Chefman Espresso Maker RJ54

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• Quick Start Guide
• User Guide

Quick Start Guide

Before First Use

1. Remove all packaging materials and check that all parts and accessories are present. Read and remove any non-permanent stickers.
2. Hand wash the water reservoir, milk reservoir, portafilter, filter baskets, measuring scoop, and removable coaster with mild detergent and water. The metal baskets and coaster are top-rack dishwasher safe. All other parts are not dishwasher safe.
3. Prime the unit according to the directions below before first use.

Accessories and Features

The Espresso Maker includes the following components:

• Water Reservoir Cover
• Removable Water Reservoir
• Control Panel
• Group/Brew Head
• On/Off Switch (On Side)
• Froth Strength Control
• Milk Reservoir Lid
• Froth Dispensing Tube Lever
• Removable Milk Reservoir
• Froth Dispensing Tube
• Removable Reversible Metal Coaster
• Removable Drip Tray
• Portafilter
• Portafilter Basket Retention Clip
• Portafilter Handle
• Portafilter Double Shot Basket
• Portafilter Single Shot Basket
• Coffee Measuring Scoop and Tamper

Control Panel

The control panel features buttons for:

• Espresso (Single/Double)
• Cappuccino (Single/Double)
• Latte (Single/Double)
• Froth
• Clean

Operation Notes:

• When the power button is switched on, the unit enters standby mode and begins preheating. All function lights will illuminate. If the milk reservoir is not attached, only the Espresso buttons will display.
• When a drink is selected, that button will blink during preheating and turn solid when ready. Do not press the button again during preheating, as this will cancel your selection.
• When the brew cycle is complete, the unit will beep three times and return to standby mode. Turn off the unit if not in use.
• After 20 minutes of inactivity, the unit enters sleep mode, indicated by the CLEAN icon. Press the CLEAN icon to wake the unit.
• The FROTH button activates the froth function for 30 seconds. Press again to stop.

Important - Prime the Unit Before First Use

1. Fill the water reservoir to the "Min" and "Max" markings.
2. Fill the milk reservoir with water (not milk) to the "Min" and "Max" markings and reattach it.
3. Place a large, heatproof cup or mug on the metal coaster over the drip tray.
4. Set the froth strength to "Extra". Position the milk dispensing tube inside the cup using the lever.
5. Insert an empty portafilter basket into the portafilter.
6. Lock the portafilter into the brew head.
7. Plug in and turn on the unit.
8. Press the DOUBLE CAPPUCCINO button.
9. Allow the unit to fill the cup with water from both the brew head and the dispensing tube. Dispose of the water once the cycle is complete. The unit is now primed.

User Guide

Welcome

Welcome to the Chefman family! The Espresso Maker is designed to help you become your own barista, offering one-touch presets for espresso, cappuccino, and latte, as well as an integrated milk frother for customized drinks. Please read the following directions, safety instructions, and warranty information carefully.

Contents

1. Safety Instructions
2. Features
3. Operating Instructions
4. Troubleshooting
5. Cleaning and Maintenance
6. Terms and Conditions
7. Warranty

Safety Instructions - Important Safeguards

When using electrical appliances, always follow basic safety precautions to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and injury:

• Read all instructions before use.
• Do not touch hot surfaces; use handles or knobs.
• Do not immerse the cord, plug, or appliance in water or other liquid to prevent electric shock.
• Close supervision is necessary when the appliance is used by or near children.
• Unplug the appliance when not in use and before cleaning. Allow it to cool before removing parts or cleaning.
• Do not operate the appliance with a damaged cord or plug, or if it malfunctions or has been damaged. Contact Chefman Customer Support for assistance.
• Using accessories not evaluated for this appliance may cause injuries.
• Do not use outdoors.
• Do not let the cord hang over the edge of a table or counter, or touch hot surfaces.
• Do not place the appliance on or near a hot gas or electric burner, or in a heated oven.
• Always attach the plug to the appliance first, then plug the cord into the wall outlet. To disconnect, turn controls to off, then remove the plug from the outlet.
• Do not use the appliance for anything other than its intended purpose.

