Many people have known geyser-type coffee makers since Soviet times. At that time, they were made of aluminum material, as a result of which they quickly lost their presentable appearance and ability to function normally. Such machines for making coffee were most popular in Italy. It is worth noting that the well-known Italian “mocha” coffee machines act as Soviet geyser options, only in a more interesting and creative design. This material will describe in detail the operating principle of a geyser coffee maker, examining some of the features of its design and functionality.
What is a geyser coffee maker
Tasty and truly good coffee is something that no coffee drink lover will refuse. It has long been proven that coffee is beneficial if you drink it in moderation. However, not all people can afford to buy an expensive coffee machine, which is why the best option would be to purchase a geyser coffee maker.
A geyser coffee maker is a surprisingly simple and ingenious invention. Thanks to this unit, everyone can prepare delicious and aromatic coffee, which will be practically no different from cappuccino or espresso purchased in a prestigious coffee shop. Today there is a large selection of different options for such coffee makers:
- expensive;
- budgetary;
- domestic;
- foreign.
The operating principle of a geyser coffee maker is based on pressure. A certain amount of water must be poured into the lower part of the housing. Using the mark, you need to monitor the filling level, preventing the water level from rising above normal. The beans, ground to a powder, must be poured into the coffee tank, then screw on the upper part of the unit body and put it on fire.
Since a geyser-type coffee maker is primarily used for making espresso, the whole principle of operation comes down to “squeezing out” steam. If steam performs the brewing function, the initial temperature of the finished drink will be too high.
Instructions for use
The delivery set includes instructions for using the geyser coffee maker. You need to study it carefully and use the device correctly.
Step-by-step coffee preparation diagram
The instructions for the geyser coffee maker provide a step-by-step diagram for preparing the aromatic drink:
- Pour water into the lower compartment.
- If you want to brew an Americano, pour water up to the level of the valve; for espresso you need to take 2 times less liquid.
- Pour ground coffee into the filter, insert the filter into place, and close the lid.
- Place the coffee pot on the gas or electric stove.
- When a gurgling sound appears, turn off the heat, otherwise the coffee will burn.
All that remains is to pour the coffee into cups and enjoy the drink.
How long does it take to make coffee?
How long the drink will be brewed depends on the volume of the coffee pot and the heating level. On average, a geyser coffee maker works for 3-4 minutes, then the heating needs to be turned off.
Quality of brewed coffee
The drink is rich in taste, aromatic and strong. But only if good medium-ground coffee is selected and its quantity in the filter corresponds to the instructions.
Geyser coffee maker device
Before using the coffee machine, you need to study the design of the geyser coffee maker. The device consists of three main parts.
- The lower part, which is used for pouring water. Provides a base for a coffee maker. It is this tank that comes into contact with the burner during heating. A safety valve is provided in the side walls through which steam escapes.
- Filters. This part is made in the shape of a funnel with an extension at the bottom. Ground coffee is poured into it. There is a filter at the bottom that is designed to cut off water. The base of the funnel fits tightly into the lower part, and the spout is raised above the bottom. While the water is boiling, steam will rise through this spout, then be cut off by a filter and go into the cup with the finished coffee drink.
- The upper part into which the prepared drink enters. Its appearance resembles an inverted funnel. The hole through which the steam passes into the receiver is equipped with a removable filter to retain coffee particles.
A geyser coffee machine works on the principle of applying pressure to a liquid using steam. The name of the unit comes from the fact that the entire process of preparing a coffee drink is similar to a geyser eruption. If the device body is made of transparent material, then the whole process can be seen with your own eyes.
It is worth noting that the principle of operation of a geyser-type coffee maker is that during heating, steam is released, which literally pushes boiled water through the filter into the reservoir of the unit where the coffee powder was poured. The whole process does not end until the water completely covers the filter. Then only steam will rise to the top.
