Chefman Espresso Machine+ User Guide

Welcome

Welcome to the Chefman family! This user guide is designed to help you get the most out of your new Espresso Machine+. Whether you're a first-time user or an experienced barista, this machine offers one-touch presets for espresso, cappuccino, and latte, along with an integrated milk frother for customized drinks. Please take a few minutes to read through the directions, safety instructions, and warranty information before you begin brewing.

From our kitchen to yours,
The Chefman Team

Contents

• Safety Instructions
• Features
• Operating Instructions
• Troubleshooting
• Cleaning and Maintenance
• Terms and Conditions
• Warranty

READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE USE
For your safety and continued enjoyment of this product, always read the instruction manual before using.

Safety Instructions

Important Safeguards

WARNING: When using electrical appliances, basic safety precautions should always be followed to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and/or injury to persons, including the following:

1. Read all instructions.
2. Do not touch hot surfaces. Use handles or knobs.
3. To protect against electric shock, do not place cord, plugs, or appliance in water or other liquid.
4. Close supervision is necessary when any appliance is used by or near children.
5. 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.
6. Do not operate any appliance with a damaged cord or plug or after the appliance malfunctions, or has been damaged in any manner. In such cases, contact Chefman Customer Support.
7. The use of an accessory not evaluated for use with this appliance may cause injuries.
8. Do not use outdoors.
9. Do not let cord hang over edge of table or counter or touch hot surfaces.
10. Do not place on or near a hot gas or electric burner, or in a heated oven.
11. Always attach plug to appliance first, then plug cord into the wall outlet. To disconnect, turn any control to the off position, then remove plug from wall outlet.
12. Do not use appliance for other than intended use.

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

Polarized Plug Warning

WARNING: This appliance has a polarized plug (one blade is wider than the other). This plug is intended to fit into a polarized outlet only one way. If the plug does not fit fully into the outlet, reverse the plug. If it still does not fit, contact a qualified electrician. Do not attempt to modify the plug in any way or force it into the outlet. This could result in injury or electric shock.

Short Cord Instructions

A short power supply cord is provided to reduce the hazards of entanglement or tripping over a longer cord. Longer detachable power-supply cords or extension cords are available and may be used if care is exercised in their use. If a longer detachable power-supply extension cord is used:

1. The marked electrical rating of the extension cord should be at least as great as the electrical rating of the appliance.
2. The cord should be arranged so that it will not drape over the countertop or tabletop where it can be pulled on by children or tripped over.

Power Cord Safety Tips

1. Never pull or yank on cord or the appliance.
2. To insert plug, grasp it firmly and guide it into outlet.
3. To disconnect appliance, grasp plug and remove it from outlet.
4. Before each use, inspect the power cord for cuts and/or abrasion marks. If any are found, this indicates that the appliance should be serviced, and the power cord replaced. Please contact Chefman Support for assistance.
5. Never wrap the cord tightly around the appliance, as this could place undue stress on the cord where it enters the appliance and cause it to fray and break.

DO NOT OPERATE APPLIANCE IF THE POWER CORD SHOWS ANY DAMAGE OR IF APPLIANCE WORKS INTERMITTENTLY OR STOPS WORKING ENTIRELY.

California Proposition 65 Warning:

WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm - www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.

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

Features

Exploded View of Espresso Machine+

The Espresso Machine+ consists of several key components:

• 1. Water Reservoir Cover
• 2. Removable Water Reservoir
• 3. Control Panel
• 4. Group/Brew Head
• 5. Power Switch (On Side)
• 6. Froth Strength Control
• 7. Milk Reservoir Lid
• 8. Froth Dispensing Tube Lever
• 9. Removable Milk Reservoir
• 10. Froth Dispensing Tube
• 11. Removable Reversible Metal Coaster
• 12. Removable Drip Tray
• 13. Portafilter
• 14. Portafilter Basket
• 15. Portafilter Handle
• 16. Portafilter Double Shot Basket
• 17. Portafilter Single Shot Basket
• 18. Coffee Measuring Scoop and Tamper

Control Panel Functions

When the power is switched on, the unit will beep three times and enter standby mode, beginning to preheat. All available function buttons will light up. If the milk reservoir is not attached, only the Single and Double Espresso buttons will display.

