Graef ES400EU Salita Portafilter Espresso Machine User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the safe and efficient operation of your Graef ES400EU Salita Portafilter Espresso Machine. Please read all instructions carefully before first use and retain this manual for future reference.

The Graef ES400EU is a compact espresso machine designed for home use, featuring a 15-bar pump, fast heating thermoblock, and a steam wand for milk frothing. Its narrow 14 cm design makes it suitable for various kitchen spaces.

Image 1.1: Front view of the Graef ES400EU Salita Espresso Machine, showcasing its compact silver design and portafilter.

2. Important Safety Instructions

When using electrical appliances, basic safety precautions should always be followed to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and injury to persons. Read all instructions before using the appliance.

• Ensure the voltage indicated on the appliance corresponds to your mains voltage before connecting.
• Do not immerse the appliance, power cord, or plug in water or other liquids.
• Always unplug the appliance from the power outlet before cleaning, maintenance, or if it is not in use for an extended period.
• Do not operate any appliance with a damaged cord or plug, or after the appliance malfunctions or has been damaged in any manner.
• Keep hands and cords away from hot parts of the appliance during operation.
• Use the appliance only for its intended purpose.
• Close supervision is necessary when any appliance is used by or near children.
• Avoid contact with moving parts.
• Do not place on or near a hot gas or electric burner, or in a heated oven.
• Always ensure the water tank is filled to the appropriate level before operating.
• Be cautious of hot steam and hot surfaces during and after operation.

3. Package Contents

Upon unpacking, please verify that all components are present and undamaged:

• Graef ES400EU Salita Espresso Machine
• Portafilter with handle
• Single shot filter basket (for one cup)
• Double shot filter basket (for two cups)
• Coffee scoop/tamper (often combined)
• Removable drip tray and grid
• User Manual (this document)

Image 3.1: Included accessories: portafilter, coffee scoop, and two filter baskets for single and double espresso shots.

4. Parts Overview

Familiarize yourself with the various parts of your espresso machine:

1. Water Tank: Removable, 1.25-liter capacity, located at the back.
2. Control Panel: Features power button, indicator lights, and a rotary knob for function selection (espresso, steam, hot water).
3. Group Head: Where the portafilter attaches, for brewing espresso.
4. Portafilter: Holds the ground coffee and filter basket.
5. Steam Wand: 360° swivel for frothing milk.
6. Drip Tray: Removable for easy cleaning, collects excess liquids.
7. Cup Warming Plate: Passive stainless steel plate on top to keep cups warm.

Image 4.1: Detail of the control panel, showing the power button, espresso and steam indicator lights, and the central rotary knob for selecting functions.

Image 4.2: Top view of the machine, highlighting the passive stainless steel cup warming plate.

5. Initial Setup

5.1 Unpacking and Placement

• Remove all packaging materials and protective films from the appliance.
• Place the machine on a stable, level, heat-resistant surface, away from water sources and heat.
• Ensure there is adequate space around the machine for ventilation and access to the water tank and steam wand.

5.2 First Use Cleaning

Before first use, it is recommended to clean the internal components to remove any manufacturing residues.

1. Fill the water tank with fresh, cold water up to the MAX level.
2. Place a large container under the group head and steam wand.
3. Turn on the machine using the power button. Wait for the indicator light to show it's ready (usually solid green or white).
4. Run hot water through the group head by turning the rotary knob to the espresso position without a portafilter attached. Let approximately 200ml of water flow through.
5. Turn the rotary knob to the steam position and open the steam valve (if applicable) to release steam for a few seconds. Close the valve.
6. Repeat steps 4 and 5 two to three times.
7. Empty and clean the drip tray.

6. Operating Instructions

6.1 Making Espresso

1. Fill Water Tank: Ensure the water tank is filled with fresh, cold water.
2. Pre-heat: Turn on the machine. The thermoblock heats up quickly, typically in about 35 seconds. The indicator light will signal when the machine is ready for brewing.
3. Prepare Portafilter: Insert the desired filter basket (single or double) into the portafilter. Fill with freshly ground coffee. For optimal results, use finely ground espresso coffee.
4. Tamp Coffee: Lightly tamp the coffee grounds evenly using the coffee scoop/tamper. Wipe any excess grounds from the rim of the portafilter.
5. Attach Portafilter: Securely attach the portafilter to the group head by aligning it and twisting it firmly to the right until it locks into place.
6. Place Cup(s): Place one or two pre-warmed espresso cups under the portafilter spouts.
7. Brew Espresso: Turn the rotary knob to the espresso position. The machine will begin the pre-infusion process, followed by brewing. Turn the knob back to the standby position once the desired amount of espresso has been dispensed.
8. Remove Portafilter: Carefully remove the portafilter by twisting it to the left. Be aware of residual pressure and hot coffee grounds. Discard the used coffee grounds.

Image 6.1: The espresso machine in operation, dispensing two shots of espresso into small glass cups.

6.2 Frothing Milk

The 360° swivel steam wand allows for easy milk frothing for cappuccinos and lattes.

1. Prepare Milk: Fill a stainless steel frothing pitcher with cold milk (dairy or non-dairy) to just below the spout.
2. Activate Steam: Turn the rotary knob to the steam position. Wait for the steam indicator light to illuminate, indicating the machine has reached steaming temperature.
3. Purge Steam Wand: Briefly open the steam valve to release any condensed water from the wand. Close the valve.
4. Froth Milk: Immerse the tip of the steam wand just below the surface of the milk. Open the steam valve. Move the pitcher up and down slightly to incorporate air and create foam. Once the desired texture and temperature are reached, close the steam valve.
5. Clean Steam Wand: Immediately wipe the steam wand with a damp cloth to prevent milk residue from drying. Briefly open the steam valve again to clear any milk from inside the wand.

Image 6.2: A hand holding a frothing pitcher while using the machine's steam wand to create milk foam.

7. Cleaning and Maintenance

Regular cleaning ensures optimal performance and extends the lifespan of your espresso machine. Always unplug the machine before cleaning.

7.1 Daily Cleaning

• Portafilter and Filter Baskets: After each use, remove the portafilter, discard coffee grounds, and rinse the portafilter and filter basket under hot water.
• Drip Tray: Empty and rinse the drip tray and grid daily.
• Steam Wand: As mentioned in section 6.2, wipe and purge the steam wand immediately after each use.
• Exterior: Wipe the exterior of the machine with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads.

7.2 Water Tank

Clean the water tank regularly with mild detergent and rinse thoroughly. Ensure no soap residue remains before refilling with fresh water.

7.3 Descaling

Mineral deposits from water can build up inside the machine over time, affecting performance. Descale your machine regularly, depending on water hardness and frequency of use. Refer to the descaling instructions provided with a suitable descaling solution, or consult the manufacturer's website for specific recommendations for the Graef ES400EU.

8. Troubleshooting

Before contacting customer support, please refer to the following table for common issues and their solutions:

9. Technical Specifications

10. Warranty and Customer Support

For information regarding the warranty period and conditions for your Graef ES400EU Salita Espresso Machine, please refer to the warranty card included with your purchase or visit the official Graef website. In case of technical issues, missing parts, or service inquiries, please contact Graef customer support directly.

Manufacturer: Graef

For the most up-to-date contact information, please visit: www.graef.de