Sunday, October 20, 2013

BELLA 13683 Espresso Maker, Black



Simple Machine, Complicated Process, Great Espresso
This machine works perfectly fine after practicing the "Brewing Espresso" process described in the instruction manual and requires a certain timing. The machine works great when used properly and it's only $40?? Don't let the bad reviews stop you. Until you get into units costing $100 or more, espresso at this price is going to be the same.

For people having trouble, here are the steps I take for two shots of espresso. (Even though only 1 oz of water is required per shot, having more water helps with pressure.)

1) Fill carafe to the 2 "Cup" line with cold water and pour into pressure chamber.

2) Fill ground espresso into metal basket to the first line, or just use the scooper provided. Unfortunately, the tamper end of the scoop doesn't go deep enough into the basket so you will have to be creative or order a new tamper; then, tighten the basket into the espresso maker.

3) Turn the machine to "Brew" by turning the knob in the up direction...

Gets the job done.
Some of the reviews for this product are a bit misleading. I've owned 3 of the Mr. Coffee Espresso machines, the Mr. Coffee ECM20 Steam Espresso Maker, Black, Mr. Coffee ECM250 4-Cup Espresso/Cappuccino Maker, and recently the Mr. Coffee ECM160 4-Cup Steam Espresso Machine, Black..and this one by Bella does just as good a job for the price it's at. The ECM160 reservoir finally got too clogged from scaling due to the water I was using. It's just my fault for not cleaning it often enough. Remember to keep up with that, people!

I too wanted a replacement, and as much as I wanted another Mr. Coffee machine, like Walmart's (Mr. Coffee BVMC-ECM260 Espresso - 4 Cup - Stainless Steel Black Target...

Makes great tasting coffee
Quick and easy to brew one cup.
Works with ground coffee, doesn't have to be espresso.
It's small enough to be able to travel with it.
Easy clean up.
Makes a flavorful cup of coffee.

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