Elektra Mini Verticale Semiautomatic Espresso Machine (Chrome)
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Product Description
Both classic and gorgeous, this dome-shaped semiautomatic espresso machine features a chrome-plated dome and base, with a chrome-plated front panel, and with American Eagle crowning the dome. All together, it stands 27" tall, and is 15" in diameter. Not only is it an outstanding espresso machine, but it makes a striking centerpiece.
This semiautomatic espresso machine has a dual-purpose brass boiler. It both heats the water for espresso extraction, and it elevates the temperature to steam mode for frothing milk for cappuccino and latte. Both the power switch and the extraction switch are on the left (see picture), and the steam control is on the right, over the steam wand. The machine has a 2-liter water tank, that can be removed - if needed - by loosening the screw that holds it in place.
The drip tray and cover lift off the espresso machine, which is useful for cleaning. Note that cleaning the chrome body panels and chrome dome should simply be done by wiping the machine down with a damp terrycloth.
The espresso machine comes with a dual-spout portafilter, with both a 1-cup and a 2-cup filter basket. In addition, the machine comes with a plastic coffee scoop and a plastic tamper. The American Eagles are hand-made, so each one is unique.
The espresso machine ships with the Eagle detached - it should be screwed onto the dome when the espresso machine is received. The cup holding tray under the dome will hold espresso cups, where they will warm up for serving.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 27" High, and 15" in Diameter;
- Power: 1000 watts at 110 volts
- Weight: 29 pounds.
- Water reservoir: 2 liters.
Warranty Note: There is a one year parts and labor warranty limited to manufacturer's defect. It is very important to use soft water in these espresso machines. Hard water will eventually damage these machines and cause them to malfunction. Elektra will not cover the parts warranty if the damage was caused by mineral buildup from hard water.
It is also important to run these espresso machines with water at least 25% full in the sight glass. Running these models with a water level lower than this can cause heating element damage which will not be covered under warranty, as this is not a manufacturer's defect. If you return the unit with a damaged heating element, you will be charged for the repair, and the repair charge will be deducted from the credit.
There is a safety feature on this espresso machine when water is not pumped into the boiler on initial startup. If this isn't done, the safety mechanism will shut the machine off, and the machine will have to be reset. On the bottom of the machine underneath the yellow cap there is a reset button for the safety thermostat.
Making high quality espresso with a real espresso machine requires compacting the espresso with a real coffee tamper. While some espresso machines come with an inexpensive coffee tamper, these don't really give the kind of tamping that results in a high quality extraction. We do carry a large selection of attractive heavyweight coffee tampers. Not only will getting one of these coffee tampers give you higher quality, and more consistent results, but they will add to the look of your home espresso bar.
And if you'll be serving espresso, you should serve it in real espresso cups. A coffee cup will pull the heat from your espresso too quickly because of its size, and because of its area, you will lose most of the crema. Most of the crema will stick to the inner surface of a large coffee cup. So take a look at our large selection of espresso cups. And to complete the service of quality espresso, you should also take a look at our large selection of high quality demitasse spoons. It's a nice touch to match the look of your demitasse spoons to your home decor. We have a wide range of designs in spoons from baroque to classical to modern. All are high quality 18/10 stainless steel.