Mr. Coffee BVMC-ECM171 Series - Coffee Maker Manual

Introduction

Espresso is used as a base for many rich and delicious beverages such as Cappuccinos and Lattes. A latte is a combination of espresso and steamed milk with a small layer of foam on top. A Cappuccino, on the other hand, is made with about one third espresso, one third steamed milk and one third foam.

Get To Know Your Device

Replacement parts available at www.ereplacementparts.com

How To Release Pressure

Always Release Pressure Before Removing Water Reservoir Cap

1. Unplug machine
   Unplug the machine. Place your stainless steel frothing pitcher under the frothing wand.
   
2. Turn knob to steam
   Turn control knob on the left side of the machine to steam and let the steam or water exit the frothing wand to release the pressure. When there is no longer steam or water exiting the frothing wand, move to step 3.
   
3. Remove water reservoir cap
   Remove the water reservoir cap.
   
4. Turn control knob to off
   Turn control knob back to "OFF."
   
5. Slowly remove portafilter
   Slowly remove the portafilter.
   

Before First Use

WHAT YOU NEED ON HAND

• A mug, water measuring pitcher (included) and a stainless-steel frothing pitcher (included).
• Coffee should be ground to a fine espresso grind. We recommend using a quality grinder or burr mill, such as a Mr. Coffee Burr Mill. If you're using a burr mill, select the finest grind setting. If you are purchasing preground coffee, use espresso ground coffee.
• Your choice of milk for making cappuccinos or lattes.
• Clean, fresh water that is filtered and free of impurities – avoid soft water or well water. The type of water that you brew with greatly affects the final taste.

CLEAN YOUR MACHINE

NOTE: Portafilter is not dishwasher safe, hand wash only.

1. Wash the water pitcher, filter, measuring scoop, portafilter and stainless steel frothing pitcher with mild detergent and a soft sponge or cloth.

Make sure the control knob is set to "OFF" before using the machine.

2. Remove the water reservoir cap.
3. Fill the water measuring pitcher with filtered water to the mark (Figure 1) and pour into water reservoir. Screw cap back onto the water reservoir.
   
4. Insert empty portafilter (without coffee grounds) into the machine from left and turn to the right to lock into place (Figure 2). This can be tricky the first time you try, so don't worry. The best way to learn is to look at the shape of the top of the portafilter. It can be inserted by placing it from the left and locking it into the right. This may require force. The handle should be aligned with the lock symbol and pointing directly at you when you are standing in front of the machine.
   
5. Place mug under the portafilter (Figure 3).
   
6. Turn the control knob on the left side of the machine to brew . Keep the control knob on brew until there is no longer water exiting the portafilter.
7. Be sure to turn the control knob to the "OFF" position and unplug the appliance.

Do not immerse the power cord, power plug or espresso maker in water or in any other liquid. Do not remove the water reservoir cap or portafilter until you release pressure in the unit.

How to Make Espresso

Do not remove water reservoir cap or portafilter until you release the pressure in the unit. Follow directions in "How To Release Pressure" section before proceeding.

Make sure the unit is unplugged and the control knob is set to "OFF" before using the machine.

NOTE: This is a manual machine without auto shut-off. You control how much espresso is brewed by turning the control knob.

WATER PREP

1. Remove the water reservoir cap.
   • For 2 shots of espresso, fill the water measuring pitcher with water to the 2 cup mark ( ) and pour into water reservoir (Figure 4).
     
   • For 4 shots of espresso, fill the water measuring pitcher with water to the 4 cup mark ( ) and pour into water reservoir (Figure 4).
2. Screw cap back onto water reservoir.

ESPRESSO GROUNDS PREP

1. Scoop your finely ground espresso into the portafilter.
   • For 2 shots of espresso, fill filter to the 2 shots line located inside the portafilter.
   • For 4 shots of espresso, fill filter to the 4 shots line located inside the portafilter.
2. Lightly level/press down the espresso grounds in the portafilter by pushing down with the back of the measuring scoop (Figure 5). (If coffee is pressed down too much, the water will not go through the espresso grounds.)
   
3. Insert the portafilter into machine from left and turn to the right until the handle is aligned with the lock symbol .

NOTE: Do not attempt to turn portafilter handle past the lock position.

HOW TO BREW

1. Place a mug onto the drip tray, under the portafilter (Figure 6).
   
2. Plug in the machine and turn control knob on the left side of the machine to brew (Figure 7).
   
3. When the espresso is finished brewing, turn the control knob to the "OFF" position and unplug the machine.
4. Follow directions in "How To Release Pressure" section to release the pressure in the unit.
5. Enjoy!

