Tips for Choosing a Coffee Maker

Coffee makers have come a long way. From yesterday's cowboy pots boiling coffee
over the coals to today's sleek gourmet brewers, there's a coffee maker to fit
every taste, every lifestyle, every budget and every counter space. So where do
you begin finding the coffee maker of your dreams?

Before you head for the appliance aisle at your favorite store, do a little
homework. Consider what kind of coffee you prefer, how often you drink coffee,
how much space you have for a coffee maker, how much you can afford to spend on
a coffee maker. These are the issues involved in deciding whether to purchase an
espresso or a non-espresso coffee maker. Choosing a Coffee Maker: Espresso or No
Espresso

Espresso coffee makers are fancy. They cost more than other coffee makers (some
cost thousands of dollars) and make a variety of coffee types including
cappuccino and lattes. Espresso machines often make only one cup of coffee at a
time and require cleaning after each cup. The coffee is stronger than that
brewed by other means.

True coffee aficionados often prefer to use the espresso coffee maker,
especially the super automated models that do everything from grinding the
coffee to pouring it into the cup.

Typical coffee drinkers who prefer to have a pot of coffee available at all
times and aren't interested in lattes or other versions of coffee tend to
prefer non-espresso coffee makers. Non-espresso coffee makers work well for
people who like to start the coffee brewing and go on about their usual
activities while it brews. They buy coffee already ground and don't bother with
beans or grinding.

For coffee drinkers needing large quantities of coffee, non-espresso is the way
to go. Large percolator type coffee urns can be used to make more than a hundred
cups of coffee at one time.

They also prefer returning to the coffee pot time after time and refilling
their coffee cup over making only a cup at a time. Non-espresso type coffee
makers are much less expensive than espresso machines.

Types of Coffee Makers

Many people have coffee makers but are curious what other types of coffee
makers are available. Maybe you would like to try something new or your old
coffee maker finally died and you need a good replacement. With hundreds of
types of coffee maker on the market, you have many options available and are
sure to find something that will suit your needs.

Before you buy a coffee maker you should figure out what exactly you want out
of it. Are you a coffee addict who needs 10 cups a day or should you stick with
a smaller single serve coffee maker? Do you need to grind your own beans and
want a grinder built in? Do you want foam or options for espresso and
cappuccino? Or, do you just want something cheap that will make coffee as easy
as possible? These are just a few questions you should ask yourself before
going to find a new coffee maker.

Naturally, the easiest and most common type of coffee maker is the automatic
drip. This is where you put some water in the back or side, put in a filter,
fill it with coffee, then push start. Its ease of use is one of the things that
makes this type so appealing. These can make just one cup at a time or gallons
at a time. It all depends on what you want to use it for. The only thing you
really need to worry about is the type of coffee you want to put into it.
Quality coffee beans can be ground at stores and they can even be infused with
flavors you like such as hazelnut, vanilla, and cinnamon.

The second most popular type of coffee maker is the manual drip. This is just
like the automatic drip except you heat up and pour the water yourself. You
just pour it into the holder where the coffee filter filled with coffee sits.
It drains into the pot and you are done. These also make either single cup or
up to 12 cups but aren't usually used commercially. For people who love
fishing, hunting, and camping, these are a good choice as they are portable and
you can heat the water however you want. You can use a stove, campfire, even a
hot car engine is an option if you really need a cup of coffee immediately.

Espresso and cappuccino machines are more for a selective person who knows
exactly what they like. Unlike a normal coffee maker, these are expensive and
you need to practice to operate them efficiently. They utilize pressure, foam,
froth, and milk depending on the type of machine you buy. Espresso and
cappuccino are gaining popularity and these are becoming smaller and more
affordable than ever before.

In addition to these, there are many other types of coffee maker you may be
interested in. There are old fashioned percolators, vacuum brewers, French
presses, and much more available if you choose to look around. You can find
anything you are looking for either on line or at a local retailer.

Choosing a Coffee Maker: Non-Espresso

These coffee makers are available in drip, French press and combination models.
Drip machines often make 6 to 10 cups of coffee at a time. For those who need a
lesser quantity, it's better to buy a model that makes 4 cups (or less) at a
time. Drip coffee makers are inexpensive and easy to use.

There are pod coffee makers available which use single serving pods to brew
coffee. Pod coffee makers can be inexpensive but the coffee itself costs more
than standard cans of pre-ground coffee. French Press coffee makers are great
for a few cups of coffee at a time. Combination coffee makes featuring both
espresso and non-espresso coffee makers in one machine are also available.
These machines give coffee drinkers the best of both worlds.

Choosing a Coffee Maker: Espresso

Espresso coffee makers come in semi-automatic, fully automatic and super
automatic models. These machines make fewer cups at a time and may require more
time and attention that a standard drip coffee maker.

The more automated an espresso coffee maker is, the more features it will
offer. Some take care of everything from grinding the coffee beans to filling
the cup with coffee and ejecting the used coffee grounds.

The more features the espresso coffee maker offers, the higher the price tag
attached to it. These coffee makers can cost anywhere from hundreds of dollars
to thousands of dollars.

The first decision to be made in choosing a coffee maker is the need to
determine whether an espresso coffee maker or a non-espresso coffee maker is
needed. Coffee preferences, budget and quantity of coffee to be made are
factors that affect the decision making process.

Cappuccino Machine

A cappuccino is a wonderful Italian coffee based hot drink that is prepared
with milk foam, espresso and hot milk. It is normally served in a porcelain
cup; this is because these cups have a much better heat preservation compared
to a normal mug or glass. The foam that stays on the top of the cappuccino
works as an insulator to help preserve the heat of the drink, letting it stay
hotter for much longer. It is not advised to drink this cold, it tastes
completely different, the hotter the better!

There are many different kinds of cappuccino machines available for home use as
well as use in a restaurant. If you are looking for one of these machines by a
specific name, that's also okay as they are listed in alphabetical order by the
brand names. Although, all these machines are great, some may find it easier to
work with the smaller ones, because it has less buttons and appears less
confusing, where as others will prefer to use the big ones. As long as you know
what you are doing, it does not matter what the size of the machine is.

For those that like to use the smaller cappuccino machines, this classic
machine is excellent. It is a solid performer; with a thermo-block heating
system that will prevent any water from escaping from the machine while it is
being used. The pod sieve allows use of standard 45mm round espresso pods, with
an 18 bar power pump, self-locking filter holder, 40oz removable water container
with an automatic close valve and individual high-speed setting for hot water.
This machine allows you to make a fresh hot cup of tea in just over thirty
seconds.

There are two important facts that need to be remembered when using a dual
frother as the metal cylinder only has two functions;

Frothing and steaming -- when the metal sleeve is pointing downwards

The metal cylinder will stay locked in place on the tip of the black frother.
The air and the hot steam are inserted straight into the milk; this is what
makes the best cappuccino!

Steaming only -- when the metal sleeve is pointing upwards

No air will be inserted into the milk, just the hot steam and this is what
makes an ideal latte.

One of the slightly bigger ones is the semi-automatic machine. It is vigorously
heated by circulating water that's drawn off the boiler. It has a 1550 watt
heating element, 2 liter boiler with a heat exchanger, 1/8" thick boiler walls
making it very safe to use, 1 gallon water reservoir, a hot water dispenser
that gives you hot water almost instantly and a stainless steel easy-to-clean
drip tray.

So, whether you own a restaurant and need new equipment or you are tired of
having to go to a restaurant to get that great boost of cappuccino, there is
one that will look great in any kitchen! There are so many different cappuccino
machines to choose from, you'll find one you just can't get enough of!

Bunn Coffee Makers Available in Wide Array of Styles

Bunn coffee makers are popular with many devoted coffee drinkers. This leading
coffee maker company offers a variety of styles to fit the needs of users. In
1957, Bunn introduced the first paper coffee filter. In 1963, they introduced
the 'pourover' coffee brewer.

