How to Use an Espresso Machine Like a Pro!

By Robert Parsons June 25, 2021

Espresso machines come in loads of shapes and sizes, and as one of the most popular home coffee machines, it is a machine most people are familiar with. While there is a bit of a learning curve to home espresso machines, they are much easier to understand than top of the line commercial versions. However, we are confident in your barista abilities and we are going to tackle commercial grade espresso machines today.

This may be a completely foreign language for some of us, and that is perfectly okay! Our goal is to have even the least versed barista an espresso maker pro by the end of this article. We are going to get familiar with the machine and learn some tips and tricks on how to make espresso drink the quickest and most tasty. Let’s get started! 

Learn the Ropes

While this is a bit of a weighted statement, first things first is we have to learn the inner workings of the machine. This means knowing what each switch does, the handles, knobs, and anything else that makes our machine function. 

Don’t worry we aren’t going to overwhelm you. While there are many handles, switches, and knobs, we are keeping it simple and only highlighting the major tools to know first and then we will dive into how to use each of them: 

Major Tools

  • – Portafilter: This is where the espresso grounds go. There are three minor parts that make up the portafilter: a brew basket, handle, and spicket. 
  • – Grouphead: This is where the portafilter is inserted. The water runs through the grouphead and then through the ground to create our espresso shot. 
  • – Shot Buttons: This starts the process of pulling an espresso shot. There are size options for how much water to pour through the machine to create a single, double, or customized amount. Today we are going to be talking about pulling a single shot of espresso, however. 
  • – Pressure and Temp Dial: This tells you the pressure and temperature for the espresso shot. Correct pressure is crucial to having a good espresso shot, so don’t ignore this tool. However, most of the time, this should be set up already to create the right amount of pressure and temperature, so if that is not the case, get your machine checked out. 
  • – Steam Wand: This is exactly what it sounds like. A wand that spits out steam. Some machines will have more than one, but you only need one to get the job done. This wand holds a lot of power, so be sure to check out our how to use section for this one. 
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So now that we know what tools to take note of, we can learn how to work them. There are loads of variations for each of these tools, so be sure to check out your specific espresso machine’s guide if you are unsure of anything. However, this is a basic point of reference on how to operate each. In the same order, here is how to work each of these tools:

  • – Portafilter: First things first, ensure the three parts of the portafilter are correctly put together before starting. Grab your espresso grounds and pour them into the portafilter basket. Make sure they are a flat layer of grounds to press. Press down straight for an even shot. 
  • – Grouphead: Insert the portafilter into the grouphead. This may take some practice and learning your individual machine to master the quickest insertion. It is typically inserted straight on then twisted. 
  • – Shot Buttons: Select the amount of water for your desired shot size. For now, select a single shot. 
  • – Pressure and Temp Dial: Monitor the pressure and temp dial to ensure it stays at healthy temperature and pressure rates. 
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Voila! An espresso shot. Don’t worry, we didn’t forget the steam wand. That leads us into another section of specialty espresso drinks! 

  • – Steam Wand: Steaming wands are used for milk, so if you want a cappuccino, latte, or any milk espresso beverage, you will need to master the steam wand. Pour the desired amount of milk into the pitcher. Less is more to prevent waste. Insert the pitcher into the wand carefully, starting at the top of the pitcher and moving down. There are loads of ways to prepare milk for espresso drinks, so be sure to check out our other articles on the loads of ways to make espresso drinks. Find your desired temperature and texture of milk and turn off the steam wand. Add the milk to your espresso shot and you are ready to drink up! 

There is a lot to learn about espresso makers and espresso drinks, so don’t stop here! Check out our other articles to learn more on how to improve your barista skills, but this is a great starting point of reference. Now go try out your barista skills and wow your friends and family!