tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-292266602024-03-19T17:27:59.374-04:001st-line Equipment1st-line Equipment is an authentic supplier of espresso machines, coffee makers, grinders, accessories, coffee, and many other coffee related items. We do sell all items to end users as well as select items via wholesale channels. Visit us at www.1st-line.comJim Piccinichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11943921989580664139noreply@blogger.comBlogger40125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29226660.post-22991566146004928382017-03-31T14:58:00.001-04:002017-03-31T15:01:34.781-04:00Grinds in the Threads of a Coffee Grinder Chamber<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.1st-line.com/store/pc/catalog/1st-line-logo-espresso-machines.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="51" src="https://www.1st-line.com/store/pc/catalog/1st-line-logo-espresso-machines.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ9sJChxmLKWX446XWfOVvapv5H5VUytPW9DJN22tHdLhKixxl9MCJ7TZmtqmTctC6p2sC7o5Rhn7vEikUlXLWCt12XUG33oHGyBS2epNQ05OmHa6l_DSQmR4MAgMmUtNXsXE9HQ/s1600/DSC_0511.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ9sJChxmLKWX446XWfOVvapv5H5VUytPW9DJN22tHdLhKixxl9MCJ7TZmtqmTctC6p2sC7o5Rhn7vEikUlXLWCt12XUG33oHGyBS2epNQ05OmHa6l_DSQmR4MAgMmUtNXsXE9HQ/s320/DSC_0511.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grinding Chamber of Quamar M80E - <br />
coffee grinds in threaded part of overall body</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">If you own a high end espresso coffee grinder from a European manufacturer, this article is certainly worthwhile reading to avoid damage to your espresso coffee grinder.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">When removing the top burr carrier of a high espresso grinder, it is extremely important to clear the threads of the top burr carrier as well as the threads inside the grinding chamber.</span><br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4uaqATcG3no7-hYVZDmvyJ2VbJ-3AbLUQ4HanibuOq6lE46mimpy2w8WEmzORAOvDHMDGOBCns-Q6X4HnSw4OrI07rQ4FeVWvbZkH2bLuZq-4zMNTjcd0vwgbcK5d0er8eSYMvg/s1600/DSC_0512.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4uaqATcG3no7-hYVZDmvyJ2VbJ-3AbLUQ4HanibuOq6lE46mimpy2w8WEmzORAOvDHMDGOBCns-Q6X4HnSw4OrI07rQ4FeVWvbZkH2bLuZq-4zMNTjcd0vwgbcK5d0er8eSYMvg/s320/DSC_0512.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Top burr carrier of Quamar M80E with ground coffee particles</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The reasons are</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">a) One single particle of coffee grind can prematurely stop the top bu<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">rr</span> carrier from touching the bottom burr. This is important because the touching of the two burrs is the actual zero point of the coffee grinder, and</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">b) a single particle of coffee grind can actually damage the threads on the top burr carrier as well as the threads in the grinder chamber. Although the top burr carrier is cheaper to replace, it is very expensive to replace the threads in the grinding chamber as the entire body needs to be replaced.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">To remove the grinds from the threads, please use cotton swabs dipped lightly in olive oil. Wipe clean all olive oil residue before re-inserting the top burr carrier. If you come <span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">across</span> any resistance while re-threading, stop, remove top burr carrier and re-clean coffee particles from threads. Inspect for any thread damage and repeat.</span>Jim Piccinichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11943921989580664139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29226660.post-89717111420868560812016-08-09T14:10:00.001-04:002016-08-09T14:10:46.881-04:00Why doesn't 1st-line sell all of their stuff on the Big A website?We will let you guess who the Big A web site is.<br />
<br />
Although customers may be benefiting from their lower
prices and paid for 'free shipping' service, everyone needs to understand they are giving business to a company that works
unethically behind the scenes to learn and then kill small and even large
businesses.<br /><br />As a business partner at 1st-line Equipment, LLC, let me share three real case scenarios:<br /><br />a)
My cousin 8 years ago opened a home business producing his own kitchen
widget (called widget to protect his brand). He registered his business name under his home phone number, and
his A-website different business name account under his cell number. Since
it was easy with a large audience, he sold thousands through the Big A web site.
However, after the first year and hundreds of thousands of sales dollars, the Big A
started contacting manufacturers in Asia, Europe, and the USA to buy
and sell this widget on their own. Finally, they called his home number
(one under his business) and offered to buy the item, stock their
warehouse, and undercut the current seller. In essence, they wanted to undercut
his other business name. He told them he owned both businesses and said
he was not selling them. They were already making a 15% cut with their
fees.<br /><br />b) Next door to our facility, an online children's clothing
boutique who sells on the Big A and other portals advised us in 2012 that we can
sell a lot on the Big A web site. I told him the story of my cousin whereby they
follow metrics on high moving sales items of companies who put
merchandise up there, and then get stuck selling slow moving items or
who get undercut in pricing on their fast moving items. Thus getting
driven out of business. In October 2014, the owner was crying in a panic
fast-walking into our shop. I asked him what's wrong. He said that he has two
weeks to go, and he still has 90% of his Halloween stuff in inventory. I
asked him why? He said that all his fast movers were being undercut on the Big A by the Big A themselves. In essence, they learned from him over 2
Halloween seasons what were the fast movers, they brought in larger
quantities at lower shipping rates, and they started killing his small business.<br /><br />c) 1st-line's sister company imports Ascaso,
and they have several dealers up there on the Big A web site. Repeatedly, the Big A
contacts Ascaso to buy and import directly so they can get those sales.
However, in our environment, they are unable to repair machines. 1st-line used to sell over 1000 of a single certain model of espresso
machines every year. The total sold in the USA every year was ~4500 units. 1st-line had an
almost 25% market share. Unfortunately, our competitors put this model on the Big A, and they data mined the metrics to carry this particular model. the Big A now sells over 3500 units per
year, and we sell less than 100 units per year. Even speaking to our
competitors, their sales of this model has dried up.<br /><br />At the end
of the day, most consumers and most smaller retailers do not know that the Big A has a 'copy' department. Their systems monitor metrics to data mine off the smaller companies they invite to use their portal as a sales channel. When an item
exceeds a certain amount of sales or units, it red flags the item for the copy department to
pursuit the item and put it in their warehouses. They try to buy
cheaper, get it shipped in and out at lower cost, and kill other businesses. How do I know they have a copy department. We have over
60,000 customers, and one of my local customers who buys coffee every
week has a nephew who works for the copy department in Seattle.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Before the Big A wanted no collection of sales taxes in all 50 states, but now
that they are large and they have to collect sales taxes in almost every state, they want all small
merchants to collect sales taxes in all 50 states because it becomes a
hindrance for small businesses to sell online and compete with them. </div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
In
the end, people will have less choices with the Big A. USPS does not know
this, but the Big A will drive them out of business in the next 10 years
when drones start delivering small packages. Our local supermarket
started with the Big A not knowing that they will use their sales metrics
to stock their own warehouses to drive the local supermarkets out
of business. This is why ToysRus started with the Big A for online order
fulfillment and stopped after 2 years because they saw their sales metrics being captured and data mined.</div>
<br />Thus, when 1st-line is asked to sell on the Big A, we refuse to put any variety on the Big A web site. We are not going let them learn from us on the fast movers.They are big boys and girls, let them figure it out.Jim Piccinichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11943921989580664139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29226660.post-78503374913303678042016-08-09T12:15:00.001-04:002016-08-09T12:15:18.783-04:00Espresso Machines; Stainless Steel BoilersAt 1st-line, we always look at trends, many of which are
created by marketing tactics as well as needs for problem resolution.
However, I must admit 1st-line doesn't always jump on the bandwagon,
immediately. <br /><br />For example, one previous trend was magnetic floats
in water reservoirs. Just like a water tank switch would fail when
water was spilled on it, we knew magnetic floats would not float forever
or worse, magnetic floats in water reservoirs would stick near the top
and the machine would think it would have water, when the tank was
actually empty. If the boiler called for water, this could lead to a dry
boiler causing an expensive heating element repair. This is how we
think things through before jumping on the bandwagon from a practical
perspective....<br /><br />Now, back on topic....stainless steel boilers
have been the trend recently. One reason is from a health perspective,
but the second for lessening limescale build up. However, after speaking
to a potential client, stainless steel may not be the best option. The
reason is that stainless steel may start to rust. Here is an <a class="postlink" href="http://howtobrew.com/book/appendices/appendix-b/passivating-stainless-steel">article</a> I found.<br /><br />In
the past, I have heard of customers getting black water out of their
machines with stainless boilers. I believe this is the rust that is
occurring. When I inquired about it, the boilers typically needed to be
replaced. AT this point, I am unsure how the internals of a boiler can
be passivated.<br /><br />The other issue I believe also happens is that
limescale does slide off the stainless boilers and culminates at the
bottom of the boiler. Hence the boiler does need to be drained at some
point.<br /><br />Although I am not a metalurgist, I would invite you to this thread to learn more.Jim Piccinichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11943921989580664139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29226660.post-75094672175527928352015-11-03T13:47:00.000-05:002015-11-03T14:50:50.320-05:00Single Cup Baskets for Espresso Extraction?<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.1st-line.com/store/pc/catalog/grimac/F272a_general.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.1st-line.com/store/pc/catalog/grimac/F272a_general.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Single Cup Filter Basket</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We get this inquiry every once in a while to use the one cup basket. We think of these baskets as paperweights. Unless you are exclusively using a single cup basket, they are useless.<br />
<br />
Most people think you set the coffee grinder to a certain grind setting and dosage of coffee (i.e. 14 grams) for a double cup filter basket and one just needs to cut the amount (dosage) in half for the single cup basket.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.1st-line.com/store/pc/catalog/LaMarzocco/M107_general.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.1st-line.com/store/pc/catalog/LaMarzocco/M107_general.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two or Double Cup Filter Basket</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
This is sooooo untrue! In fact, in almost every case where we tested filter baskets, this is not the case. Either the amount (dosage) AND/OR the grind fineness need to be adjusted. So, it is not as simple as <br />
everyone would conclude. Therefore, we say the single cup is a paperweight as there is a lot of work to convert the grinder settings and dosage amount. This is why the largest coffee shop chain always made doubles and the second spout went to the drain.<br />
<br />
The reason to use the 2 cup basket is because there is more coffee to extract a superior flavor profile - one that is much better in taste and mouth feel.<br />
<br />
You can see a <a href="http://www.1st-line.com/store/pc/showSearchResults.asp?VA=0&SearchValues=&exact=0&iPageSize=28&iPageCurrent=1&pageStyle=h&keyword=filter%20basket&priceFrom=0&priceUntil=9999999&idCategory=0&IdSupplier=&withStock=&IDBrand=0&SKU=&SFID=&SFNAME=&SFVID=&SFVALUE=&SFCount=&order=3" target="_blank">lot of different filter baskets</a> that 1st-line Equipment offers!Jim Piccinichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11943921989580664139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29226660.post-41193306946032809342015-11-02T12:58:00.000-05:002015-11-02T12:58:27.586-05:00Hundreds of Coffee Varieties?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.1st-line.com/store/pc/catalog/category/category-GreenBeans-small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.1st-line.com/store/pc/catalog/category/category-GreenBeans-small.jpg" /></a></div>
Did you ever notice a coffee company carry so many different coffees and blends? There are some companies who carry over 100 different or more coffee varieties. How does one expect all those different coffees to be turned over frequently to maintain freshness? Which are their favorites?<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.1st-line.com/store/pc/catalog/category/category-EspressoBeans-small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.1st-line.com/store/pc/catalog/category/category-EspressoBeans-small.jpg" /></a>At 1st-line Equipment, we carefully select our <a href="http://www.1st-line.com/store/pc/Coffee-Espresso-c17.htm" target="_blank">favorite blends</a> based on our client needs and desires. Not only do we have to like the coffee blend, but it also must meet a need of our clients, based on price, flavor profile, and availability. In addition, we like coffees that turn inventory over faster for freshness. When too many coffee blends are carried, there will always be coffees that go stale.<br />
<br />
Our limited selection includes green coffees for home coffee roasters, our own master blended freshly roasted coffees, and select blends from coffee roasters based in Italy. <a href="http://www.1st-line.com/store/pc/Coffee-Espresso-c17.htm" target="_blank">Try some today!</a>Jim Piccinichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11943921989580664139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29226660.post-29133273689899613482015-08-05T12:41:00.001-04:002015-08-05T12:41:57.409-04:00Were we espresso machine duped?ECM in Germany markets their grouphead mushroom in stainless steel versus their competitors who make it in brass with chrome plating. Although the stainless accumulates less limescale build up, the little brass nut with the orifice as shown in the picture below is made of brass. We learned of this when a customer dropped off his ECM Germany Technika espresso machine.<br />
<br />
Considering that this little brass nut was not in stainless, were we espresso machine duped?<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.1st-line.com/store/pc/catalog/techsupport/ECMGermany/grouphead-mushroom/01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://www.1st-line.com/store/pc/catalog/techsupport/ECMGermany/grouphead-mushroom/01.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grouphead mushroom found on ECM Technika espresso machine</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Jim Piccinichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11943921989580664139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29226660.post-21351076445421256002015-05-02T12:08:00.002-04:002015-05-02T12:08:44.520-04:00Learn a Latte with the Orchastrale NotaLearn a latte with the Orchestrale Nota espresso and cappuccino machine with Ashley! Experience music in the flavor profile and mouth feel in the wonder espresso that can be produced with this espresso machine. In fact, this high performance espresso machine worked well with all our espresso blends, but one, when making espresso, cappuccino and lattes. Currently available in four body style formats in the United States.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/-C77v-F5Fb8/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-C77v-F5Fb8?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<br />Jim Piccinichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11943921989580664139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29226660.post-27564983874091526592014-10-22T15:41:00.001-04:002014-10-22T15:41:32.898-04:00Starting Point for Setting an Espresso Grinder?At 1st-line Equipment, we get this question at least once a week. This is a very difficult question to answer as there are several factors that come into play.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.1st-line.com/store/pc/Ascaso-I-Steel-Espresso-Grinder-flat-burr-12p3581.htm" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt="Ascaso I-Steel Stepless Doserless Espresso Coffee Grinders" border="0" src="http://www.1st-line.com/store/pc/catalog/Ascaso/I-Steel-thumb.jpg" height="200" title="Ascaso I-Steel Stepless Doserless Espresso Coffee Grinders" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.1st-line.com/store/pc/Ascaso-I-Steel-Espresso-Grinder-flat-burr-12p3581.htm" target="_blank">Ascaso I-Steel Stepless Doserless<br />Espresso Coffee Grinder</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Coffee Grinders Design and Manufacture</b><br />
<br />
Most European made espresso coffee grinders are hand assembled in a production line. There can be differences in the grind fineness from two different grinders produced in the same production lot.<br />
<br />
The biggest challenge are the grinders that have the numbered settings sticker-ed onto the bean hopper or the top burr plate. When the stickers are placed, they may not be placed in the same exact spot during production.<br />
<br />
These small difference in manufacturing can impact the choice of grind fineness setting on a grinder. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Coffee Beans</b><br />
<br />
Coffee is grown on trees and usually harvested twice a calendar year. Typically, two coffee beans grown in a cherry. When there is only one larger bean, it is called a peaberry. The beans are extracted from the cherries which go through a milling process. Beans can be washed, semi-washed, or not washed.<br />
<br />
Coffee beans can have different levels of water content, different hardness levels, and different absorption rates. And, these factors can change from harvest to harvest and year to year as environmental factors, such as sunlight, rain, ground moisture, pests, and temperature in each season.<br />
