The process of making an espresso is actually very delicate and complex . It involves forcing of luke warm water through tightly grounded and tightly packed coffee. About one and a half ounce of hot water is used. The resulting coffee should be a dark brownish and thick coffee and also contain a little foam above, something commonly known as crema. Not all coffee shops make it with the same method. This is why it is important to have one’s own espresso machine at home or office. This allows people to prepare their coffee how they like it. After all, why should you pay for someone else to prepare coffee when you could do this yourself?
Save Money
You will have to invest in an espresso machine. Investing in this machine will eventually help a person save money in the long run. After all, if a person can count how much amount is spent on a daily, weekly or monthly basis at a coffee shop, he or she will soon see that it quickly adds up to a larger amount. For a fraction of the price, one can make espresso at home. All an individual requires is the right machine, the right coffee, luke warm water, and a few minutes to start this process. This machine can become a godsend to individuals trying to make the most of their time and resources. This will not only save people money on the actual coffee but also on the gasoline and time one would take to go to a physical coffee shop. Having an automatic or semi automatic espresso machine in the home or office eventually makes life easier.
Convenience
There isn’t anything better than having some friends or family over for dinner and then finishing off with a delicious beverage like espresso . This is a great way to really satisfy guests. Also, not everyone has the time to visit a coffee shop whenever they feel like having a beverage . Having such an espresso machine in the home or office means that people can have espresso whenever they feel like having. This saves people a lot of time and money. After all, driving to and from the coffee shop takes quite a bit of time. Being able to prepare espresso in the comforts of one’s home is a luxury that the coffee lovers will surely be thankful for, especially when it’s early morning or when people are trying to stay awake to get homework finished.
Improve Customer Mood
Many people get tired of waiting and impatient customers at your business place can walk out before you are ready for them and can potentially cost a lot of money in sales. Having an automatic espresso machine at office can allow you and your staff to offer a selection of delicious drinks to those in the waiting room
Almost No Special Skills Are Required
If you install an automatic espresso machine , all you need to do is press a button or two and the machine does the work for you. These are great for busy offices where you can offer a lovely drink to your customers without having to hire a professional coffee maker. Staff can prepare the beverages on the run and can still keep the waiting clients in a good mood.
Upscale Ambiance
Espresso machines, commercial or home – size can give your office or home a touch of elegance and class. Offering beverages to your waiting clients can have a big positive impact on their impressions of your business.
Options
Having this machine gives people more options when it comes to their morning coffee, entertaining, and daily life. Naturally one may not want to have espresso every single day as hell get bored of drinking it everyday and requires some change. If one owns an espresso machine in the house or office it means that one can have a latte if he or she desired instead of espresso. This can be very comforting to a person. After all, electronic appliances are meant to make our life simpler easier and better. It gives an individual another thing to consider when preparing a meal or when a few friends or family are coming over.
Espresso is a very famous drink because of the cafes around the world. Why should one visit a nearby cafe and pay more money when one could make his or her own espresso in the comforts and luxury of their own house? This is an investment which has great returns as it provides spare time, cash, and assets and add a significant apparatus to one’s home.
Here is an infographic about the benefits of using an espresso machine
Here are 10 tips that every owner of a Nespresso Machine Single Serve Espresso Machine should know to save time, money and get the best out of their investment.
I also find that a good way to try a bunch of different espressos is to get a variety pack like this one. I also would recommend this great little organizer to help keep your coffee area clean and tidy.
10 Tips to save money and time using Nespresso
Enjoy reading the 10 tips to help you save time and money.
Tip No.1
An effortless way to save money.
Tip No.2
Preparation is key. Priming both your Nespresso machine and the cup you are going to have your coffee in makes a tangible difference to the flavor and in the enjoyment, you get from it. To do this, simply brew a serve of hot water in the Nespresso machine and then serve it in the cup or shot glass. This process also cleans out the machine so nothing interferes with the rich flavor of the coffee.
Tip No.3
Prepare in advance. Nothing takes the thrill out of a cup of coffee than, well, no coffee. Why put up with the agonizing wait for your shipment of coffee capsules to arrive? Purchase your capsules and stock up in advance so that the next time you want that invigorating cup, it is just a few minutes instead of a few days away.
Tip No.4
Your Nespresso is a machine of many talents. There is no need for a separate coffee maker if you want a cup of coffee instead of an Espresso. First, brew you a shot of Espresso and serve it in a cup, then, just remove the used capsule and run hot water through it into the cup. You will get a cup of coffee that is less strong than an Espresso and closer to an Americano.
Tip No.5
Your Nespresso really is a machine of many talents. There are two types of capsules available for Nespresso Single Serve Espresso machines — one is the standard Espresso capsule and the other is the Lungo variety and the amount of coffee they contain varies. There are corresponding settings on your machine and also you can ensure that the beverage you want comes out the best it can be by matching the settings and the capsule.
Tip No.6
Water is not just water. For best results in terms of both the longevity of your Nespresso machine and better-tasting beverages, always restrict the water that goes into it to the fresh and filtered variety. Not only will this fight the build-up of limescale inside the machine and keep it in prime working order, your drink will taste better, too.
