Buying a coffee machine is an important investment, just like choosing a means of transport. Just as you have to choose between a four-wheeler and a two-wheeler, with all the different models, you will be faced with a very wide choice of types.
One of the main aspects when choosing a coffee machine is its future durability.
But whereas when you choose a means of transport you take into account that you may replace it shortly afterwards, the durability of the coffee machine is much longer. A professional espresso machine could last you a lifetime, because the secret of its immortality is in the maintenance: it is about cleaning.
Choosing the type of coffee machine affects its maintenance
If your main concern is the lifecycle of espresso coffee machines, it is important first of all to make a wise choice starting from the type of mechanics of the type you are getting. Coffee machines are divided into three main categories: manual, automatic and super automatic. Depending on the type you choose, you should expect a different maintenance of the machine, because the higher the level of automation of the instrument, the greater the diversity and complexity of the problems it will manifest. An automatic or super-automatic machine clearly has a dense network of electrical circuits and electronic mechanisms inside it that make the required automation possible, otherwise impossible. So when you have to deal with a problem, you will almost certainly need assistance, because the way it works will be largely incomprehensible to you.
Manual machines have classic mechanics that have evolved over the years, with more traditional maintenance
On the other hand, manual machines, such as Pontevecchio lever espresso machines, have the same basic functioning as the first historical machines of the early 20th century, but have undergone an evolutionary process of micro interventions and craftsmanship improvements over the years that have not distorted it, but made it impeccable. A manual machine, in its simplicity, represents a harmonious and perfect architecture that can hardly be made better.
The first rule of maintenance is cleanliness
So a manual machine has a longer life expectancy, but the first rule to ensure perfect operation over the years is cleaning.
Almost all the problems that can damage the coffee machine come from bad maintenance, it is therefore necessary that it is not a constant but frequent thought of yours in order not to irreparably worsen the coffees dispensed.
It is therefore not necessary to be an expert connoisseur of the complex process that takes hot water to reach very high temperatures, through a complex circulatory system of ducts, to then pass through ground coffee beans in the filter and finally produce our favourite drink: because the majority of problems relate to maintenance.
The maintenance problems that can affect the life of the coffee machine generally belong to a small group: the type of water that is put into the machine and the cleaning of the removable parts such as the tank, the filter holder and the steam wand.
The choice of water is also important: it must be filtered
It is a common mistake to believe that plain tap water can be used in your coffee machine without any problems, but it is fatal for the cleaning of the machine. In fact, it is necessary to always opt for filtered water, in order to avoid the accumulation of limescale that would be deposited after making your favourite drink many times. You will find this not only in the internal pipes, which can be accessed by an expert technician, but also in the tank and steam pipe.
You should also take care to clean the water tank frequently, because even if you use filtered water it will hardly be one hundred per cent filtered and therefore some microscopic deposits of limescale will be present and you will see the effects over time.
The tank must be cleaned and emptied frequently
So the tank should be cleaned once a day, or at least once a week, although it clearly also depends on how often you use the machine: one that is used infrequently should not keep water in the tank for as long as it is not in use.
The use of descaling products is essential
For this phase of coffee machine maintenance, decalcifying products are logically recommended, which are able to attack the problem effectively and without damaging the materials. It is important that these products are based on citric, lactic, malic or oxalic acid. The first on the list is the simplest and most effective, and can easily be reproduced at home with lemon juice (although it is always better to choose a dedicated product).
The filter holder and steam wand need more attention
The filter holder and steam wand need special attention, as they are the mechanical parts that are in direct contact with the food elements, i.e. milk and coffee. By their very nature, these parts tend to be at risk of bacterial deposits, so proper care with specific products is essential.
Longevity, however, depends above all on the materials and quality of the machine
But it is not only cleaning the coffee machine that ensures its longevity, because clearly the choice of model and materials is the first great discriminating factor. Pontevecchio lever machines are models that are in fact designed and built to face the passage of time in the best possible way, thanks to the choice of tested and durable materials, to guarantee perfect coffee over the years.
Choosing a coffee machine assembled and designed in a workmanlike manner is the first choice to make, if you want a companion that will last over time and that will always guarantee the best espresso coffee: choose the most suitable model for you among those of Pontevecchio lever machines on our website, you will find what you are looking for among different colours, to make your lever espresso machine a durable piece of furniture for your kitchen, as well as a guarantee of the best espresso.
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