Espresso Makers – Tips for Purchasing a Great Machine
Espresso Makers purchases for the home are on the rise across the world. People who love drinking espresso usually end up buying their own machine and make espresso at home. You can make so many fabulous espresso drinks if you own your own high-quality machine.
Espresso maker is a large investment and you should research the different kinds of machines to see what special feature you want your Espresso machine to be equipped with. Read a bunch of reviews as well and determine what people say and then make your special decision on a home espresso Maker.
What are the Most Common Types of Espresso Make
Manual Espresso Makers
A manual espresso maker has the user do all the work. You measure out the beans and grind the beans, then tamp the grounds and brew the espresso coffee. The Manual espresso machine is the least expensive. Some expert espresso drinkers will only operate the Manual machine so they control the whole process.
Semi-Automatic Machines
A Semi-automatic machine does some of the basic work for the user. The user adjusts water pressure and temperature. The user has to Grind and tamp the beans. The machine will do all the rest or the work. The semi-automatic machine is a bit more expensive then the manual machine. To make some excellent cappuccinos the semi-automatic machines are great.
Automatic Machines
The complete job from start to finish is done by the automatic machines. The user just adds beans and water, and with the touch of a button, sits back and wait for an excellent cup of espresso.
Super Automatic Machines
The Super Automatic Machines grind the beans, tamp the beans and continue to the finished espresso product. The Super Automatic Machines pre-infuse the beans with water and this produces more flavor then other machines. The process with this kind of machine is faster than other machines. Restaurants and Coffee bars usually have these espresso makers to make excellent Espresso for their clients.
Do Espresso Makers have some Great Features?
These great special features vary from machine to machine. Always compare different models and their features to figure out which machine will suit your needs the best.
Bean Grinders
The high quality more expensive espresso makers usually have built in grinders. Each cup has beans freshly ground. More flavor comes from the oils in the freshly ground beans. This process always brings a fresh flavor taste.
Milk Frother
For latte and cappuccino drinks milk has to be frothed, so you will need a frother. There could be a separate container for milk or a frothing wand. The high quality more expensive brands of espresso makers have a container.
Compatible for Pods
A Pods is a small packet that contains ground beans on the inside and a filter material on the outside. The pods are used to make one cup. Add the Pod to the machine and brew your espresso coffee. Espresso connoisseurs hate or love pods. They hate them for the bitter taste but love them for the convenience.
Water Filter
Chlorine, impurities and other chemicals are removed from the water prior to brewing with a built-in water filter. The high-quality more expensive machines usually have a water filter built in. These built in filters are usually removable carbon filters. You will notice the difference with a built-in filter if your water is not top quality from the tap.
Cup Warmer
The cup warmer is usually located on the top of the espresso makers. The cup warmers warm the cup before brewing and allow the cup of espresso to be served at the correct temperature.
Hot Water Dispenser
Many Espresso machines have a separate valve for serving hot water. When making tea or hot chocolate this feature is an excellent addition on any espresso machine. Commercial coffee establishments usually have this feature on one or more of their espresso makers.
Are there are Other Things to Consider when buying new Espresso Makers?
- Sometime people notice an aftertaste when using an aluminum machine. The best machines are made from Brass or Steel.
- There should be a minimum of 14 bars or more in pump pressure. Always check on the home-based machines before buying to make sure they have the correct pressure levels. The more powerful the pressure of the pump the better they work with finer grinds of espresso beans.
- Your machine should have a removable water tank. Cleaning becomes easier and you will prevent stagnant water from collecting at the bottom of the tank and affecting the flavor of your cup of espresso.