<br />
In other cases, some manufacturers sometimes set the grind adjustment too fine and less often, they have it set too coarse. <br />
<br />
These changes in the coffee farming life cycle can impact the choice of grind fineness setting on a grinder. Changing coffee blends will typically require an adjustment as well.<br />
<br />
<b>Blends and Commercial Coffee Roasters</b><br />
<br />
There are thousands of different coffee and espresso blends roasted by
thousands of coffee roasters globally. Each blend of coffee is typically
made up of different beans from different countries, different regions
within those countries, and many times from different farms within a region.<br />
<br />
Master roasters try to balance the blend of beans from the different beans by changing the percentages of each bean. When there is a shortage of a particular bean or to lower costs, a substitute is found. <br />
<br />
Hence, Master Roasters can change the makeup of the blend to achieve the flavor profile they are trying repeat from batch to batch.<br />
<br />
These changes in the actual bean blend profile can impact the choice of grind fineness setting on a grinder. <br />
<br />
<b>Local Environment </b><br />
<br />
So, you are ready to go and starting grinding your coffee. Where do you start? Typically, on a European espresso coffee grinder, the starting point is typically where the manufacturer sets it upon arrival. Then there are fine tune adjustments that need to be made based on the extraction timing, look of pour, and most importantly, the flavor profile and mouth feel of the espresso.<br />
<br />
Most clients tend to set it and forget it on the grinder's fineness setting. For regular brew, press pot, or vacpot coffee brewing methods, one can get away with this. However, for espresso extractions, one typically needs to change settings daily or the minimum weekly on the espresso grinder. It is a good idea to keep the following in mind:<br />
<br />
a) the oils in the bean tend to absorb to the center of the bean as the beans age. Therefore, the grinder needs to be set slightly finer as the beans age.<br />
<br />
b) Humidity and ambient temperature can also factor into the quality of the espresso extraction. We normally receive calls and emails during seasonal changes.<br />
<br />
As one can imagine, even with the manufacturer's setting, adjustments to the grind settings are a certainty with any coffee grinder.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Jim Piccinichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11943921989580664139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29226660.post-1265151388836174752014-10-15T17:36:00.003-04:002014-10-15T17:36:47.172-04:00Brew Pressure Gauges on Espresso MachinesToday, we figured out why espresso machine manufacturers were delaying the installation of brew pressure gauges on home model espresso machines. They wanted less support calls and less inquiries.<br />
<br />
The brew pressure gauge is a wonderful tool for diagnosis of a failing pump/blockage internally or for when a customer has a an issue with the espresso extraction. However, it is not a requirement to pull a fantastic espresso extraction.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3gNJUqiH9YMGwZA3IDJihOrdym0R4SSJTM3LBYhCoxVsgbtjhbMIkJ59IA-8UtKMl0aum_WW44yMq1HfHeWxKXQwz2kEN8hQG01JKJf6UUgsVXUb_pt3gY1dFeCVIeCHlCOKaDA/s1600/MANMDOE40016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3gNJUqiH9YMGwZA3IDJihOrdym0R4SSJTM3LBYhCoxVsgbtjhbMIkJ59IA-8UtKMl0aum_WW44yMq1HfHeWxKXQwz2kEN8hQG01JKJf6UUgsVXUb_pt3gY1dFeCVIeCHlCOKaDA/s1600/MANMDOE40016.jpg" height="238" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
More specifically, the brew presure gauge will indicate if you need to create more resistance in the puck - the coffee that is in the filter basket. The resistance is created by the amount of ground coffee is in the basket, the grind fineness, and the tamping pressure. When the gauge's pressure is too low, one needs to increase the amount of ground coffee, the tamping pressure, and/or the fineness of the grinds (finer). If the brew pressure is too high, then these need to be lessened.<br />
<br />
Without a brew pressure gauge, it is easy. Just look at the pour and time the extraction. Yes, a wasted show, but it would have been wasted anyway even with a brew pressure gauge on the espresso machine. <br />
<br />
So, whats the problem with the gauge? The problem is that users read the gauge when not making espresso. Inquiries come in that that the gauge does not go to zero when the espresso machine is at standstill or there is pressure showing when the machine is powered off.<br />
<br />
The brew pressure gauge should only be viewed when extracting espresso! It has no meaning when the machine is idle. On a tank model machine, it can measure the pressure of the water internally in the pipe between the pump and grouphead or even somewhere else in the line. Therefore, it is possible to have a reading on the gauge when the espresso machine is idle or powered off. On most direct plumbed espresso machines (those hooked up directly to the water line), it can show the water line pressure.<br />
