Coffee Machine Hacks Every Beginner Should Know!

Think pressing a button makes perfect coffee? Think again! Master these pro tips to brew like a barista at home.

5 Must-Follow Steps for Better Espresso

1. Preheat Religiously – Always flush the group head with hot water first (cold machines = sour shots).

2. Dose Precisely – 18g of coffee is the golden standard (get a $5 scale!).

3. Tamp Like a Pro – Apply 30lbs of even pressure (wonky tamps cause channeling).

4. Time Your Shot – 25-30 seconds for 36g output (should flow like warm honey).

5. Purge After Use – Run water post-brew to protect your machine.

Top 3 Rookie Mistakes

Snapping Portafilter In – Gently lock it in to avoid spills.

Using Tap Water – Hard water kills machines (use filtered + descale monthly).

Leaving Wet Baskets – Wipe dry to prevent stale flavors.

Next-Level Tricks

• Naked Portafilter – Watch extraction for "tiger stripes" (sign of perfect flow).

• Steam Wand Prep – Blast out condensation before frothing.

• Temp Control – Dark roast 92°C. Light roast 96°C.

Maintenance Made Easy

Daily – Rinse group head + dump grounds.

Weekly – Scrub the gasket & shower screen.

Monthly – Deep descale + lubricate parts.

#HomeBarista #EspressoTips #CoffeeHacks

#automatic coffee machine #espresso coffee machine