Espresso

Electric Steam

This was the first type of espresso machine to receive popularity in the American mainstream coffee culture. In an electric steam machine, the water poured into a reservoir is heated to come to a boil. This same water is then used to steam milk and brew the espresso. This method gets the water pressure up to about 1 bar (but the preferred pressure at which espresso is brewed is about 8 bar). People who favor a stronger brew of coffee normally prefer the electric steam espresso machine.
 
 
 


Advantages

Disadvantages

  • It is relatively inexpensive.
  • Units usually include carafe for espresso.
  • Simpler control panel, with usually a few switches and a dial.
  • Only very low pressure can be achieved, which makes the production of crema unlikely.
  • Using the same boiler for espresso and steaming milk causes the espresso to be brewed very hot, giving it a burnt taste.
  • Water reservoir takes several minutes to heat up and usually does not hold much water.
  • Given the low pressure, frothing is often very difficult.
  • Most have a plastic hull, which must be handled with extreme care.



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  1. The Basics
  2. Strange Brew
  3. Espresso Machines - A Brief History
  4. Anatomy of a Coffee Machine
  5. Types of Espresso Machine
  6. Stovetop Espresso Machine
  7. Electric Piston Espresso Machine
  8. Electric Steam Espresso
  9. Electric Pump/Boiler Espresso
  10. Home Coffee Machines
  11. Commercial Espresso Machines
  12. Equipment Maintenance