Espresso machines use 132 pounds per square inch of pressure to extract coffee, so this makes them a piece of very complex machinery which partly answers the question of ‘why espresso machines can be expensive. They perform an important function in demonstrating the taste and character of coffee beans by pressing the coffee under high pressure, espresso actually means strong coffee. There are cheaper espresso machines available to buy of course but the old adage of “you get what you pay for” is never more apparent than with espresso machines.
The espresso machine was invented in the early 1900s and since then it has been constantly improved. High-quality materials are used to make the machine including stainless steel, metal, and brass. These days some machines have even moved into the digital age, including technology like PID controllers which aids temperature stability among many other new features like touch screen displays and automatic smart enabled features.
History of Espresso Machines
Milanese Engineer Luigi Bezzera first invented the Espresso machine in 1901. Others followed and by the 1920s decorative coffee machines by other Italian engineers became a feature of Italian cafes, and the coffee culture in both Europe and America emerged. In 1947 Gaggia began to produce a more automated coffee machine that achieved the desired pressure with water. Many of these machines are still in use today. In the 1960s Faema started to manufacture coffee machines, using an electric pump to pass the water through the machine. The water starts off cold and heats up as part of the process while passing through the grounds.
Features Of a Typical Espresso Machine
Quality materials are used in the making of Espresso machines and they are designed to ensure stable temperatures and high-pressure water. Both stainless steel and brass are costly metals which probably goes a long way to answer the reason espresso machines are as expensive as they are.
Modern espresso machines with digital displays and automatic features have many useful functions, like the delay prior to infusion and shot timers. An on/off water temperature, cleaning program, and digital equipment diagnosis. They also offer control over brewing temperatures. In doing the research it would appear that the more you pay for an espresso machine, the more functions your machine will perform.
Behind the manufacturer are research teams, they are constantly working on how the product can be improved, and Espresso machines are made to exacting specifications in order to bring you the best cup of espresso coffee!
Different Types Of Espresso Machine
- The oldest type of Espresso Machine was a steam machine, and electric steam coffee machines are still in use. They are easy to use and a bit more affordable and work by pushing the water through the machine at a lower pressure rate. The water that creates the steam makes the coffee.
- Lever machines have a lever that is raised to release preheated water into a chamber where it acts on the coffee grounds. The Barista is able to control the length of the wetting process and flow rate by pressing the lever. The lever can be a bit hard to pull, and these machines usually only have one boiler.
- Pump Espresso Machine, first introduced in the 1960s, is quite common. The electric pump pushes the hot water into the brewing chamber to make a cup of coffee. Constant high pressure is achieved. A really good example of a modern machine is the Breville BES920XL.
- Automatic Espresso Machines, these machines have the ability to automatically stop the water supply, ensuring a constant volume in each serving of espresso avoiding overfilling.
- Super Automatic Espresso Machines, these do everything themselves including weighing and grinding the coffee, fills the filter. On pressing the button you get the same experience. This machine is ideal to have at home, especially for those of us who lack mechanical skills, and it would be a great asset to every kitchen.
ESPRESSO MACHINE FAQ
Q1. Is a home espresso machine worth the money?
YES: Of course, looking at it laterally you are actually saving money in the long run.
- No need to go out and buy coffee every day, saving around $3000 a year for some.
- The machine allows you to tailor the coffee to your needs.
- Saves time
- Has the ability to prepare different coffees at the one time.
Q2. What is the most expensive espresso machine?
The Javabot coffee machine costs around 1 million dollars, but for a more reasonable price, you can get a Rancilio Egro ZERO Superautomatic Commercial Espresso Machine for around $11,000. For smaller budgets, a great machine is the Rancilio Silvia M V5 Espresso Machine for under 00.
Q3. Is an expensive espresso machine worth it?
Yes…
- If you live in a large household it is very much worth it, as you can create 8 user profiles.
- The coffee mix can be changed to suit individual needs.
- Coffee can be made quickly, time-saving.
- Has many features.
- If you spend a fortune every day buying coffee from Starbucks
Q4. Is an espresso machine hard to clean?
No…
- Your machine is not hard to clean and is best kept clean as it is a feature of your kitchen.
- Mix three parts of vinegar to one part of water( no stronger) and run the mixture through your machine to clean it internally. Follow this by running clean water through your machine before you use it again. Wipe down the outside with a damp cloth.
- Follow manufacturer guidelines with regard to regular maintenance and descaling.
Q5. How long will my espresso machine last?
- Nespresso Machines should last for about ten years, only recently a friend said that she had her machine for much longer. This is where quality is important, as a good quality machine will probably last longer. Where in a cheaper one, the element may burn out.
Q6. Is there a suitable espresso machine for a single person?
Yes, absolutely, just because you live alone does not mean that you shouldn’t have all the best labor-saving devices. However you should look online to research, there are a lot of smaller inexpensive Espresso Machines, and you will certainly find one that is suitable for your needs. Possibly the best would be a Nespresso Virtuo coffee machine.
Summary
When we break down the facts owning an Espresso Machine is a good investment, and getting the best one that you can afford is always wise as once we get used to our new Espresso Machine, we want it to last us for a really long time. For those of us that love our appliances, there is nothing better than the aroma of fresh coffee floating through the house.