<br />
The other reason for the delay was that limescale can clog the capilary tube that runs from the connection to the rear of the brew pressure gauge. This is just another part that can go faulty. <br />
<br />
So, many espresso machine manufacturers were smart to delay the implementation of the brew pressure gauge on home model espresso machines. However, competition in the market has made it more widespread across machines. Hence, the number of inquiries about the reading of the gauge while the espresso machine is idle has also increased. Therefore, please spread the word! And, visit <a href="http://www.1st-line.com/">www.1st-line.com</a>!Jim Piccinichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11943921989580664139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29226660.post-79468581945829421322014-03-02T05:19:00.001-05:002014-03-02T05:19:50.886-05:00Isomac Tea & Millenium Version 3 Espresso Machines with Cool Touch Wands<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="344" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/ImShrypBGMY" width="459"></iframe>Jim Piccinichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11943921989580664139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29226660.post-34921931666058691582014-03-02T05:11:00.001-05:002014-03-02T05:11:46.095-05:00Quick video: Espresso Machine Reservoir Water Refill Tool<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="344" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/0R7ZX3MT0o0" width="459"></iframe>Jim Piccinichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11943921989580664139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29226660.post-45440188044856570782014-02-10T18:46:00.002-05:002014-02-10T18:46:36.903-05:00The importance of backflushing!!!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieqP0aGEAm9kCVHdDQfWGvAFFv06uj-i1RIUxrvGgWG8yTZEICX_Xqr4IKSv4nzHswh1NN6Mp2PLkcm6NOE17uVkWKI_w3y1k4JDjcqOppJh-3syqkCBQTjBb10AMEjhSQZGDRMw/s1600/screen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Dirty Dispersion Screen" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieqP0aGEAm9kCVHdDQfWGvAFFv06uj-i1RIUxrvGgWG8yTZEICX_Xqr4IKSv4nzHswh1NN6Mp2PLkcm6NOE17uVkWKI_w3y1k4JDjcqOppJh-3syqkCBQTjBb10AMEjhSQZGDRMw/s1600/screen.jpg" height="320" title="Dirty Dispersion Screen" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ewwww! yucky coffee oils and coffee grime!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
If your espresso machine is backflush-capable (please check with your manufacturer (if local) first, then your retailer or dealer) and has a three-way grouphead solenoid valve, it is imperative to backflush!<br />
<br />
Coffee oils and coffee grinds will attach in front of and behind your dispersion screen (<a href="http://www.1st-line.com/store/pc/Faema-E61-Shower-Dispersion-Screen-Brew-Grouphead-160p1642.htm" target="_blank">example new</a>) in the grouphead. Check with the manufacturer or your retailer on proper procedure for backflush protocol.<br />
<br />
A <a href="http://www.1st-line.com/store/pc/Ascaso-Backflush-Detergent-900-gram-Jar-270p4318.htm" target="_blank">high value, quality backflush detergent</a> is made by Ascaso! <br />
<br />
(please note that backflushing is a cleaning regimen different then descaling, which removes calcium and magnesium deposits inside the water from the high temperature of the water in the boiler.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSGSG2z7g2v3HFxZxNt7FeQ1O3yli73HRvLNPmjKO2lTRINsiYzg8VFX0I3I67rHyhIiAgnk3uA4g2ITGvLMTLtbM6jAuCfxIv0-dvohl4dZF27-Zx7mYt3jsmPt8kHsTn0s1TtA/s1600/dirty-screen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Dirty Dispersion Screen" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSGSG2z7g2v3HFxZxNt7FeQ1O3yli73HRvLNPmjKO2lTRINsiYzg8VFX0I3I67rHyhIiAgnk3uA4g2ITGvLMTLtbM6jAuCfxIv0-dvohl4dZF27-Zx7mYt3jsmPt8kHsTn0s1TtA/s1600/dirty-screen.jpg" height="240" title="Dirty Dispersion Screen" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Would you drink espresso from a machine that had this?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
If your machine can not be backflushed, then it is imperative to use a combination cleaner/descaler to be pushed through the internals of your espresso machine. One perfect product is <a href="http://www.1st-line.com/store/pc/-Urnex-CleanCaf-Cleaner-Descaler-270p6809.htm" target="_blank">Cleancaf</a>!<br />
<br />Jim Piccinichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11943921989580664139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29226660.post-20185440988987803302013-11-21T14:41:00.001-05:002013-11-21T14:41:42.707-05:001st-line Video Overview of the Behmor 1600 Coffee Roaster<br />
<br />
