La Pavoni Bar 2L-B Lever Espresso Coffee Machine User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential instructions for the safe and efficient operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your La Pavoni Bar 2L-B Lever Espresso Coffee Machine. Please read this manual thoroughly before operating the machine and retain it for future reference.

The La Pavoni Bar 2L-B is a professional-grade lever espresso machine featuring chromed brass groups with mechanical movement, designed for consistent espresso extraction. Key features include a 14-liter boiler, manual boiler water charge button, manometer for boiler pressure control, water level sight glass, flexible steam jet, and hot water tap.

2. Important Safety Instructions

To reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or injury, always follow basic safety precautions when using electrical appliances.

• Read all instructions before use.
• Do not touch hot surfaces. Use handles or knobs.
• To protect against fire, electric shock, and injury to persons, do not immerse cord, plugs, or the appliance in water or other liquid.
• Close supervision is necessary when any appliance is used by or near children.
• Unplug from outlet when not in use and before cleaning. Allow to cool before putting on or taking off parts, and before cleaning the appliance.
• Do not operate any appliance with a damaged cord or plug, or after the appliance malfunctions or has been damaged in any manner. Contact qualified service personnel for examination, repair, or adjustment.
• The use of accessory attachments not recommended by the appliance manufacturer may result in fire, electric shock, or injury to persons.
• Do not use outdoors.
• Do not let cord hang over edge of table or counter, or touch hot surfaces.
• Do not place on or near a hot gas or electric burner, or in a heated oven.
• Always attach plug to appliance first, then plug cord into the wall outlet. To disconnect, turn any control to "off", then remove plug from wall outlet.
• Do not use appliance for other than intended use.
• Exercise extreme caution when disposing of hot steam or hot water.
• Ensure the machine is placed on a stable, level, and heat-resistant surface.

3. Components Overview

Familiarize yourself with the main components of your La Pavoni Bar 2L-B espresso machine:

• Lever Groups: Two chromed brass groups with mechanical movement for espresso extraction.
• Boiler: 14-liter capacity boiler for hot water and steam generation.
• Manometer: Displays the boiler pressure.
• Steam Jet: Flexible wand for steaming milk.
• Hot Water Tap: Dispenses hot water for beverages or pre-heating cups.
• Water Level Sight Glass: Indicates the current water level in the boiler.
• Manual Boiler Water Charge Button: Used to manually refill the boiler.
• Drip Tray: Collects excess water and coffee spills.
• Telescopic Handles: Located on the sides for safe transportation of the machine.

Image 1: Front view of the La Pavoni Bar 2L-B Lever Espresso Coffee Machine, showing the two lever groups, steam wand, hot water tap, and control panel.

4. Initial Setup

4.1 Unpacking and Placement

1. Carefully remove the machine from its packaging. Due to its weight (approximately 149 pounds), it is recommended to have multiple people assist with lifting and placement. Use the telescopic handles for safe carriage.
2. Place the machine on a sturdy, level, and heat-resistant countertop or stand. Ensure there is adequate ventilation around the machine.
3. Ensure the power outlet is easily accessible and matches the machine's voltage requirements (230 Volts).

4.2 Boiler Filling

1. Ensure the machine is unplugged from the power outlet.
2. Locate the manual boiler water charge button.
3. Fill the boiler with fresh, filtered water using the designated filling method (refer to specific instructions in your machine's full manual for exact filling port location if not using the manual charge button for initial fill). For initial setup, it is crucial to fill the boiler to the appropriate level indicated by the sight glass.
4. Do not overfill the boiler. The water level should be visible within the sight glass, typically between the minimum and maximum marks.

