Coffee is the preferred go-to beverage for most people in the mornings. In fact, the day doesn’t begin for most folks unless they have had at least a cup or two of coffee. Naturally, buying a suitable coffee brewing machine is of utmost importance in such cases.
There are several coffee machine types available in the market currently, from Espresso makers to drip machines. But before you check them out, there are a few crucial points listed below to consider.
Long-term cost
Buying a coffee maker is not necessarily a one-time expense, depending on the type of machine you purchase. For example, you may need to spend money on pods or capsules for it regularly. With a drip machine, you will need to buy new beans or grounds and filters every now and then. You may also need to invest in a bean grinder.
If you find it convenient to spend a set amount of money regularly, then you should consider a drip machine. Alternatively, you can pick something that costs less in the long run.
Brewing temperature and carafe size
There are incredible health benefits to drinking coffee in moderate amounts. Research indicates that those who drink coffee regularly are at a lower risk of premature death when compared to non-drinkers by approximately 7-10%. However, it must be brewed well. Ideally, the best brewing temperature for a pot of coffee is around 196°F to 205°F. To attain this, you need a machine that can brew at high heat.
Also, consider the number of people at home and the amount of coffee consumed daily to narrow down the appropriate carafe size. Single-serve machines are apt for those who barely need a cup or two every day. But those who need a steady supply throughout the day should opt for a device with the largest capacity. Ideally, you should pick one that can hold at least twelve cups of coffee at one time.
Type of machine
You will be spoilt for choice when browsing through coffee machine types for personal or office use. The very basic types are semi-automatic, fully-automatic, and super-automatic Espresso machines. These are then classified as per mechanisms such as pump, piston, or steam-driven. Other options include electric drip machines, cold brew makers, and single-serve machines. You should study the features of each type in detail before deciding on one that meets all your daily coffee needs.
Extra features
Some machines can do more than brew coffee. They can be programmed to keep warm, brew at specific times, and shut off automatically. Some of them even have audible alerts when the coffee is made. Then, there are sophisticated machines with features such as bean grinding, milk frothing, and alerts when the coffee maker needs to be cleaned. Consider these things prudently when looking at the options.
How easy is it to clean?
Ease of use and maintenance should be among the top priorities to consider when buying a coffee maker. If you live on the run with little time to spare each day, then it is better to avoid getting a machine with a carafe that needs daily cleaning. You can look at other options which do not require to be hand-washed every day but are compatible with dishwashers. It is also advisable to get a machine that can fit snugly in your kitchen. Buying one too big will make it inconvenient for you to keep it safe.
Read More: