Do espresso machines lose pressure and power over time?!
Do espresso machines lose pressure and power over time?
I have owned several espresso machines and it seems after time they lose pressure. Also, do you think home versions are as good as commercial. I cannot froth milk as well as Starbuck's.
Answers:
yes, espresso machines do lose power over time. they're just like cars, they need maintenance. and, yes, i'm afraid home versions are not are good as the commercial units. here's the reason: espresso machines run on hot-water boilers. most (if not all) home units use a single boiler whereas all commercial unit have 2 boilers, sometimes 3. these large boilers generate alot of heat and pressure which produce a more consistent steam. the home units just cannot produce the kind of drink you get at specialty coffee shops. honestly, my best advice to you is either save up and buy a single group head commercial La Marzocco espresso machine or stick to Starbucks.
Source(s):
www.coffeegeek.com
Haven't we all lay awake at night with this question gnawing at our innards at some time?
Yea, just like every other form of equipment, espresso machines go "bad" after a while. I can say that home versions are not as good as commercial, for one thing our machine at Starbuck's costs several thousands of dollars. However, even our machines will go bad with time.
We sell a mini version of our machine called "Mini Barista"(?) that runs for around $300, it just got on sale. It does a great job of frothing milk.
It seems so. I get better results if I put some semi-hot half 'n' half into an empty container with a lid and just shake the ever-lovin' heck out of it! I mean SHAKE! It froths up ok, not great, but doesn't give you fits like the small machine frothers do.