The Russell Hobbs Nero Espresso Coffee Maker, model RH1916, is a barmen-style espresso machine designed for domestic use, offering a range of coffee beverages including espresso, cappuccino, lattes, and hot milk. It is suitable for use with ground coffee and features an optimal delivery system with a preset brewing temperature of over 76°C, ensuring coffee is not burnt during brewing and producing a thick, creamy, and smooth crema.
Technical Specifications:
- Pressure: 20 bar
- Power: 850W
- Pump: Italian ULKA pump
- Boiler: Die-cast aluminium alloy
- Water Tank Capacity: 1.2L (removable)
- Cup Compatibility: Accommodates short, medium, or tall cups up to 40mm tall.
- Brewing Capacity: Up to 2 cups per brew (single or double shot espresso).
Usage Features:
The coffee maker is equipped with illuminated control buttons for ease of use. It includes a porta-filter, a single shot crema filter, a double shot crema filter, and a measuring scoop/tamper tool.
- Espresso Preparation:
- Single Espresso: Press the SINGLE ESPRESSO button once.
- Double Espresso: Press the DOUBLE ESPRESSO button twice.
- Customized Brewing: Press and hold the SINGLE ESPRESSO button for 3 seconds to adjust the brewing amount, then press it again to stop.
- Pre-brewing Cycle: Features a fast pre-brewing cycle for optimal flavor extraction.
- Frothing Milk / Cappuccino Preparation:
- Steam Control: A steam control dial allows adjustment of foam intensity.
- Steam Wand: The steam/frothing wand assembly includes a heat-resistant sleeve.
- Milk Volume: Milk increases approximately two times in volume during frothing.
- Safety: Never turn the steam control dial too quickly to avoid rapid steam accumulation and potential risk of explosion.
- Hot Water Function: The appliance can dispense hot water, ideal for pre-heating cups to maintain coffee temperature and taste.
- Heating Liquids: The steam wand (without the frothing device) can be used to heat other liquids like hot chocolate or tea.
- Cup Warming Plate: A built-in cup warming plate preheats cups for best results.
- Safety Features: Includes built-in overheat and pressure protection technology.
Coffee Selection and Grind:
- Coffee Type: Freshly ground, dark roasted coffee is recommended for optimal taste. Pre-ground coffee retains flavor for 7-8 days in an airtight container in a cool, dark area. Whole beans, ground just before use, retain flavor for up to 4 weeks.
- Grind Consistency: A fine grind, resembling salt, is crucial. Too fine a grind (like powder) will block water flow, while too coarse a grind will result in fast water flow and under-extraction.
- Crema Filter Selection:
- Single Shot: Use the shorter crema filter.
- Double Shot / Two Single Shots: Use the taller crema filter.
Maintenance Features:
Regular cleaning and descaling are essential for the appliance's longevity and consistent operation.
- First Use / Priming: Before first use, the coffee maker should be primed and internal components cleaned to remove manufacturing dust and residues. This involves washing the water tank, porta-filter, crema filters, and measuring spoon, then running water through the machine.
- Cleaning the Brew Head, Porta-filter, and Filter:
- After each use, remove the porta-filter, discard grounds, and wash the porta-filter and crema filter with warm soapy water. Do not wash these in a dishwasher.
- Wipe the brew head with a damp cloth to remove coffee grounds.
- Run a water-only brew cycle through the porta-filter (without a crema filter) to rinse internal components.
- Do not store the porta-filter in the brew head as this can affect the seal.
- Cleaning the Water Tank:
- Empty the water tank between uses by removing it and turning it upside down over the sink.
- Wash with soapy water, rinse, and dry. Do not wash in a dishwasher.
- Cleaning the Appliance Housing: Wipe with a soft wet cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scouring pads. Do not immerse the appliance in water.
- Descaling: Mineral deposits can affect performance, leading to increased brewing time or excessive steaming. Descaling is recommended when these signs appear or when white deposits are visible on the brew head.
- Water Tank Descaling: Fill the tank with undiluted white household vinegar, let it sit overnight, then discard and rinse thoroughly with tap water.
- Internal Parts Descaling: After descaling the water tank, fill it with white vinegar above the minimum level. Attach the porta-filter with a crema filter, place a cup, and run the machine, allowing vinegar to flow through the steam wand. Repeat with tap water to rinse.
- Frequency: Descaling frequency depends on water hardness: every 80 brew cycles for soft/filtered water, every 40 brew cycles for hard/tap water.
- Steam Wand Cleaning: Wipe the steam wand and heat-resistant cover immediately after use to maintain hygiene.
Storage:
- Ensure the unit is OFF and unplugged.
- Remove the porta-filter.
- Clean and dry all parts thoroughly.
- Store in a clean, dry place.
- Do not wrap the power cord around the appliance.
Safety Precautions:
- Always ensure the voltage matches the rating label.
- Avoid contact with hot surfaces and moving parts.
- Do not immerse the unit, plug, or power cord in water.
- Do not remove the water tank or porta-filter while brewing or frothing.
- Never open the water tank lid during brewing.
- Ensure the water tank is properly closed and filled to at least the minimum level before turning ON.
- Do not use the appliance if damaged.
- Do not carry the appliance by the power cord.
- Do not leave unattended during use.
- Keep the appliance and cord away from direct heat, dampness, and sharp edges.
- Use on a hard, flat, level surface.
- The appliance is intended for household use only; commercial use voids the warranty.
- Children and persons with reduced capabilities should be supervised.
- Do not use sugar-roasted ground coffee or beans as they can clog the filter and damage the appliance.