DVDHack Senior Member Joined: 27 Oct 2003 Posts: 1 Expertise: Beginner
Posted Mon Oct 27, 2003, 3:44am Subject: Which espresson machine to buy?
I have read many reviews on this site but many indicate that machines have a lot of problems. Either their thermostats go in no time or the machine packs it in after 12 months or when just out of warranty.
Can someone advise on a really good machine that is known for its reliability?
milnerb1 Senior Member Joined: 25 Sep 2002 Posts: 390 Location: Lake Tapps, WA Expertise: I love coffee
Espresso: Vivaldi II, Isomac Tea,... Grinder: Mazzer Mini, Solis Mulino Roaster: Behmor 1600, BBQ drum,...
Posted Tue Oct 28, 2003, 5:13am Subject: Re: Which espresson machine to buy?
DVDHack Said:
I have read many reviews on this site but many indicate that machines have a lot of problems. Either their thermostats go in no time or the machine packs it in after 12 months or when just out of warranty.
Can someone advise on a really good machine that is known for its reliability?
I'm not sure what you mean by a $1000 machine "packing it in" after 12 months. These machines are made with essentially commercial components. They are simply constructed and can be easily repaired with parts that are readily available. I've never heard of one of these machines "packing it in" after 12 months.
That said, it doesn't mean that these machines do not require some level of 'maintenance'. You will have to clean the machine regularly, particularly if there is a water storage tank. You'll have to replace the grouphead gasket every 6-12 months. You may have to occasionally replace the a gasket to the steam or hot water knob.
Longer term repairs that might be required every few years include a new pressurestat ($20), a new pump ($60), a new relay that controls the cycling of the machine, re-sealing a leaking copper connection, or descaling (but not if you use soft water).
Other than that, there's not a whole lot else that can go wrong with a big chunk of copper and stainless steel.
Overall, these machines are not low maintenance though. They are messy, require regular backflushing and cleaning, and require occasional repairs. IMO, it's a small price to pay for what you get out of it.
Regarding machines that are the most dependable, I don't think there's much difference. Giotto, the higher-end Isomacs, Wegas, Rancillios, and Livias come to mind as fiarly dependable machines. The Exobar and La Valencia also appear to be dependable, but have not been on the market long enough to know for sure.
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