• When a drink is selected, its button will remain illuminated and blink during preheating. Pressing the button again will cancel the selection.
• The selected drink button turns solid when preheating is complete and the brew cycle begins.
• Upon completion, the unit beeps three times, all buttons light up, and it returns to standby. Turn off the machine if no longer in use.
• After 20 minutes of inactivity, the unit enters sleep mode, indicated by only the CLEAN icon being lit. Press the CLEAN icon to wake it.
• Pressing the FROTH button initiates a 30-second frothing cycle. Other function lights turn off. Pressing FROTH again stops the cycle early.

Operating Instructions

Before First Use

1. Remove all packaging materials and check that all parts and accessories are present. Remove any non-permanent stickers.
2. 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. The milk reservoir lid has four parts that can be separated and reassembled.

Priming the Unit (Important!)

This process cleans the unit and removes any packaging debris.

1. Fill the water reservoir to the 'Min' and 'Max' markings.
2. Remove the milk reservoir (tilt up, then pull out). Fill it with water (not milk) to the 'Min' and 'Max' markings, then reinsert it firmly (tilt down, then push).
3. Place a large, heatproof cup or mug on the reversible metal coaster over the drip tray.
4. Set froth strength to 'Extra'. Position the froth dispensing tube inside the cup using the lever.
5. Place an empty portafilter basket into the portafilter.
6. Attach the portafilter to the brew head, ensuring it locks in place (refer to page 11 for details).
7. Plug in the unit and turn on the power switch (located on the side).
8. Press the DOUBLE CAPPUCCINO button. The button will blink during preheating. Do not press it again to avoid cancellation.
9. Allow the cup to fill with water from both the brew head and the froth dispensing tube. The unit will beep three times when the cycle ends.
10. Dispose of the water from the cup and milk reservoir. The unit is now primed and ready for use.

Choosing the Right Size Cup

The Espresso Machine+ accommodates various drink sizes. Refer to the table below for typical volumes. Note that actual amounts may vary based on coffee grind and froth. The reversible metal coaster can adjust the height of the cup under the brew head.

Choosing the Right Coffee and Grind

For optimal results, use freshly ground espresso beans. Pre-ground beans lose flavor quickly. The ideal grind is fine, similar to table salt. A grind that is too fine may impede water flow, while a grind that is too coarse may result in a weak flavor. Experimentation may be needed to find your preferred grind.

Filling the Water Reservoir

You can fill the reservoir using a pitcher while it's in the unit or by removing it and filling it at the sink. Open the lid and fill with cold water between the 'Min' and 'Max' markings. Never use warm or hot water. Ensure the lid is closed and the reservoir is properly seated in the unit.

Filling the Milk Reservoir

For cappuccinos and lattes, fill the milk reservoir with cold milk between the 'Min' and 'Max' markings. It can remain empty or off the unit for espresso. To remove, tilt the reservoir up and pull it out. To reinsert, tilt it down and push it firmly into place. Any type of milk (whole, skim, soy, oat) can be used for frothing.

Choosing and Inserting the Portafilter Basket

Simply drop the appropriate basket into the portafilter. Use the smaller basket for a single shot of espresso and the larger basket for a double shot or a larger drink.

Packing the Portafilter with Coffee

1. Use the coffee measuring scoop to fill the basket with finely ground espresso beans, avoiding overfilling.
2. Use the tamper end of the scoop to press the grounds firmly and evenly, ensuring a smooth, flat surface.
3. Clean any excess grounds from the rim of the portafilter to ensure a proper seal in the brew head.