1st-line's intro video on the Behmor 1600 Coffee Roaster<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="344" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/4_87aonC1fk" width="459"></iframe>Jim Piccinichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11943921989580664139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29226660.post-76271524014389969482013-11-21T11:27:00.001-05:002013-11-21T11:27:09.266-05:00Vibiemme Double Boiler v3.0 Demo Overview<br />
<br />
Learn more about the Vibiemme Double Boiler espresso and cappuccino machine made in Milano, Italy.<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="344" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/MUc7SFnoWL4" width="459"></iframe>Jim Piccinichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11943921989580664139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29226660.post-65159120629851676262013-10-31T15:19:00.002-04:002013-10-31T15:21:13.871-04:00Happy Halloween! Recipe Creepy Cappuccino<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/jjL3aF0fJlY?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe><br />
<br />
Get some red and yellow food coloring to make an orange color froth! Use the red food color to drip some blood down the froth!Jim Piccinichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11943921989580664139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29226660.post-64209028873695885632013-08-22T12:25:00.002-04:002013-08-22T12:25:55.270-04:00Ascaso Dream: Steam Knob Info<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/vV1kEMkCqPk?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
Learn more before just changing the steam knob and learn how to take the top cover off of the Ascaso Dream.Jim Piccinichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11943921989580664139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29226660.post-22590767211610167342013-08-17T12:20:00.000-04:002013-08-17T12:20:00.704-04:00Gotta Look inside the Pasquini G4 Espresso Machines<iframe width="420" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/WWTB91aFlkM" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Jim Piccinichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11943921989580664139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29226660.post-22571362778443105362013-08-16T21:18:00.000-04:002013-08-16T21:18:00.201-04:00Jura Giga 5: Making Latte Machiato, Simple Cleaning, and Filter Install <iframe width="420" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/XJGY7ih7eHo" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Jim Piccinichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11943921989580664139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29226660.post-6075828682951045092013-08-16T18:15:00.000-04:002013-08-16T18:15:00.490-04:00Jura Giga 5: Menu Selection overview<iframe width="560" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/LZzw8v2mVhI" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Jim Piccinichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11943921989580664139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29226660.post-72749070112547332552013-08-16T13:10:00.000-04:002013-08-16T13:10:00.580-04:00Jura Giga5: Making Specialty Gourmet Coffee Beverages<iframe width="560" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/l-RcRupApXQ" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Jim Piccinichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11943921989580664139noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29226660.post-90261742228139217492013-08-15T10:00:00.000-04:002013-08-15T10:00:00.827-04:00A quick start up overview for the Jura Giga5 automatic coffee center<iframe width="560" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/p0ucd4lHs4Y" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Jim Piccinichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11943921989580664139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29226660.post-81783849414069248662013-08-14T18:03:00.000-04:002013-08-14T18:03:36.026-04:00Learn from a quick rundown comparison between the Jura S9 One Touch and the Jura Giga5!<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/I3u69X9nN3Y" width="560"></iframe>
Jim Piccinichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11943921989580664139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29226660.post-32207421389177667722013-07-12T15:00:00.000-04:002013-07-12T15:00:09.389-04:00Portafilter and Spout Never Aligns Perpendicular!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiKhthyphenhyphenFfdUd8PqodNZI17hZROnSb3oM4w04yK4r_4szmnFNl8jrtWZWWlAARoI9UEOuaJqcDLtuXtNVoiPouPyHQBQ1fH4_SFDk4dwwGo9x4P1DArjoDo6TZ-GXU9yAs73fBnrA/s1600/portafilter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiKhthyphenhyphenFfdUd8PqodNZI17hZROnSb3oM4w04yK4r_4szmnFNl8jrtWZWWlAARoI9UEOuaJqcDLtuXtNVoiPouPyHQBQ1fH4_SFDk4dwwGo9x4P1DArjoDo6TZ-GXU9yAs73fBnrA/s320/portafilter.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Did you ever notice on a brand new, traditional-style espresso machine that the portafilter's dual spout and the filter handle do not align perpendicular to the machine, so one can place two demitasse cups nicely side by side on the drip tray?<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Well, on a brand new machine, this is absolutely normal. The portafilter gasket, the seal in the grouphead that the filter handle locks into, needs to be broken in. Over time, the spouts will align nicely. After this, the spouts will align to the opposite side as the portafilter gasket gets old and worn down.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXPvQlTbIxWv7PLcPeBZKsdemOYg1ACJNGySIvimokc46A92q8HW6ww2PoHrGNzmfbg_miw2yDUqXlv9q7iiDObhyG6Y_Hoz4PLmHuHsdn5Bk11Q3RGhmDdQReK6Ve-y4T5kBXgw/s1600/spout.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXPvQlTbIxWv7PLcPeBZKsdemOYg1ACJNGySIvimokc46A92q8HW6ww2PoHrGNzmfbg_miw2yDUqXlv9q7iiDObhyG6Y_Hoz4PLmHuHsdn5Bk11Q3RGhmDdQReK6Ve-y4T5kBXgw/s320/spout.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
