Introduction
Thank you for choosing the SOWTECH JH-C5119 20 Bar Espresso Machine. This semi-automatic espresso maker is designed to provide authentic espresso, cappuccino, latte, and cold brew-style coffee in the comfort of your home or office. Its compact stainless-steel design ensures durability and fits seamlessly into any kitchen space. This manual provides essential information for safe operation, setup, use, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
Important Safety Information
Please read all instructions carefully before using the appliance. Keep this manual for future reference.
- Ensure the machine is placed on a stable, flat surface.
- Do not immerse the machine, cord, or plug in water or other liquids.
- Unplug from the outlet when not in use and before cleaning.
- Do not operate any appliance with a damaged cord or plug.
- Use only accessories recommended by the manufacturer.
- Close supervision is necessary when any appliance is used by or near children.
- Avoid contact with moving parts.
- Do not touch hot surfaces. Use handles or knobs.
- Always ensure the water tank is filled above the 'MIN' line before brewing.
- Clean the steam wand immediately after use to prevent clogging.
Product Overview
The SOWTECH JH-C5119 Espresso Machine features a sleek stainless steel body with intuitive controls for various coffee preparations.
Key Components:
- Control Panel: Features illuminated buttons for power, single shot, double shot, and cold brew, along with a steam indicator.
- Steam Knob: Controls the steam wand for frothing milk.
- Portafilter: Holds ground coffee for brewing.
- Filter Baskets: For single or double espresso shots.
- Steam Wand: 360° adjustable for milk frothing.
- Removable Water Tank: 42 oz capacity for easy refilling and cleaning.
- Drip Tray: Collects excess liquid and is removable for cleaning.
- Cup Warming Grill: Located on top to preheat cups.
Figure 1: SOWTECH JH-C5119 20 Bar Espresso Machine overview.
Setup
Initial Setup and First Use:
- Unpack: Carefully remove all packaging materials and ensure all components are present.
- Clean: Wash the water tank, portafilter, and filter baskets with warm water and mild detergent. Rinse thoroughly.
- Fill Water Tank: Fill the 42 oz removable water tank with fresh, clean water up to the MAX line. Ensure it is securely placed back into the machine.
- Plug In: Connect the power cord to a grounded electrical outlet.
- Power On: Press the power button. The indicator lights will illuminate.
- Prime the System (First Use Only):
- Place a cup under the portafilter.
- Rotate the steam knob to the "ON" position.
- Let water or steam spout out for approximately 10-15 seconds to drain any air from the pipes.
- Rotate the steam knob back to the "OFF" position.
Figure 2: Visual guide for first-time setup and priming.
Operating Instructions
1. Pre-heating the Brewing System:
For optimal coffee temperature, pre-heat the portafilter and cup. Run a single shot of hot water through the empty portafilter into your cup before adding coffee grounds. This helps maintain the coffee's flavor and temperature.
Figure 3: The instant heating technology allows for immediate brewing after frothing, eliminating cool-down time.
2. Making Espresso:
- Prepare Coffee Grounds: Use finely ground espresso coffee. Fill the filter basket with the desired amount (single or double shot).
- Tamp: Press the coffee grounds firmly and evenly using the tamper. Wipe any excess grounds from the rim.
- Install Portafilter: Insert the portafilter into the brew head and turn it to the right until it is securely locked in the center position.
- Place Cup: Position your pre-heated espresso cup(s) under the portafilter spouts.
- Brew: Press the single or double shot button. The machine will begin brewing.
- Stop Brewing: The machine will automatically stop after dispensing the programmed amount. You can also press the button again to stop manually.
Figure 4: Step-by-step guide for brewing espresso.
Figure 5: The 20-bar pressure system ensures full extraction for a rich, aromatic espresso with crema.
3. Frothing Milk:
- Prepare Milk: Fill a stainless steel frothing pitcher with cold milk (dairy or non-dairy) to just below the spout.
- Activate Steam: Press the steam button. Wait for the indicator light to stop flashing, indicating the machine is ready for steaming.
- Position Wand: Submerge the steam wand tip just below the surface of the milk.
- Start Frothing: Rotate the steam knob to the "ON" position. Move the pitcher up and down slowly to create micro-foam.
- Stop Frothing: Once desired foam consistency and temperature are reached (milk should be hot but not boiling), rotate the steam knob to the "OFF" position.