Automatic (coffee makers that connect to a water source) and manual (coffee
makers that require reservoir filling before use) styles are available. Manual
coffee makers are also called pourover coffee makers.

Bunn Airpot Coffee Maker: Coffee is brewed directly into an airpot. These
machines do not contain warmers.

Bunn Drip Coffee Maker: Drip coffee makers deliver brewed coffee into glass
carafes. A warmer beneath the carafe keeps coffee hot.

Bunn Liquid Coffee Maker: Liquid concentrate is used to brew coffee in these
machines. They are especially used for brewing large quantities of coffee.

Bunn Pod Coffee Maker: This style brews a single cup of coffee each time.
Pre-measured, prefilled pods are easy to use and make cleanup a breeze. These
coffee makers are fast, brewing a fresh cup of coffee in under a minute.

Bunn Satellite Coffee Maker: These coffee makers are preferred for commercial
use in offices, restaurants and locations needing larger quantities of coffee.
Once brewed, the coffee is placed in carafes that sit on warmers to preserve
heat.

Bunn Softheat Coffee Maker: These are used for brewing large amounts of coffee.
The machine's heat control sensor shuts off automatically when the machine
reaches the desired temperature. An included coffee grinder interface
automatically dispenses amount of coffee needed.

Bunn Thermal Coffee Maker: This style of machine brews coffee into a thermal
carafe. Coffee remains hot longer and tastes fresher.

Bunn Thermofresh Coffee Maker: Can be used for brewing large amounts of coffee.
The machine is capable of storing coffee recipes, making it easy for coffee
aficionados to brew their favorite coffees.

Bunn Urn Coffee Maker: Businesses and organizations use this coffee maker to
brew enormous amounts of coffee (more than 11 gallons per hour).

Bunn Coffee Maker Special Features

Bunn coffee makers offer distinctive benefits, including patented reservoirs, a
3 minute brewing cycle and sprayhead to distribute water evenly over coffee
grounds.

Patented reservoirs used in Bunn coffee makers feature that maintain a brewing
temperature of 200 degrees, unlike conventional home coffee makers that heat
water only until it boils high enough to reach the coffee basket. The Bunn
coffee maker 3 minute brewing cycle is not only fast, it reduces bitterness.
Typical coffee makers continue brewing until all water is boiled away.

Unlike conventional coffee makers where water drips from the reservoir through
the coffee, Bunn coffee makers contain a special sprayhead that exposes all of
the coffee to water instead of just the area beneath the drip.

Bunn coffee makers can be found in homes, restaurants and businesses all over
the United States. Many coffee lovers swear by Bunn machines and refuse to use
any other coffee maker. The company offers a wide array of coffee maker styles
to fit individual needs and budgets.

Best Coffee Makers

One will always get and ear-full of how great a coffee maker is when walking
into a friend's home. You put up with all the details of the machine and
eventually try out the greatest coffee it can produce. At another friend you
get the same story, but concerning a different coffee maker. You can make the
best cup of coffee with a very simple coffee maker, and one specific machine is
the manual drip machine.

The French Press is a glass jar. It has vertical sides and a plunger, and
attached to the plunger is a mesh filter. The coffee is inserted in the jar,
hot water is poured in, the lid is attached, and after 4 minutes all you have
to do is slowly press the plunger down. That is all it takes, and with that you
will be able to enjoy a tasteful cup of coffee.

Next are coffee percolators. You do not want to make your coffee with one of
these. Percolators are pots that have to stand on the stove for endless hours.
This is not the best way to use up the coffee beans that you carefully
selected. When coffee is brewed, the temperature of the water has to be just
below the boiling stage. Percolators are culprits for boiling the flavor out of
the beans. If you think otherwise, keep your old percolator. However, if you
want the quality out of your coffee beans, try using a different maker.

Yum, Coffee Drip Brewers are probably the most common and the best when it
comes to coffee machines. You probably own one or have one at work. All this
requires is for you to add your coffee in the filter, fill with water, flick
the switch and watch the container fill with coffee. If you have a good coffee
maker model, the water will hit the coffee at the exact temperature. These
brewers can supply you with a cup of coffee you will never forget.

There is however a downfall with these machines and you've probably tasted the
downfall two hours after it was made in the machine. What happens is after the
coffee has brewed and is now standing on the hotplate, after some time the
hotplate starts cooking your coffee. The solution is to make just the right
amount you think you will consume in the next thirty minutes. It is advisable
to make a fresh pot if you want more coffee an hour later.

Single mug coffee brewers have their advantages and their disadvantages. The
advantages are that you will have a fresh cup of coffee every single time and
there will be no mess and coffee ground will not be spilled. The disadvantages
are that you can only brew the coffee that is sold in these pods or cups. You
will not be able to go down to the store to try a new blend of coffee beans.
Manufacturers have their own coffee suppliers, and what they have on the shelf
is what you get.

Where to Find a Coffee Maker

Many people drink coffee every day. They drink it with breakfast, lunch, and
even dinner. The workplace introduces many people to coffee as they feel it
keeps them awake, alert, and more productive. Coffee makers vary from single
cup to multi cup but all generally do one thing. Make coffee. You might wonder
where to find a coffee maker that is just right for you. There are many places
either near you or on line where you can find a coffee maker.

If you ask most people where to find a coffee maker, they will tell you to go
to a local retail store. This is usually a good idea because at a retail store
they will usually have entire aisles dedicated to various coffee makers. This
helps a great deal as you can compare all the options that the various machines
have to offer. You will find coffee makers that make a single cup, eight cups,
or even as many as twelve cups at a time. Some will make even more but you
usually have to order those. Coffee makers are available in many different
styles and colors so you should be able to find one that will match your other
kitchen appliances.

If you want to make the best purchase possible, you might want to read some
reviews. The Internet has thousands of places that are dedicated solely to
coffee makers. Many of these have very thorough reviews by many different
people. It can be very beneficial to read reviews on coffee makers before you
buy them so you know what you are looking for when you go to the store. Nothing
can give you a feel for a new coffee maker than knowing what other people's
experiences are with that product.

The Internet is also a great place to purchase coffee makers. There are many
websites and on line stores that specialize in coffee makers and can give you
some amazing deals. A common place to find a run of the mill coffee maker is a
site that sells overstocked goods at discounted prices. There are many of these
sites so you can search around and find one you like. You can save up to 75% if
you look around carefully. Auction sites can also be a good place to look. Not
everything up for auction is used and you can find many deals there. Some
websites are promoted by a particular brand and for one price, they will send
you a coffee maker and enroll you in some type of coffee club. This usually is
a new coffee every month at a reasonable price. If you want to experiment, that
might be a good choice.

The most important factor in buying a coffee maker is you. What do you want
your coffee maker to do? How many people will it be serving? How much am I
willing to pay? These are the most important questions you should ask yourself
before buying a coffee maker. If you take your time and choose based on your
needs, you will find the one you are looking for.

Popular Espresso Coffee Makers

Americans love espresso. They rely on it to help them get going in the morning;
keep them going through the day and sometimes through the night as well. Here
are a few of the most popular espresso coffee makers.

Braun AromaDeluxe KF510BK 10-cup Coffee Maker

The Braun AromaDeluxe is a fast brewing coffee maker. A Brita water filter
removes impurities that can affect coffee taste. The premium Aroma Deluxe
features a clock and timer so that users can set the machine to have coffee
ready each morning.

Braun Tassimo Coffee-on-Demand 1 cup Coffee Maker

Fast and easy single serving coffee maker also makes latte, cappuccino, cafe
crema, tea, and hot chocolate.

Cuisinart Brew Central DCC-1200W, 12-cup Coffee Maker

The Cuisinart Brew Central Coffee Maker is totally programmable. It contains a
built-in water filter and has a 12 cup capacity. There is no built-in grinder.
There is a pause and serve function and alerts users when it needs decalcifying.

Cuisinart Grind and Brew DGB-600BCW 10 cup Coffee Maker

This thermal coffee maker grinds beans when needed, resulting in fresher taste
with every cup. The thermal carafe is double insulated to keep coffee hot for
hours.

