What to look for when choosing a carob coffee maker?

If you cannot start your day without a cup of coffee, then it makes sense to purchase a carob coffee maker for ground coffee.

After all, with the help of it you can cook not only a classic drink, but also a tart espresso or cappuccino with airy foam.

In this article we will talk in detail about this device and teach you how to find what you need in the sea of ​​various household appliances.

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What is a carob coffee maker?

Coffee maker – This is a device for making hot invigorating drinks, which differs from other coffee makers in the form of a container in which coffee raw materials are placed. She is a special horn. The size of this part may vary depending on the power and performance of the coffee maker.

The carob method is more economical than the drip method - You can easily adjust the desired amount of coffee. The finished drink is enough for several servings, but its taste is worth it - it is their carob coffee machine that produces the most intense espresso.

What is the difference from a coffee machine?

What to buy - a coffee maker or a coffee machine? The answer to this question depends on what result you plan to get and how often you want to use the device. For one person or a small family, the best choice would be a carob. If the device is intended for a large family of coffee lovers or the office, give preference to a coffee machine.

The main difference between coffee machines and coffee machines is that in the second case, the process is fully automated. All that is required of the consumer is to load the raw materials into the machine, make elementary settings, and then remove the spent balance.

A coffee machine, in comparison with a machine, requires more participation, but, as a rule, coffee connoisseurs do not spare time for preparing a drink with a rich taste and aroma.

When choosing a coffee maker First of all, pay attention to the technical specifications, not the brand. Often, you can easily find complete analogues of popular coffee makers, which will cost half the price just because the manufacturer did not spend a lot of money on brand advertising.

Who should use such devices?

A carob type coffee maker is what you need if you want to drink espresso and other coffee drinks based on it every day.

However, if you prefer classic coffee from a Turk, a geyser, or other alternative brewing options, then a carob coffee maker will not be able to satisfy your needs.

Unpomp (boiler)

A coffee maker without a device to increase the pressure of boiling water. When boiling, steam squeezes water into the horn through the valve.

The pressure level in boiler coffee makers usually ranges from 2 to 4 bar, and for high-quality espresso it should be at least 8. Accordingly, such coffee makers can do something similar to a strong American, but no more.

Examples of similar coffee makers:

• Scarlett SC-037,
• Polaris PCM-4002A,
• Redmond RCM-15.

Pump-action

The pressure in the cooking chamber is provided by a water pump. Coffee makers of this type are divided into two main subclasses:

1. Home / household / elementary / middle class. The design involves a vibration pump, that is, the water is heated by the oscillatory method, due to the movement of the piston up and down. Their main disadvantage is that the pressure is uneven, but for beginners in making coffee it will be almost invisible.
2. Professional / commercial / industrial grade. The design involves a rotational pump. The motor rotates the impeller, which scoops up and pushes water along the hydrotract with a stable speed. It is thanks to this stability that the tart and proper taste of espresso is achieved. Such pumps are quite large, and the coffee maker itself is much more expensive and is often used in coffee houses and restaurants.

How to choose the best model for a middle-class house

As mentioned earlier - you should not choose and buy a coffee maker for the home, without first familiarizing yourself with its technical characteristics.

When choosing a "kitchen assistant", be sure to pay attention to the following parameters:

Cappuccino maker

Most cafes and restaurants use cappuccino makers to make cappuccino coffee. This is a nozzle that whips and at the same time heats the milk with hot steam. It is very convenient to use - a drink with a dense and thick foam is obtained in a matter of seconds.

In turn, there are two types of cappuccinators:

• Semi-automatic cappuccino machine. The coffee maker prepares a cappuccino in two steps: first it brews coffee, then it warms the milk and whips the froth. Most often, such machines are equipped with two taps, you need to move the cup between them independently. There is no separate milk compartment in the device. This coffee maker is suitable for those who only comprehend the basics of preparing an invigorating drink. They are affordable and easy to handle. A semi-automatic machine is not suitable for professionals and sophisticated coffee lovers because it cannot regulate the density of milk froth. In addition, such a device needs regular maintenance and cleaning.
• Automatic cappuccino machine. Unlike a semiautomatic device, it has an external milk compartment connected to a coffee maker with a tube. In some coffee makers this compartment is removable, which is very convenient if the remaining milk must be removed in the refrigerator. As well as semiautomatic devices, they need regular cleaning of milk supply pipes. The function of adjusting the density and amount of foam is only available in high-end coffee makers.