How to Make a Cappuccino or Latte

Do not remove water reservoir cap or portafilter until you release the pressure in the unit. Follow directions Follow directions in "How To Release Pressure" section before proceeding.

Make sure the unit is unplugged and the control knob is set to "OFF" before using the machine.

NOTE: This is a manual machine without auto shut-off. You control how much espresso is brewed and how long milk is frothed by turning the control knob.

WATER PREP

1. Remove the water reservoir cap.
   • To make a cappuccino or latte with 2 shots of espresso, fill the water measuring pitcher with water to the 2 cup with steam mark ( ) for brewing and frothing milk and pour into water reservoir (Figure 8).
     
   • To make a cappuccino or latte with 4 shots of espresso, fill the water measuring pitcher with water to the 4 cup mark ( ) for brewing and pour into water reservoir. Then fill again to the steam mark ( ) and pour into water reservoir for frothing milk (Figure 9).
     
2. Screw cap back onto water reservoir.

ESPRESSO GROUNDS PREP

1. Scoop your finely ground espresso into the portafilter.
   • For 2 shots of espresso, fill filter to the 2 shots line located inside the portafilter.
   • For 4 shots of espresso, fill filter to the 4 shots line located inside the portafilter.
2. Lightly press down the espresso grounds in the portafilter by pushing down with the back of the measuring scoop. (If coffee is pressed down too much, the water will not go through the espresso grounds.)
3. Insert the portafilter into machine from left and turn to the right until the handle is aligned with the lock symbol .
   NOTE: Do not attempt to turn portafilter handle past the lock position.

HOW TO BREW AND FROTH

1. Place a mug onto the drip tray and under the portafilter.
2. Plug in the machine and turn control knob on the left side of the machine to brew .
3. Fill 1/3 of stainless steel frothing pitcher with cold milk, allowing for enough room for expansion of the foam. When frothing is complete the volume of milk will almost double.
   NOTE: Frothing texture is highly dependent upon the milk type used. 2% is recommended; whole milk creates finer bubbles while skim milk creates larger bubbles.
4. Once the coffee begins to brew into the mug, interrupt the brewing process by turning the control knob to "OFF." Place your stainless steel frothing pitcher so that the frothing wand is submerged about 1/2 -1" into the milk (Figure 10).
   Insert arm into spout at 12 o'clock and place tip at 3 o'clock. Keep arm and edge of spout at finger width distance apart
   
5. Turn the knob to steam (Figure 11). This will take a few seconds to heat up before bubbling. You should hear the steam coming out. If it is silent, it may mean you are out of water and no steam is coming out. You may need to add additional water. When you hear steam coming out, follow position in figure 10 and allow the steam to move the milk in a circular motion. It takes about 2 ¹/₂ minutes to froth 4 oz. of whole/ 2%/ skim milk to 150 ̊ F heat. You can use a thermometer for precise results. (See Frothing Tips).
   
6. Before removing the stainless steel frothing pitcher from underneath the frothing wand, turn the control knob back into the brew position to complete the brewing process.
7. When the espresso is finished brewing, turn the control knob to the "OFF" position and unplug the machine. If brewing 4 shots and frothing, you may need to add additional water.

Refer to directions on how to release pressure in "How To Release Pressure" section before removing the reservoir cap or portafilter.

8. Pour the frothed milk into your mug, then stir and enjoy!
   NOTE: A latte has less foam and more steamed milk than a cappuccino. A cappuccino has 1/3 of espresso, 1/3 of steamed milk and 1/3 milk foam whereas a latte has 1/3 espresso, 2/3 steamed milk topped with milk foam.
   

Frothing Tips

• If you hear a gurgling sound then the steam wand tip is not deep enough. If you hear a screeching sound the tip is too deep. Adjust the pitcher position accordingly.
• Ideal frothing should make a smoothing hissing noise, and whirlpool motion created in pitcher.
  *It takes about 2½ minutes to froth 4 oz. of whole/2%/skim milk to 150°F heat. You can use a thermometer for precise results.
• Milk frothed correctly has thick rich micro foam with silky shade. Tap pitcher to release large air bubbles and swirl to blend milk for silky texture.
• Wipe wand clean after every use.
• Optimal milk temperature chart for reference:

Temperature might vary according to milk type.
Use a thermometer for precise results.

How To Froth Milk Only

Do not remove water reservoir cap or portafilter until you release the pressure in the unit. Follow directions in "How To Release Pressure" before proceeding.

Make sure the unit is unplugged and the control knob is set to "OFF" before using the machine.

WATER PREP

1. Remove the water reservoir cap.
2. Fill the water measuring pitcher to the steam line with filtered water (Figure 12) and pour into reservoir.
   