DeLonghi BAR32 Retro Espresso Coffee Maker

The DeLonghi Bar32 Retro Espresso Coffee Maker is part of DeLonghi's Retro
designer line. The machine is said to be inspired by the 20th Century Art Deco
and Bauhaus periods of the 20th Century. This machine does not contain a
built-in grinder. It does make multiple cups and has a water tank size of
almost 34 ounces.

Jura/Capresso Impressa E8 Espresso Machine and Coffee Maker

The Jura/Capresso Impressa E8 Espresso Machine and coffee maker is a high tech
machine capable of producing espresso, cappuccino, lattes and long crema
coffee. Settings allow for customized brewing of mild, regular or strong
coffee. A grinder is built in, timer and cup warming surface are built in.

Keurig Elite B40 Coffee Maker

The Keurig Elite B40 Coffee Maker is a no-fuss coffee maker. The water
reservoir is removable. The machine features single button brewing, the water
reservoir is removable and indicator lights let users know if water is heating,
if it's necessary to add water, if the machine needs descaling and when it is
ready to brew. This coffee maker does not feature a built-in grinder.

Krups XP 2070 Espresso Machine & Coffee Maker

The Krups XP 2070 is a programmable combination espresso machine and drip
coffee maker. It features a a 10 cup coffee capacity and a 15 bar pump espresso
capacity.

Senseo Single Serve Pod HD7810/75 Coffee Maker

This pod system coffee maker features a patented brewing system that
automatically uses just the right amount of water and sends the water through
the pod quickly and evenly.

Coffee lovers can choose from a variety of coffee makers. From single cup
Senseo styles to ten cup Cuisinart Models, there's a coffee maker for every
drinker and every occasion. If all that's desired is coffee, no problem. If
specialty coffees are preferred, no problem. Fresh java is just a cup away.

The History of Espresso Coffee Makers

Espresso coffee makers came out of man's need for a faster cup of coffee. Not
only did espresso machines produce more coffee faster, they produced a better
cup of coffee. The first machines had a few kinks to be worked out but coffee
maker inventors didn't let little issues deter them.

Who made the first espresso coffee machine? The answer depends on which records
you read. According to some records, Louis Bernard Babaut created the first
known espresso coffee maker in 1822 with Edward Santais commercializing and
marketing the machine in 1843. It debuted at the Universal Exposition in Paris
in 1855.

Records say the coffee maker produced one thousand cups of espresso in an hour,
using steam to push water through coffee held in a filter. New inventions often
carry risk and this espresso coffee maker was no exception. It tended to blow
up from time to time. It also had a tendency to occasionally burn the coffee.

The original espresso coffee makers weren't easy to use. Operating them
involved some degree of skill and left plenty of room for diversity. The
operator controlled the intensity of the heat and the length of time the water
valve remained open. Users could put in less coffee grounds and get stronger
coffee or use more water and get a diluted result.

Other records credit Luigi Bezzera, a manufacturer, with the invention of
Espresso in 1903. Bezzera wanted to make coffee faster. He added pressure to
the process and 'voila' the birth of the Fast Coffee Machine. The machine made
coffee faster and better than other available methods. Bezzera invented a
machine that used the pressure of steam to push water through a fixed filter
containing coffee.

While skilled in inventing, Bezzera lacked marketing ability to promote his
creation. In 1905, the rights to the espresso machine were purchased by
Desidero Pavoni and successfully marketed the invention, changing the way
everyone drank coffee.
Pavoni sold the coffee makers throughout Europe.

Franceso Illy created what some believe to be the first automatic espresso
coffee maker . Invented in 1935, the Illeta used compressed air instead of
steam for his machine. This solved the problem of exploding espresso coffee
makers and resulted in a more stable result.

Achille's Gaggia invented the espresso coffee maker that bears his name in
1945. His invention used lever action.Modern versions of both Illetta and
Gaggia espresso coffee makers are available today.Ernest Valente created an
electric rotating pump in 1950. The pump allowed a continuous, even flow of
water through the coffee maker.

Illy, still producing espresso, went on to simplify the espresso coffee maker
process even more in the 1970's when he introduced a machine that combined the
best parts of previous espresso coffee maker methods. His machine used double
filters, cost less than other coffee makers and was simple to use.

In the 70's, super automatic espresso coffee makers were born. They are now the
norm in many countries. The machines continue to evolve. Debate over which
methods and which machines produce the best espresso will continue as long as
people continue to enjoy their cup of Joe.

The History of Coffee Makers

It was love at first sip. Once man discovered the taste of coffee and the
stimulating effect of caffeine on the body, he was hooked. The road to a
quality coffee maker has been bumpy. Original coffee makers had a slight
problem in that they occasionally blew up. Sometimes they burned the coffee.

According to some, women who ran houses of ill repute were among the first
great coffee makers. In 1674, men were spending so much time drinking at local
coffee houses that the women in England tried to outlaw coffee. Coffee makers
in the 1600's and 1700's were designed in an array of styles, most featuring a
fat bulge in an effort to help retain the coffee grounds when pouring out the
coffee.

Some creative individual put coffee in a sock in an effort to contain the
grounds in 1780. This heralded the birth of the Mr. Biggin coffee maker. The
Mr. Biggin used a cloth filter. Coffee fans tried cotton, wool, burlap and
other fabrics and materials to filter coffee. Cloth wasn't working real well.
In 1802, the metal coffee filter came into use.

The 1800's were a time of rapid coffee maker development. Madame Vassieux of
Lyons, developed a vacuum coffee maker. Madame Richard also created a vacuum
style coffee maker. Vacuum and percolator coffee makers were widely used. In
1818, a Parisian metal smith invented the first coffee percolator. In America,
the Cowboy Pot was the coffee maker of choice.

During the years of 1835 to 1850, many, many coffee makers are invented. Glass
balloon coffee makers, vacuum system coffee makers, piston system coffee
makers, pressure steamer coffee makers, a Naperian balancing siphon coffee
maker and other coffee makers, roasters and grinders are invented.

The birth of the Manning-Bowman Percolator ocurred in 1890. House Furnishings
Review magazine promoted the Cafetiere double blown-glass coffee maker. The
Raparlier coffee maker featured a filter made of hemp. This style of
Hydropneumatic coffee maker was used as late as the 1960's.

Vacuum and percolator coffee makers continued to be created in different syles.
Plunger filters were first introduced in the 1900's. The principle is still
applied to coffee makers today. Some say that it is virtually impossible to
make a bitter cup of coffee with a plunger style coffee maker.

As the 1900's progressed, Willy Brandl invented one of the first ever electric
coffee makers. The major development in this case was the switch that
automatically turned the coffee maker off when the liquid level was low. Coffee
filters as we know them today were born in 1912. Frau Benz invented Melitta
coffee filter paper. Goodbye linen and cloth coffee filters. Hello paper. Easy
to use and easy to get rid of.

The first true espresso machine arrived in 1946 when Achille Gaggia designed
the first espresso machine that didn't involve using steam. Within fifteen
years, modern coffee makers using paper filters began to be used commercially.
Bunn introduced the paper filter as it's known today in 1957. The first
'pourover' coffee maker was introduced by Bunn in 1963.

Mr. Coffee was born in 1972. The automatic drip coffee maker hits store shelves
and start showing up in homes and businesses everywhere. After Mr. Coffee signed
Joe DiMaggio to be the company spokesman in 1974, Mr. Coffee became a household
name.

When the price of coffee beans skyrocketed in 1977, Mr. Coffee created a coffee
saver coffee maker that used less coffee. The first thermal coffee carafe is
born around this time, giving coffee drinkers the ability to easily keep coffee
hot for long periods. By 1979, timers appeared on coffee makers and have come a
long way from the Cowboy Coffee Pot. It will be interesting to see how the
machines evolve over the next hundred years.