Remember that if you notice the presence of sediment in the finished coffee drink, this means that you need to change the finely ground beans to a coarse grind. This will not only eliminate unpleasant aftertaste, but also improve the flavor notes of espresso and other types of coffee.
Useful shopping tips
If you decide to purchase a geyser coffee maker , then special attention should be paid to the handle, which should be made of heat-insulating materials.
It is best to choose a transparent top part of the machine so that you can monitor the process of preparing the drink at all times.
To prepare high-quality coffee, you need to choose the right temperature and grind the coffee.
How the device works
Many people who have never encountered such equipment are wondering how a geyser-type coffee maker works. This unit operates on the generally accepted principle of excess steam pressure. The entire workflow consists of several stages.
- Boiling water. The moment the water begins to boil, steam is released through the valve. Due to the fact that the lower reservoir is equipped with only one outlet, pressure arises due to which the liquid is pushed upward.
- Passage of liquid to the top. The water rises to the spout of the funnel and goes higher through a layer of coffee powder or beans. The liquid, saturated with taste and aroma, rises upward, pouring into the upper reservoir.
- Final result. All excess coffee microparticles are retained by the filter, as a result of which the final result is a strong drink with a rich taste and pleasant aroma.
If you wish, you can open the lid of the unit at any time and observe the process of preparing your coffee drink. It is worth noting that for the first time it is better to strictly monitor how the preparation occurs and the sound with which the finished coffee is poured. If you hear that the sound begins to resemble a hissing, then this indicates that the liquid has run out and now only steam comes out. It is undesirable to allow this moment to happen. It is best to leave the device a little earlier - there will be enough pressure to pour out the entire drink.
Material of manufacture
Geyser coffee makers for gas stoves are made of aluminum or stainless steel. The former are thicker, while the latter can also be suitable for induction cookers.
The handles of the geyser coffee maker are a weak point for many models. Therefore, carefully examine the place where the handle is attached to the body. The handle of the coffee maker should not be metal, otherwise it will get very hot. It is better if it is made of bakelite or other material that insulates heat.
The second bottleneck in a geyser coffee maker is the O-ring, which is located between the filter and the top of the coffee maker. It is usually made of rubber or silicone and needs to be replaced after a certain time.
If your geyser coffee maker begins to emit steam and splashes, this is a signal that the sealing ring has become unusable.
The price ranges from 1200-1500 rubles for a small-volume model for 2-4 servings. The larger the coffee maker, the more expensive it is. Italian equipment for 12-16 servings costs from 3500-4000 rubles.
Aluminum coffee maker
Aluminum products require slightly more complex maintenance. It is not dishwasher safe and requires multiple checks for compatibility with the electric stove. Since it needs to be washed by hand, it is important to make sure it is completely dry to avoid corrosion.
And although the service life is shorter than its stainless steel counterparts, you will still be provided with excellent coffee for many years to come.
Stainless steel
This material is non-porous, non-corrosive and highly durable. If you choose stainless steel products, they will last a lifetime. However, such devices are usually more expensive than aluminum ones, which fail after about ten years.
Geyser coffee makers made of stainless steel can be washed in the dishwasher. However, we do not recommend this to avoid shortening their service life. In addition, they are easier to wash by hand than aluminum ones, and they will not lose their appearance from a few accidental drops of water.
Stainless steel does not require special care. If you don't mind a little extra effort and want to save money, go with aluminum. They are both durable and work well when handled correctly.
Some manufacturers make geyser coffee makers from glass.
How to use
It is worth noting that the traditional strong coffee drink is prepared exclusively in a geyser-type coffee machine. This coffee has a rich taste, as a result of which it has been able to win the recognition of many people around the world. The unit operates on the principle of high steam pressure, which is why the result is real espresso. Using the device does not present any difficulties.
- It is necessary to prepare the geyser apparatus for use:
- The reservoir is filled with hot liquid to a certain level. First you need to remove the filter and pour hot water into the lower part of the equipment. If the tank is not equipped with a measuring scale, then it must be filled slightly below the safety valves so that it can release steam.