Water tank, what are and what affect

In modern coffee makers, the volume of the water tank varies 200 ml to 1.2 liters. If you plan to purchase a coffee maker for home use - take models with a small boiler, as they are absolutely useless when brewing espresso - at a time they will still give out only 1-2 cups of coffee.

As for the material, there are two types of tanks:

• Plastic - budget and affordable option. Often breaks, stains and absorbs odors.
• Metal - quickly warms up, does not overgrow with bloom, easy to clean. It costs significantly more than plastic.

A heating element

There are several types of heating elements:

• Thermal block - primary school.
• Cumulativeboiler small or large volume - the middle class.
• Boilerfromheat exchanger - prof. class.

Hob group (horn)

This is the complex name of all the components of the coffee machine, where coffee is extracted. From the separation occurs by:

• In stockandnumber ofplastic. It is taken into account both in the outlet from the boiler and the horn fasteners, and in the filter.
• The diameter of the horn. The larger it is, the better for operation. A diameter of 58 mm is considered classic - it is easiest for him to buy accessories and filters, including high-quality ones. The remaining diameters (50, 54 and 57 mm) are much less common.

Control electronics

Dosing function, when the machine gives out the programmed volume of the product when the button is pressed and stops automatically when the cup is full.

If the function is not provided, then the filling will have to be stopped independently. The remaining functions are insignificant and are more likely to be auxiliary.

Additional elements / valves

Any built-in additional function affects the price, but may also affect the quality of the final product. For example, you can take into account a three-code valve (solenoid). With it, you can instantly pause the filling, without drops, as well as dry the coffee tablet to facilitate cleaning the filter.

What it is?

Such models are also called espresso coffee makers. The name "carob" coffee makers of this type have received for the appearance. Ground coffee cups (holders) resemble horns with handles or mini-Turks. This form allows the couple to freely “take” the taste and aroma.

The holders are pressed with a special pestle - tempera. In coffee machines of this type, a handle always appears during operation - it is the main external difference.

Principle of operation

Here, coffee does not fall into the water, as in other coffee makers. The powder is located in a special compartment through which steam passes under pressure. Droplets of steam, already saturated with the taste of ground coffee, settle in a special chamber. Thus, at the output we get distillate, that is, condensate.

By the same principle, purified (distilled) water, extracts from plants and other very useful and pure substances are obtained.

After enough drops have collected in the chamber, the drink is poured into cups.

Steam models

Here pressure is generated naturally. Water heated to boiling point in a sealed compartment. Steam is generated and the desired pressure level is reached (4 bar).

A valve opens to allow steam to escape through the coffee-filled horn. After a couple of minutes, the cup will fill with a very invigorating but less aromatic coffee.

The power of steam carob coffee makers is usually up to 1000 watts.

How to make a choice?

There are several important details that, if you miss them, you risk being disappointed in your purchase.

1. Horn should be metal. It warms up faster and perfectly conveys the taste of the drink. What can not be said about plastic. Even the best plastic adds a sour flavor and makes coffee watery.
2. The presence of a filter of metal. He should be on the horn. Such a detail gives a nice foam in a mug.
3. Temper (pestle). To get good coffee, the powder in the horn should be tamped with a uniform layer.
4. Power. The indicator directly affects the speed of preparation of the drink. Higher power means less time. And at a lower power, the coffee will brew a little slower, but it will turn out more saturated. The golden mean for domestic use is considered to be 800-1000 watts.

What are the containers for filling water by volume and type

Water tanks can be removable and built-in. The former are easier to wash and type. On models with non-removable containers, a liquid-free indicator is provided.
The volume of the container depends on the type of carob coffee maker. So, in steam tanks small - from 0.2 to 0.6 liters. And in larger pumps - up to 1.5l.

The volume of the container only affects the frequency of adding water. With any capacity, one horn will make no more than two cups of coffee at a time.

Nice additions

• Indicators of the preparation process and the lack of water in the container allow you to monitor the operation of the coffee machine.
• Two pumps instead of one will provide the simultaneous preparation of 2 types of coffee. For example, cappuccino and espresso.
• The bifurcated nozzle is responsible for the simultaneous filling of two cups.
• Maintaining the temperature of the drink and heating the milk will forever forget about the tasteless cooled coffee.

Coffee grinder

In carob coffee makers, a rather rare function. In cheap models, it is simply not provided. It is found in more expensive along with other useful options.