Single Cup Coffee Makers

People love coffee and buy tons of coffee makers each year. The problem with
your average coffee maker is that it is usually designed to make ten to twelve
cups of coffee per pot. This is fine for the office or maybe a diner but a
casual coffee drinker doesn't need all that. With an average coffee maker, if
you only drink one or two cups a day, you are wasting between eight and ten
cups. That's a lot of coffee! Another thing is if you buy a big can of coffee,
it will most likely get stale after a while. These are all good reasons you
might want a single cup coffee maker.

Single cup coffee makers are perfect for single people and those that just want
a better cup of coffee than a normal coffee pot will allow. A single cup coffee
maker gives you a higher quality cup of coffee because it was designed for just
that. One premium cup of coffee. Other coffee makers will brew more at a time
but they are designed for speed not quality.

Single cup coffee makers are a bit more expensive than multi-cup coffee makers.
This is because normally the only coffee you can use in them is sold in "pod"
form. This is basically a self contained package that has coffee inside little
flat oval shaped filters. If you browse your retail aisles, you should be able
to tell easily what sells and what doesn't. This is good to keep in mind so you
don't buy a new coffee maker only to have it obsolete and useless in just a few
months. There are a few name brands such as Senseo and Mr. Coffee that you
can't go wrong with but you should definitely shop around and read some reviews
and comparisons before making your purchase.

Each single cup coffee maker tends to be unique. Some will let you change the
strength you desire or if you want four or eight ounces of coffee. Some will
put foam or froth on top of each cup. There are many different options
available to you.

There are many places you can purchase a single cup coffee maker. The most
obvious choice is a retail store that has many different types lined up on a
shelf. This lets you see what they look like, what they do, and what they
offer. Appearance is important because if your entire kitchen has stainless
steel appliances, a black plastic pot might not fit the theme of the kitchen.
Price is always a factor because if something will do the exact same thing for
$50.00 less, you might as well give it a shot and upgrade if necessary.

The only drawback to single cup coffee makers is that they only make one cup at
a time. If you have many guests you will have to run back and forth, replace
coffee pods, and make individual cups. The guests might appreciate the higher
quality, so that is a choice you will have to make.

Manual Drip Coffee Makers

Many people don't really know the difference between automatic and manual drip
coffee makers. It's really very simple. An automatic drip coffee maker pours
the hot water over the ground coffee for you while a manual drip coffee maker
requires that you do it yourself.

Manual drip coffee makers typically come in single cup to twelve cup varieties
and basically give you similar results as an automatic drip coffee maker. Many
people feel they get a better tasting cup of coffee when they have the ability
to pour the water themselves and choose from a variety of filters and filter
holders. A good thing about manual drip coffee makers is that they don't use
electricity and can be used wherever you happen to go. This makes them a great
choice for camping. You can boil water over a fire or portable stove for your
coffee.

The main components of manual drip coffee makers are the pot or cup, a filter,
and a filter holder. There are more complicated varieties available but for
most of them, this is all you will need. First you set your pot or cup on a
counter, set the filter holder on top, add a filter and fill it with ground
coffee. You boil water on a stove and pour it into the filter. It's pretty easy
but if you don't know what you are doing or have the proper pot to boil water
in, there is a potential to get scalded. Using a teapot or special pot that has
a place for pouring is the best way to go as a saucepan isn't designed for
pouring water out.

Every manual drip coffee maker has a special filter and filter holder. The
filters can be permanent metal ones or your basic disposable paper ones. Many
people like the metal filters because they can be used many times and provide
the same water flow each time. Paper filters, though cheaper, can end up
costing more in the long run and each brand might let water flow a little
differently. The filter holders come in hundreds of varieties but you usually
get one with your manual drip coffee maker. If you buy a different one, you run
the risk of overflow. Filter holders can be porcelain, plastic, metal, or glass
and come in many different sizes.

The manual drip coffee maker pot or cup is an important thing to consider. Do
you want to make a single cup or ten cups? A single cup version will take up
almost no counter space and is a great choice for people who live alone or in a
very small place. The ten to twelve cup versions are great for homes that drink
a lot of coffee or for big camping trips. They aren't as big as an electric
coffee maker and can be taken apart for easy cleaning and carrying.

The most important part of any coffee maker is the type of coffee you use.
Expensive coffee that is freshly ground will taste much better than coffee from
a discount store. Try different types of coffee and decide what kind you like
the best.

How a Coffee Maker Works

We all wake up in the morning and depend on our old friend to start our day -
the coffee maker. The only effort we have to put in when wanting to enjoy a mug
of coffee is to add a scoop of coffee, add the required amount of water and turn
the machine on. We stand back and wait for our coffee to be ready before we can
enjoy it. Think about it, have you ever stood there and tried to understand how
the water gets from the compartment to the top of the machine? Have you ever
wondered what that gurgling sound was? Here is what goes on inside.

If you open the top of the coffee machine, you will find the bucket that holds
the water when you pour it in before the cycle starts. If you look inside, you
will find a hole in the bucket's bottom, and this will become clear to you very
soon. You also see a tube, and the purpose of this tube is to carry the water to
the area where it drips out. The drip area is the part you see from the top that
contains all the tiny holes. This is where the water arrives from the tube and
then simply drips through the tiny holes.

If you turn the bucket upside down, you will see another tube and this is
called the hot-water tube. This tube (tube2) connects to the black tube (tube1)
that you see when looking at it from the top. Remember the hole in the bottom of
the bucket mentioned earlier? Well, this is where tube2 picks up the cold water
- from that hole. Also visible inside are the power cord and the on and off
switch of the machine.

Next is the heating element. This little part is what makes the water hot. The
heating element is just a simple coiled wire. This is similar to filament in
your standard light bulb or the element in your every morning toaster. The coil
in the coffee maker is held firmly in plaster, and this makes it rugged. This
element has two jobs.

* The heating element (or the coil) boils the water when it is put in the
coffee maker. * The element makes sure the coffee stays warm once the cycle is
complete.

The heating element inside the coffee machine is pressed firmly against the
warming plate. A heat conducting grease ensures that heat is transferred
competently to the warming plate. The conducting grease is messy and is
extremely difficult to get off yours hands. This grease can be found in power
supplies, amplifiers -- basically anything that squanders heat.

There is a part that's not visible in a coffee maker and this is the one-way
valve. This valve can either be in that hole that was mentioned earlier or it
could be in the heating pipe, and this pipe is aluminum. If a coffee maker had
no one-way valve, the hot water would just flow back into the bucket after
trying to make its way up the tube.

The History of Coffee Makers

Coffee has been used as a drink for well over 2000 years. The first methods of
brewing coffee were pretty crude but they have advanced greatly over the
centuries. People used to just chew the cherry that came off the coffee tree to
get a stimulant effect. Inside the cherry was the coffee bean. Over time with
experimentation, people started to roast and then grind the beans for better
flavor.

As early as the the late 1700s, coffee makers began showing up. This made it
easy for people to brew coffee and not worry about getting grounds in their
cup. This was expensive and not many people had them. The basic design is
similar to coffee pots of today. There was a pot on the bottom with a place to
put your ground coffee on the top. This was connected to a chamber on top where
you poured in your boiling water.

People tried many different types of coffee maker throughout the years since
then. There have been percolators, vacuum coffee makers, and drip coffee
makers. Percolators use a pot over a heat source that forces the water into an
upper chamber where the coffee grounds are. The water drips through the coffee
and back into the lower pot. You know it is ready when it stops making
percolating noises which are easy to hear. Then you remove it from heat before
it boils. Vacuum coffee makers use what looks like two pots, one upside down on
the other. As it is heated, the pressure forces hot water up into the top
chamber where it infuses with the ground coffee. When you remove it from heat,
the pressure is reversed and the coffee goes back to the lower pot ready to
drink. Drip coffee makers are the kind we are all used to. Whether automatic or
manual they work by dumping hot water over coffee grounds that sit in a filter.
It strains through into a pot and is ready to drink.