The other cause whereby the intended alignment goes 'out of whack' is when one removes the spout from the portafilter assembly. Once you take off the spout, it is almost impossible to get it re-aligned. Therefore, Teflon tape needs to be used on the threads, or an NSF-approved sealant needs to be added to the threads before positioning the spout into place and allowed to dry for 24 hours.Jim Piccinichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11943921989580664139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29226660.post-29946278138737016052013-07-12T12:04:00.000-04:002013-07-12T12:04:21.704-04:00Summertime Voltage Changes Impacts Espresso Machines<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAnRx0EPmYB1DoYALoU22ujwqpspNAgjCu1UVWLyTKg7-30U5HSWnXqZgVXszShHVUy0jxdpLfm5tsVMgykLWBbQ_sr9n8x_nDdK1oLFYawLbpSX-LF5LuAhApT0y6OZPMtisPPg/s1600/outlet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="1st-line.com Electrical Outlet" border="0" height="189" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAnRx0EPmYB1DoYALoU22ujwqpspNAgjCu1UVWLyTKg7-30U5HSWnXqZgVXszShHVUy0jxdpLfm5tsVMgykLWBbQ_sr9n8x_nDdK1oLFYawLbpSX-LF5LuAhApT0y6OZPMtisPPg/s200/outlet.jpg" title="1st-line.com Electrical Outlet" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Outlet with GFI, but no surge suppressor.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
At the start of the hot summer season, we receive inquiries about espresso machine performance degrading and sometimes possible or potential malfunctions. One area of our client's concern is steaming performance. This includes both home machine clients as well as our commercial clientele.<br />
<br />
Most clients do not know that electric companies will alter the 'actual 'voltage' into residential homes and commercial facilities in order to meet the overall higher summer demand for electricity (<a href="http://www.coned.com/newsroom/news/pr20130706.asp" target="_blank">example of Con Edison in NYC</a>). The demand surge is caused by air conditioners as well as refrigerators and freezers which need to cycle on more often during the hotter summer months.<br />
<br />
To meet this extra demand, the voltage is reduced by the power companies to avoid a systemic overload, which can result in brownouts or blackouts. For example, in my home during the past winter months, the voltage in my home ranges between 119 and 124 volts. On July, 12, 2013, the actual voltage in my kitchen outlet was no more than 113 volts. This 6-9 volt decrease in available voltage can have an impact on the performance of an espresso machine. The performance dip will mostly be seen in the recovery of the steaming capability and less often in the brewing function (except that taste and crema production can be impacted).<br />
<br />
<b>Your 1st-line Recommendations</b><br />
a) Only power your espresso machine only for the period of use. If not using your machine within 2 hours, power to the 'off' state, and/or<br />
b) Place a surge suppressor immediately before the machine's plug to protect it from the changes in voltage which can cause damage to your machines electronics or heating element, and/or<br />
c) If leaving for an extended vacation, unplug your equipment from the outlet(s) before you leave.<br />
d) In an office environment, schedule morning break periods for which the espresso equipment will be available to use.<br />
<br />
Can you think of any other recommendations?<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Jim Piccinichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11943921989580664139noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29226660.post-81208649118662877242013-04-05T16:01:00.003-04:002013-04-05T16:01:44.049-04:00Changing Gicar PID Celsius setting to FahrenheitIn this video, we demonstrate how to change the PID Celsius setting to Fahrenheit on an Ascaso Steel Uno professional PID espresso machine. This same procedure will work on most machines with a Gicar PID display. Please make sure the unit's internal boiler has water in it before performing. However, it may not work on all as there are some displays that do not have this feature and will only show in Celsius.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/ABYWoyOT3E0?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />Jim Piccinichhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11943921989580664139noreply@blogger.com0