It is very convenient to use the built-in coffee grinder, if only because you do not have to buy and look for a place for a stand-alone device. What else should I look for when choosing?

Temper

This is a very important thing for a carob coffee maker. It serves for tamping ground coffee. Only with its help can a delicious, rich and aromatic coffee be obtained.

Unfortunately, not every horn coffee maker comes with this accessory.

Pros

To be sure that you need a carob coffee machine, you need to know all sides of the “coin”. Let's start with the positive:

1. Here no coffee grounds. Even the smallest particles of coffee powder do not fall into the mug.
2. The original taste of coffee is transmitted 100%.
3. Despite the complexity of the process, cooking is very fast.
4. Coffee consumption is about a third less. Due to the fact that the steam “pulls” everything that is there from the ground powder.
5. As a nice bonus - the formation of creamy foam. This is also the result of the cooking method.

Now you can be sure if you like this type of coffee machine.

Minuses

Among the disadvantages, the following can be noted:

1. Steam models can make good coffee. But real espresso cannot be obtained at a pressure of less than 5 bar.
2. Many carob coffee makers do not have a coffee grinder.
3. It is not very convenient to constantly use a tamper.
4. The cost of such a coffee maker is quite high.
5. Most models are sensitive to grinding quality. The best perceived average.
6. Since this is not a full-cycle coffee machine, one cannot do without human participation in the process.

How to use a horn coffee machine?

Most often, household coffee makers are found with electromechanical control. These are the simplest models, the functionality of which does not need much knowledge. Such machines are controlled by a power regulator or a start button. A lever is also provided for starting steam.

In more expensive models, in addition to the above controls, various indicators are also built in. For example, an indicator of contamination of the boiler or a warning about the need to draw water.

Like any machinery, carob coffee machines require timely service. In fact, it includes several simple steps, the implementation of which will help to avoid expensive repairs.

So, all removable elements must be periodically removed and washed. Do not pour hard water into the coffee maker.

Use medium ground coffee. Large can ruin the device.

After each use, clean.

Periodically check the o-ring on the horn - sometimes it clogs and a leak appears.

What distinguishes professional and conventional models?

Horn coffee machines for restaurants (professional use) have a number of differences from household ones.

Initially, professional equipment is more productive. It is also provided that the load on such a device will be large, that is, with proper maintenance, they will last a long time.

Due to the large number of built-in functions of the coffee machine, they are quite large. They can have either one or two bottling groups.

The biggest difference from household is the connection. In restaurants devices directly connected to the water supply and sewerage. That is, you do not need to add or clean anything. This greatly simplifies the process of working with a coffee machine.

In addition to the most professional equipment, a coffee grinder and an experienced barista are required.

Popular manufacturers

As in any market, there are leaders and lagging behind. One of the best manufacturers is rightfully recognized as De Longhi. Their “chips” were IFD (auto-distribution of frothed milk) and Vario technologies (allows you to adjust the strength of the drink).

The brand Bosch, which is familiar to everyone, is also popular in this segment. Models are characterized by low noise and ease of use.

Another fairly well-known manufacturer of coffee makers is SAECO. A distinctive feature is the presence in the horns of special membranes and o-rings. They create the right pressure for making aromatic coffee.

Browse existing coffee machines for home and office. How to use them, features of each kind.

When choosing a carob coffee maker, you first need to focus on your needs. If you need the device at home, look for quality, appearance and economy.

For the office, reliability and performance will be more important than design.

It is better to choose coffee makers from well-known manufacturers with a guarantee and a service center in your city (just in case).

It is important to remember that in the case of carob coffee makers, the price / quality combination works 100% - the higher the price, the better and more functional the model.

Why are coffee makers called carob?

Carob type coffee makers got their name because of the nest in which ground coffee is poured and tamped. It is called a horn, and in a foreign manner - a holder.

The coffee maker can be single and double-horned. The latter are, as a rule, semi-automatic and automatic coffee makers, designed for a large volume of preparation.

Is the horn and espresso coffee maker the same thing?

The horn coffee maker is a type of espresso coffee maker. Depending on the functions of the coffee maker, it is also possible to prepare drinks based on espresso - cappuccino, lungo, flat white and so on.

Automatic full-cycle coffee machines, in fact, are complex horn coffee makers with automated processes, a complicated design of the heating group and advanced functionality. In everyday life, coffee machines are still singled out as a separate group of devices, and the term “carob” is applied to automatic, semi-automatic, and manual coffee makers of primary and middle class.