With the advent of electricity, coffee makers became very popular and a little
cheaper. In the early 1900s coffee makers really started to boom and by the
1970s almost everyone had a coffee maker in their home. These were usually of
the automatic drip variety as they were the easiest to use. Todays coffee
makers have many features. They have timers that allow you to specify when you
want your coffee maker to turn on, have built in grinders, storage areas, and
much more. You can buy home espresso and cappuccino machines also. Coffee
makers today range from the single cup variety to commercial units that make
gallons at a time so no matter what your need, you can usually find it.

As more and more people start to enjoy different kinds of coffee, coffee makers
become easier to use and offer more features. Many combine espresso, cappuccino,
and coffee all in one machine but it is rather bulky still. Look for these to
shrink in the near future.

Electric Coffee Makers

There are many types of coffee maker available on the market today. When most
people think of a coffee maker, they think of an electric coffee maker. This
means the coffee maker is plugged into an outlet and is powered with
electricity. This is the most common way to power your coffee maker because of
its simplicity. You just plug it in, add water and coffee, and push start. This
is much easier than the older vacuum and stove top coffee makers from years past.

It can be hard to imagine not using an electric coffee maker. Many of us have
grown up with them not knowing how hard it was to make coffee long ago. It used
to take a lot of time to stand there by the stove and watch your coffee brew and
make sure everything was going right. Lucky for us, we just have to push start
and wait. The electricity heats the heating element which is in the water
container. The water is heated to a specified temperature and then by gravity
or a pump pushes the water over the ground coffee. The result is a nice, easy
cup of coffee. This has a great advantage over stove top coffee makers as you
don't have to worry about your coffee being too cold or so hot it takes the
skin off of your tongue. Electric coffee makers don't use a ton of electricity
so you won't even notice a change in your utility bills.

Electric coffee makers come in many different varieties. There is everything
from a single cup coffee maker to a restaurant grade coffee maker that produces
gallons at a time. By using electricity to heat the water, you are guaranteed
the same temperature coffee every single time. Electric coffee makers also
allow you to set a time for coffee to be brewed. This is handy for those of us
on a tight schedule and don't want to waste time messing with the coffee maker
in the morning. Simply set it up the night before and it will start your coffee
before you even wake up.

Expensive models come with all sorts of special features. There are some that
only brew one cup at a time but use special pods of high quality coffee and
might even top them off with foam. Other models can have built in grinders, a
storage area for extra coffee and water, or be combination machines that make
espresso and cappuccino as well as normal coffee. You have so many options
available, you really need to choose the coffee maker that is right for you. If
you have a lot of coffee drinkers in your home, you might pick a large one. If
you live alone, a single cup maker might be perfect.

You can find electric coffee makers pretty much everywhere. Every store that
carries a coffee maker will have 99% electric coffee makers. Occasionally they
will have some that don't use electricity, but these are either for
professional coffee makers or campers.

Discount Coffee Makers

Some coffee makers can be pretty expensive depending on the brand name and what
features it has. There are many models that cost over $200.00 and don't seem to
do much more than a normal coffee maker. If you are on a budget or just like to
live frugally, you might consider a discount coffee maker. A discount coffee
maker usually doesn't have many bells and whistles but for someone who just
wants a regular cup of coffee, could be a very cheap option.

Discount coffee makers are usually of the automatic drip variety. You pour your
water in, add a coffee filter, then dump in some ground coffee. All that's left
to do is turn it on and walk away. Discount coffee makers sometimes come with a
timer but sometimes not. A discount coffee maker won't make you espresso or
cappuccino and usually have little or no options when it comes to changing the
flavor or strength of your coffee. The only way to change the taste is to put
in more or less ground coffee.

Just because you decide to buy a discount coffee maker doesn't mean you can't
have a good cup of coffee however. If you go to your supermarket, there is
usually an aisle dedicated to coffee. In this aisle, you can find all types of
different coffee flavors that might appeal to you. Sometimes they will have a
large machine where you can pick the type of coffee you want and have it ground
to your specifications. By using this fresh ground coffee, it can make even a
discount coffee maker produce a very nice and flavorful cup of coffee.

You can find discount coffee makers in a number of places. A large retail store
is usually a good bet as they start as low as $15.00 a lot of the time.
Supermarkets and coffee specialty stores usually carry coffee makers but not
the cheap kind. A great place to find a discount coffee maker is at a thrift
store. You can usually find one for $5.00 or so and they work just fine. If the
idea of using a second hand coffee maker isn't your thing, you could always try
a website. There are many websites that sell coffee makers and often offer you
free coffee or other deals. With websites you will need to check around as
there are thousands of them.

Before you search for a discount coffee maker, you should know exactly what you
are going to use it for as there are many types available. If you are looking to
buy one for the workplace, it might be a good idea to get your employees
opinion. If they want something fancy, have them all pitch in a few bucks and
get something good. If nobody really cares, you might just bring an old one you
have in your garage. It is hard to destroy a coffee maker so even the ugliest,
dirtiest one can easily be cleaned up and used again and again.

Coffee Vending Machines

As early as the 1960's coffee vending machines started to show up at airports,
hotels, and many industrial plants around the world especially in the USA. The
first coffee vending machines used all freeze dried ingredients and mixed them
with water then added your selected amount of cream and sugar. There wasn't a
whole lot of selection. Today, fancy coffee vending machines can make you
espresso, cappuccino, hot chocolate, soup, tea, and many variations of coffee.

Coffee vending machines are very useful for many reasons. You don't need an
employee to run them, you can put them anywhere, the ingredients aren't too
expensive, and they make quite a bit of money in a good location. Coffee
vending machines can make from 100 to 600 cups of coffee before you are
required to refill the cup dropper. This is what drops the cup down before the
coffee or beverage of your choice is dispensed into it. The coffee vending
machines usually use one size cup that is around 8 ounces. The cups are
recyclable and quality made to simulate a cup you would receive at a coffee
shop.

Many new coffee vending machines have a very stylish look as opposed to the big
square boxes of the 80's and 90's. They don't take up very much room, produce a
high quality product, and can make the owner a nice amount of money every month.

Espresso and cappuccino are becoming more and more popular and thanks to places
like Starbucks, more people like them and know what they want to order. Many of
the newer coffee vending machines let you pick and choose what type of espresso
and cappuccino you want. You can also get lattes and mochas of many varieties.

There are many ways you can purchase a coffee vending machine. Most machines
will have a phone number or other information so you can call the manufacturer.
The easiest way is to use the Internet. There are tons of companies that sell
coffee vending machines and will offer you low payment plans and many other
deals that you mind find appealing.

Coffee vending machines are a great way for someone who wants to make a little
extra income without doing much work. When used in conjunction with pastry and
soda machines, if you have a large amount of coverage, you might not need a
full time job at all! This is also great for retired people who want a little
extra money each month. Some of the newer machines cost about $1.00 for the
ingredients per cup and will make you about $2.50. Of course, wherever you
place them will demand a percentage but that can be easy to work out.

Coffee vending machines have been around for over 50 years and chances are they
will continue to be refined and upgraded. This ensures the busy employee or
traveler that they will always be able to grab a cup of coffee even if there
aren't people there to make it.

Coffee Makers Online

Coffee makers are usually bought in a retail store like K-mart and the like but
with the advancement of technology, you don't even have to leave your home to
review and buy a new coffee maker. There are many sites on the Internet that
specialize in selling you coffee makers. Many are brand name sites that are
well respected and offer you a great product at a great price. There are also
overstock sites, discount retail sites, and even auction sites you could browse
around on before you make a decision.

When purchasing a coffee maker or anything else over the Internet, you want to
make sure you are dealing with a legitimate company. The first one you see on
Google might not necessarily be the best one either. Make sure you know the
companies procedures and that they guarantee you will get your product by a
certain time and nobody but them will have access to your credit card or bank
account information. If there are testimonials or you know someone who has used
that site it is even better. There are many scams on the Internet and you don't
want to end up with a coffee maker key chain for $50.00 or worse, nothing at
all. Just use your discretion and stick with sites you know.

