Espresso machine parts and accessories

Espresso machine parts

Ever wondered what your espresso machine is made of? Have a look at the essential parts, or those you may need to replace:

• The portafilter has the shape of a small, round basket with a handle. You put the ground coffee in the “basket”. The average price is $80.
• The steam wand froths the milk and heats the water. It is controlled by a knob which enables the user to release the pressure and adjust the amount of steam. The average price is $15.
• The water pump creates the water pressure to extract espresso. Modern espresso machines feature either a rotary or a vibrating pump. The average price for a vibrating pump is $50.
• The solenoid valves relieve the pressure in the portafilter immediately after brewing so you can pull consecutive shots. They also dry out the brew head to prevent coffee from dripping after the brewing process has ended.
• The group head screen is a round, very fine riddle through which the coffee is pushed. The group head, an important area of your espresso machine, is where the coffee is brewed. The average price is $10.
• The group head gaskets assemble the screen and the portafilter into a water-tight system. The average price is $6.
• The gauge measures the pressure in the water tank and the pressure at which the water is pushed through the coffee bed.
• The pressure relief valves
• The grinder burrs (if the machine is incorporates a grinder). The average price is $50.
• The heating elements (thermoblocks)
• The pressurestats maintain the boiler temperature in some machines rather than thermostats.

Accessories

• The espresso glass is a cup with dimensions designed especially for a double shot of espresso (2.5 ounces).
• The tamper is a knob-shaped handle usually made of aluminum or stainless steel. Very often, the upper end is made of wood. Average price is $30.
• The thermometer is needed to froth your milk at the right temperature (not over 160F) and control the temperature in the cup.
• The tray is a wide, resistant plate to support your espresso machine as well as the grinder.
• The knock box is a small tray, fixed to the kitchen counter from which you dispense the grounds.
• The descaler cleans the calcium deposits.
• The frother is normally used to enhance the cappuccino foam.
• Frothing pitchers come in different sizes. You have to choose the one appropriate to the drink you wish to prepare, and to your coffee machine. Average prices are $15 to $20.