So you have bought the best espresso maker and you were expecting that it will last you for a few years. However, after a few months, it is starting to give you problems and you do not know why. Does this scenario sound familiar to you? Wait! Before you start venting your frustrations on the poor espresso machine or head off to buy yourself another maker, consider whether you have given it a fair chance?
You may be surprised but a lot of users are unknowingly abusing their espresso machine right from day one! When they buy a new machine, chances are they will face the same old problems again, so consider the following 2 important questions first before you hide your maker in a cold corner.
1. Are you using the right espresso beans?
Once you have purchased a maker for your aromatic cup of espresso coffee, the first thing you should do is the check the manual that comes with the machine. Determine what the recommended beans for your machine use are because some makers require that you use very finely ground beans in order for it to work. Using the wrong kinds of beans or pods will result in a short lifespan for your espresso maker.
Besides, what you consider aromatic might not be so for another user so in order to get the right type of coffee for yourself, you would have to experiment with different kinds of espresso coffee beans. If you are only going to use the kind recommended by other espresso lovers, you might not be satisfied because every individual’s taste is unique.
2. Have you been giving the machine a proper maintenance?
Have you been giving your espresso maker a regular cleaning up? Most people’s answer would be that they have dutifully washed and put the machine away after each use but have you taken out the various removable parts to wash? Also, it is important that your home espresso machine is allowed to dry thoroughly if you are putting it away. Otherwise, allow the various parts to dry on the kitchen plate rack overnight.
In addition to your normal washing up, it is also vital that you run the espresso machine through with just plain water for at least once a fortnight. Allow the water to drip but without adding in the espresso beans. This will allow the machine to be thoroughly washed so that there will not be any coffee strains left behind in tiny cracks or hidden areas. If you are able to afford the time, doing this routine once a week will be beneficial to your espresso maker and it helps to lengthen its lifespan.
Getting the best espresso machine does not guarantee that you will get the best cup of espresso that you want. You might also have to add other gadgets such as a grinder if the maker does not have a built-in one as well as a suitable espresso cup on top of carrying out the above tips. Carry out your research well and have fun experimenting with your machine. You will find that it is a very rewarding experience.