Many coffee maker dealers on the Internet will give you something with your
order. It might be a free sample of their coffee or a subscription to a coffee
of the month club. This can be fun and makes a great gift for a friend or loved
one. A new coffee maker is always appreciated and if they receive something
extra with it, it's very nice and keeps on giving. You may receive some kind of
membership which is usually free but read the fine print to make sure you won't
be billed. Unless you want to that is.

Brand name sites are usually the preferred method of buying over the Internet.
Amazon, Gevalia, Wal-Mart, it doesn't really matter. You know you are dealing
with a respected company and are sure to get a good deal on their products.
Discount websites might offer you even greater savings but you will get very
weird brand names that might not be available in your area or country. Make
sure they have the features you are looking for and aren't going to fall apart
or be a fire hazard.

If you look around on auction sites, you might find the perfect coffee maker
you have been looking for. There are many new items up for auction so you won't
get a used coffee maker unless you specifically want one for some reason. Coffee
makers aren't light so you might have to pay a bit of shipping and handling.

Overall, the Internet is a great place to find a new coffee maker and you are
sure to find the perfect one. Just use your judgment and you won't be ripped
off and might find an amazing deal.

Coffee Makers in the Workplace

Many people have a coffee maker at work. This is a great idea because it lets
employees and managers alike have something in common and lets everyone have a
short break from work while they refresh their coffee mugs. Coffee makers are
used in office buildings, manufacturing plants, and almost every type of
business there is from fast food to convenience stores. The office coffee maker
is a place everyone can go and chit chat for a few minutes similar to a water
cooler.

The usual office coffee maker is of the automatic drip variety and makes about
12 cups at a time. The funny thing is, 12 cups from a coffee maker means about
5 ounces per cup. Nobody drinks that little so you might as well assume one pot
will serve 6 people. For a busy workplace you may need a larger coffee maker to
accommodate everyone and might even decide to use a coffee vending machine. If
this is owned and operated by the company, they may lower the prices so they
don't make much profit. This will be made up with employee morale and
productivity so it evens out.

Many people feel better and more alert after drinking coffee so naturally, a
coffee maker in the workplace helps everyone. The caffeine in coffee is a
stimulant and should help them feel that way. If your employee is alert, there
is less chance of incomplete work and injuries as they should be paying more
attention to the job at hand.

The type of coffee maker for the workplace will need to be discussed among all
the coffee drinkers and if a fancy one is needed, everyone should help pay for
it. A normal coffee maker costs between 10 to 40 dollars but fancy ones can be
60-90 dollars depending on the features. These higher priced coffee makers
usually come with a foamer, grinder, or some other special feature that would
cause the price to be so high. You may want to just get two cheaper ones as
there is always someone who wants decaffeinated coffee and doesn't like to mix
the two types of coffee in one pot.

If you work in a large manufacturing plant or industrial building, chances are
you will have to walk a long way to get a cup of coffee. Many of these
workplaces use strategically placed break rooms that will have an assortment of
vending machines. One of those may be a coffee vending machine or there might be
a coffee maker on the counter for employees in your area to use. Make sure you
have someone clean it before you clock out or management may take it away. I
have seen this happen before.

With espresso and cappuccino becoming very popular, you might have one of these
machines in your workplace. They cater to certain people usually but many come
with a normal coffee pot on one side. This can help balance out two distinct
tastes and make more employees happy.

Coffee Makers for Camping

Camping is a great hobby and a fun pastime for many people. It can be very
relaxing to get in touch with nature and spend a few days in the desert or
woods enjoying nature. You can swim, fish, or just enjoy doing absolutely
nothing. Just because you are in the wilderness doesn't mean you can't enjoy a
good cup of coffee though. There are many different ways you can brew a cup or
a pot of coffee while camping.

There is a large variety of coffee makers that are designed especially for
camping. There are small ones that will make just one cup or large ones that
will make many cups at once. It all depends on how much you want to pack in
with you and how many people are going that will want coffee. The most common
coffee makers for camping are of the manual drip variety as all you do is pour
boiling water over your coffee while it sits in a filter. The filter sits in a
holder and you just set the holder over your cup or mug. Other varieties might
need to be set on a portable stove or set on ashes to boil the water. There are
even some automatic drip coffee makers that have been designed for the camper
who really wants that added convenience. These models are quite large and are
not for the camper who is going to hike 10 miles for the perfect spot. They
also require a camp stove.

Your best method for making coffee while camping would be a manual drip coffee
maker that is specifically designed for camping. These come in a large
assortment of shapes and sizes but are made to withstand uneven campfire heat.
The best ones are made out of stainless steel or another fire resistant metal
and have everything built in. They usually look like one coffee pot set upside
down on another. You put your ground coffee in a filter in the middle of the
unit and water in the bottom. You set it on the fire until you see steam and
then you flip it over and set it somewhere cool. The flipping process lets the
water slowly drain through the coffee grounds resulting in freshly brewed
coffee for everyone.

The filter holder method works well also. You take a filter holder, put in a
filter and add your coffee. Set it over your pot or cup and pour in boiling
water. This is a great method if you don't need to brew a lot of coffee and
don't want to pack around heavy equipment.

If you ask an experienced camper or visit a specialized camping store, you will
be able to find out which type of coffee maker might be the best for your next
camping trip. There are many to choose from so you can decide on what will be
the best for you. Retail stores usually have a camping aisle so you can browse
around next time you are doing some shopping there.

Coffee Makers Are Big Business In the U.S.

The average American drinks at least 3 cups of coffee daily. The United States
is a leading coffee consumer with Americans drinking an overall 400 million
cups of coffee each year. It's no wonder that coffee makers are one of the most
sold products. The Cowboy Coffee Pot of the 1800's has evolved into modern,
sleek machines that cater to the appetites of eager coffee drinkers.

Coffee is big business. Some reports state that coffee sales are increasing 20
percent every year. Specialty coffee (cappuccino, latte, etc) accounts for at
least 8 percent of all coffee sales.

Who's Using Coffee Makers These Days?

The average American is said to drink an average of three cups of coffee daily.
The average number of sales in a drive through coffee shop each day is 200 to
300 cups. More than 50,000 coffee shops are expected to be open by 2010. 52
percent of American adults drink coffee. This translates to more than 100
million people drinking coffee every day. That's a lot of coffee makers. Women
tend to drink coffee to relax while men tend to drink coffee when they're
trying to get something done.

When are the most coffee makers in use? 65% of adults drink coffee with
breakfast. 30 percent of Americans drink coffee between meals and about 5%
drink coffee with meals. 35 percent of coffee drinkers prefer their coffee
black. 65% add sugar and/or cream to customize their coffee experience.

More than 18 billion dollars are on coffee each year in the United States.
McDonalds is reported to take in $51 million each day just in coffee sales.

Americans are drinking more and more specialty coffees. Many are purchasing
coffee makers that allow them to brew specialty coffees at home. Coffee maker
manufacturers have risen to the occasion, creating increasingly sleek styled
machines that brew great coffee quickly and easily. Pod coffee makers are used
frequently by coffee lovers who want to indulge at home instead of driving to
the coffee shop.

Pod Single Cup Coffee Maker

For coffee lovers who prefer a fresh cup of coffee each and every time, a
single serving coffee maker is ideal. Basic single serving coffee makers can be
purchased for less than a hundred dollars. High end single serving machines can
cost hundreds.

Pod coffee makers use premeasured coffee pods to make 8 ounces or less of
coffee in less than one minute. There is no hassle. Users simply fill the
reservoir with water, drop a pod into the pod spot and push a button. Some pod
coffee makers feature adjustable spouts so that different sized mugs can be
used with the machine. Larger water reservoirs are also an added feature on
some machines.

Pod Coffee Makers quickly and easily brew a cup of coffee in less than a
minute. Prefilled pods make cleanup a breeze. Removable parts are often
dishwasher safe and limited warranties are provided by most manufacturers.

