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The Hidden Costs of Buying a Home Espresso Machine An espresso machine is an intimidating addition to any kitchen, but selecting the right one is easier than it appears. There's an espresso maker that's suitable for anyone, whether you want to save money by making your own coffee or to improve your barista abilities. You'll want to consider features like an manual portafilter to practice tamping (it may take a while to master this method) and automatic milk frothing that creates distinct textures and temperature. Basics Espresso consumption in the United States has soared over the past two decades. It's now commonplace to see espresso machines in grocery stores, laundromats, and even gas stations, as well as at cafes and street-side carts. While they're smaller than the commercial models used in coffee shops, they work on the same principles and can create the concentrated coffee at home that has become the caffeinated beverage that is preferred by many across the country. All machines should include a heating system that will bring the water to the correct temperature. These machines range from simple stovetop units that use a flame as a heat source to water to electric powered machines with boiler systems. Certain espresso machines offer a variety of options to make it easier and more precise for users to prepare the beverages they desire. For example, some include a built-in grinder that simplifies the process than having to grind the beans manually. This is particularly beneficial for beginners who may be unsure how to grind the beans properly or how to press and tamp them. Most espresso machines also have a pressure relief valve which is an electro-mechanical device that opens to release the pressure build-up in the filter basket and portafilter after brewing a shot espresso. This is important since it prevents an abrupt release of steam that could cause hot grounds to spray all over your counter, machine and even you. Some less expensive espresso machines don't have this feature, so make sure to verify before purchasing. The machine also allows you to alter the size and amount of steamed milk produced. This lets you experiment and find your favorite drinks. You can also refine your brewing technique. No matter what espresso machine features you select it is crucial to remember that it's the quality of the beans that determines the flavor of your drinks. If you don't begin with freshly roasted, specialty-graded coffee, no amount of high-end features will make the best cup of espresso. Variations A home espresso machine comes with a variety of options to select from based on your needs. Certain machines come with more features and settings that can be altered to ensure you get the perfect cup coffee, while others may be simpler and less expensive. The size of the machine could also impact its cost. Larger machines are usually more expensive. The most popular kind of espresso machine for home use is semi-automatic. This type of machine uses a portafilter to store ground coffee which sits in a lower chamber containing water. The top of the portafilter features a metal screen that sits above the bottom chamber. Water is then forced into the grounds by using pressure. The result is a shot espresso that can be pulled out of the portafilter, and then added to the milk to make the creation of a cappuccino or latte. Another kind of home espresso machine is a super-automatic, that is fully automated coffee maker that does not require intervention from a person. This type of machine comes with larger reservoirs of water which means it can create more drinks in less time. It typically includes steam wands that create rich and creamy steam-steamed milk. If you're seeking a completely hands-free experience, there are capsule machines that make use of pre-measured pods to create espresso and other coffee beverages. They are typically less expensive and more convenient than other types of machines, however they are only compatible with specific brands of pods. There are also manual lever coffee machines that are beautiful and bring back memories of romantic cafes of the past. These machines require a little more experience to operate than the super-automatics and semi-automatics, however they can offer a unique experience for the home barista that is looking to experiment with something new. There are a few companies that specialize in high-end, customized home espresso machines. One of them is Lelit MaraX. It performed well in our previous side-byside tests. These models have several adjustments that will allow you to get the perfect cup. For instance they come with an adjustable PID controller, that lets you adjust the temperature of the water to a precise level as well as a shot-timer to inform you how long it takes to brew, and an indicator to ensure that shots are extracted at the correct level. Convenience If you're an espresso lover you'll know there are few things quite like a freshly made cup of the drink. The demand for the beverage has grown exponentially in recent years and you can find it almost everywhere, from Starbucks to the drive-through espresso carts that are now well-known at supermarkets, laundromats, and even gas stations. But you can also make espresso in your home kitchen with an affordable home espresso machine. The machines operate a bit different from those you find in cafes, but they use similar principles. In contrast to drip coffee machines which have an integrated grinder and are simple to operate, espresso makers require you to grind the beans, put them in the portafilter and use a manual tamping technique. However, the process isn't as complicated as it seems — in fact, it's surprisingly quick and easy, particularly with the help of an excellent burr grinder. If you plan to purchase an espresso machine, do not sacrifice the quality of the grinder. We suggest buying a high-end model that gives you control over the texture of your coffee, and let you change the settings in small increments. Another aspect to consider is the number of drink options and convenience features a machine can provide. You might want an appliance that can automatically heat or froth your milk with the press of a button. You could also opt for an automated machine that does all the tasks for you, from grinding and tamping, to brewing. It is also possible to get an option with dual boilers, which has two boilers that are separate, one for brewing and the other for steaming. This lets the machine be ready for brewing and steaming in a matter of minutes. This is ideal for entertaining guests or making multiple drinks at the same time. Be aware that this kind of machine requires more frequent descaling which is a pain and could affect the performance of your machine over time. Cost A home espresso machine can be expensive, but it's also an excellent investment. It will be paid for in some years of savings from not having to pay for coffee at cafes. It is important to look at the whole picture when comparing benefits and costs. This article exposes the hidden costs of purchasing a home-based espresso machine. From the initial price tags, which are influenced by the features, to the long-term maintenance and operating costs of a high-quality setup. This includes energy usage, replacement parts and products as well as the total cost when compared to a typical coffee at a cafe. The initial cost of an espresso machine could vary widely depending on the model you select. Bean to cup machines, for instance, tend to be more expensive at first however lever-operated machines are less expensive. The more expensive models could provide greater functionality and accuracy for the user. Even a relatively cheap espresso maker can give excellent results when used with correct beans and brewing method. To achieve the best flavor, you should use freshly roasted, top-quality beans. In fact, if we don't buy the beans no amount of advanced technology or high-end design can make up for subpar results. You can make the same drink for $1.48 at home. The average latte at cafes costs $5. If coffee and espresso maker prepare latte drinks at home each day, you'll save over $1200 a year. A high-quality espresso setup at home could easily cost more than $1200 when you add the expense of a grinder, tamper and other supplies. Some people are turned off by the expense of an espresso maker but the coffee creates the flavor chemicals that make the perfect cup. The espresso machine is just a tool to help you extract the flavor of the beans and it's up to the person drinking the coffee to make use of the most efficient equipment to do the job. If you're a barista in training, or simply enjoy the flavor of freshly ground manually-pulled espresso An espresso machine is an excellent investment for your kitchen.