Types of Carob Coffee Makers

Carob coffee makers are divided into two types according to the principle of operation, more precisely, according to the type of heating the water and passing it through the ground coffee in the horn. Each type has its pros and cons, design features and limitations.

There are two main types of coffee makers - steam and pump-action.

Steam horn coffee maker

It has the simplest construction and a primitive principle of operation. Water enters the hermetically sealed chamber and is heated to a boil (98-100 degrees). A pressure of up to 4 atmospheres is created in the chamber - it simply cannot be anymore according to safety regulations. When the water reaches the desired temperature, then under the pressure of hot steam, water is pushed out of the heating chamber and passes through the ground coffee, turning into ready-made coffee. Such coffee makers are sometimes called boiler rooms.

Distinctive features of the steam coffee maker

• A small tank due to the fact that water requires strong and even heating.
• The coffee maker does not have a temperature controller. The design requires heating the water practically to a boil.
• Low pressure compared to pump-action coffee makers up to 4 bar.
• The taste of the drink in a steam coffee maker, according to experts, is more coarse and harsh due to the fact that it is brewed with water of too high a temperature.
• A manual cappuccino machine called Panarello is found in all models of steam carob coffee makers.

Reviews of steam carob coffee makers

A few reviews from real owners will give an approximate idea of ​​what you should be prepared for when buying a steam carob.

Irina, owner of the coffee machine De Longhi EC 7

- Simple and unpretentious model. It seems to me that coffee is not as strong as in a regular cafe, but quickly and simply. In the morning, only she helps out when there is no time to stand with the Turk. There is a cappuccino machine, you need to adapt to it, but if you take good milk and do not immerse the cappuccino machine to the bottom, then the cappuccino foam comes out excellent. I think the speed and simplicity are a plus, and the plastic horn and low pressure are a minus.

Vladimir, owner of the Scarlett SC coffee maker

- I was flattered by the price. The model was on the stock and I got very cheap. Coffee brews fast. From the pros - milk foam turns out well. I see a lot of minuses - there is no water indicator, there is no automatic shutdown, the seal of the lid of the water tank began to crack two months after the start of operation. I was not thrilled, but my wife likes her because of her compact size.

Nina, owner of the Polaris PCM model

- My coffee maker makes coffee quickly, almost silently. It is stable, does not slip. The horn is metal, the water tank is made of special glass, there are no odors. My coffee is always delicious, although they say that steam coffee makers are worse. Of the advantages, I will name the build quality and materials of the coffee maker, delicious coffee, the appearance and build quality. Of the minuses - a small amount of cooking, just one cup. If you buy for a family, then it will definitely be too small.

Examples of models of steam carob coffee makers

On the shelves of chain stores are often found models of well-known manufacturers. Among steam carob coffee makers you may come across the following models:

1. De longhi ec
2. Scarlett sc
3. Polaris pcm
4. Rowenta allegro es
5. Redmond rcm
6. Sinbo SCM

Rating of steam carob coffee makers

You can read more about our rating in the article “Rating of carob coffee makers”.

TOP-3 steam carob coffee makers in the segment up to 8 000 r looks like this.

• 1st place - Polaris PCM 4002 at the price of 3990 p. The best balance of quality, functionality, reliability and price in its category.
• 2nd place - De Longhi EC 7 at the price of 3500 p. Second place due to frequent complaints about the quality of the finished drink and the high price.
• 3rd place - Scarlett SC-037 at the price of 2990 p. The model received an honorable third place for its democratic price tag.

Pump-type carob coffee maker

Pump-action coffee makers have a working principle common to all carob coffee makers: hot water passes through the thickness of ground coffee and enters the cup. The principle of heating water in a pump-action coffee maker is somewhat different from steam. Water is heated to a temperature of 92-95 degrees, and then pushed through a holder with ground coffee under a pressure of 15 bar. As a result of gentle heating, the aroma and bouquet are better preserved in coffee. In a steam coffee machine, part of the taste and smell is lost due to the high temperature of the water passing through the ground coffee.

1 - water tank

2 - boiler (pump)

3 - steam valve

4 - steam exhaust pipe

5 - heating element

6 - coffee horn (holder, portfilter)

Distinctive features of the pump-action coffee maker

• High pressure, from 15 bar.
• The water tank can be of various volumes.
• Many models have a thermostat, you can set the heating temperature.
• It makes it possible to prepare a classic espresso with a rich taste.
• Variety of coffee recipes.
• Higher cost compared to steam models.
• In more expensive models, a semi-automatic or automatic control system is implemented and additional functions - quick steam, cup heating, filter size selection and so on.