Tip No.7
Take care of your Nespresso and it will take care of you At the very least, descale your Nespresso at least monthly, and more often if necessary. A brew that seems less flavorsome than before and not as hot as before are both telltale signs that your Nespresso needs descaling. Fortunately, descaling will reverse these problems immediately and you will be back to get the hot, delicious brew your Nespresso is capable of producing. Moreover, regular descaling prolongs the life of your machine.
Tip No.8
The settings are there for a reason. Watch a video on what all the different settings mean and how to adjust them for your particular model of the Nespresso. How you use your machine, the type of coffee you enjoy and the variety of capsule you are using all have an impact on what settings will be ideal. Make sure to recalibrate them so that you get the best-tasting coffee each time, every time.
Tip No.9
Cleanliness is next to godliness. The brew basket and brew head of your Nespresso machine are magnets for residue from oils and coffee grain. Remember to eject the spent capsule immediately after preparing your brew. Cleaning them simply involves running hot water through the basket and head. Do not ignore the tray either — stagnant water is an invitation for bacteria, and this unhygienic situation can be avoided with a straightforward daily wipe clean.
Tip No.10
Explore the options. There are many alternative Nespresso-compatible capsules available and one such alternative are the capsules produced by High Line Coffee of New York, NY. They produce a wide range of flavors that many Nespresso users have added to their line of personal favorites, and you will even save some money purchasing directly from them.
10 tips on How to use Nespresso machine
If there are 10 tips on how to save money and time using the Nespresso machine, There are also 10 tips on how to use a Nespresso machine. Below are the 10 tips.
Ignore the Nespresso Factory Presets
There is already a factory set in terms of the amount of water dispensed. the factory setting is 40 ml for espresso and lungo is 110 ml. If you are using compatible capsules the preset setting isn’t necessarily spot on. But you don’t have to worry there are 2 ways using compatible capsules.
1.) With Scales
follow the instruction of the supplier of compatible capsules about the amount of water you should put in the dispenser.
Get yourself a set of coffee scales
Zero the scales with the mug in place
Weigh as you’re holding your finger on the button for the pod you’re using.
stop when you reach the stated volume, which will re-set that program
If you want to reset back to factory settings, with most machines it’s just a case of turning the machine off, then pressing and holding the Lungo button for approx 5 seconds, until the lights start flashing.
2.) By Color
Check the room if it is well lit so you can clearly see the color of the flowing coffee.
Start the flow, and then stop it according to the color changes into red/brown color. press and hold the program buttons to reset them to the new volume, or press to start then press again to stop.
flow begins if you can see the red/brown color which is called the Ristretto color.
The color will then change to a lighter brown caramel color, which is the Espresso color
When the color changes to a blonde/bright yellow color, the extraction are finished.
flush small amount of water through the pod and into the cup.
If you’re using a Ristretto pod, simply stop the flow when you notice the change from dark red/brown to a lighter, caramel color. For Espresso, stop the flow when the color changes from the Espresso caramel color to the blonde color.
Prime Your Nespresso Machine
Most heat up time is 25 seconds.
Put the cup under as if you were about to make the coffee.
Press the button to turn the machine on, and without a pod in.
Press the Espresso or Lungo button.
Once the water has stopped flowing, open the machine to put the pod in, while the cup is still under.
Empty the water from the cup.
Put the pod in and press the button.
It warms up the group head, warms up the cup, and gives the group head a rinse too.
Rinse After Use
It has been said at the above that it gives the group head a rinse too, but we need to rinse it again after each use to prevent a build-up of coffee oils. You just only press the Espresso button again after making your coffee to rinse it again.
Use Filtered or Bottled Water
Always remember that 90% or more of water are there in your coffee. If you don’t think water tastes of anything, just go buy a bottle of high quality still spring water, and taste test against tap water, and see if you can detect a difference.
Shake it to wake it
Many Suppliers said that gently shaking it or giving a light tap really helps.
Check the foil
Usually, there is a slight bulge in the foil. check the foil for holes, and contact the supplier if the foil is flat or looks saggy. The circumstances if you still use this the flow of coffee seems to be different, and the resulting coffee doesn’t taste as good.
Try Different Compatible Capsules
Do not stick on that one compatible capsule. Try another compatible capsule to know their difference. and also to compare what is the best.
Deep clean
We all know that priming and rinsing keep things clean. But there is some build up of coffee oils which you can’t flush with water alone, and which you’ll struggle to clean by hand as you can’t get to the parts you need to clean. So just run a cleaning capsule every so often to give everything a deeper clean.
Descale
Descale your Nespresso machine at least once a year. And more often if you’re using unfiltered tap water. You just only have to get some Nespresso descaler. Follow the instructions from the descaling solution. And from your Nespresso machine manual in terms of how to get it into the descaling program.
Experiment With Other Brew Methods
Try to experiment with other brewing methods. It’s nice to know something new on our own. We all know that Nespresso machine is ultra convenient. Also They’re great for drinking fairly decent Espresso style coffee on the fly. And I think they’re a great option for when convenience is required.
The commercial world of coffee seems to have suddenly exploded in recent years, with more coffee machines than ever before being sold. There are machines for making lattes, Americanos, cappuccinos and espressos, which can now be achieved in the comfort of your own home. There also seems to be a coffee machine to suit every need and budget. However, choosing a cheap espresso machine may prove a little more challenging than you expected, as you need to know what machines are good at a budget price, and those that are simply cheap.
