Home Espresso Machines
Home Espresso Machine
There is nothing better than a great cup of espresso. Learning to make your own on a home espresso machine is not only an eventual cost savings but the taste will beat any coffee shop bought espresso. There are two things to consider when deciding if a home espresso machine is right for you.
Cost of the Home Espresso Machine
A marginal home espresso machine will set you back a few hundred dollars. A low-end machine is not entirely reliable and may struggle to maintain proper pressure. Most medium priced machines are decent and as long as they hold the pressure needed and additional preparation factors are achieved, a decent cup of espresso is guaranteed. The high-end machines are worth the investment and have the parts needed to execute proper pressure and water temperature. Single or dual boilers and heat exchangers vary between brands but are crucial in providing proper pressure and temperature. In the world of home espresso machines, you get what you pay for.
Home Espresso Machine Equipment
A good grinder is the core item needed when considering what type of unit to purchase. Espresso must be ground properly and immediately before use. If the intent is to purchase pre ground coffee beans at the store or grind them ahead of time for ease, the money spent on an a home espresso machine is a waste. If purchasing a home espresso machine without a grinder attached, an additional purchase of a good grinder is a must.
The espresso, once freshly ground, must be tampered into the filter basket with adequate pressure. All home espresso machines come with a tamper and an additional purchase is not recommended unless you plan on becoming an espresso aficionado and in that case, sticking to high-end equipment and supplies is your best bet.
The steam wand and steam pitcher are necessary for making cappuccinos and lattes. The steam wand froths the milk, heats it to the proper temperature and creates the necessary foam. The steam wand is standard and its performance actually hinges on the type of boiler. A larger boiler will produce the proper amount of steam, heating and frothing the milk. The steam pitcher should have a pointed spout for pouring good foam.
Once you decide to make the investment in to a home espresso machine and begin making good espresso at home, you won’t be able to drink it anywhere else. The added bonus to good coffee will be the money saved over time.