Power Cord Safety Tips

• Never pull or yank on the cord or the appliance.
• Grasp the plug firmly and guide it into the outlet.
• To disconnect, grasp the plug and remove it from the outlet.
• Inspect the power cord for cuts and abrasions before each use. If damage is found, the appliance requires servicing and the power cord needs replacement. Contact Chefman Support.
• Never wrap the cord tightly around the appliance, as this can stress the cord where it enters the appliance, causing it to fray and break.
• Do not operate the appliance if the power cord shows any damage or if the appliance works intermittently or stops working entirely.

California Proposition 65 Warning: Cancer and Reproductive Harm. www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.

Do not place the appliance on a stovetop or any other heatable surface.

Features

The Espresso Maker includes:

• Water Reservoir Cover
• Removable Water Reservoir
• Control Panel
• Group/Brew Head
• On/Off Switch
• Froth Strength Control
• Milk Reservoir Lid
• Froth Dispensing Tube Lever
• Removable Milk Reservoir
• Froth Dispensing Tube
• Removable Reversible Metal Coaster
• Removable Drip Tray
• Portafilter
• Portafilter Basket Retention Clip
• Portafilter Handle
• Portafilter Double Shot Basket
• Portafilter Single Shot Basket
• Coffee Measuring Scoop and Tamper

Operating Instructions

Before First Use

1. Remove all packaging materials and check that all parts and accessories are accounted for. Remove any non-permanent stickers.
2. Hand wash the water reservoir, milk reservoir, portafilter, portafilter baskets, measuring scoop, drip tray, and removable coaster with mild detergent and water. Rinse and dry thoroughly. Only the metal baskets and coaster are top-rack dishwasher safe. All other parts are not dishwasher safe.
3. Prime the unit (clean and remove any packaging debris) according to the directions below.

Important - Prime the Unit Before First Use

1. Fill the water reservoir to between the "Min" and "Max" markings.
2. Remove the milk reservoir, fill it with water (not milk) to between the "Min" and "Max" markings, and return it to the unit.
3. Place a large heatproof cup or mug on the metal coaster over the drip tray. Adjust coaster height if necessary.
4. Set the froth strength to "Extra". Position the froth dispensing tube inside the cup using the lever.
5. Place an empty portafilter basket in the portafilter.
6. Fit the portafilter onto the brew head unit, ensuring it is locked in place.
7. Plug in the unit and turn it on using the side power button.
8. Press the DOUBLE CAPPUCCINO button.
9. Allow the cup to fill with water from the brew head and froth dispensing tube. The unit will beep three times when the cycle ends. Dispose of the water. The unit is now primed and ready for use.

Choose the Right Size Cup

The Espresso Maker brews various coffee drinks. Use the following guide to choose the appropriate cup size. Note that actual volumes may vary based on coffee grind and froth amount. The metal coaster is reversible to adjust cup height.

Choose the Right Coffee and Grind

For best results, use freshly ground espresso beans. Pre-ground beans lose flavor quickly. The ideal grind is fine, similar to table salt. If the grind is too fine, water flow will be restricted. If too coarse, the brew will be weak. Experimentation may be needed to find your preferred grind.

How to Fill the Water Reservoir

Fill the reservoir with cold water between the "Min" and "Max" markings. You can fill it directly from the sink or using a jar. Never use warm or hot water. Close the lid and ensure the reservoir is properly seated in the unit.

How to Fill the Milk Reservoir

For cappuccino and latte, fill the milk reservoir with cold milk between the "Min" and "Max" markings. For espresso, the milk reservoir can be left empty or removed. To remove, tilt the reservoir up and pull it out. To reinsert, tilt down and slide it firmly into place. Any type of milk (whole, skim, soy, oat) can be used for frothing.

How to Choose and Insert the Portafilter Basket

Simply drop the desired basket (single or double shot) into the portafilter. Use the smaller basket for a single shot and the larger basket for a double shot or a larger drink.

