DeLonghi EC155 15 Bar Espresso Machine: Compact and Quality Home Brewing

Historical and Cultural Background of Coffee

Coffee has a history of several centuries as a beverage. It originated in Ethiopia, Africa, and later spread to the Arab region, becoming a popular drink in Muslim communities. As coffee spread throughout the Arab region, it gradually entered Europe and other regions, becoming one of the most popular beverages in the world. Coffee is not just a beverage but also a cultural symbol, representing socializing, leisure, and taste.

Making café-quality espressos and cappuccinos in the comfort of your home just got easier with the DeLonghi EC155. This compact and affordable machine packs professional 15-bar pressure and precise temperature control into a sleek body. Read on as we brew up a detailed review of this fantastic home espresso maker.

Overview

The DeLonghi EC155 15 Bar Espresso Machine is an entry-level pump espresso machine designed for home use. Its compact size and affordable price point makes it a great choice for coffee lovers looking to upgrade from capsule brewers.

Despite its petite footprint, the DeLonghi EC155 15 Bar Espresso Machine produces authentic barista-style beverages. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this little machine stand tall.

Key Features

The DeLonghi EC155 15 Bar Espresso Machine boasts several key features that make it a standout choice for home brewing enthusiasts:

• 15-Bar Pressure Pump: Delivers professional-grade pressure for optimal espresso extraction and crema formation.
• Dual Filter Holder: Accommodates both ground coffee and ESE pods, providing flexibility and convenience.
• Manual Milk Frother: Allows you to create creamy froth for cappuccinos and lattes with adjustable steam control.
• Rapid Cappuccino System: Maintains optimal temperature for continuous brewing without waiting.
• Compact Design: Space-saving design fits seamlessly on any countertop.

Design

The DeLonghi EC155 15 Bar Espresso Machine features a sleek and compact design in black and stainless steel. It has a modern, elegant look that suits any kitchen décor. The machine is designed to have a small footprint, with dimensions of only 12.2 x 19.3 x 15 inches, making it perfect for crowded counters and small spaces.

The DeLonghi EC155 15 Bar Espresso Machine utilizes a durable stainless steel boiler and quality internal components that make the machine sturdy and built to last. The water tank and drip tray are designed for easy removal, emptying, and cleaning. Overall, thoughtful design makes the DeLonghi EC155 15 Bar Espresso Machine straightforward to use while enhancing any countertop.

Internal Structure

Beneath its stylish exterior, the DeLonghi EC155 houses a stainless steel boiler, a key component responsible for heating water to the optimal brewing temperature. The boiler’s durability ensures longevity and consistent performance over time. A vibration pump, another integral part, generates the necessary 15 bars of pressure for extracting espresso. This pump, while creating some vibration and noise, is a common feature in machines at this price point.

Ease of Use

This machine is designed for simplicity and ease of use. The DeLonghi EC155 15 Bar Espresso Machine can go from off to ready in less than a minute. Preparing a shot of espresso takes approximately 20-30 seconds once the machine has heated. The manual dial and steam knob allow the user to adjust brew and steam settings without complicated programming.

The self-priming operation and fast heating eliminate wait times when pulling multiple shots. The included tamper and measuring scoop make it easy for beginners to dose and tamp grounds correctly. Overall, the machine provides convenience without complexity.

Coffee Quality

The 15 bar pressure consistently produces espresso with a rich golden crema and intense flavor. Users report the shots have excellent aroma and texture. The DeLonghi EC155 15 Bar Espresso Machine is able to extract the delicate flavors and oils for an authentic espresso experience.

The steam wand makes it easy for beginners to froth milk into a smooth, silky foam for perfectly textured cappuccinos. The quality allows brewing coffee shop level beverages at home.

Espresso Extraction

The DeLonghi EC155 excels at espresso extraction, the heart of any great coffee drink. Its 15-bar pressure pump forces hot water through finely-ground coffee, producing a concentrated shot with a rich crema (the aromatic golden layer on top). The machine’s adjustable settings allow you to fine-tune the extraction process to your liking, ensuring a perfectly balanced espresso every time.

Working Principle of Coffee Machines

The basic principle of coffee machines is to extract the flavor, color, and texture of coffee grounds by passing hot water through them under high pressure generated by steam or a water pump. For pressure-driven machines like the DeLonghi EC155 15 Bar Espresso Machine, it utilizes a pressure of 15 bars to extract coffee, allowing water to fully permeate the coffee grounds and extract rich coffee.

Brewing Capability

The DeLonghi EC155 15 Bar Espresso Machine is equipped with a vibration pump and 15 bars of pressure, delivering authentic espresso shots comparable to those from a cafe. Its dual filter holder accommodates both ground coffee and ESE pods, catering to users’ preferences for customized coffee beverages.

The machine’s versatility extends to its ability to produce espresso, Americano, and lungos. Moreover, the swivel jet frother wand enables users to froth milk for crafting cappuccinos and lattes, meeting various coffee flavor preferences.