Coffee is an American tradition. Those who love the beverage take their coffee
drinking seriously. The availability of coffee makers that allow users to make
specialty coffee at home has tremendously increased the coffee drinking
population.

Coffee Maker Style Guide

According to some statistics, 52 percent of Americans are coffee drinkers. This
translates to more than 100 million people who drink coffee daily. Americans are
a diverse population and far from unanimously agreeing on what makes a good cup
of coffee. Fortunately, there are several different styles of coffee makers
available today.

Coffee lovers can choose the brewing machine that fits their preferences.
Common coffee maker styles include Automatic Drip, Automatic Espresso, French
Press, Percolator, Stovetop Espresso, and Vacuum style. Each has its own pros
and cons and gives the user varying control over the end result.

Automatic Drip Coffee Maker

Automatic drip coffee makers are probably the most popular choice for
Americans. They are easy to use and are inexpensive to purchase. Most operate
on the same principle. Inside the coffee pot is a filter basket where a paper
filter holds the coffee grounds. Cold water is poured into the reservoir where
it is heated before being poured over the grounds. The resulting coffee flows
into a carafe. The brewed coffee is kept warm by the hot surface beneath the
carafe.

Those who don't like to use automatic drip coffee makers complain that they do
not make a good cup of coffee. Keeping the coffee maker and carafe clean, using
quality coffee and disposable paper filters will help ensure a better result.

Automatic Espresso Coffee Maker

Automatic espresso coffee makers come in semi-automatic, fully automatic and
super automatic versions. Semi-automatic models tamp the coffee grounds, brew
the coffee, fill the cup and eject grounds. Fully automatic models also grind
the coffee. Super models offer a wide variety of features, including built in
water filters.

French Press Coffee Maker

French Press coffee makers are also known as press pots or plunger pots. The
pot is a glass or porcelain cylinder which contains a stainless, mesh plunger
that works as a filter.

The user measures coffee grounds into the pot and adds nearly boiling water.
The plunger is put in place but not pushed until the coffee has steeped a few
minutes. After steeping, the plunger is pushed and the coffee is ready.

There is no hot surface to maintain coffee temperature so the coffee must be
served immediately or placed into a thermal carafe of some sort.

Percolator Coffee Maker

Percolator coffee makers are available in stove top styles and in electric
styles. Most modern ones are both electric and can be programmed. Some models
make only one cup of coffee, others can make 12 cups at a time. The large
coffee urns used by many organizations work on the percolation principle but
brew more than 100 cups of coffee at a time.

Percolator coffee makers are not used as often as they used to be. These
machines continuously run the water over the grounds and the water is boiled.
Many coffee lovers claim that both actions violate the laws of making good
coffee.

Coffee made via percolator tends to be stronger and often bitter tasting than
coffee made with other brewing methods.

Stovetop Espresso Coffee Maker

Stovetop espresso coffee makers are simple to use and can be made anywhere
there is heat, whether on a stove or over a campfire. Water is put inside the
bottom boiler. The funnel filter is then placed in the boiler and filled with
coffee. The top is screwed on lightly and the unit is placed over the heat
source.

Once the top of the boiler is filled with brewed coffee, the coffee maker is
removed from the heat source and the coffee is served.

Vacuum Coffee Maker

Vacuum coffee makers look more like chemistry lab equipment than coffee
machines. This type consists of two overlapped containers that are connected by
a syphon tube. There is a filter in the bottom of the upper container.

The user places water in the lower container and coffee grounds in the upper
container. The machine is then put on top of the stove where the heated water
vaporizes and passes through the syphon tube into the upper container.

A brewing cycle lasts approximately three minutes. When the unit is removed
from heat, the vapor turns back to water and is forced through the filter and
back into the lower container. Farberware created the first automatic vacuum
coffee maker model while Sunbeam made the first truly automatic modern one.

There are few companies making vacuum coffee makers these days. Antique stores
and auction sites such as eBay carry the traditional Silex and Sunbeam machines.

Coffee lovers can choose from a wide variety of coffee makers. From inexpensive
stove top coffee pots to high end super automated coffee makers, there's a
coffee maker for every preference as well as every budget.

Automatic Espresso Coffee Makers

Automatic espresso coffee makers are more expensive than many other coffee
makers. They are prestigious as well as good coffee makers. They're available
in semi-automatic, fully-automatic and super automatic machines.

Semi-Automatic Espresso Coffee Makers

The distinction between semi, fully and super automatic lies in the automation
process. Semi-automatic espresso coffee makers are very popular. The electric
pump makes for consistently good coffee. Users put coffee and water into the
machine. Pulling the electric pump turns the coffee maker on and off.

Semi-Automatic espresso coffee makers automatically:

* tamp down coffee grounds >brew coffee >fill coffee cup >eject used grounds

Semi-automatic espresso coffee makers can be purchased for less than a thousand
dollars.

Fully Automatic Espresso Coffee Makers

Fully automatic espresso coffee makers work like the semi-automatic machines
but operate via the simple touch of a button.

Fully automatic espresso coffee makers automatically:

* grind coffee 
* fill brewing chamber 
* tamp down coffee grounds 
* brew coffee
* fill coffee cup 
* eject used grounds

Prices for fully automatic espresso coffee makers range from hundreds of
dollars to thousands of dollars.

Super Automatic Espresso Coffee Makers

Super automatic espresso coffee makers are the luxury version of coffee
machines. In addition to the fully automated process, the super coffee maker
comes with a built-in coffee grinder and other special features. These machines
are fast, easy to use and easy to maintain. Most allow the user to brew any
number of specialty coffees such as espresso, cappuccino and lattes.

Super automatic espresso coffee makers automatically: >grind coffee >fill
brewing chamber >tamp down coffee grounds >brew coffee >fill coffee cup >eject
used grounds into waste box

Users of fully automatic espresso coffee makers do not have to deal with
grinding coffee beans or hot filters and cleaning sieves. Super machines
include either a steam wand or an automatic system to froth milk. Competition
between super automatic espresso coffee maker companies is fierce. Each is
seeking to create the best loved, most versatile machine.

Some machines now feature automatic cleaning and descaling. Another special
feature is the presence of water filters that reduce mineral content and get
rid of the taste of chlorine. Adjustable coffee cup spouts and the ability to
manually control water volume in a cup of coffee are also added features
available on select machines.

Prices for super automatic espresso coffee makers run from hundreds of dollars
to thousands of dollars.

Popular Features of Automatic Espresso Coffee Makers

Features differ among brands and styles of automatic espresso coffee makers.
Available features include the following.

Adjustable dosing. In coffee, dose refers to the number of grams of coffee used
in brewing a shot. Some espresso coffee makers allow users to adjust both number
of grams and amount of water used.

Bean Grinder Bean grinders are included on some units to automatically grind
the necessary amount of coffee.

Brass Boiler: Brass boilers offer greater durability and help retain warmth.
Machines with brass boilers reheat faster and have less fluctuation in water
temperature.

Bypass Doser A bypass doser allows users to use a different blend of coffee
than what is already in the machine grinder. Emptying the grinder isn't
necessary.

Cup Warmer. Some units feature a cup warmer. Using a pre-warmed cup maintains
the heat of the coffee for a longer period of time.

Milk frothing/foaming wand. Cappuccino and latte drinkers need machines with a
milk frothing/foaming wand. These aren't available on all machines. Some of the
more expensive coffee maker models feature milk reservoirs.

Pre-brewing pre-moistening. Coffee is pre-moistened. This may provide for
superior taste.

Removable Brew Group. The brew group refers to where the brewing occurs. If
these components can be removed, they're easier to clean. Machines without
removable components often have automatic cleaners.

Water Filter Some high-end espresso coffee makers have water filters built in
to eliminate chlorine, minerals and contaminants that affect taste. If filters
are present, they do have to be changed regularly.