One of the benefits of having your very own machine is that you will save a lot of money in the long run, as you will be able to enjoy your coffee at home, rather than paying out upwards of $4 on a cup at your local coffee bar.
What is most important to remember, is that you don’t need to buy an expensive coffee machine in order to enjoy a good cup of coffee at home.
Here we share with you what to look out for when buying a cheap espresso machine
Budget
Obviously you will be looking at the lower end of the market, but there is a big difference in the quality of machine when you spend under a $100 compared to $300. These are still cheap coffee machines, as people can and do spend thousands of dollars. But stretching your budget a little further will usually get you a machine with more accessories and with a larger water capacity. However, the quality of espresso is not always compromised, just because of elevated price.
Pods Or Ground Coffee
Coffee machines at the lower end of the market will be those with an automatic pump that can be used for both ground and pod coffee systems. There are pros and cons to both, but it very much depends on what you want to get from your coffee machine. Coffee pod systems are usually more expensive but they are more convenient and create less waste. Once you have made and drank your coffee, there is only the pod to get rid of. These machines usually make a variety of speciality coffees, including espresso. But if all you want is an espresso, then you are better off sticking with a coffee ground maker, as it will cost you less.
Espresso, Latte Or Cappuccino
The question here is what function do you need from your coffee machine? Do you simply want a cup of espresso or do you often drink lattes and Americanos? The choice of drink will influence your choice of machine. If you do drink milk based coffee, then you will need a machine with a milk frother attachment. If you do not drink milk based drinks, then you can opt for simplicity, less gadgets and ultimately get more for your money.
Pump Pressure
Pressure is everything when it comes down to making the perfect cup of coffee. Pressure is measured in ‘bars’ and this is what you need to look for when choosing your machine. What this refers to is the amount of water pressure that is exerted onto the coffee. Generally speaking, the greater the bar pressure, the better quality of coffee, but ultimately it will cost you more. Most domestic coffee machines have a bar pressure of between 9 to 15, and many cheaper espresso machines can be bought with a 15 bar pressure rating. You only really get a higher bar pressure with commercial machines that are used by your local barista such as in Starbucks.
Size
Espresso machines come in all different sizes and weights. Some are incredibly compact and can fit into the smallest spaces, while others are all-singing-all-dancing machines, that should take center stage in your kitchen. The amount of space you have in your kitchen will influence your choice of machine, as well as where you want to use it. You need to carefully read up on the size of the machine you have found before you buy.
How Often Will It Be Used?
Will you be an occasional coffee drinker, only having one cup first thing of a morning? Or will you have several throughout the day? Do you do a lot of socializing and have friends round for coffee? How often you plan to use your machine will influence what type to buy. This really comes down to the machine’s water capacity, as this can vary greatly from machine to machine. The bigger the water reservoir, the larger the quantity of coffee can be brewed. This is beneficial if you drink a lot of coffee or entertain. However, a larger water reservoir is unnecessary if you only want to make one cup of coffee a day. So do check the machine’s water capacity so that it matches your needs.
Accessories
Even though you are buying at the budget end of the market, you can still get accessories with your machine. Many come with measuring spoons and even coffee cups and grinders. So keep an eye out to see what bargains can be had.
Ease Of Use
Depending on how technical you are, you need to consider how easy the machine will be to use. Some are pretty basic with an on and off button, while others will have buttons for delayed starts; programmable buttons and those for desired strength. Again, this all very much depends upon what you want to get from your machine. A simple espresso or something a little more elaborate? So do check the additional features of the machine and its ease of use.
Brand
A good tip when choosing a cheap machine is to go for a popular brand that is tried and tested and well loved. This way you are more likely to get a good quality machine. However, you can still not discount newer brands or those less known. You just need to do a little more research and digging to find out if it really does make a great cup of coffee. Read up on the latest coffee machine news websites, as they usually review new brands and those that are discounted.
Finally, you really can’t discount the importance of customer reviews. These can really help you in making your final decision. There are so many cheap espresso machines out there to choose from. Hopefully this guide will have made your search that little bit easier.
You’ve probably heard people say that they like their coffee done a particular way. Some individuals prefer a blend of coffee beans that bring into being a unique taste or aroma using espresso machines. A good number of people prefer a shot of espresso that has been brewed using a particular type of coffee bean. Nevertheless, the amount of thought put in preparing the coffee is what really matters: whether espresso or regular coffee.
In essence, the style of making coffee is what brings out the “espressos” in coffee. No particular plant or roasting technique produces espresso beans. However, forcing regular coffee through pressurized water, which then passes through a filter and a “puck” of coffee.
So, how do Espresso Machines Work?
There are many types of espresso machines. The workings of these machines may differ slightly, on some occasions, but the basics are usually similar. For instance, commercial machine and top-class home espresso machines have boilers. The difference may arise when it comes to figuring out where the water comes from and why.
The Boiler
Most espresso machines have a cylindrical copper boiler (the Boiler). with tubes spread over it and a compressor connecting to some of those tubes. The compressor functions as an electric motor that pressures the water running through the tubes. Additionally, a good number of valves and wires plus a few circuit boards also help control how the machine works.
The cylindrical boiler acts as a reservoir for water. The water in the cylinder usually kept a little more than half full. and then subjected to heat from a coil that installed in the boiler. A water heat controller used to measure the temperature in the boiler and, as a result. The water temperature within the machine kept at a fixed temperature measure: the heater turns on off as required.
