Bialetti Moka Express User Manual
Instructions for safe and optimal use of your Bialetti Moka Express stovetop coffee maker.
General Instructions and Safety Warnings
Please read these instructions carefully to ensure the safe, proper, and optimal use of your Bialetti Moka Express. These instructions contain important information regarding safety, usage, and maintenance.
Important: Always read these instructions carefully before using the appliance. Keep this manual for future reference.
These instructions are an integral part of the product and must be kept available throughout its lifespan. They should be provided to any subsequent owners of the product.
Caution: This Moka pot operates under pressure on a heat source. Failure to follow these instructions could result in burns or explosion.
Before using the Moka pot, check that it is complete, all components are present, and that the safety valve, funnel, gasket, and filter plate are in good condition and assembled correctly as shown in the diagrams. If in doubt, contact the seller or manufacturer.
Remove all packaging and warning labels before first use.
This product is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities, or lack of experience or knowledge, unless supervised or instructed by a person responsible for their safety. Keep out of reach of children.
Use the Moka pot only for its intended purpose; the product is for domestic use only.
Do not leave the appliance unattended while in use.
Do not touch hot surfaces. Use the handle (7) and the lid knob (8) to operate the coffee maker.
Do not use the Moka pot without water in the water reservoir.
Do not pour any other liquids into the water reservoir; the Moka pot is designed to work with water only.
This Moka pot is intended for use with water and ground coffee specifically for Moka pots. Do not use other products (e.g., barley, cocoa, coffee extract, tea, coffee for percolators or espresso machines). Be aware that the steam jet should not be directed towards the user.
Ensure the coffee maker is properly closed before use.
If using a gas stove, ensure the flame does not extend beyond the base of the water reservoir.
If using an electric/ceramic glass hob, do not use the highest setting. Use a medium heat setting.
Do not use the Moka pot in an oven or microwave.
Do not open or close the Moka pot by the handle.
During operation, keep the lid (9) of the coffee maker closed.
If the product malfunctions, do not use it and contact the seller or manufacturer.
After use, do not open the Moka pot until it has cooled down.
Place the Moka pot on a suitable surface after use. The bottom of the Moka pot becomes very hot; do not place it on flammable surfaces or surfaces that could melt from heat.
First Use and Initial Brewing
When using the Moka pot for the first time, wash it thoroughly with water only. Then, operate it once with water only (without coffee) according to the instructions below.
Brew at least three batches of coffee that you do not drink, following the instructions provided.
Tip: Do not drink the first three coffees as the coffee aroma may not be perfect yet.
Ensure the safety valve is not pointing towards the user.
Maintenance and Care
Wash the Moka pot by hand only, without detergents or abrasive cleaners, to ensure its quality is maintained over time.
Use coffee ground specifically for Moka pots; do not use finely ground coffee.
Do not tamp down the coffee in the funnel (3).
Stir the coffee after brewing and before pouring.
Ensure all parts of the Moka pot are completely dry before storing, and do not store it closed.
Replace the gasket when it is worn. It is recommended to replace it at least once a year.
Do not tap the coffee out of the funnel, as this could damage or deform it, preventing it from fitting correctly into the funnel opening.
How to Make Coffee (KOFFIE ZETTEN)
Follow these steps for brewing:
- Fill the water reservoir (2) with cold water, as shown in Figure A, up to the level of the safety valve, using the quantities indicated in the table.
- Place the funnel filter (3) into the water reservoir (2), as shown in Figure B.
- Fill the funnel filter (3) with ground coffee for Moka pots without pressing it down. Ensure no coffee grounds remain on the rim of the water reservoir, as shown in Figure C.
- Screw the coffee collection chamber (6) onto the water reservoir (2). Close it firmly but without excessive force, and without applying pressure to the handle (7), as shown in Figure D.
- Place the Moka pot on the heat source. If using a flame, ensure it does not extend beyond the rim of the Moka pot. If using an electric/ceramic glass hob, do not use the highest setting, as shown in Figure E.
- When the coffee collection chamber (6) is filled with coffee, remove the Moka pot from the heat source.
Bialetti Safety Valve (1)
The Bialetti safety valve is patented and designed for the complete safety of the Moka pot.
If you use tap water in the Moka pot, limescale may build up over time and clog the valve opening. To prevent clogging due to limescale, simply press the small pin that protrudes from the valve while washing the Moka pot, as shown in Figure F. It is recommended to do this regularly to ensure the valve always functions correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
No coffee is coming out of the Moka pot:
- Check if all components are present.
- Check if you have used coffee ground for Moka pots.
- Check if you have pressed down the coffee in the funnel filter.
- Check if you have put too much water in the reservoir.
- If the problem persists, the product may be defective. Do not use it and contact the seller or manufacturer.
Air is escaping from the safety valve:
- Check if you have used coffee ground for Moka pots.
- Check if you have pressed down the coffee in the funnel filter.
- Check if you have put too much water in the reservoir.
- If the phenomenon persists, the product may be defective. Do not use it and contact the seller or manufacturer.
Water is leaking from the Moka pot:
- Check if the Moka pot is screwed together tightly.
- Check if the gasket is worn and replace it if necessary.
- Check if any coffee grounds were left on the rim of the water reservoir.
Product Sizes and Capacities
The following table shows the different sizes and capacities available for the Moka Express:
| Size | Height (cm) | Diameter (cm) | Capacity (ml) | Capacity (oz) | Cups (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Cup | 10.3 | 6.3 | 60 | 2 | 1 |
| 2 Cups | 13 | 7.3 | 90 | 3 | 2 |
| 3 Cups | 15 | 8 | 130 | 4.4 | 3 |
| 4 Cups | 16.5 | 8.5 | 190 | 6.4 | 4 |
| 6 Cups | 19 | 9.5 | 270 | 9.1 | 6 |
| 9 Cups | 22 | 10.5 | 420 | 14.2 | 9 |
| 12 Cups | 25 | 11.5 | 600 | 20.3 | 12 |
| 18 Cups | 28 | 13 | 800 | 27 | 18 |
Note: Cup sizes are approximate and may vary based on coffee strength and serving size.
Diagram Descriptions
The Moka Express is composed of several parts:
- Part 1: Safety valve (a crucial component for pressure release).
- Part 2: Water reservoir (the lower chamber where water is heated).
- Part 3: Funnel filter (holds the ground coffee).
- Part 4: Gasket/Seal (ensures a tight seal between the chambers).
- Part 5: Filter plate (separates coffee grounds from brewed coffee).
- Part 6: Coffee collection chamber (the upper chamber where brewed coffee collects).
- Part 7: Handle (for safe lifting and pouring).
- Part 8: Lid knob (for opening the lid).
- Part 9: Lid (covers the coffee collection chamber).
The diagrams illustrate the assembly process, filling the Moka pot with water and coffee, screwing the chambers together, and placing it on a heat source. Another diagram shows how to press the safety valve pin during cleaning.
Various recycling and disposal symbols are present, indicating proper waste management.