- Once hot water has been added, the equipment must be handled very carefully as the metal part will heat up quickly.
- Using hot water, you can not only save time spent brewing espresso, but also prevent the drink from overheating.
- Grinding coffee beans into powder:
- Pour about 20-22 grams of coffee beans into the coffee grinder and turn it on. The grind size directly depends on your taste. It is worth noting that when brewing espresso in a geyser unit, medium grind powder is often used (something between coffee for a drip coffee maker and original espresso).
- Grinding coffee beans should be done exclusively before pouring them, since freshly ground beans produce the most delicious drink.
- 20 grams of ground coffee is enough to brew one cup of coffee.
- Pouring ground coffee into the filter funnel:
- Fill the funnel with coffee powder (but not tightly) and smooth it out.
- Do not compact the coffee. This is due to the fact that it will be difficult for water to pass through a dense layer.
- Equipment assembly. Place the funnel in the appropriate container and screw the upper casing of the coffee machine to the lower casing.
Coffee that was brewed in a geyser coffee maker does not have the thick foam that could be obtained when brewing it in other types of machines.
Manufacturers
True coffee fans prefer the classic model of coffee maker produced in Italy. But there are many other manufacturers producing analogues and improved models. Popular brands include Alpenkok, Endever Costa, Rondell Kafferro and others.
Bialeti
Among the leaders is the parent company. The Bialetti brand produces traditional models made of aluminum, but there are also original options - models for induction cookers, coffee makers made of stainless steel or with colored polymer coating.
There are containers of different sizes on sale - from 100 to 720 ml.
De Longhi
produces electric models of coffee makers. The brand was founded in Italy more than 100 years ago. The company produces a variety of household appliances, including coffee makers of any design. Geyser-type devices are produced under the Alicia EMK brand; modifications differ in tank volume - for 4, 6 and 9 cups.
Coffee makers are connected to power through the base, on which the power button is located.
Ibili
The Spanish company Ibili produces geyser coffee makers with different tank volumes. The models have a traditional design and an octagonal shape.
The body of the coffee pot is coated aluminum. Models are available in black with bright details. They have a protective layer, which eliminates the appearance of a metallic taste in coffee. The coffee maker parts can be washed in the dishwasher.
BergHOFF
BergHOFF is a Belgian brand that produces geyser coffee makers made of stainless steel.
The models have a discreet design and are suitable for all types of hobs, including induction. They have a protective coating that allows them to be washed in dishwashers.
Making coffee in a geyser coffee maker
Once all the tanks of the coffee maker are filled, you can start brewing and serving the drink.
- First of all, install the device on the stove and leave it there for 5-7 minutes; as soon as the coffee flows into the upper part, you must immediately remove the device from the stove. The higher the initial temperature of the liquid, the faster the coffee will brew.
- Thoroughly stir the coffee at the top after the coffee maker is removed from the stove. This way, you can connect each layer to each other, as a result of which the espresso will have an incredible taste and aroma.
- Serve the finished drink immediately after finishing preparation. Add sugar if desired.
The last step will be to wash the device without household chemicals using running water. First, you need to pour all the coffee out of the coffee machine, let it cool, and only then you can start cleaning it. After this, you need to disassemble the coffee maker and thoroughly wash all its reservoirs under running water. Next, dry all the elements using a kitchen towel. If you suddenly notice coffee sediment, it should be removed with a paper towel.
Electrical modifications
Along with the classic versions that use an external “coolant,” there are electric geyser coffee makers on sale that are equipped with a built-in heating element and operate like a kettle with a stand. On the latter, they can rotate around their axis.
In addition to the most obvious advantage, that there is no need to fire up the stove, there is also a corresponding disadvantage - it is necessary to have electrical power. Another inconvenience is that you cannot quickly “recharge” the coffee maker and prepare another portion, since you have to wait until it cools down, and rinsing the electric version with cold water is problematic.