The Control Circuitry
Electrode use to ensure that the depth of the water in the boiler maintained. To pass current through the electrode, a control circuitry installed in the coffee machine regulates the flow of electricity to the boiler. The electric current disconnected if the water in the coffee brewer falls below the tip of the electrode. This prompts the controller to open a valve that allows the flow of water from an external source.
It’s prudent to note that the external water source pressurized since the water in the cylinder is pressurized. This means that it should have the force required to push water into the boiler once the valve opens: typically 20 to 30 psi. Once the water touches the tip of the electrode, the control circuitry turns the water intake valve off. The water level in the boiler should keep constant at all times.
The Pressure Gauge
The pressure gauge used to register the pressure that is inside the boiler and the extraction pressure. The pressure should maintain at 1.5 bars (indicated on the upper side of the pressure gauge) producing good steam. If the pressure is lower than 1.5, the espresso machine will not produce good steam. Moreover, if the pressure is higher, it poses a hazard: if the pressure goes beyond 1.8 bars, a safety valve blows.
On the lower side of the pressure gauge, you will see a reading that indicates the extraction pressure of the espresso. The pressure should keep between 9 and 11 bars: when pulling a shot. Also, when not pulling shots, the gauge reflects water line pressure from the water source.
The Portafilter
The removable portafilter part of the machine meant to hold the ground coffee. A basket, a handle, and a two-pronged spout used to assemble this part of the coffee machine. The coffee tamped and packed in this section. Thus, the portafilter fastened to the group head to form a seal. Below the basket, you can find two spouts where the espresso emerges and flows into an espresso cup.
It is prudent to note that the water used to brew the coffee does not come from the boiler, it comes from your building’s water supply: the plumbing system.
Steam Wand
This used in frothing milk which used in various espresso drinks. It simply forces steam into your milk, gently warming it with pressure. At the same time, it adds air to the milk, which causes it to froth. It also connected to the heating vessel in which when you put the valve in the steam position, steam from the heating vessel released out of the wand and into the milk.
How is Espresso Extracted?
The water for brewing the espresso channeled through a loop that exits the group head, passes via the solenoid valve, through the boiler, and then finds its way back into the group head. This process intended to adjust the flow rate ideally, in a bid to control the temperature of the water in the group head. When not pulling a shot, the water pump turns off, and the solenoid valve prevents it from working. However, water flow maintained.
Why should water fow maintain?
The reason the water keeps flowing is to ensure the group had remained at a constant brewing temperature. This achieved through Thermo siphoning, a passive physical mechanism. If you chose to record the temperature of the water through the various points, you would discover some insightful revelations. Water is hottest as it leaves the boiler and then cools down slightly as it approaches the group head. As the water exits the group head, it loses more heat and is much cooler as it reaches the boiler again. The various changes in temperature allow the automatic flow of water around the circuit, keeping the group head hot.
How is Water for Coffee Preheated?
The heat exchanger is quite efficient when it comes to heating limited amounts of water, such as water for a cup of coffee. However, it cannot sustain the flow of heated water indefinitely. As a consequence, the hot water spigot, installed in the coffee machine, utilizes water from the cylinder. Home coffee brewing espresso machines do not have boilers. Instead, they have heat exchangers: for steam and espresso. This is why commercial coffee machines have a distinct, rich taste that is not comparable to that produced by the economical home espresso machines.
The Takeaway
The workings of coffee brewing machines complicated. However, knowledge of how they work is essential if you are considering purchasing one. The information on how they work helps you find what you are looking for much more effortlessly.
From personal experience or by talking to coffee lovers around you, you will find that there are two versions of espresso making machines. The traditional coffee machines where the steam wand is made use of to place pressure on the coffee puck and ones that have a pump for it. It is clear that consistency is a feature of the espresso machines as better pump pressure is achieved. So if you are willing to shell out the bucks for a fantastic cup of espresso then the DeLonghi EC155 Espresso Maker is ideal. This machine drums up a nice coffee maker, consistent and thick cream that makes the espresso mouthwateringly delicious.
What is DeLonghi EC155 Espresso Maker
EC155 is the best Automatic Espresso Machine that has been a name in the Italian appliance industry. you will no longer go to a coffee shop you can make delicious espresso at home. and this is the best solution everytime you want to have an espresso shot at home, dorm room or small apartment.
What is Good in DeLonghi EC155
EC155 Separated water and steam thermostats in which it can brew a cup of coffee and also frothed milk. In cleaning the water tank and drip tray it can be easier and faster because of the removable 35-ounce water tank and drip tray. Uses loose grounds as well as convenient pods. and it has a self-priming operation which prevents the hassles associated with espresso machine startup.
This EC155 is ideal if you aren’t exactly familiar with espresso but want to try it or have been using combo-machines. Make use of a really good grinder and also excellent quality of beans and you are on your way to memorable coffee times. So how do you make that perfect cup of espresso with the DeLonghi EC155? Let us show you how.
How to make a perfect cup of espresso with the DeLonghi EC155
1.Begin by opening up the lid of the water tank
Taking out the tank and then filling it with fresh drinking water. There is a maximum level indicated and you should take care not to exceed it. Once this has been done,
2. Place back the tank in the original position.
You can apply light pressure to open the valve that is present below the tank. You can directly pour water into the tank using a jug, but that might lead to spillage. There will be water in the area below the tank and also this should be cleaned regularly with a sponge or washcloth to avoid germs and also bacteria from collecting.