Preheating Time

The DeLonghi EC155 requires a short preheating time, typically under a minute, allowing you to enjoy your espresso quickly. This is achieved through the machine’s efficient thermoblock heating system, which rapidly brings the water to the ideal brewing temperature.

Temperature Control

The DeLonghi EC155 15 Bar Espresso Machine utilizes thermostats to control brew and steam temperatures. The brew thermostat maintains optimal 195-205°F water temperature for extraction, while the steam thermostat sustains steam between 250-260°F for proper frothing. These thermostats allow the machine to precisely achieve the different required temperatures, thereby enhancing the quality and flavor of the coffee.

Thermoblock Heating System

The DeLonghi EC155 employs a thermoblock heating system, a compact and efficient alternative to traditional boilers. This system rapidly heats water to the ideal brewing temperature and maintains consistent temperature throughout the brewing process. The quick heat-up time means you won’t be waiting long for your espresso, and the precise temperature control ensures optimal flavor extraction.

Pressure

As mentioned earlier, the DeLonghi EC155 15 Bar Espresso Machine generates 15 bars of pump pressure. This professional espresso standard allows properly extracting the coffee oils and aromatics. 15 bars gives comparable quality to commercial machines costing far more.

The Importance of Pressure

The 15 bars of pressure generated by the DeLonghi EC155’s pump is a crucial factor in achieving optimal espresso extraction. This high pressure forces water through the coffee grounds, extracting the full range of flavors, aromas, and oils. The result is a rich, flavorful espresso with a thick, velvety crema.

Cup Warmer

The DeLonghi EC155 features a passive cup warmer on top of the machine. While not actively heated, it utilizes the machine’s residual heat to warm your cups. This helps maintain the temperature of your espresso, enhancing the overall flavor experience.

Dual Filter Holder - Versatility for Coffee Lovers

One of the standout features of the EC155 is its dual filter holder. This innovative design allows you to use either ground coffee or convenient ESE (Easy Serve Espresso) pods. Whether you prefer the ritual of grinding your beans or the quick convenience of pods, this machine caters to your brewing style. This versatility makes the EC155 an excellent choice for households with diverse coffee preferences.

Rapid Cappuccino System - No More Waiting

The Rapid Cappuccino System is a thoughtful addition that ensures you don’t have to wait between brewing multiple cups. It maintains the ideal temperature for both brewing and steaming, so you can seamlessly transition from espresso to cappuccino or latte without delay. This feature is particularly handy when entertaining guests or preparing coffee for a group.

Self-Priming Operation - Ready When You Are

The DeLonghi EC155 eliminates the hassle of manual priming, a process often required in other espresso machines. With its self-priming operation, the machine automatically prepares itself for brewing, saving you time and effort. This feature ensures that your EC155 is always ready to deliver a delicious espresso whenever you crave it.

Milk Frothing

While the DeLonghi EC155 15 Bar Espresso Machine does not have an integrated milk frother, its swivel steam wand can froth milk manually for making cappuccinos and lattes. The steam knob allows the user to adjust the steam pressure as needed. The frother wand can accommodate frothing 3-4 ounces of milk at a time, which is suitable for an individual drink. For making multiple milk-based coffees, the fast heating allows rapid steaming one after another.

Water Tank

The DeLonghi EC155 15 Bar Espresso Machine has a removable 35oz water tank. This allows brewing approximately 4-5 espresso shots before needing a refill. The tank is easy to remove, refill at the sink, and reattach for the next use. Larger capacity would require less refilling for heavy use, but 35oz suits moderate single serve usage well.

Drip Tray - A Clean Countertop

Maintaining a clean workspace is effortless with the EC155’s drip tray. This removable tray collects excess water and coffee drips, preventing messes on your countertop. The tray is easy to empty and clean, ensuring a hygienic brewing environment.

Indicator Lights - Brewing Made Simple

The EC155 features intuitive indicator lights that guide you through the brewing process. These lights signal when the machine is ready to brew or steam, eliminating any guesswork. Additionally, an indicator light alerts you when the water tank needs refilling, ensuring uninterrupted brewing sessions.

Safety Features

For safe operation, the DeLonghi EC155 15 Bar Espresso Machine incorporates a boiler safety valve and overheat protection which prevents excess pressure and temperature buildup. The machine has overload protection and an internal fuse for electrical safety. The housing does not heat up excessively during use.

Cleanup

Keeping the DeLonghi EC155 15 Bar Espresso Machine clean is straightforward with its removable water tank and drip tray. All parts that come in contact with coffee or milk are detachable and dishwasher safe. The exterior housing can be wiped down easily as well. Overall, the machine is designed for simple cleaning and maintenance.

Brand History

The DeLonghi brand has been a leader in coffee machine manufacturing since 1902. They offer a range of innovative and stylish coffee makers for home use. The DeLonghi EC155 15 Bar Espresso Machine exemplifies DeLonghi’s commitment to quality and performance in an affordable package.