Automatic Drip Coffee Makers

The most common type of coffee maker available is the automatic drip coffee
maker. Everyone has had one of these at one time or another and they are the
most frequently purchased coffee makers ever made. They are simple to use, the
coffee tastes good, and they come with all sorts of options. The automatic drip
coffee maker ranges in price from as low as $15.00 to as much as $300.00
depending on brand, options, and what their specific purpose will be. A
standard 10 cup automatic drip coffee maker will cost a lot less than a larger
or smaller automatic drip coffee maker as those are specialized units that
serve a more specific purpose.

The automatic drip coffee maker works by putting water into the designated spot
(usually on the back or side of the machine), adding a coffee filter, then
dumping coffee grounds into the filter. All that's left is to push the ON
button and wait. This ease of use is what makes the automatic drip coffee maker
so popular. Everyone can use it and it is also very easy to maintain.

Many automatic coffee makers come with a wide assortment of extra features. The
most common feature is a timer. You can fill your automatic drip coffee maker
with water and coffee grounds then specify what time you want your coffee maker
to start brewing your coffee. This is useful for people who work every day at 7
am and want to have coffee waiting for them right when they wake up. It can be
hard to get the motivation to prep your coffee every morning and it is easy to
do it the night before. Some models will reheat old pots, connect to a water
line so you don't have to fill them, and have many other options you may like.

Automatic drip coffee makers can be found in every type of store you can
imagine. From supermarkets, to retail stores, to thrift shops, you are bound to
see a vast selection to choose from. There are many on line stores and websites
that specialize in only automatic drip coffee makers so if you are comfortable
shopping on line, that might be an option. The great thing about on line
shopping is that you are usually presented with many different deals. You may
receive a supply of coffee, get a free coffee of the month membership, or maybe
have the ability to upgrade your coffee maker at a reduced price later on.

The coffee that you use in your automatic drip coffee maker is what will make
all the difference in taste. If you don't care about that and just want a cup
of coffee, you can use any brand you like. For those that have a particular
love of coffee, they might try grinding their own beans or using a grinding
device at a supermarket. There are many kinds of coffee you can try with your
automatic drip coffee maker.

All About Drip Coffee Makers

Drip coffee makers are some of the most commonly used coffee makers in the
United States. They are easy to use and inexpensive to own and operate.
Available in a wide variety of styles, colors and sizes, there's a drip coffee
maker to fit any kitchen. One study reports that automatic drip coffee makers
are the most purchased small kitchen appliance. Approximately 14 million
automatic drip coffee makers are sold each year.

Mr. Coffee is one of the best known automatic drip coffee makers. Other
well-known coffee maker companies include Black and Decker, Braun, Cuisinart,
and Proctor-Silex.

Automatic drip coffee makers are used in many homes and businesses. They work
by dripping water through a filter containing ground coffee. Two types of
filters are available for these machines: paper and permanent.

Paper filters can affect coffee taste as can some plastic permanent filters.
Plastic filters do not last as long as metal filters. Metal filters may require
that coffee beans be ground a bit coarser than is needed for paper filters.
Automatic drip coffee makers offer a variety of special features. From basic
machines to high end models that do everything from grinding the beans to
brewing it at a pre-set time. Basic automatic drip coffee makers feature a
water reservoir, a filter basket, and warming plate to keep carafe warm. Most
feature filter baskets that swing out or lift out and simple on/off control.

Extra features include indicator lights, a brew-pause selection, digital
display and /or digital control panel, clocks, timers, permanent filters an
automatic shut off. High end features include water filtration, flavor
settings, and a built in grinder. Single cup machines are available, as are
machines making anywhere from 4 cups to 12 cups.

Drip Coffee Maker Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best temperature for brewing coffee?

Most experts agree that 200 degrees is the best temperature for brewing coffee.
Many restaurants do not allow the temperature to get that high because of
liability issues should a consumer spill coffee and get burned.

What affects the quality of a cup of coffee?

Several things can affect the quality of brewed coffee. The cleanliness of the
brewing equipment, the quality of the coffee beans, how long it has been since
the beans were roasted, how long it has been since the beans were ground and
the quality of the water used in brewing.

How do I clean my coffee maker?

Coffee makers should be cleaned at least once a week. Some experts suggest
using dish detergent and water. Other experts suggest running one fourth part
vinegar and three fourths part water through the brewing cycle a time or two
followed by running plain water through the cycle. This removes hard water
deposits and other buildup.

Can Espresso beans be used in drip coffee makers? Yes.

Where did the term 'cup of joe' come from?

Some say that Admiral Josephus (Joe) Daniels once outlawed alcohol on ships,
making coffee the most used beverage, hence the 'cup of joe.' Others say that
the term comes from 'Joe' as 19th cent, slang for coffee. Automatic drip coffee
makers allow coffee lovers to indulge their senses whenever they please.

Coffee Maker Glossary

Coffee has a language all its own. Here are a few of the frequently used coffee
maker terms.

Auto Frother: device that automatically froths milk for cappuccinos and lattes.

Automatic Drip Coffee Maker: machine that automatically heats water and filters
it through the coffee.

Automatic Espresso Machine and Coffee Maker: an espresso machine featuring
controllable, programmable coffee dosing.

Bean to Cup: fully automated coffee making process. Machines with bean to cup
capability do everything from grinding the beans to filling a cup with coffee.

Boiler: steam machine inside coffee maker. Machines with larger boilers usually
are more powerful and produce more hot water for beverages.

Boiler Element: electric element that heats boiler in electric espresso coffee
makers.

Cappuccino: Italian espresso based beverage.

Cup Warmer: metal portion at top of espresso coffee maker where cups are placed
for warming.

Dosing: refers to either the number of grams of coffee per cup or the amount of
brewed coffee per cup.

Drip Tray: Part of espresso coffee maker where coffee cup sits for filling.

Espresso: Italian black coffee which preceded specialty coffees. Rich black
coffee.

Filter Basket: Metal filter where grounds are placed for brewing.

Filtered Method: process of brewing coffee with a filter, coffee is separate
from the water.

French Press: aka plunger pot. A cylindrical coffee maker in which ground
coffee is steeped then filtered. Coffee grounds are pushed to the bottom of the
pot with the plunger. Coffee stays in the top of the pot.

Fully Automatic Espresso Machine and Coffee Maker: machines which automatically
manage the brewing process from coffee bean to fresh cup of coffee.

Grind: process of preparing coffee beans for coffee brewing.

Group: Portion of espresso coffee maker that brews coffee.

Group Handle: Portion of espresso coffee maker that holds the filter basket
that ground coffee goes into.

Heat Exchanger: heats water for coffee without taking water from the boiler.

Hopper: portion of grinder that holds coffee beans. French Press coffee maker:

Knock-out Box: container used to knock the used coffee grounds from group
handle.

Latte: Hot beverage made with one quarter coffee, three quarters of steamed,
hot milk with little froth.

Mocha: term used to describe hot beverage made from espresso, chocolate and
milk.

Moka Pot: Classic Italian espresso-maker used on top of the stove.

Percolator: coffee maker that continuously runs water through the coffee
grounds to make coffee.

Pod: a self-contained, single serving unit of ready to use coffee.

Pour/Pour Speed/Pour Time: the amount of time required to pour coffee from
group into cup. Should be 25 to 30 seconds for espresso.

Pump: device that moves water through the coffee maker.

Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine and Coffee Maker: machine without pre-set
dosing capability.

Steam Arm/Wand: metal tube delivering steam to froth milk.

Super Automatic Espresso Machine and Coffee Maker: machine which automatically
manages brewing process from coffee bean to fresh cup of coffee in addition to
other features such as a water filter.

Tamping: act of pressing ground coffee into filter basket.

Vacuum coffee maker: machine using vacuum process to make coffee.

Traditional espresso coffee maker: machine that is not a bean to cup automated
model.

Water Filter: filters contaminants from water for better coffee taste.

Water Font: nozzle used to dispense water from machine boiler.

Water Softener: filters lime and minerals from water, preventing build up of
scales in the coffee maker. This is a must have for anyone using hard water.

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