Coffee making tips

Care and cleaning

Tips on making the perfect espresso

Don’t just rely on your coffee maker to do all the work. Making a good cup of coffee is an art.

Water flow

If you’re making an espresso, make sure the water flows through the coffee filter at the correct rate. If it’s too slow, the coffee will be over-extracted - too dark and bitter, with a mottled and uneven crema on top. If it flows too quickly, the coffee will be under- extracted - the proper flavour won’t have had time to develop. You can adjust the water flow by tamping (pressing down) the coffee firmly or by changing the grind of the coffee.

The coffee

Pre-ground coffee will only retain its flavour for

1 week, provided it is stored in an air tight container, in a cool, dark area. Whole coffee beans are recommended and should be ground just before use. Coffee beans stored in an airtight container will keep up to 1 month before they begin to lose their flavour. Do not store in a refrigerator freezer.

The grind

If using pre-ground coffee, ensure you purchase an espresso grind for espresso/cappuccino machines.

If grinding your own beans the coffee must be ground fine, but not too fine. It can effect the taste and the rate the water flows through it.

If the grind is too fine, the water will not flow through the coffee even under pressure (this grind looks like powder and feels like flour when rubbed between fingers).

If the grind is too coarse, the water flows through the coffee too fast, preventing a full flavoured extraction.

Before cleaning, ensure the selector control is in the ‘OFF’ position. Switch off at the power outlet, then unplug the power cord and allow the unit to cool.

Cleaning the steam wand and froth enhancer

The steam wand and froth enhancer should always be cleaned after frothing milk.

Remove the froth enhancer and rinse under warm tap water.

Wipe the steam wand with a damp cloth.

Briefly set the selector control to the Steam position to clear any remaining milk from the steam wand.

If the steam wand becomes blocked, wait for the machine to cool before using a needle or paperclip to unblock the opening.

Cleaning the filters, filter holder and brewing head

Directly after use, remove used coffee grounds and rinse the stainless filters and filter holder under running water. Should the fine holes in the filters become blocked, then a normal dishwashing brush should be used (do not use a brush with metal bristles).

The brewing head should be wiped with a damp cloth to remove any old espresso grounds.

It is advisable to periodically run water through the unit with the filter in place but without any coffee to clean out any old coffee grounds.

Cleaning the housing / cup warming tray

The outer housing can be cleaned with a soft, damp cloth (do not use abrasive agents or cloths which can scratch the surfaces).

Cleaning the drip tray

The drip tray should be removed, emptied and cleaned at regular intervals, particularly when the water level indicator is exposed indicating the drip tray is full.

Remove the grid, steam baffle and water level indicator from the drip tray, wash all 4 parts with water and non-abrasive washing liquid before rinsing and drying.

Do not place any of the components in the dishwasher.

Note

DO NOT IMMERSE ANY PART OF YOUR BREVILLE ESPRESSO/CAPPUCCINO MACHINE IN WATER OR ANY OTHER LIQUID.

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Breville ESP8B manual Coffee making tips Care and cleaning

ESP8B specifications

The Breville ESP8B is a remarkable machine that appeals to both novice coffee enthusiasts and seasoned baristas alike. This espresso maker combines practicality with performance, resulting in a superb espresso experience that can be enjoyed at home. One of its main features is the 15-bar Italian pump, which ensures optimum extraction for rich and flavorful espresso shots. Coupled with a powerful 1,300-watt heating element, the unit heats up quickly, reducing waiting times between shots and allowing for a seamless coffee-making process.

A standout characteristic of the ESP8B is its dual-function filter holder. This appliance is equipped with both a single and a double filter basket, giving users the flexibility to brew a single shot or a double shot of espresso according to their needs. The filter holder is designed for easy operation, and its integrated pressure gauge allows for precise monitoring during the brewing process, ensuring you achieve the perfect extraction every time.

The Breville ESP8B also features a stainless-steel steam wand that is great for frothing milk. This allows users to create rich, creamy cappuccinos and lattes with a café-quality microfoam. The steam wand is highly maneuverable, granting baristas the ability to customize the milk texture to suit their preferences. In addition to these features, the machine comes with a large water tank, which is removable for easy filling and cleaning.

Designed with user-friendliness in mind, the Breville ESP8B includes an intuitive control panel that simplifies the espresso-making process. The machine accommodates both ground coffee and ESE pods, making it versatile for different brew preferences and skill levels. Cleanup is made easy with a removable drip tray and a dedicated cleaning cycle, demonstrating the manufacturer's attention to convenience.

The sleek stainless steel exterior not only provides durability but also enhances the aesthetic of any kitchen countertop. Overall, the Breville ESP8B is a feature-rich espresso machine that balances design, functionality, and ease of use, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to elevate their home coffee brewing experience. Whether you are savoring a morning espresso or entertaining guests with specialty coffee drinks, the Breville ESP8B delivers consistent results that will leave a lasting impression.