Use Cases

The DeLonghi EC155 15 Bar Espresso Machine is ideal for home baristas looking to upgrade their brewing experience. It’s perfect for:

• New espresso enthusiasts who want quality results without complexity
• Coffee lovers with limited space wanting real espresso without the footprint
• Those who enjoy milk-based drinks like cappuccinos and lattes
• Anyone seeking convenience with options for ground coffee and pods
• Those buying an entry-level machine before investing in a more expensive model

User Feedback Analysis

Overall, the majority of users are highly satisfied with the performance, ease of use, and value of the DeLonghi EC155 15 Bar Espresso Machine. Here is a detailed summary of the praise and criticisms based on hundreds of customer reviews:

The most common praise for the DeLonghi EC155 15 Bar Espresso Machine focuses on its:

• Ability to brew high-quality espresso shots with thick, golden crema
• Easy learning curve for beginners to make café-style drinks at home
• Fast heat up time and constant temperatures for back-to-back shot pulling
• Compact size that doesn’t consume much counter space
• Removable parts that make cleaning straightforward
• Affordable price point compared to more expensive pump machines

Some drawbacks mentioned by users include:

• Small clearance under the portafilter that limits cup size
• Potential for leakage and mess if improper care is taken
• Noise and vibration common among affordable pump models
• Single boiler that restricts some simultaneous functions
• Inability to accommodate larger batch milk frothing

To mitigate these issues, many users recommend:

• Using a bottomless portafilter for more clearance
• Taking care when aligning and securing the portafilter
• Using a precision basket and quality fresh grind
• Employing proper maintenance and cleaning
• Upgrading to a premium manual frothing pitcher

Considering its entry-level price point, the DeLonghi EC155 15 Bar Espresso Machine surpasses expectations and delivers exceptional espresso for the majority of users. While no machine is perfect, the DeLonghi EC155 15 Bar Espresso Machine provides beginners with a high-performance brewing experience. With some fine-tuning and added skills, users can easily craft café-worthy beverages at home. For an affordable automatic machine, the DeLonghi EC155 15 Bar Espresso Machine hits the sweet spot for value and quality.

Pros

• Compact, space-saving design
• Fast and consistent heating
• Quality espresso with thick crema
• Easy to use and clean
• Affordable price for performance

Cons

• Small cup clearance
• Potential for leakage
• Vibration with poor puck prep
• Single boiler limits some sequencing

Value

At around $150, the DeLonghi EC155 15 Bar Espresso Machine costs significantly less than prosumer pump machines that run $400 and up. For an entry-level home espresso maker, the DeLonghi EC155 15 Bar Espresso Machine offers unbelievable performance and durability per dollar spent. It’s built to last years with proper maintenance.

Verdict - Compact Perfection for Beginners

With its convenient size, easy operation, and consistent performance, the DeLonghi EC155 15 Bar Espresso Machine earns our recommendation. Beginners will appreciate its straightforward controls and quality brews. Seasoned baristas will be amazed at what this little overachiever can deliver.

Box Contents

Inside the box, you’ll find:

• DeLonghi EC155 espresso machine
• Swivel jet frother
• Single shot and double shot filter baskets
• Tamper
• Measuring scoop
• Instructions manual

Specifications

• Pressure: 15 bars
• Boiler: Stainless steel
• Pump: Vibration pump
• Water tank capacity: 35 oz
• Maximum cup height: Unknown
• Dimensions: 12.2 x 19.3 x 15 inches
• Weight: 10 lbs
• Power: 1100 watts

User Manual

1. Unboxing and Assembly

• Open the packaging box and take out the DeLonghi EC155 15 Bar Espresso Machine and accessories.
• Assemble the machine according to the instructions, ensuring all parts are securely installed.

2. Preparation

• Place the machine on a flat and stable surface.
• Insert and connect the machine’s power cord, ensuring the power outlet is functioning properly.
• Remove the water tank and fill it with clean water to the appropriate level, then replace it on the machine.

3. Operation

• Turn on the machine’s power switch and wait for a period of time until the machine completes preheating.
• Prepare the desired coffee powder or beans, and choose between the single or double filter basket based on personal preference.
• Use the coffee scoop to fill the filter basket with the appropriate amount of coffee powder, and gently tamp it down with the tamper.
• Insert the filter basket into the machine, and place the cup under the drip tray.
• Select the desired coffee type (espresso, americano, etc.) and press the start button to begin brewing.
• Once brewing is complete, turn off the machine’s power and remove the coffee cup.

4. Cleaning and Maintenance

• After each use, clean the drip tray and filter basket to ensure hygiene and quality.
• Regularly clean the water tank and external housing to prevent dirt and bacteria buildup.
• Use professional coffee machine cleaning agents for regular internal cleaning and descaling.
• If any malfunctions or abnormalities are detected, please contact professional technicians for repair and maintenance.

5. Safety Precautions

• When cleaning and maintaining, always disconnect the machine’s power and wait for it to cool down completely before operation.
• Avoid inserting fingers or other objects into the machine’s moving parts or hot surfaces.
• If any abnormal conditions (such as water leakage or strange odors) are observed during use, please stop using it immediately and contact professional technicians for assistance.