The electric version is, of course, more expensive, but it may (or may not, depending on the model) have a timer to start cooking. Allegedly, the smell of coffee can wake you up for work in the morning instead of an alarm clock.
Features of caring for a geyser coffee maker
It is very important to keep every filter and gaskets that are in the geyser coffee maker clean. Not only the enjoyment of the taste and aroma notes of the finished espresso, but also the lifespan of the machine itself depends on this.
During the process of making coffee, all parts gradually begin to become dirty. And if this deficiency is not eliminated in time, then subsequently it may impede the passage of liquid, steam, and otherwise a complete explosion of the working mechanism is possible. Also remember to keep the safety valve located in the lower reservoir clean. If the inner surface of an aluminum geyser coffee machine is covered with a thick layer of plaque, then the finished drink will have an unpleasant taste and smell.
Care
Any utensils require care, otherwise they quickly break down. Caring for a geyser coffee maker is easy. You just need to wash all working parts after each brewing coffee.
Problems with care
The problem is caused by the rubber O-ring for the filter. It must be handled carefully and with care.
The rubber gasket needs to be cleaned regularly, without much effort or using chemicals. Over time, the gasket wears out and requires replacement. But this is not a problem - repair kits are sold for most brands of coffee makers, which include an O-ring and a new filter mesh.
Useful tips
In order to prepare delicious coffee using geyser-type coffee machines, you can use the following useful tips:
- Grinding the beans should be done exclusively before brewing coffee.
- The grind should be coarse or medium in size.
- Only distilled liquid should be added. The quality of water and steam produced directly affects the taste and aroma of espresso.
- The coffee machine must be washed after each use.
- The more densely the powder is compacted, the richer the final drink will be (it is necessary to observe the measure).
- It is recommended to pour the resulting drink into warm cups.
- If the espresso has a weak taste and the consistency is too thin, then the beans should be ground to a size slightly larger than table salt.
- The appearance of sediment in the resulting coffee indicates that it is advisable to use a coarser grind for preparation.
When washing equipment, do not use chemical detergents. It is enough to wash the coffee maker with warm running water and use paper or kitchen towels to dry.
History of invention
Coffee makers of this type were invented in the first half of the last century. In 1933, the production of two-tier metal coffee pots was launched. They were invented by the Italian Alfonso Bialetti.
The first mass-produced model was sold under the Moka Express brand. A coffee pot with an octagonal aluminum body appeared in almost every Italian family, and it is still one of the symbols of Italy. Now the company, founded by an Italian, continues to produce utensils for brewing coffee under the Bialetti brand.
Advantages and disadvantages of a geyser coffee maker
The advantages of a geyser coffee maker include the following:
- no need for constant monitoring of the process;
- notification of the preparation of a drink by means of a slight “murmur”;
- affordable price;
- incredibly pleasant aroma and taste of coffee;
- absence of unpleasant coffee grounds in the drink prepared in this coffee machine.
The disadvantages of the equipment include:
- limited amount of finished espresso;
- spending a lot of time deciding on the optimal coffee grind size;
- lack of appetizing foam;
- equipment remains hot for a long time.
It is also worth noting that if you have an induction stove at home, then the geyser coffee maker cannot be used on it. In this case, you need to pay attention to other options for coffee machines.
Where are they made?
The original Bialetti is now produced in both Europe and Asia: there are factories in their native Italy, Romania, Turkey, India and China.
As far as I know, the classic Bialetti Moka Express (from 1,534 rubles) is still assembled in Italy, but the painted (colored) “express” ones are already from Romania. The Brikka and Fiammetta series are also assembled there (from RUB 2,000).
And the most inexpensive of the original Bialetti Junior (from 1000 rubles) is from China, like Bialetti Venus and Allegra . The Indians got the Kitty (although Ozone claims that this is Italy), but Kitty is also made in China. The Turkish factory makes accessories (for example, frothers) and some electric models.
