots. It's present on higher-end models.
Another crucial feature is a pre-infusion that helps to ensure that all of the grounds are saturated with water, which is crucial for extraction. This feature is also found on the top
machines espresso machines and lowers the risk that the coffee will be burned.
Whether you'd like to buy semi-automatic or automatic machines is another consideration. Super-automatic machines are foolproof and allow you to create espressos and milk drinks by pressing one button. However they can be expensive and may not be suited to your tastes if you like to play with grinding, tamping and steaming.
If you want to have a more personalized experience, go for a semi-automatic model that includes grinder and bean hopper. These machines have a more traditional appearance and allow you to control the espresso process like grind settings and temperature. These machines are less expensive however they require more effort from the user.
Cost
There are a lot of different options available when you are choosing an espresso machine. The choice is contingent on how you intend to use it and what features are most important to you. In general, more features will mean higher costs. You may also want look into the ability to start and stop the brewing process manually or if you prefer a fully automated model.
Basic espresso machines at home come with a portafilter, a milk container and a portafilter which can be connected manually. They require regular cleaning of both the portafilters and containers for milk. They also require descaler treatments every couple of months to ensure they are in good shape. Based on the manufacturer, there are water filters built in that help reduce hardness and improve taste.
Professional espresso machines typically come with dual boilers that allow you to brew and steam milk simultaneously. This helps save time and effort, and helps ensure that every function is heated at the correct temperature. The presence of a high-end espresso maker at home will make it easy to create delicious lattes, cappuccinos, flat whites, and other drinks.
Certain espresso machines let you manage the amount of coffee ground, the setting of the grinder and tampering pressure manually. This allows you to enjoy an experience similar to that of a barista in your home. These machines are more expensive than semi-automatic models however they're an excellent option for those who like the experience of making coffee.
Types
Consider your options carefully before deciding whether you want to purchase or lease an
espresso machine. Leased machines require less money upfront, but they could increase maintenance costs over time. You'll pay more upfront however, the equipment will be yours.
The espresso machine you choose to purchase will depend on the needs of your business and the type of coffee you'll be serving. Most models have steam wands that heat and froth milk for cappuccinos and lattes. A lot of models also have a removable dishwasher-safe jug to make large quantities of iced drinks or coffee.
There are models that are fully automated, which grind, measure and tamp your beans, and use pre-measured pods as a convenience. They are the ones that score top in Lab tests due to their user-friendliness, however, they will cost more than a manual or semi-automatic model.
There are multi-boiler and single boiler machines that are more temperature stable than other types, allowing you to make consistently flavorful espresso. These machines are more expensive and require more space on counters.
Maintenance
A well-maintained espresso maker will ensure that your coffee tastes at its best. Regular cleaning and descaling will prolong the life of the espresso maker. Additionally, regular cleaning will prevent the buildup of coffee oils that have gone rancid, which can alter the flavor of your espresso.
Giorgio recommends you purchase one with an adjustable brew unit as well as drip tray that is easy to clean. He claims that this will save your time and money over the long term by reducing the need to clean the coffee drip pan as well being able to avoid the additional cost of a separate milk frother.
Also, you should look for an espresso maker with high water pressure which will help you achieve an even extraction of flavor and a rich crema. A quality machine will be able to reach an absolute pressure of nine bars.
If you are considering a semi-automatic or a super-automatic espresso maker, consider how much space you have in your kitchen, and whether you intend to plumbed it. If you're limited in cabinet space, go for an electric model that is portable. You can use it without the necessity of connecting the water line. You'll also be able to avoid the hassle of having to empty an empty waste container each time you use a drip-free model. Finally, you should ensure that the espresso machine you purchase has a water tank that is easy to refill as well as to remove and clean.