How to Buy a Coffee Maker

Buying a coffee machine is not as simple as it used to be. What was once a simple percolator in the mid-1900s can now be an exotic and expensive coffee machine. A simple morning cup of java has become big business. If you’ve never bought a coffee maker before, or if you have to replace your old one, there are things to consider, including some cool bells and whistles now available.

Instructions

1. Determine what size coffee maker you need. A regular full-size machine brews eight to 12 cups at a time. If you don’t need as many cups of coffee each time, consider the machines that make one to four cups or even a single serving machine. Selecting the right size will save you money in the long run.

2. Consider what other features you would like. Do you like waking up to the smell of fresh coffee? Then you will want a programmable coffee machine. Some coffee makers have an automatic turn-off feature and some will alert you when they need to be cleaned. Not only does this mean better tasting coffee, but it also keeps the maker running efficiently. Some coffee makers come equipped with water filters.

3. Consider how much space you have in your kitchen. The full-size cappuccino and espresso machines can occupy a sizeable spot on your counter. If you have a small kitchen, choose a space-saver machine. These models are designed to be mounted under a cabinet or cupboard, freeing up counter space.

4. Choose a type of carafe. Most coffee makers have a glass carafe. If you want to keep coffee fresh longer, thermal carafe coffee makers are a good choice. After the coffee is brewed, the carafe doesn’t have to sit on a warmer, which makes it easy to take to another room or even outside. There are even varieties that brew a single cup directly into a travel mug. If you don’t like the hassle of a breakable carafe, there are several brands that make carafe-less coffee machines. Coffee is brewed into a thermal insulated container and is dispensed directly into your cup.

5. Look at the more exotic machines. There are espresso and cappuccino makers and some even froth the milk. Some machines grind the coffee beans before brewing, while others immerse the coffee in the hot water and then press the grounds to the bottom, making coffee with lower acidity and more robust flavor. If vintage is your cup of tea, you can even purchase the old fashioned percolators.

6. Choose between plastic or stainless steel coffee makers. The only real advantage to plastic is that it’s cheaper. The plastic housing can break and stains easily. Stainless steel is more expensive, but these machines last longer and are easier to maintain.

7. Decide whether you want to buy locally, online or through a catalog. Compare the prices at big box stores, department stores or specialty kitchen stores. If you decide to purchase a machine at a specialty store, find out whether the model you want requires that you purchase the filters there as well. You can also buy coffee machines online.

8. Read the warranty for the coffee maker and keep the receipt. Store all the packaging materials and the instruction manual. Not only will you need these should the coffee maker be deficient and you have to return it, but it will also make it easier to pack if you move.

Resources

• Gevalia