3. Screw cap back onto water reservoir.

TIME TO FROTH

1. Fill 1/3 of stainless steel frothing pitcher with cold milk, allowing for enough room for expansion of the foam. When frothing is complete the volume of milk will almost double.
   NOTE: Frothing texture is highly dependent upon the milk type used. 2% is recommended; whole milk creates finer bubbles while skim milk creates larger bubbles.
2. Place your stainless steel frothing pitcher so that the frothing wand is submerged into the milk. About 1/2 -1" into the milk (Figure 13).
   Insert arm into spout at 12 o'clock and place tip at 3 o'clock. Keep arm and edge of spout at finger width distance apart
   
3. Turn the knob to steam . Thiswill take a few seconds to heat up before bubbling. You should hear the steam coming out. If it is silent, it may mean you are out of water and no steam is coming out.
4. When you hear steam coming out, follow position in figure 13 and allow the steam to move the milk in a circular motion. It takes about 2 ¹/₂ minutes to froth 4 oz. of whole/ 2%/ skim milk to 150 ̊ F heat. You can use a thermometer for precise results (See Frothing Tips).
5. Before removing the stainless steel frothing pitcher from underneath the frothing wand, turn the knob to the "OFF" position.
   NOTE: It is extremely important to clean the frothing wand after every use. Refer to "Cleaning And User Maintenance" for cleaning instructions.

Cleaning Your Machine After Each Use

Keep your Mr. Coffee Steam Espresso, Cappuccino and Latte Maker running smoothly by taking care of it after every use. Follow these easy steps to clean your machine:

Do not remove water reservoir cap or portafilter until you release the pressure in the unit. Follow directions in "How To Release Pressure" before proceeding.

1. Remove portafilter to discard coffee grounds. Lift filter retainer clip so that it's placed over the filter edge and hold in place as you discard coffee grounds (Figure 14). This helps keep filter secured in place.
   NOTE: Leaving the portafilter in the machine after brewing can cause an improper lock which could result in leaking and damage to the seal.
   
2. Rinse portafilter with fresh water. Please note that the portafilter is NOT dishwasher safe. Handwash only!
   NOTE: If you did not froth milk, skip steps 3-8.
3. Fill water measuring pitcher to the steam mark (Figure 15) with water and pour into the water reservoir.
   
4. Screw cap back onto the water reservoir and plug in the machine.
5. Fill the stainless steel frothing pitcher half way with water and place so that the frothing wand is submerged into the water.
6. Turn the knob to steam and steam with water instead of milk for 30 seconds. This will help rinse the internal parts of the machine.
7. Once the frothing wand is cool, remove and rinse frothing wand cover. The frothing wand cover is the black plastic piece on the frothing wand. Simply pull from the bottom to remove (Figure 16).
   
8. Wipe down frothing wand with a damp cloth.
9. Remove the drip tray cover and empty water or coffee from drip tray. Dry with a clean cloth. Wipe the exterior of the machine with a damp cloth. Do not use metal scouring pads or abrasive cleansers.

To protect against electric shock, do not immerse cord, plug or appliance in water or other liquids.

Cleaning And User Maintenance

Once every 1 to 3 months, depending on usage and the type of water, we recommend that you delime your machine to keep it working properly.

DELIME INTERNAL PARTS

1. Make sure the control knob is in the "OFF" position.

Do not remove water reservoir cap or portafilter until you release the pressure in the unit. Refer to directions in "How To Release Pressure"

2. Fill water reservoir to the top with undiluted white household vinegar (Figure 17).
   
3. Brew just enough to get some vinegar to come out.
4. Steam just enough to get some vinegar to come out.
5. Unplug the machine.
6. Allow appliance to sit overnight with the vinegar solution in the water reservoir.
7. Discard vinegar through the top opening of the espresso maker by turning the machine upside down over the sink.
8. Rinse the water reservoir thoroughly with tap water by filling tank half full with water (Figure 18) and then pouring the water back out into the sink, repeating this step twice.
   
9. Brew and steam with fresh water at least 4 times or until you do not smell any vinegar.

USER MAINTENANCE

This appliance has no user serviceable parts. Any servicing beyond that described in the Cleaning Section should be performed by an Authorized Service Representative only.
See warranty available online.

Helpful Hints

• Make sure the control knob is set to "OFF" before using the machine.
• Filter retainer clip should be in the back position (Figure 19) when installing the portafilter into the unit.
  
• Do not attempt to turn portafilter handle past the lock position.
• Do not overfill the filter with ground coffee (Figure 20), as this will cause an improper lock of the portafilter, which could result in leaking and damage to the seal.
  