Reviews on the pump-action carob coffee maker

Vlad, coffee machine model VITEK VT-1502

- I have been using it for more than a year, it is quite satisfied. Metal horn for coffee, all parts fit perfectly, no extraneous noise. I found out for myself that a dense foam is obtained if you remove the rubber nozzle from the cappuccino maker. Fiberglass water container, no odors. It used to happen that water poured over the edges of the coffee horn and it leaked. Now I turn off the steam button when pouring water for coffee. All in all, I am satisfied. We have a sophisticated coffee machine in our office. The difference between the "home" coffee and the "office" option, I do not feel.

Elena, model coffee machine De Longhi ECP 31.21

- The coffee maker is comfortable, it works almost without noise, the coffee brews excellent, with froth, as in a restaurant. The cappuccino machine seemed to me a little short, but it is fixable, I bought a deep pitcher for it. Convenient auto power off function. In the coffee maker you can use pads. There is a stand for cups. I like that the filter horn is metal. Of the shortcomings, I do not know what to note. Unless, once left water in the tank, and then too lazy to replace. As a result, the smell of plastic appeared, so now I pour only fresh water.

Rating of pump-action carob coffee makers

Among pump-action coffee makers, it is more difficult to identify favorites due to the fact that in the high price segment they smoothly transfer to the category of coffee machines. We decided to limit our interests to models up to 20,000 p. Read more about the rating in a special article - “Rating of carob coffee makers”. Here we present only the results

Our TOP-5 steam carob coffee makers look like this.

• 1st place - DeLonghi ESAM 2600 for 20 500 p. She is a miniature coffee machine and brews excellent coffee.
• 2nd place - Kenwood ES 020 for 15 000 p. Good balance of price and quality of the finished coffee.
• 3rd place - Gaggia Gran Prestige for 12 500 p. For a very good finished coffee and a reliable metal case.
• 4th place - Saeco HD8323 for 9 000 p. Loses as a finished drink and the reliability of the model.
• 5th place - De Longhi ECP 31.21 for 9 000 p. Low price and decent coffee, but there is no auto power off and the cappuccino machine often causes complaints.

Problems that may arise with carob coffee makers

Even reliable and high-quality models can have nuances and features. We will not be able to talk about all the failures, but there are problems common to many models.

• Water spills over the edge of the holder. Most likely, the pressure is too high. Try disabling the steam function.
• Milk foam is badly whipped. Try to take another type of milk, pre-cool it, and do not immerse the cappuccino machine deeply.
• Work oddities are sudden stops or interruptions. They don’t find anything in the service center? Check mains voltage. Some models are very sensitive to this factor.
• Poor quality of seals and joints. Basically, cheap models are guilty of this. The only way out is replacing the seals.
• Bad plastic smell. Try several times to drive through the system just water, without coffee, and then prepare the drink only in fresh and purified water.

Is coffee in a carob coffee machine tasty?

The taste of coffee depends not only on the type of coffee machine, but also on the selected beans and proper grinding.

We can say that coffee in a carob coffee machine turns out to be tasty if you brew it in accordance with all the rules from good beans. Espresso lovers value a drink brewed in a pump-action coffee maker more - it tastes better in it. At the same time, espresso brewed in steam will be tastier than instant coffee or made in a microwave.

Many people believe that espresso in a geyser coffee machine and in a steam room are quite comparable in quality.

Additional functions

Additional settings and functions in different models can make the cooking process easier, and ready-made coffee tastes better.

• The water level indicator will tell you that it is time to fill the tank.
• With auto power off, you can not stand over the coffee maker.
• A removable drip tray is more convenient to wash than a non-removable one.
• Heated coffee will help preserve the taste and aroma of the finished drink, do not let it cool.
• The stop button will help to interrupt the process if something goes wrong.
• The beverage strength regulator will give consistent espresso quality.
• The temperature controller allows you to select the optimal heating of water to obtain the desired coffee.

The volume of the water tank does not affect the choice too much. You can make only two servings of coffee from one horn at a time and no matter how large your capacity is. After this, the holder will have to be cleaned and washed, so that you can pour fresh water into the container.