Please note that you should never start using this machine without the presence of water in the tank. Always top up the water the minute it reaches an inch from the bottom of the tank.
3. Pre-heat the unit.
This helps you get espresso coffee at just the right temperature. 15 minutes prior to when you want the coffee please set the selector knob to the intended position. After doing this, you should make sure that the steam knob is not open and also that the filter holder is in an attached position.
4. Before you begin making your first cup of sinful coffee delight, do follow two simple steps.
When you are using the machine for the first time, thoroughly clean all the accessories and internal circuits.
You might also want to consider making 5 cups of coffee. Going back a bit, once the appliance has been pre-heated, you can go about placing in the filter holder, the ground coffee filter. The projection should correctly be inserted in the slot provided.
Next, take the smaller filter if you want to make just 1 cup of coffee, for 2 cups you can take the larger filter. For one espresso cup take about 7 grams of ground coffee in the filter, for two cups you will need roughly 12 grams. Go about filling the filter with little ground coffee at a time, so that no overflowing occurs. Make sure that you clean the filter thoroughly to avoid unpleasant mixing of any previous infusions with your coffee for the day.
The next step would be to have the ground coffee distributed evenly.
Apply gentle pressure using the tamper. When the ground coffee is correctly tamped. Get the espresso in the consistency you desire. Do not overdrive with the tamping as otherwise. The delivery of coffee become sluggish and slow and your cream will not be light and also creamy, it will be dark. Do not go about the tamping lightly as the delivery will then be real quick. The froth will become minimal and also light.
Excess coffee should do away with from the filter holder rim. And then reattach it by rotating firmly. Place a pre-heated cup under the spout of the filter holder, wait for the indicator light OK to come on. Once you have the required quantity of coffee, turn it back to the original position. Sit back and relish your cup of smooth, creamy espresso.
Coffee is no longer just a warm beverage that is used as a fuel for the working population. It is a drink highly enjoyable both when we are alone or in the company of friends and family. Wanting to have a sip of some high-quality coffee usually meant going to a coffee shop or a cafe, but with the rapid development of Nespresso coffee machines, we can now own a professional, home coffee maker. Choosing the best espresso machine led me to two similar products from Nespresso family, The Pixie and Innisia. but they do have some surprising differences.
Nespresso Inissia Vs. Nespresso Pixie
The Best part about Nespresso Machine in which both come with the Aeroccino milk frother. They are coming from the same manufacturer seem rather similar although there is a catch in their design that explains their price biggest differences. When comparing the brand new Nespresso Inissia and Nespresso Pixie model, the outer look is slightly similar. To me, the Pixie is more industrial looking, and Inissia has a smooth, modern touch to its design, but they are both basically the same size and function in a similar way
Similarities
24-ounce water tanks – not too big, but for a single-serve machine, they are large enough, so you don’t have to refill it every single time you use a machine.
BBoth exclusively uses Grand Crus Nespresso capsules. There are attempts to fill your own capsules, but for the best taste and product quality. I would recommend getting the Grand Crus. There are 16 different capsules that produce different flavors and colors of espresso.
2 operation buttons – (single shot) and lungo (double shot). There are capsules that have lungo on them, and they are designed specifically for making a double shot espresso.
19-bar pressure pump which meets and exceeds the amount of pressure required for an espresso. The result is a nice layer of crema.
Adjustable, folding drip trays that can hold larger mugs.
Removable trays to empty the capsules. They can both hold 9-11 capsules, and the receptacle cleanup is easy and fast.
Both brew good, tasty espresso shots.
Easy to brew using a handle, not loud, but fast with around 25 seconds of brew time.
Both will be ready to fill up to nine single cups of coffee before refilling the tank.
Differences
The style – Pixie has a striped side and a metal, industrial color look. It has a plastic exterior, but it is still quite sturdy. Some may take this into consideration when they choose between the two To me personally, it does not make such a big difference.
The Pixie has a power button on the back while Inissia gets started pressing a brew button. You use the same button on Pixie to turn it off while Inissia has an automatic power off after 9 minutes of inactivity and it is a power-saving product which has an A-Class energy rating.
The price difference – Pixie’s $229 retail and Inissia $99 which aim to be this very budget-friendly, home making coffee machine.
However, Pixie is made in Switzerland, while Inissia is made either in China or Romania. This is something that matters to most people, but knowing that something was made in Switzerland does not necessarily mean to me that it is of a higher quality. It only means that they had to pay more for the product to be made, and it costs more as a result.
Nespresso Inissia
Pros
It has 5.3 pounds in weight. and 12 cm breadth which means it is light and compact. This is one of the lightest in the market.
It has a lid and drip tray to prevent unnecessary spillage and enable making multiple cups of coffee easier.
It offers value for money. When you put into consideration all the features and services you get from the Inissia and compare that with its price, then you realize that the machine is a must-have.
Cons
Only hold 700ml of water which is not enough water for a small family of four.
It is limited to the Nespresso pod system which means that you can only use capsules made by Nespresso.
The machine’s features do not allow one to make and produce coffee in different tastes or flavors.