How to Pack the Portafilter with Coffee

1. Fill the basket with finely ground espresso beans using the measuring spoon. Do not overfill.
2. Use the tamper on the measuring spoon to press the grounds firmly and evenly. Ensure the surface is smooth and flat.
3. Clean any excess grounds from the portafilter rim for a proper fit in the brew head.

How to Place the Portafilter on the Brew Head

1. Position the portafilter under the brew head with the handle facing left.
2. Insert the portafilter into the brew head, aligning the handle with the open lock icon.
3. Turn the handle to the right until resistance is felt and the handle is aligned with the locked icon (approximately 90° angle to the machine).

Caution: Avoid burns from hot steam and water. Never remove the water reservoir or portafilter while the machine is brewing or frothing. If making a second cup, ensure the unit is in standby mode before removing or inserting parts. Turn off the unit if adding water or milk to reservoirs.

How to Make an Espresso

Espresso is brewed by forcing hot water through finely ground coffee beans. It is typically served in small portions (1.5-2 oz).

1. Ensure the unit is plugged in and turned on.
2. Fill the water reservoir as directed.
3. Fill the portafilter with finely ground coffee and attach it to the brew head.
4. Place a heatproof cup or demitasse on the metal coaster over the drip tray.
5. Choose single or double espresso. The button will blink during preheating and turn solid during brewing. The unit will beep three times when complete.
6. After brewing, the unit enters standby mode. It will go into sleep mode after 20 minutes of inactivity.
7. To discard spent grounds, let the portafilter cool, then hold the basket in place with the retention clip while emptying.

How to Make a Cappuccino

A cappuccino is made with equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and froth. The machine froths the milk automatically.

1. Ensure the unit is plugged in and turned on.
2. Fill the water reservoir as directed.
3. Fill the milk reservoir with milk and attach it to the unit. The cappuccino function will not work without the milk reservoir.
4. Set the froth strength to "Standard".
5. Place a heatproof cup or mug on the metal coaster over the drip tray. Position the froth dispensing tube over the cup.
6. Fill the portafilter with ground coffee and attach it to the brew head.
7. Choose single or double cappuccino. The button will blink during preheating and turn solid during brewing. The unit will beep three times when complete.
8. After brewing, the unit enters standby mode. It will go into sleep mode after 20 minutes of inactivity.
9. To discard spent grounds, let the portafilter cool, then hold the basket in place with the retention clip while emptying. Clean the froth dispensing tube after each use.

How to Make a Latte

A latte is a larger coffee drink with mostly steamed milk and a little espresso. The machine froths the milk automatically.

1. Ensure the unit is plugged in and turned on.
2. Fill the water reservoir as directed.
3. Fill the milk reservoir with milk and attach it to the unit. The latte function will not work without the milk reservoir.
4. Set the froth strength to "Standard".
5. Place a large heatproof cup or mug on the metal coaster over the drip tray. Use a large mug, especially for a double latte.
6. Position the froth dispensing tube over the cup.
7. Fill the portafilter with ground coffee and attach it to the brew head.
8. Choose single or double latte. The button will blink during preheating and turn solid during brewing. The unit will beep three times when complete.
9. After brewing, the unit enters standby mode. It will go into sleep mode after 20 minutes of inactivity.
10. To discard spent grounds, let the portafilter cool, then hold the basket in place with the retention clip while emptying. Clean the froth dispensing tube after each use.

How to Add More Froth or Froth Milk Separately

You can add more frothed milk to your coffee or froth milk on its own. Position the cup with the dispensing tube over it and press the FROTH button. The milk will froth for 30 seconds. Press again to stop. Clean the froth dispensing tube after each use.

Troubleshooting

Cleaning and Maintenance

How to Clean the Portafilter and Brew Head

This method is for espresso-only cleaning. For combined cleaning, follow directions starting on p. 18.