A carob steam coffee maker can be bought in the range of 5-8 thousand rubles.

The entry-level carriage pump - for 8-12 thousand.

Carob pump of good quality - for 15-25 thousand.

History of the carob coffee maker

The prototype of an espresso machine was a compression type machine created by the Frenchman Eduard Loisel de Sante in the 19th century. In 1901, the Italian engineer Luigi Bezzer received a patent for a coffee machine that very quickly prepared rich and strong coffee.

Bezzer did not engage in the production and in 1903 he sold his patent to the industrialist Desiderio Pavoni, who, after 2 years, began to produce coffee machines. However, due to a lack of design, the coffee grounds in them overheated, as a result, the coffee was bitter.

The commercial success of Pavoni did not go unnoticed, and soon several more companies began to manufacture coffee machines. Over the next 50 years, large companies have been founded that still exist:

• Simonelli (Italy) - produces medium and high-performance espresso machines,
• Faema (Italy),
• Gaggia (Italy) - currently, as part of Saeco, was acquired by Philips,
• JURA Elektroapparate AG (Switzerland).

Experimentally, we determined the optimal parameters of the coffee machine for making espresso:

• the pressure in the working chamber is about 9 bar,
• water temperature - in the range from 86 to 93 ºС.

The founder of Gaggia, Giovanni Achille Gaggia, was able to create technology to improve the quality of espresso. Gaggia has patented the use of a screw piston to force water through pressed coffee powder. The contact with steam was eliminated, and the bitterness that appeared due to the high temperature disappeared from the taste of espresso. The so-called lever (piston) coffee makers can still be found in cafes and bars, although now they are armed with automatic and super-automatic machines.

In the second half of the XX century, the dimensions of coffee machines decreased significantly, coffee makers appeared not only for catering, but also for home. When designing new devices, electric heat exchangers, rotary pumps, and a cooking chamber with internal heating were used. In 1961, the predecessors of modern home espresso machines were launched:

• "Elektra Micro Casa a Leva",
• "La Pavoni Europiccola".

In 1964, the La Pavoni Professional Lever coffee machine, specifically designed for home use, went on sale.

Modern carob type coffee makers

Progress does not stand still, every day there are new manufacturers and increasingly advanced models that have a set of additional functions:

• cappuccinator - a device for whipping milk foam,
• cup warmer
• pre-wetting function of coffee powder,
• in coffee machines - an integrated coffee grinder and processor for executing various programs, including recipes for coffee drinks, self-cleaning and decalcification procedures (getting rid of scale).

Features of steam coffee machines

Steam coffee makers, or Steam-Espresso, are much cheaper than pump-action ones, but the quality of the drink differs in strength and taste.

The steam generated as a result of boiling water in the tank, when a pressure of 4-5 bar is reached, opens the valve and enters the working chamber (inside the filter holder). Then the steam passes through a compressed tablet of ground coffee, then the condensate flows into a pre-set cup. The drink may be bitter, because the steam has a too high temperature, and due to the low pressure (below 9 bar) the contact of coffee grounds with steam lasts quite a long time.

Steam-Espresso Example

It is difficult to get a classic espresso in a steam type coffee maker, the result in consistency and taste is closer to the lungo, although the caffeine content will be high.

• steam coffee makers are cheaper than pump-action
• do not create noise during the work,
• the drink is invigorating.

• making a cup of coffee takes longer than in a pump-action coffee maker,
• the drink is a little watery.

Features of pump-action coffee makers

Pump-type horn coffee makers (also called Pump-Espresso) are considered a better option than steam. Pump coffee makers are equipped with an electromagnetic pump that drives water through the fuser. In the boiler, the water is heated to a temperature not exceeding +93 ºС, high pressure is created, which can reach 10 in the filter, and up to 15 bar in some models.

Pump-espresso

Drinks prepared in Pump-Espresso coffee makers are better, tastes of coffee beans are revealed more fully.

• a full-bodied drink without particles
• lush coffee foam (cream) is formed,
• making a cup of coffee takes 20-30 seconds,
• the taste lacks sourness and bitterness.

• the pump pump is noisy
• quite high price.

How to choose a carob for your home

Steam or pump-action? - This is the main question that you need to solve for yourself when choosing a carob coffee machine for the home.

1. What material the body and the horn are made of: metal is stronger and will last longer, the product will not smell like plastic. Coffee powder in such a coffee machine warms up better, the drink is more saturated.
2. What additional options is the device equipped with, for example:

• control of pressure and temperature, water level in the tank,
• timer,
• the number of horns, the presence of measuring spoons (different in volume, for 1 or 2 servings) and the tempera in the kit,
• the presence of several filters, for the preparation of 1 or 2 servings at once, for the use of pads,
• heated cup platform
• the possibility of simultaneous preparation of coffee and milk foam,
• inclusion lock in the absence of water in the tank or a compressed tablet in the horn,
• auto shut off function if water runs out,
• power saving mode.

Popular coffee makers (model rating)

The rating of carob coffee makers is headed by devices of brands Delonghi, Vitek, Krups, Philips. Each model has its pros and cons. Devices differ in the principle of operation, the volume of the water tank, power consumption and a set of functions.

The leading position is held by Delonghi carob coffee makers, they are both on average and in the upper price segment.

Delonghi EC 7. The coffee maker has a relatively low price (7500 p.), Easy to operate.

Delonghi EC 7

• power - 810 W,
• semiautomatic device
• power indicator
• control the strength of the drink,
• the possibility of making cappuccino.

A more expensive version of the carob coffee maker is Delonghi ECAM22.360 (price - 34,000 p.).

Delonghi ECAM22.360

• machine,
• power of 1460 W,
• tank volume - 1.8 l,
• the ability to select the operating temperature
• start time setting
• the presence of a timer
• control the strength of the drink.

Another best-selling coffee maker is VITEK VT-1516 (price - 15,600 p.).

VITEK VT-1516

• power - 1060 W,
• semiautomatic device for ground grains,
• the ability to adjust the portion of water,
• the presence of two metal horns,
• There is a water level indicator.

Caring for your coffee maker

Carob type coffee makers are easy to clean:

• easy to remove the used tablet,
• in models equipped with a special filter, you can use coffee in pads, which greatly facilitates the process of preparing a drink and cleaning the filter from the grounds,
• the removable tank is very easy to fill with water and wash,
• the drip tray is easy to remove and wash,
• the horn (holder or filter holder) is convenient to insert and easy to remove,
• if even after filtration the water remains hard, it is necessary to clean the appliance from scale every 2-3 months using a weak solution of citric acid or special products that can be bought in stores.

It is necessary to monitor the condition of the rubber gaskets, the horn should be installed tightly and tightly in the holder so that it is not disrupted by the pressure of water or steam.

Instruction manual

1. Pour bottled water with a salt concentration in the range of 75 to 250 mg / L into the tank.
2. Fill the filter with coffee powder and ram it with a tamper. In a measuring spoon is placed 7-8 g, exactly 1 serving, if there is a second, then 2 servings - 14-16 g.
3. Carefully insert the horn into the holding device and turn the handle all the way to the right.
4. Start the pre-wetting function, if provided in the coffee maker.
5. Turn the switch to the On position.
6. Wait until the indicator light lights up, indicating that the water has warmed up.
7. Place the heated cup on the grate covering the tray and turn on the release of the finished drink using the button (or by turning the switch).
8. If you want to prepare milk froth, you need to use the “Steam” function and substitute a pitcher or a glass of milk under the plastic nozzle of the cappuccino machine. Turn on the cappuccino maker. Add milk foam to a cup of coffee with a spoon.
9. After the cycle is over and the horn has cooled, turn the handle to the left, carefully remove the filter with the wet tablet from it and discard it. Rinse the devices with running water, being careful not to leave grains of ground coffee at the edges of the filter and the horn.
10. If the pan is filled with liquid, carefully remove it, pour the contents into the sink and rinse under running water, otherwise mold may appear.
11. Disconnect the coffee maker from the network or leave it in standby mode if this cup of coffee is not the last for today.

Failures of carob coffee makers

A semi-automatic or automatic coffee machine is a rather complex device with fine-tuning. Repair will cost a lot, but independent intervention in the operation of the device can cause considerable harm. Do not repair the electrical system if you do not have the appropriate education and skills to use instrumentation. Everything related to electronics and heating elements is best provided to specialists, especially if the warranty period has not yet expired.

The main thing is to properly and regularly look after the coffee maker, then there will be few malfunctions.

A horn coffee maker, whose function is only to make a drink using ground coffee, is also a serious mechanism. But if adding water, filling and cleaning the horn, emptying the drip tray, flushing all systems from pollution is done manually, then you can fix some malfunctions yourself.