Placing the Portafilter on the Brew Head

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

CAUTION: To prevent burns from hot steam/water or unit damage, never remove the water reservoir or portafilter during brewing or frothing. If making a second cup, ensure the unit is in standby mode (all buttons solid) before removing or inserting the portafilter. If adding water or milk, turn off the unit first.

Making an Espresso

Espresso is brewed by forcing hot water through finely ground coffee, resulting in a rich, full-bodied brew. It is typically served in small demitasse cups.

1. Ensure the unit is plugged in and the power switch is on.
2. Fill the water reservoir as directed on page 9.
3. Fill the portafilter with finely ground coffee beans and attach it to the brew head as directed on pages 10-12.
4. Place a heatproof cup or demitasse on the metal coaster over the drip tray.
5. Select a single or double espresso by pressing the corresponding button. The button will blink during preheating and turn solid during the brew cycle.
6. The unit will beep three times upon completion, and your espresso is ready.
7. The unit will return to standby mode. If no button is pressed within 20 minutes, it will switch to sleep mode.
8. To discard spent grounds, remove the cooled portafilter. Use the retention clip to hold the basket in place while emptying.

Making a Cappuccino

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

1. Ensure the unit is plugged in and the power switch is on.
2. Fill the water reservoir as directed on page 9.
3. Fill the milk reservoir with milk between the 'Min' and 'Max' lines and insert it. (The cappuccino function will not work if the milk reservoir is not attached.)
4. Set the froth strength to 'Standard'.
5. Place a heatproof cup or mug on the metal coaster over the drip tray.
6. Use the froth dispensing tube lever to position the froth dispensing tube over the cup.
7. Fill the portafilter with ground coffee and attach it to the brew head as directed on pages 10-12.
8. Choose a single or double cappuccino by pressing the appropriate button. The button will blink during preheating and turn solid during the brew cycle.
9. The unit will beep three times upon completion, and your cappuccino is ready.
10. The unit will return to standby mode. If no button is pressed within 20 minutes, it will switch to sleep mode.
11. To discard spent grounds, remove the cooled portafilter and use the retention clip to hold the basket while emptying. Ensure the froth dispensing tube is cleaned after each use (see page 18).

Making a Latte

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

1. Ensure the unit is plugged in and the power switch is on.
2. Fill the water reservoir as directed on page 9.
3. Fill the milk reservoir with milk between the 'Min' and 'Max' lines and insert it. (The latte function will not work if the milk reservoir is not attached.)
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, which can yield up to 10 oz.
6. Use the froth dispensing tube lever to position the froth dispensing tube over the cup.
7. Fill the portafilter with ground coffee and attach it to the brew head as directed on pages 10-12.
8. Choose a single or double latte by pressing the appropriate button. The button will blink during preheating and turn solid during the brew cycle.
9. The unit will beep three times upon completion, and your latte is ready.
10. The unit will return to standby mode. If no button is pressed within 20 minutes, it will switch to sleep mode.
11. To discard spent grounds, remove the cooled portafilter and use the retention clip to hold the basket while emptying. Ensure the froth dispensing tube is cleaned after each use (see page 18).

Adding More Froth or Frothing Milk Separately

You can add extra frothed milk to your drink or froth milk on its own for drinks like a macchiato or hot chocolate. Position the cup with the froth dispensing tube over it, then press the FROTH button. The milk will froth for approximately 30 seconds. Press the FROTH button again to stop the cycle early. Ensure the froth dispensing tube is cleaned after each use (see page 18).

Troubleshooting

Cleaning and Maintenance

How to Clean the Portafilter and Brew Head

This cleaning method is suitable for espresso-only use. For cappuccino/latte or milk frothing tube cleaning, follow the combined procedure on page 18.

1. Turn off and unplug the unit. Allow hot parts to cool before touching.
2. Remove the portafilter and discard used coffee grounds. Use the retention clip to hold the basket in place 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 residual coffee grounds.