Nespresso Pixie
Pros
The programming feature lets you set the Nespresso Pixie and then walk away.
Cons
This is a very basic machine that doesn’t have a lot of extra features.
Inissia is a very budget-friendly, single-serve machine for your own coffee home shop. Although it’s a new product, its design is nowhere near complicated. When you purchase it, you get a set of Grand Crus capsules with different flavors to sample and choose the desired one for your future use. Although the exterior is plastic, the handle which controls the capsule placement and extraction is metal, which is the crucial part. The temperature of espresso is 180F once it comes out, which is more than hot enough.
Pixie is called pixie for a reason. Takes no room but does a great job as well as its new family member Inissia. There is not a filter in the water tank, so you might want to use filtered water with your Pixie machine.
These machines primarily make espresso. You can make different coffee drinks or an Americano, but not regular coffee. For making a cappuccino, mocha or a late, it is quickly done but requires buying a Nespresso Aeroccino accessory. In addition, both machines use Nespresso coffee capsules. You simply insert the capsule into the machine and select your cup size.
The flavor of these machines cannot let you down. You do have to choose your capsule to satisfy your flavor profile, but the overall quality of the shot is great. A little dripping does happen, so just do what I do and simply wait a few seconds once it finishes getting all the liquid into your coffee mug.
Whether you want a burst of energy in the morning or a relaxing latte after work, an espresso machine is a convenient, affordable luxury. If it should break down, follow these simple steps to get it perking again.
Troubleshooting
Before trying an ambitious repair project, be sure to troubleshoot your espresso machine first. If your machine is not working at all, your problem may be as simple as a disconnected power supply. Check the owner’s manual to locate wires and fuses, and inspect them for problems, a quick once-over is enough to test your wiring for frays and breakage, while a blown fuse can be tested with a voltage meter. If you have water leaks, check the gaskets in your machine and replace any that are loose, cracked or stiffened.
Cleaning the Machine
If your machine is working, but producing bitter-tasting espresso or brewing slowly, you may simply need to clean it. To clean the interior, you need a commercial cleaner specifically formulated for espresso machines, or a homemade combination of three ounces of white vinegar with twenty ounces of water. Pour the cleaner into your water intake, run it through, then repeat the process several times with pure water to keep the flavor of your espresso fresh. You may also need to descale your machine, removing sediment that has built up from using tap water or well water. Dissolve descaling agent, such as citric acid or commercial solutions, into the full reservoir of your machine, then run a cup of water out of the steam wand. Let it sit for twenty minutes, then run a quarter of the reservoir out of the steam wand and another quarter out of the brew head. Give it another twenty minutes after that, then repeat the process for a scale-free machine.
Fixing a Vapor-Locklf your machine has stopped during or immediately after use, it may be vapor-locked–a situation where superheated vapor from the boiler puts pressure on the water pump and renders it unable to work. To solve this problem, let the machine cool down, refill the reservoir and open the steam wand knob. After two minutes, turn on the brew button; after four, turn the brew button off but keep the steam wand open. After six minutes total, the pressure in the espresso machine should be equalized and the vapor lock gone.
Replacing the Fuse
If your espresso machine has blown a fuse, then your repair will be simple and inexpensive. Just unplug the machine, and find the fuse. It should be labeled in your owner’s manual, but you can also find it by looking along the metal parts of the boiler. Look for a small, glassy bulb in a plastic tube. Make a note of its temperature rating, which should be printed on the side of the fuse. Once you have found the tube, use an ohmmeter to measure electrical resistance by tracing wires back from the fuse to their point of connection with the rest of the machine. If the ohmmeter does not register any electrical activity, your fuse needs to be replaced. Just unscrew the clip that holds the fuse, pull its plastic socket away, and cut the wires leading from the fuse to the machine. Replacement fuses are available at most hardware stores, be sure to buy replacement fuses with the same temperature rating, plus crimping connectors to join the new wires with the old ones. Hold the new fuse wires and the old ones closely together, close the crimping connectors around them, and use pliers or a specialized crimping tool to seal the connection. Replace the plastic tube, making sure no metal is visible on the new fuse, and tuck the fuse back into place.
Maintenance
It’s helpful to schedule monthly maintenance to clean and inspect your machine, so you can stop problems before they start. Many minor problems get their start from erratic maintenance; leaks, for example, can often be traced to failing gaskets, built-up coffee grounds, or loose connections. Many problems with the taste and texture of your espresso can also be solved by fine-tuning the texture of your grounds. Grounds that are too fine or tamped down too firmly create a slower brew with a more bitter taste, while grounds that are too coarse result in a weak brew and gurgling in the machine. While espresso machines are complex and finely tuned, most of their problems are surprisingly easy to solve on your own.
An espresso is a home machine that plays a very crucial role in preparing a dark and a tasty coffee. Just like most of the home machines. An espresso is not a complex device and it has a couple of moving parts. This makes it prone to breakage and malfunction. Once an espresso machine breaks. It will lower the quality of the coffee it prepares and this will be a disgrace to the owner of this device. There are common problems that are associated with an espresso machine and we have given a guideline on how to fix these errors. With the guideline and procedure. You can fix this problem yourself or take it to professionals who will do it on your behalf.
How to fix Espresso Machine
A device will not heat up and it will plug in and also turned on.
