April 2019

With this article we want to provide a small guide to choosing the new models of automatic coffee machines from the Philips and Saeco range available on the Caffè Italia store. The models compared provide an overview of the best models of automatic coffee machines currently available on the market.

Through the different types of displays it is possible to prepare your favorite beverage in just a few seconds. The Philips and Saeco coffee machine models compared are equipped with aroma adjustment, temperature adjustment, selection of the degree of coffee grinding. They also allow you to save your preferences (eg.: MyCoffee Choice).

The models of the Saeco Gran Baristo line allow the preparation of 10-12 different types of drinks: from espresso to macchiato, from cappuccino to latte macchiato, from long espresso to American coffee.

All the Saeco and Philips automatic coffee machine models compared allow the preparation of delicious cappuccinos through the adoption of three different technologies:

• Classic Pannarello: the classic steam dispensing system that allows you to easily prepare a soft and velvety milk froth for delicious cappuccinos. The system consists of two parts and is very easy to clean.
• Latte Go: 2-part milk supply system that does not include pipes or hidden parts and can be cleaned quickly under running water or in the dishwasher
• Integrated milk carafe: it allows the preparation of creamy cappuccinos and latte macchiato just by pouring the milk into the large integrated carafe. In this way, in a few seconds it will be possible to prepare the chosen beverage without splashes and temperature losses.

Almost all the models listed are equipped with an AquaClean filter that prevents the formation of limescale and blocks water impurities. The system, by replacing 8 filter cartridges, guarantees the preparation of 5,000 coffees without a descaling process.

The models compared are equipped with an automatic system for cleaning and rinsing the coffee circuit with water. The coffee circuit cleaning system is activated at start-up or at shutdown, to offer an exceptional aroma with each cup. The various models are also equipped with a guided descaling system that extends the life of the coffee machine. Every model of Philips and Saeco coffee machine warns when it is necessary to perform the descaling and through clear messages visible through the supplied display.

More information available at: Philips/Saeco Section

Manual coffee machines are the favorite models for coffee lovers who prefer to prepare their own drinks as if they were in their trusted bar. There are many models of manual coffee machines that adapt to all types of budgets. In this article we want to list some features that can affect the purchasing choices of a particular model of traditional coffee machine.

MACHINE SIZE

The dimensions are very important especially for the areas of use and the type of drinks that can be prepared. A domestic coffee machinewith a small boiler will have more difficulty keeping the water warm enough and an ideal steam for whipping milk. The professional coffee machine on the other hand, characterized by a heavier structure, and with a lot of metal, will keep the pressure and therefore the heat of the water at its best.

For lovers of cappuccinos our advice is to evaluate the models of double boiler coffee machines like Bezzera Duo MN.

PUMP PRESSURE

Another important factor is the pump pressure which on average, for domestic use, must be within a range of 9-15 bar. The pump is a very important element because it allows the water to be crushed against the coffee at a pressure that can be controlled by means of a pressure gauge.

Rancilio Silvia is fitted with a ULKA line pump used by the best coffee machines for domestic use.

FILTER HOLDER

The filter holder is used to insert and remove coffee doses in the group.

Some models such as La Pavoni Gran Caffè Pressurizzato use the pressurized portafilter which allows the coffee to be dispensed only when an ideal pressure level is reached. This type of filter holder is suitable for less experienced users who can easily obtain a good cream.

The classic filter holder is instead aimed at a professional user and requires that the dose is adequately pressed and characterized by a correct grinding. The result however, is an espresso with a thick and consistent cream. Quick Mill Carola is equipped with a series of filter holders for various types of use.

TYPE OF BOILER

The boiler is used to keep the water warm through a heat exchanger and to deliver steam and hot water. Usually the domestic coffee machine models have boilers made of steel or aluminum.

The aluminum boiler has advantages in terms of heating speed and lower energy consumption but is more subject to wear due to limestone. Gaggia Classic is a coffee machine model equipped with an aluminum boiler.

Otherwise the steel boiler is more resistant to wear and offers higher temperature maintenance capacities. The Profitec Pro line is instead equipped with a stainless steel boiler.

Cleaning the coffee machine is one of the main aspects carefully assessed by the consumer when choosing to purchase a particular model of coffee machine. Compared to traditional and automatic models, capsule coffee machines are often preferred because they are simpler and more convenient to clean.

In all cases the main rule is to carefully follow the instruction booklet of the machine model in possession.

WHAT IS DESCALING?

Descaling is the process by which the limestone in the coffee machine is eliminated. A component common to all the coffee machines that is indispensable for their use is water, which should be pure and free of external agents that compromise its purity. In many cases the water used in the coffee machine contains limescale and other impurities which, especially in the event of an increase in temperature, hinder its correct functioning and affect the quality of the coffee dispensed.

HOW TO DESCALE AN AUTOMATIC COFFEE MACHINE?

The automatic coffee machine models (like Gaggia Brera, Gaggia Velasca, Saeco Intelia, De Longhi Primadonna etc.) have a special function for decalcifying the coffee machine. These models usually come with a light that notifies the need to activate the process. Generally, this time comes after the 200 coffees delivered, but may change depending on the model. To carry out the descaling process it is sufficient to insert in the water tank the product created for the occurrence (capsules or liquid) that is usually supplied with the purchase of the coffee machine. Then the appropriate button is pressed and the descaling cycle is awaited. It is advisable to make some coffee to empty to completely empty the machine from possible chemical agents left as residue.

HOW TO DESCALE A TRADITIONAL COFFEE MACHINE?

To descale a traditional coffee machine (like Rancilio Silvia, Gaggia Classic, La Pavoni Europiccola etc.), carefully follow the instructions described in the user manual. In many cases, a common operation consists in completely emptying the water and residues left over after use (coffee pods or coffee grounds). To proceed with descaling it is therefore necessary to use a diluent mixture to add to the water in the tray. At this point it is mandatory to follow the instructions of the coffee machine model. These products are diluted with water, the mixture is poured into the basin, then the ignition is activated and the liquid is made to flow out until the water is exhausted. In some cases it is necessary to repeat the descaling cycle 3-4 times. Naturally it is necessary to put a large container instead of the cup. At the end of the descaling process it is a good rule to repeat the procedure using only water, to rinse off any residues of the mixture.

Discover the full range of descaling products