Semi Automatic Espresso Machines

The semi automatic espresso machines are the most popular of all the various types of espresso machines. It has earned this status because of it ease of use.

With the mere flip of a switch, the pump begins its work of pumping the water through the brew head.

This work is done by hand in the electric machines so relieving the user of this chore makes the machine very appealing.

Flipping the switch a second time will cause the pump to stop.

It differs from the fully automatic espresso machine in that the pump does not shut off automatically. You, the user, are responsible for shutting down the pump yourself.

How the Semi Automatic Espresso Machine Works

When using the semi automatic espresso machine, the user activates a switch to start the pump. This switch also stops the pump when the machine has completed it extraction, but the user is responsible for this action as well. The process of extraction takes only about 20 to 25 seconds. You turn on the pump, wait for the extraction to complete, then turn off the pump.

One of the most attractive features of this machine, aside from an often affordable price, is its ease of use. It is fairly easy to learn how to operate the machine and it is perfect for in home use.

Because these machines are automated, they are more consistent and much easier to use than their piston style counterparts. They also produce an exceptional cup of coffee.

While the majority of the semi automatic espresso machines use a boiler, much like a piston machine, they do include a separate water reservoir. This allows users great freedom for a larger capacity as well as hot water for tea or other hot drinks.

The boilers are also equipped with a type of overheating protection device such as a thermal fuse. This not only protects the machine, but the user as well. As the water is needed, it is passed through a heating tube where it is heated.

This streamlines the brewing process as heating is faster to achieve the brew temperature. The speed of heat, however, may not be as effective for heating water to steam temperature.

Features of the Semi Automatic Espresso Machine

Many of these machines offer features that make them a very popular choice for home use. They are often smaller, allowing them to fit on a countertop. They also are usually available in a variety of colors and models to fit nearly any kitchen décor.

With easy to use and easy to read controls, brewing is very easy. Many models have indicator lights that designate when the unit is on, when the boiler is heating and when brewing is complete.

Some have gauges to signal optimum pressure for brewing as well as the pressure in the boiler for frothing milk. Different models have different features so you need to check out several models to find the one that has the most features that fit your needs.

Programming of the Semi Automatic Espresso Machine

Many semi automatic espresso machines offer programming options to control brewing and volume. You can choose one shot or two and how much coffee is dispensed each time. There are many other features and functions that can be programmed through the machine, but they are dependent upon the model and vary with each individual manufacturer or model.

Some semi automatic espresso machines gives you programming freedom that allows for nearly every aspect of the brewing process to be customized to your own desires and tastes.

Semi Automatic Espresso Machine Subclasses

There are many subclasses of semi automatic espresso makers, but there are actually three primary ones.

Single Boiler, Dual Use Machines
The most popular types of espresso machines that are priced under $1,000, single boiler, dual use machines feature two thermostats inside of one boiler. Some machines may have several thermostats, but the standard number of thermostats is two. One thermostat controls the brewing water temperature and the other is set higher for the production of steam. A switch or button allows you to go from one thermostat to the other but you can not brew and steam at the same time with these machines.

Single Boiler, Heat Exchanger Machines
The single boiler, heat exchanger machines tend to be at or above the $1,000 price range. They feature a large boiler the keeps the water at an even 240 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. This heat is conducive to making steam. The water that is used for brewing moves through a coiled tube inside the boiler to the grouphead. The coiled tube acts as a heat exchanger, drawing the water from the reservoir. As it travels through the tube, it reaches temperatures that are ideal for brewing. This espresso machine allows you to both brew and steam.

Dual Boiler Machines
The most expensive of the espresso machines, the dual boiler machines generally go for about $2,000 or even higher. There are a few models that are less than $2,000 but they are sparse in number. The dual boiler machine has two independent boilers. Some models feature a thermo block and a boiler. One boiler maintains the water at a brewing temperature while the other maintains a steaming temperature. This allows you to both steam and brew at the same time.