When your espresso machine develops this problem you can’t do much to it. Until you open it up and tinker around inside. The same procedure will still use regardless of whether you fix it on your own. Or you take your machine to someone to do it for you.
When no water comes through your espresso machine then definitely there is a problem that needs to be fixed and most probably it is vapor locked. If the machine is choking on air, the first thing you should do to the machine is to prime the pump first. You can do this by opening the steam valve which is on the steam wand after which you give it half a minute or more to run.
The procedure that will take up to six minutes to fix this problem.
First, let the machine to cool completely
Fill the water tank reservoir with fresh, cool and filtered water. The brew head screen should be clean, smooth side down, waffle side up and it should not crimp the water hose.
Put a water collector more so a cup under the brew head and steam wand, switch on the power wand and with the immediate action open the steam wand to run for 2 minutes.
After this turn on the brew button and give it an allowance of running for other 2 minutes.
Turn off the brew button at the fourth minute and for another two minutes, keep steam wand open and then turn off the machine.
After 2-4 minutes you will notice that water will begin flowing normally through the espresso machine. After an estimation of one cup has flown through the brew head and steam wand. Then it will fix the vapor lock. If nothing happens and up to the sixth minute there is no water flowing, have the machine turned off, wait until the brew head cools after which you will repeat the same process.
If your espresso machine has the problem of leaking water from the pump. Then a poor seal on the shaft or the 0-ring will attribute to this. The only solution to this problem is to purchase a new ring that is of the correct diameter to the ring or shaft. The instruction manual will give the appropriate size, number or part. Before you replace the real disconnect. The machine from the power source supply, asses the pump, clean the area after removing the malfunction seal and then add the new seal.
Disruption to the seal and makes water to start leaking from between the group head and the basket.
To fix the issue, simply wipe the rim of the basket after tamping every time you use the machine.
Loose connection of inlet and outlets also cause leaking of the espresso machine. The hex nut which found on the pressure relief valve can cause leaking if it is loosely fixed. This is one of the simplest issues to fix because all that you need is to disconnect the machine from power. And when it cools down you can easily tighten the loose nut using your fingers.
At other times the espresso has a bitter and a burnt taste.
You can easily note an occurrence of this because of the very slow delivery. Grinding the coffee grounds to be coarser can be a solution to this problem. Too fine coffee grounds makes the water to pass slower through them with more resistance absorbing too much from them and at long last. A very unpleasant and a bitter taste is the outcome. Over tamping in the basket is another cause of this bitter and unpleasant taste since it also causes excessive resistance. You can solve this by using different grades of grinding and different tamping levels. If the problem persists, a pilling of residue or coffee grinds in the group head can attribute to this. To fix this problem. Unscrew the screws holding the screen which is inside the group head. Take out the screen and then clean it under hot water.
Magnetic floater which sits in the tank has got stuck in place instead of floating in its normal position on the water top.
To fix this issue. Make sure that the espresso machine disconnected from the power source. Then take out the magnet from the tank. And clean it thoroughly after which you will return it back to the tank. Another cause of this problem is the accumulation of coffee grounds and limescale around the tank edges. Through cleaning of a tank is the suitable way of fixing this problem.
An espresso machine can experience a lot of issues. The best thing to do is to repair them before they become more complicated. Give rise to other issues make the machine be rendered useless and nonfunctional.
There are different types of coffee makers or Espresso Machine on the market depending on your tastes. However, you will find that most people have regular coffee makers in their homes and even offices. A common question which comes up is whether a coffee maker can be used to make an espresso. This is mostly asked by those people who want to economize and start making their own coffee saving time and even money used in buying the ready made one from coffee vendors. Before you start doing this, there are a few things you need to know about both machines.
Espresso Machine vs Coffee Maker
Looking to buy either an espresso machine or coffee maker? Here are our current top recommendations:
1) They might appear the same and seem to function in a similar way but in reality, they are very different. An espresso machine even by the name itself is designed to make espressos. When you hear about a coffee maker, it is normally any type of machine that is used to make coffee. However, the term is mostly used to refer to the drip coffee maker which is used mainly to make a simple cup of coffee.
2) An espresso is made using very finely coffee grounds as compared to other types of coffee. The major difference in an espresso machine is their brewing method. An espresso machine brews for a shorter time due to the fineness of the particles. A coffee maker brews for a long time since the particles are not necessarily fine.
3) An espresso machine uses very high pressure to force the water to go through the coffee within a short time to ensure you get the best taste out of the coffee beans. Other coffee makers do not use as much pressure when compared to it.
4) When it comes to prices, you will find that a coffee maker has a more friendly price and is cheaper than the espresso machine. This also means that due to the price, a coffee maker is the most commonly used in both homes and offices.
5) You will also find that coffee makers are easy to use as they are normally automatic compared to the latter which can be driven by steam or even semi-automatic. This is mainly since the fully automatic ones are usually very expensive to purchase. This also means that coffee makers do not need a lot of skill to operate since they do almost all the work for you. An espresso machine, on the other hand, needs more skills in operating it in order to ensure that you are able to make a good cup of coffee. You will need to learn about the machine and how to use it and this means that it cannot be used by everyone.
