Purchasing a fantastic coffee machine capable of producing cafeteria-style coffee at home is within the reach of the average consumer, with the highest quality machines on the market, from all the leaders in espresso heaven, including Jura, Nespresso, Gaggia and Saeco. But how do you know what to buy and, heaven forbid, keep it in tip-top condition for years to come?
This article provides 6 critical steps to take and avoid before and after you bring home the top-of-the-line Wizz Bang model you’re considering buying from Amazon. Hopefully these steps and tips will help you make a more informed decision and save you many frustrating hours wishing you had bought another make or model in the first place.
The first feature of any new coffee machine that you should ask for is that your machine be pump driven. The bigger the pump, the faster the extraction, but be careful, you need to make sure that the pump can provide at least 9 bar constant pressure, not “capable of 15 or 19 bar”. Good extraction times generally occur at 9 bars. So look for a pump powered machine. This will ensure that your extraction is strong enough to produce a delicious, flavorful cream in the right amount of time.
Without a doubt, your machine plays an important role in the final taste of your coffee, but there are other factors that come into play. To ensure you get the best flavor, be sure to use fresh coffee beans and not stale beans that have been ground two weeks earlier and left in an open container. Coffee is only about 2% of the total ingredient in your coffee! Using the best type of bean is also essential: Arabica coffee is more delicate and has a fantastic aroma when brewed. If you can, invest in a coffee grinder to ensure fresh ground coffee every time.
Water makes up the remaining 98% of brewed coffee and it is essential to use filtered water whenever possible. If you buy a machine with a built in filter this should work; if not, buy a countertop filter machine. Not only is it good for your machine, but you also help reduce the amount of impurities in your coffee. Try to use cold water in your machine and let the machine heat the water to the correct brew temperature.
As mentioned above, a good grinder is a fantastic addition, but not entirely necessary. If you decide to buy one, find a good burr grinder and only grind what you need for the day. It is possible to purchase pre-ground coffee that is vacuum packed to seal in freshness. You can do this, but the ideal is to take fresh beans and grind them yourself.
Consistency is the key to making a great espresso day after day. When I owned my coffee shop, this was our biggest challenge for my staff. This doesn’t happen with a super automatic machine that does everything, however with a semi-automatic machine, the part that causes the most inconsistency is the tamping of the coffee grounds into the group handle. Practice makes perfect: he should use about 30 pounds of pressure, keep the tamper vertical, and only tamp once, then again. Clean off excess soil and you’re done. Practice practice practice. Try to be consistent and your brew will shine.
Last but not least, be vigilant about cleaning and maintaining your machine. Check components regularly, replace seals and clean inside and out, clean group handles and inside of group head. Use a descaling solution as directed in your manual to clean the inside of the machine and remove deposits that build up and make your coffee machine run inefficiently.
By considering the essential features of what makes a great coffee machine and then taking care of your new coffee machine, you will help ensure many years of great coffee brewing in your home. By following the points outlined in this article, you can make an informed decision about purchasing and maintaining your new coffee machine.