4.3 Power Connection and Initial Heat-Up

1. Plug the machine into a grounded electrical outlet.
2. Turn on the main power switch (usually located on the front or side of the machine).
3. The machine will begin to heat up. Monitor the manometer; the pressure will gradually rise to the operating range (typically 0.8 to 1.2 bar). This process may take 20-30 minutes for the large 14-liter boiler.
4. Once operating pressure is reached, allow the machine to stabilize for a few minutes before use.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Preparing Espresso

1. Pre-heat Portafilters and Cups: Insert the portafilters into the group heads and allow them to heat up with the machine. Run some hot water through the group heads and into your espresso cups to pre-heat them.
2. Grind Coffee: Grind fresh coffee beans to an espresso-fine consistency.
3. Dose and Tamp: Dose the appropriate amount of ground coffee into the portafilter basket. Distribute evenly and tamp firmly and level. Wipe any loose grounds from the rim.
4. Insert Portafilter: Securely lock the portafilter into the group head.
5. Pre-infusion: Slowly raise the lever to allow hot water to saturate the coffee grounds. Hold the lever in the raised position for a few seconds (e.g., 5-10 seconds) for pre-infusion.
6. Extraction: Gently lower the lever. The spring-loaded piston will apply pressure to extract the espresso. Monitor the flow; it should be a steady, thin stream.
7. Stop Extraction: Once the desired volume of espresso is reached, or the flow becomes too light, raise the lever slightly to release pressure, then remove the cup.
8. Clean Group Head: After each shot, remove the portafilter, discard the coffee puck, and rinse the portafilter. Briefly flush the group head to clear any residual coffee grounds.

5.2 Steaming Milk

1. Prepare Milk: Fill a cold stainless steel pitcher with cold milk, typically to just below the spout.
2. Purge Steam Wand: Open the steam valve briefly to purge any condensed water from the flexible steam jet. Close the valve.
3. Position Wand: Immerse the tip of the steam wand just below the surface of the milk.
4. Steam Milk: Open the steam valve fully. Listen for a gentle "hissing" sound as air is incorporated into the milk. As the milk volume increases, lower the pitcher slightly to keep the tip just below the surface. Once the desired texture is achieved, immerse the wand deeper to heat the milk to temperature (typically 140-150°F / 60-65°C).
5. Finish: Close the steam valve, remove the pitcher, and immediately wipe the steam wand with a damp cloth to prevent milk residue from drying. Briefly purge the wand again to clear any internal milk.

5.3 Dispensing Hot Water

1. Place a cup or container under the hot water tap.
2. Open the hot water valve to dispense hot water.
3. Close the valve when the desired amount of water is dispensed.

6. Maintenance and Cleaning

Regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial for the longevity and performance of your espresso machine.

6.1 Daily Cleaning

• Group Heads: After each use, remove the portafilter and rinse it. Use a group head brush to clean any coffee grounds from the group gasket and shower screen. Briefly flush the group head.
• Steam Wand: Immediately after steaming milk, wipe the steam wand with a damp cloth. Purge the wand to clear any internal milk residue.
• Drip Tray: Empty and clean the drip tray regularly.
• Exterior: Wipe down the exterior of the machine with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners.

6.2 Backflushing (If Applicable)

For machines with a 3-way solenoid valve, backflushing is essential. Consult your full manual to confirm if your model requires this procedure and for specific instructions.

• Insert a blind filter basket into a portafilter.
• Add a small amount of espresso machine cleaning detergent (e.g., Puly Caff) to the blind filter.
• Lock the portafilter into the group head.
• Engage the brew cycle for 10-15 seconds, then disengage. Repeat this cycle 5-10 times.
• Remove the portafilter, rinse it, and repeat the backflushing process with plain water to remove all detergent residue.

6.3 Descaling

The frequency of descaling depends on your water hardness. Use a commercial descaling solution designed for espresso machines. Always follow the descaler manufacturer's instructions carefully. Incorrect descaling can damage the machine.

6.4 Water Level Management

Regularly check the water level in the boiler using the sight glass. Refill the boiler as needed using the manual boiler water charge button to prevent the heating element from running dry, which can cause damage.

7. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter. For more complex problems, contact qualified service personnel.

8. Technical Specifications

9. Warranty Information

Warranty terms and conditions are typically provided with your purchase documentation or can be found on the official La Pavoni website. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims. This manual does not constitute a warranty document.

10. Customer Support

For technical assistance, spare parts, or service inquiries, please refer to the contact information provided with your purchase or visit the official La Pavoni website for authorized service centers and support contacts in your region.