6) An espresso machine makes creamier coffee compared to a coffee maker. This is mainly due to the size of particles. In a coffee maker, the particles are of a medium size and water does not pass through them at a high pressure while, in the latter, the cream which is known as crema, is obtained when hot water boiling is passed through the fine particles at a high pressure within a short time. As a result, you get a strong cup of coffee which is not bitter compared to the coffee brewed in a coffee maker for a long period of time.
7) Due to its simpler design, a coffee maker can be said to be relatively easier to clean and this is quite an advantage especially to all those who like a fresh cup of coffee. It can easily be assembled and taken apart within a short time.
8) Coffee makers usually do not need a lot of time in grinding the coffee beans as the coffee particles are not required to be a very fine grind as compared to the other one which is made by forcing steam through finely ground coffee beans. Like regular drip coffee, it can be made from any type of coffee bean, though generally a blend is used to create optimal flavors.
Coffee vs Espresso Caffeine Content
When we talk about the difference between coffee and espresso caffeine content they have wide differences because of the processing and preparation method.
Brewed Coffee
Made in a coffee maker has a content between 95 and 165 mg of caffeine per 8 oz. serving size. it is because of the kind of coffee and how the coffee is prepared. One example is the Light and dark roast coffees that have similar amounts but depends on how you prepare it. You can let French press coffee steep to your desired strength. You can get stronger if you can keep the water longer in contact with the ground coffee.
There are many ways on how you prepare your coffee, You can filter coffee or pour over coffee, stove top percolator coffee, and more.
Espresso
Speak a cups of coffee, it is shots of espresso. It has a caffeine content of 47 to 64 mg per 1 oz. serving. It serves in a smaller cup called a demitasse cup. The caffeine content of espresso is between 376 and 512 mg.
Always remember that all espresso is coffee, but not all coffee is espresso.
Finally, you can adjust your coffee maker to be able to make different types of coffee, unlike the other machine which is specifically suited for making an espresso. This means you can use your coffee maker to make other kinds of coffee and not limit yourself and your tastes. You can also get the machine which is more suitable and affordable to you.
Instead of buying and drinking coffee to the coffee shop, Make your own copy with the use of this coffee maker or get a machine that is suitable for you.
Espresso machines are a rather large investment, for something that just brews coffee. They can be expensive – up to $1100 or more.
Perhaps you want to make fancy coffee at home, as a hobby. Perhaps you are one of those unlucky people who are many miles away from a decent cafe. Maybe you are a budding coffee artist who wants their very own foamy renditions of the Scream and the Mona Lisa to put on Instagram. Or maybe Jim the Barista left for Peace Corps and the guy who replaced him doesn’t make your coffee as good as he did. An espresso machine, when chosen properly, can be a great source of amusement and if well maintained, can last far open up a wide variety of coffee beverages far beyond a brewed cup of joe. With an espresso machine you can steam tea lattes, eggnog lattes, and almond and soy milk. You can even make nearly instantaneous hot chocolate.
Here are some extra financial considerations before buying this expensive coffeemaker that go beyond the machine itself:
1. Espresso Beans: Espresso beans are generally more expensive than regular coffee beans. To make your morning latte just right, consider the options of several different vendors to get that combination of value and taste. Also remember cafes that sell their beans directly to you.
2. Cleaning: The process of making espresso requires the regular cleaning of the filter and group head (where the espresso pours out of the machine into the cup). Most machines have special cleaning solutions for espresso machines, which is another potential cost.
3. Espresso Grinder: Some machines require that you grind the beans into espresso powder on a separate machine, while others grind them on the same machine. For example, the machines you see at Starbucks grind and pour the espresso on the same machine. Do you want to buy an entirely separate machine just to grind the beans? And no, your average coffee grinder doesn’t usually make a good enough espresso to taste.
4. Maintenance: Espresso machines can be terribly hard to fix when broken. Everything from improper cleaning to the wrong consistency of ground espresso can seriously damage your machine. Make sure you are not only properly educated on these potential pitfalls, but are also in contact with someone who can repair it for you. Be aware of the cost should your espresso machine suffer a breakdown, and familiarize yourself with websites that can provide replacement parts.
5. Supplemental Equipment Doodads: Are you one of those people who want to buy an espresso machine because they just need a latte steamed at 180 degrees? Then you need a thermometer. Or maybe you just need a flavored latte, but then you have to invest in chocolate, vanilla, almond, peppermint, or pumpkin spice syrup. Not to mention all the timers and special cups that you didn’t even know existed, but which now seem like an essential part of the coffee experience. If you know nothing about coffee going in, you could pick up some books about how to make a macchiato or what exactly is a cafe con panna, anyway?
6. Commercial/Personal: Are you looking for a fun way to make coffee at home, or opening a little cafe for commercial use? The main difference is in the volume of use. Even a small espresso stand can expect a high volume of customers, and so should invest in a heavy duty espresso machine that can take the pressure. Some have two filters, which is more recommended for business use.
7. Space: Espresso machines can be bulky. Some of them require plumbing and electricity. Living in a small apartment, it could easily take up a great deal of counter space. Less heavy users who need all the space they can get would rather have an electric espresso machine that can easily unplug and go back in the box. All in all, there are a lot of things to consider when investing in an espresso machine, but essentially, it is no different than investing in a car or a computer or in some other complex machine. Choose wisely, and you could be enjoying a nice morning cappuccino every day for the next five or ten years.
Steam Wand
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