- Clean Wand: Immediately wipe the steam wand with a damp cloth to prevent milk residue from drying and clogging. Run a short burst of steam to clear any internal residue.
Figure 6: Visual guide for frothing milk. Remember to clean the steam wand after each use.
Figure 7: The 360-degree adjustable steam wand produces smooth, dense micro-foam for lattes and cappuccinos.
4. Cold Brew-Style Coffee Function:
This feature is designed for cold-style coffee, not refrigerated brewing. To use:
- Add ice cubes to your serving glass.
- Prepare espresso as usual (refer to "Making Espresso" section).
- The machine will brew espresso directly over the ice, creating a smoother, less acidic cold brew-style coffee.
Figure 8: The cold brew function allows for refreshing iced coffee by brewing over ice.
5. Official Product Video:
Video 1: An official SOWTECH video demonstrating how to use the 20 Bar Espresso Machine, covering various functions and preparations.
Maintenance
Daily Cleaning:
- Steam Wand: Immediately after each use, wipe the steam wand with a damp cloth and purge steam briefly to clear any milk residue. The wand is removable for deep cleaning.
- Portafilter & Filter Baskets: After each use, remove the portafilter, discard used coffee grounds, and rinse the portafilter and filter baskets under warm water.
- Drip Tray: Empty and clean the drip tray regularly. It is removable for easy cleaning.
- Water Tank: Empty any remaining water from the tank and rinse it. Refill with fresh water for the next use.
- Exterior: Wipe the exterior of the machine with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or scourers.
Descaling:
Regular descaling is crucial to maintain machine performance and extend its lifespan. The frequency depends on water hardness and usage. Refer to the full instruction manual for detailed descaling procedures.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter any issues, please refer to the table below for common problems and solutions. If the problem persists, contact customer support.
Figure 9: Troubleshooting guide for common issues.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Machine doesn't work, or couldn't turn on. | Machine is not turned on or unplug. | Make sure that machine is plugged in, that the "U" button has been pressed and that both coffee buttons light up blue. |
| Short circuit/power outlet is without power. | Check the power supply, and contact our customer support. | |
| The machine is faulty. | Contact our customer support. | |
| Machine doesn't brew coffee, only "U" and "U" buttons are flashing. | Machine is under over-pressure protection, and the temperature of boiler is too high. | Use hot water function to cool down the boiler first. |
| Coffee will not or only slowly come out of the "Filter Holder". | The "Water Tank" is empty. | Fill the "Water Tank" with drinking water. |
| The "Water Tank" is not installed correctly. | Remove the "Water Tank" and correctly install it. | |
| The machine can not pump the water (there is some air in the system). | Use hot water function to pump the water. | |
| Coffee is ground too finely. | Ensure appropriate degree of grinding. | |
| Ground coffee is tamped too strongly. | Tamp ground coffee less strongly. | |
| The "Filter" is clogged up. | Clean the filters holes with the "Cleaning Needle". | |
| The steam button is turn on (after using the hot water function and without turn off). | Turn the steam button off. | |
| The machine is faulty. | Contact our customer support. |
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | SOWTECH |
| Model Name | JH-C5119 |
| Color | Silver |
| Product Dimensions | 12.5"D x 6.2"W x 12.6"H |
| Coffee Maker Type | Espresso Machine |
| Operation Mode | Semi-Automatic |
| Pressure System | 20 Bar |
| Water Tank Capacity | 42 oz (approx. 1.24 Liters) |
| Voltage | 120 Volts |
| Power Source | AC adapter |
| Coffee Input Type | Ground Coffee |
| Special Features | 360° Adjustable Steam Wand, Auto Shut-Off, Cold Brew Function, Instant Heating Technology, Leak-proof Water Tank |
| Item Weight | 8 pounds |
Warranty and Support
SOWTECH products are designed for quality and reliability. For specific warranty details, including coverage period and terms, please refer to the warranty card included with your product packaging or visit the official SOWTECH website.
If you require technical assistance, have questions about your product, or need to report an issue, please contact SOWTECH customer support:
- Online Support: Visit the SOWTECH Store on Amazon for FAQs and additional resources.
- Contact Information: Refer to your product packaging or the official SOWTECH website for the most current contact details (phone, email).
Please have your model number (JH-C5119) and purchase date ready when contacting support.