The World Of Commercial Espresso Machines

Espresso machines have quickly become a standard appliance in many kitchens -- an espresso machine allows coffee connoisseurs coffee to enjoy all sorts of coffee products -- from a rich, powerful shot of espresso to the many other espresso drinks offered at popular coffee houses. There is such a wide range of espresso machines available on the market that the decision as to which to purchase must be made carefully.

There are many factors to consider and basically six distinct categories of machines to choose from. The first type of espresso machine is a stovetop coffee pot which looks like an old-fashioned percolator. There is also a stovetop model which is called a 'moka' pot. The moka pot is frequently used in Italy, Portugal, and Spain.

Stovetop espresso machines can produce a very complex espresso. They are able to use an extraction ratio which is comparable to more intricate espresso machines. The stovetop espresso machine works by pushing steam, which has been pressurized, from the bottom of the pot up through the coffee beans and the filter, to the serving chamber on the top of the pot. The stovetop machines are even able to produce the foam topping associated with espresso.

The second type of espresso machine to be considered is a manual lever espresso machine. This machine is very simple -- it combines the old-fashioned espresso machine with the technology of a top-down machine. Many espresso connoisseurs believe it produces the best espresso. However, to be operated correctly the person using it must be trained correctly because it requires the use of a manual pump to produce the pressure needed to push the steam and the hot water through the ground coffee beans.

Most espresso machines used in the home come with a semi-automatic pump. The machines with semi-automatic pumps are run by an electric pump which must be manually turned on and off. There is still some skill required to use these pumps as the timing of switching the pump on or off must be correct.

There is also skill required to choose the correct beans and knowing how to grind and tamp the beans. The most convenient espresso machine is the automatic pump espresso machine. This machine takes care of everything from the flow of the boiling water and the steam and the timing. Skill is still required to choose the best beans, grinding, and grind tamping. Since variables are involved it's a good idea to keep notes each time you make espresso so that when you hit upon a combination you love you will be able to make it again.

Another type of espresso machine is the super automatic espresso machine. This type of machine is very sophisticated. Since it is so automated it provides excellent quality and consistency each time the espresso is made. The super automatic machines usually do everything from grinding the beans to filling the grind and the filter basket to brewing the espresso at the correct temperature and pressure.

Some machines are even sophisticated enough to get rid of the grinds in a self-contained garbage unit so that the machine will be ready and waiting for espresso next time it is desired. With a super automatic machine the only variable is the quality of coffee beans chosen. So the owner of such a unit will be able to vary the type of espresso they prepare and enjoy by choosing a variety of beans (or sticking with their favorite bean).

A capsule, or pod, espresso machine is an all-inclusive unit. This type of machine uses a pre-packaged capsule (a.k.a. pod) so that the grinding, filtering, and tamping process are eliminated. Espresso machines that use pod/capsule technology are frequently used in businesses (such as offices, restaurants, and cafeterias) but they are also excellent for home use because they are so convenient and easy to use.

Each of the different espresso machines offer different benefits and drawbacks -- whichever machine you choose you will be certain to enjoy espresso brewed in your own home and available any time night or day.