I’ve had this machine for 5 years and it’s going strong. I never use the steam wand very much, so I can’t comment as much other than it still works. I’ve never descaled or cleaned the machine other than the outer workings, driptray, etc. I pull at least 2-3 shots daily from this machine, and more when I have visitors- and when I make them a shot, they can’t believe it. The trick is in the coffee and a quality burr grinder. Don’t buy greasy dark beans. Look at the beans in a can of Illy Coffee and notice the color/dryness of the beans. Next go find similar looking beans at a local roaster (NOT Peete’s or Safeway, but someone who roasts their own if you can!). Other advice is to use good water. I just Britta filter my tap water. Other simple carbon-based filters should work as well.
All machines in this price range drip to some degree, so for those who have complained about the dripping should get over it. That’s why there is that thing called the drip tray. If it is making a big mess, than you obviously haven’t figured out how to use the machine properly. If you don’t want a bit of a mess when making espresso than you should go back to drip coffee machines! Better yet, go back to Starshmucks for your fix.
The only problem I have had is with the filter basket clogging. This was solved once I received a burr grinder (gift, thanks honey) and I was able to dial in to a perfect grind, no more clogging! The filter basket was only $9 anyhow, so I experimented with the grind size and now all is perfect. If you don’t want to buy a grinder, than you too should also go back to Fourbucks for your fix. Before the grinder solution, I also had some success unclogging the filter by holding a cigarette lighter to the hole and burning the remnants out. But the best answer is to go buy a burr grinder if you’re serious about good espresso.
Why four and not five stars?…because the portafilter handle is plastic and I’m sure it will be the first thing to break. I already hear some rattling of plastic pieces within the handle. A better handle material would be best as hot metal meeting plastic equals melting/deterioration.
Just think of all the money I have saved over the course of 5years had it not been for this machine. A truly amortized piece of equipment. — Daily user on 5 yr old machine!
Espressione 1385O Cafe Retro Espresso Machine, Red