By the way, you can buy a geyser coffee maker not in any household appliances store. I hope my selection of current prices (updated automatically 3 times a day) at the end of the article will help you navigate online hypermarkets.
Descaling a coffee machine: the better way to descale it
There is a common misconception among coffee lovers that cleaning a coffee maker and descaling it are the same thing. We will dispel these misconceptions and say that cleaning and descaling are two different processes that solve two different problems.
What does it mean to clean a coffee maker?
Coffee is a very oily substance by nature. Over time, coffee oils accumulate inside the machine, creating rancid residue. Even with the best coffee beans or the most advanced coffee machine, it is impossible to brew a good cup of coffee if the coffee maker is dirty. Cleaning coffee equipment removes accumulated residues. Ensures your coffee is always fresh.
There are several components that come into contact with the ground beans and are exposed to the coffee oils. These parts include the coffee pot, brewing chambers, filter baskets, and coffee grinder burrs. They definitely need to be cleaned.
What happens if you don't clean your coffee maker?
If the machine is left without cleaning, these residues will have an undesirable effect on the coffee produced:
- Your coffee will become bitter;
- The coffee maker will emit a pungent odor;
- Coffee residue may cause the filter to clog and clog. They can damage the car.
What does it mean to descale a coffee maker?
A cup of coffee is almost 99% water, making it one of the important elements in preparing a good drink. Water contains minerals such as calcium and magnesium, which flow through all parts of the machine. Ultimately accumulate on its heating element in the form of stuck deposits. Descaling a coffee maker is the process of removing mineral deposits.
Water that is considered “hard” is even more dangerous for coffee machines. It contains a higher percentage of these minerals. Since the heating elements in the machine are not visible, it may take months of mineral buildup before you become aware of it.
What happens if you don't descale your coffee maker?
The buildup of mineral deposits can have a negative impact on your coffee machine's boiler. This also affects the quality of the coffee. If the water cannot reach the optimal brewing temperature, it will be impossible to fully extract the aroma from the coffee beans.
A buildup of mineral deposits can clog the water flow. This may cause the machine to stop working or your coffee may not be hot enough.
If you haven't descaled your coffee maker in a while, you're probably drinking coffee that's less flavorful and not quite hot.
Your geyser coffee maker may be faulty.
Products for descaling coffee makers
Modern manufacturers offer a wide selection of descaling for coffee machines. These products may include powders, tablets or liquid cleaners. Their production is carried out by companies - well-known manufacturers of household appliances Bosch, Tassimo, Delonghi, Philips and others.
To remove scale, we can recommend several products:
- tablets for coffee machines Bosch TCZ8002N
- tablets for TASSIMO devices
- Delonghi Eco Decalc DLSC500
- DeLonghi SER3013 Cappuccino Maker Cleaner
- Philips Saeco coffee oil cleaning tablets CA6704/10
- Philips Saeco cleaning fluid CA6700/10
These products are designed to remove the toughest deposits from hot water tanks and machine components. This type of cleaning does not damage the equipment. The products allow machines to operate at optimal levels. Simply mix the product with water. Add it to the water tank and then rinse after cleaning. Your machine will get rid of scale and prepare delicious hot coffee. With proper care, you will preserve the health of your favorite unit. And it will guarantee you rich and aromatic coffee every day for a long time.
Additional functions
Geyser-type coffee makers with the simplest operating principle are designed, first of all, for preparing a tasty and high-quality drink. However, in some more advanced models, manufacturers offer an additional set of functions that significantly facilitate the operation process.
Among them:
- Availability of a sound notification when the process is completed.
- Light indication confirming or refuting the operation of the device.
- A timer with which you can independently set the time for automatic switching on of the device.
- Automatic shut-off when the drink is ready and a warming function that allows you to maintain the temperature of the coffee.