1. Turn off and unplug the unit. Allow hot parts to cool before touching.
2. Remove the portafilter and discard used grounds. Use the retention clip to hold the basket while emptying.
3. Rinse the basket and portafilter with warm soapy water. Rinse well. Single and double shot baskets are top-rack dishwasher safe; the portafilter is not.
4. Wipe the underside of the brew head with a damp cloth or paper towel to remove any coffee grounds.

How to Clean the Milk Reservoir and Frothing Tube

1. Remove the milk reservoir, transfer any remaining milk to another container and refrigerate.
2. Wash the milk reservoir and lid with warm soapy water. Rinse well. Do not use abrasive cleaners. The milk reservoir is not dishwasher safe.
3. Attach the portafilter with an empty basket to the brew head.
4. Place an empty cup under the brew head and ensure the water reservoir has water.
5. Add fresh water to the milk reservoir and return it to the unit.
6. Set froth strength to "Extra". Position the froth dispensing tube over the cup.
7. Press the CLEAN button. Hot water and steam will dispense in bursts. Do not remove the cup until the cycle ends (unit beeps three times). If the cycle is canceled, wait a few minutes before removing the cup.
8. Dispose of the water in the mug and any remaining water in the reservoirs.

How to Clean the Water Reservoir

Empty the water reservoir between uses. Wash as needed with soapy water, rinse well, and wipe dry. The water reservoir is not dishwasher safe.

How to Clean the Housing and Store the Unit

1. Wipe the housing with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads. Do not immerse the appliance, cord, or plug in water.
2. Do not store the portafilter in the brew head, as this can affect the seal during espresso brewing.
3. Decalcify the unit as needed per directions on p. 20.

How to Decalcify Internal Parts

1. Ensure the unit is cool, off, and unplugged.
2. Fill the water reservoir with white vinegar to the "Min" and "Max" markings. Fill the milk reservoir with water and slide it into the unit.
3. Place a large cup or jar on the drip tray and position the froth dispensing tube in the cup.
4. Insert the portafilter with an empty basket into the brew head.
5. Plug in and turn on the unit.
6. Press the CLEAN button.
7. Repeat steps 1-6 using only fresh water to rinse out any remaining vinegar.

How to Decalcify the Water Reservoir

1. Fill the water reservoir with fresh, undiluted white vinegar.
2. Let it sit for at least 8 hours.
3. Discard the vinegar and rinse the water reservoir thoroughly with fresh water.

Terms and Conditions - Limited Warranty

Chefman® products come with a limited 1-year warranty from the date of purchase. Proof of purchase is required for warranty service within the USA, Canada, or Mexico. Service centers and retail stores cannot alter warranty terms.

What the Warranty Covers

• Manufacturer Defects: Chefman® products are warranted against defects in material and workmanship for one year from the date of purchase when used according to the User Guide.
• Qualified Replacements: If the product malfunctions, Chefman® will send a replacement. If the product is unavailable, a comparable replacement will be provided.

This Warranty Does Not Cover

• Misuse: Damage from neglectful or improper use, or usage with incompatible voltage. Refer to Safety Instructions.
• Poor Maintenance: General lack of proper care. Refer to Cleaning and Maintenance.
• Commercial Use: Damage resulting from commercial use.
• Altered Products: Damage from alterations or modifications by unauthorized entities, or removal of the rating label.
• Catastrophic Events: Damage from fire, floods, or natural disasters.
• Loss of Interest: Claims for loss of interest or enjoyment.

Chefman® Warranty Registration

What do I Need to Register my Product?

• Contact Information
• Model Number
• Proof of Purchase (online confirmation, receipt, gift receipt)
• Date code

How Do I Register my Product?

You can register your product in two ways:

1. Visit chefman.com/register.
2. Scan the QR code provided to access the registration site.

For product information, visit chefman.com.

Chefman® is a registered trademark of RJ BRANDS, LLC. Cooking Forward™ is a trademark of RJ BRANDS, LLC. Intertek® is a registered trademark of Intertek Group, PLC.