How to Clean the Milk Reservoir and Frothing Tube

1. Remove the milk reservoir (tilt up, then pull out). Transfer any remaining milk to another container and refrigerate.
2. Wash the milk reservoir and lid thoroughly with warm, soapy water. Rinse well. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scouring pads. The milk reservoir is NOT dishwasher safe.
3. Attach the portafilter with an empty basket to the brew head.
4. Place a large empty cup under the brew head and ensure the water reservoir has water.
5. Add fresh water to the milk reservoir and reinsert it into the unit.
6. Set froth strength to 'Extra'. Position the froth dispensing tube over the cup using the lever.
7. Press the CLEAN button. Hot water and steam will dispense in bursts. Do not remove the cup until the cycle completes (unit beeps three times, other buttons light up). If the cycle is canceled early, wait a few minutes before removing the cup due to residual hot water/steam.
8. Dispose of the water from the cup and any remaining water in the milk and water reservoirs.

How to Clean the Water Reservoir

Empty the water reservoir between uses. Discard remaining water into the sink. Wash the reservoir 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. CAUTION: 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.
3. Decalcify the unit as needed according to the following directions.

How to Decalcify

Mineral deposits can affect appliance performance, leading to longer brew times or excessive steaming. White deposits on the brew head may also appear. Decalcification frequency depends on water hardness.

To Decalcify Internal Parts:

1. Ensure the unit is cool, turned off, and unplugged.
2. Fill the water reservoir with white vinegar to the 'Min' and 'Max' markings. Fill the milk reservoir with water and insert it.
3. Place a large cup or jar under 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 the unit and turn it on.
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 (the reservoir can remain on the unit).
3. Discard the vinegar and rinse the water reservoir thoroughly with fresh water.

Terms and Conditions

Limited Warranty

Chefman offers a limited 1-year warranty on sales through authorized distributors and retailers. This warranty is valid from the date of initial retail purchase, is non-transferable, and applies only to the original purchaser. Proof of purchase within the United States and Canada is required. Service centers and retail stores cannot alter warranty terms.

Chefman may request photos or videos of the issue to assess the problem and offer solutions or determine warranty eligibility. Registering your product is encouraged to simplify the warranty process and stay informed about updates or recalls. Follow the directions on the Chefman Warranty Registration page in the Chefman User Guide. Keep your proof of purchase even after registering.

What the Warranty Covers

• Manufacturer Defects: Chefman products are warranted against defects in material and workmanship for 1 year from purchase, when used according to the User Guide.
• Qualified Replacements: If the product malfunctions, it will be replaced with a new one. If unavailable, a comparable product will be provided. A street address within the 48 contiguous states or Canada is required for replacement shipments; no shipments to P.O. boxes, Hawaii, or Alaska.

This Warranty Does Not Cover

• Misuse: Damage from neglectful or improper use, including incompatible voltage, even with a converter. Refer to Safety Instructions for proper use.
• Poor Maintenance: General lack of proper care. Refer to Cleaning and Maintenance sections for guidance.
• 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?

To register your product, you will need:

• Contact Information
• Model Number (e.g., RJ25-C for Conveyor Toaster, though the Espresso Machine+ is RJ54)
• Proof of Purchase (online confirmation, receipt, gift receipt)
• Date code

How do I register my product?

You can easily access the Chefman registration form in one of two ways:

1. Visit chefman.com/register.
2. Scan the QR code provided on page 14 of the original document to access the site. [QR Code for Chefman registration website]

For Product Information

Visit chefman.com.

This warranty grants specific legal rights, and you may have additional rights varying by state or province. Some jurisdictions may not allow limitations on implied warranties or consequential damages, so these exclusions may not apply to you depending on your location.

Other Limitations: All warranties, express, implied, and statutory, including merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose, are disclaimed. Any imposed implied warranties are limited to one year. Chefman is not liable for incidental, indirect, special, or consequential damages, including loss of use, sales, or profits, or delays in performing warranty obligations. The remedies provided are exclusive.

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.