Tech Tip: Don't Burn the Midnight Oil

We often see single boiler machines (such as some models from Rancilio Silvia, Ascaso Dream Up) that have suffered from one of the silent ills of home espresso machines: Heat element abuse. Sure, this is a something no one wants to talk about -- it's ugly, it's bloated and it's burned out. This is not a sexy subject, but we can't stand by any longer and watch as it's so cavalierly swept under the rug! It's time for us to take a stand...and let you know how you can keep your single boiler machine from becoming just another expensive statistic. Our How to Brew & Steam - Rancilio Silvia article outlines the basic brewing process that you should follow for any single boiler machine: Namely, steam your milk first and then pull your shots. Following this process enables the machine to pump in and steam the appropriate amount of water necessary to first steam a 12 - 16 oz. quantity of milk and then brew an espresso shot. If you do the opposite and brew the shot before you steam the milk, it will empty out the boiler and, the next time you go to make your coffee, it will attempt to warm nonexistent water, fatiguing the element over time and eventually burning it out. This burn out could be the end result of hundreds of tiny daily misuses or happen in one big event -- like when you're having a party and need to make many lattes at one time. For the latter, be sure to follow the brewing guidelines and serve your guests coffee in shifts. Make some jokes. Show them how charming you are. Do whatever you need to do -- just don't abuse your espresso machine. Above Picture: Rancilio Silvia heating element burned out (top) and brand new (bottom)