• For best results, only use high-quality espresso ground coffee.
• Do not leave excess coffee grounds on the edge of the portafilter. Excess grounds on the edge will cause an improper lock which could result in leaking and damage to the seal.
• Do not turn knob to "Brew" or "Steam" without water in the water reservoir.
• Do not leave water in the water reservoir between uses.
• Make sure the frothing wand is submerged in your milk or milk substitute (Figure 21) before turning the knob to steam.
  
• Do not store portafilter in the brew head. Remove portafilter after brewing. Leaving the portafilter in the machine can cause an improper lock which could result in leaking and damage to the seal.
• Do not fill water to the top of the water reservoir.
• This is a manual machine without auto shut-off. You control how much espresso is brewed by turning the control knob.
• Cord storage is under the unit.
• 2% milk creates better froth than milk substitutes.

Problems/Causes and Solutions

Your Mr. Coffee Steam Espresso, Cappuccino and Latte Maker has been carefully designed to give you many years of troublefree service. In the unlikely event that your new espresso machine does not operate satisfactorily, please review the following potential problems and try the steps recommended BEFORE you call Mr. Coffee Service Center.

Unable to steam

Possible Causes:

• Water reservoir is empty
• Unit is not turned on
• Frothing wand is clogged

Solution:

• Fill water reservoir with 2 oz (the steam icon on the water measuring pitcher) of water and pour into water reservoir.
• Plug in power cord and slowly turn control knob to Steam position.
• Remove frothing wand cover and check if metal frothing wand is clogged with a needle or paper clip. Then, following cleaning instructions from "Cleaning Your Machine After Each Use".

Espresso does not come out

Possible Causes:

• No water in water reservoir
• Coffee grind is too fine
• Too much coffee in the filter
• Appliance not turned on or plugged in
• Coffee has been compressed too much

Solution:

• Add water to water reservoir.
• Grind coffee less fine.
• Fill portafilter following instructions on "espresso grounds prep".
• Plug in power cord.
• Refill portafilter with espresso ground coffee and GENTLY press down.

Espresso comes out too quickly

Possible Causes:

• Coffee is ground too coarse
• Not enough coffee in the portafilter

Solution:

• Use a finer grind of espresso coffee.
• Follow How to Brew Espresso instructions carefully paying close attention to measurements for coffee.

Milk is not foamy after frothing

Possible Causes:

• Not enough water in water reservoir to steam
• Milk is not cold
• Using whole milkSolution:
• Follow the "How to Froth" instructions paying close attention to the water measurements.
• Use cold milk to froth.
• For best results, use 2% or skim milk.

Coffee comes out around the edge of the portafilter

Possible Causes:

• Portafilter not rotated to lock position
• Coffee grounds around edge of filter
• Too much coffee in the filter
• All pressure was not released
• Portafilter removed too fast

Solution:

• Rotate portafilter to lock position.
• Wipe off excess grounds from rim of portafilter.
• Put less coffee in the filter.
• Follow instructions on how to release pressure in "How To Release Pressure"
• Slowly remove portafilter

Portafilter changed color

Possible Causes:

• Dishwasher

Solution:

• It is still safe to use. We do not recommend putting it in the dishwasher.

Milk sucked in the machine through the frothing wand

Possible Causes:

• Not enough water to froth / steam in the water reservoir

Solution:

• You should hear the steam coming out. If it is silent, remove the frothing wand from the milk. Then, follow frothing instructions on "how to froth milk".

Important Safeguards

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 before using this appliance.
2. Do not touch hot surfaces. Use handles or knobs.
3. To protect against electric shock, do not place or immerse cord, plugs, or appliance in water or other liquid.
4. This appliance is not intended for use by children or by persons with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge. Close supervision is necessary when any appliance is used near children. Children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with the appliance. Keep the appliance and its cord out of reach of children.
5. Unplug from outlet when either the appliance or display clock (if provided) is 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. Do not attempt to replace or splice a damaged cord. Return appliance to an Authorized Service Center for examination, repair or adjustment.
7. 
   The use of an accessory not recommended by the appliance manufacturer for use with this appliance may result in fire, electric shock or injury to persons.
8. Do not use outdoors or for commercial purposes.
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 (for appliances with detachable cords). 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. Misuse can cause injuries.
13. 
    To avoid the risk of injury, never open or disengage the brew chamber (portafilter) during the brew cycle. Always properly engage the filter holder to the locking mechanism. Failure to do so may disengage the filter holder during the brew cycle and cause injuries.
14. Models intended to be used with sealed capsules: Only use capsules intended for this appliance. If the capsule does not fit, do not force the capsule into the appliance.
15. Models with coffee grinders: Check hopper for presence of foreign objects before using.

For appliances with service panels:

16. 
    TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE THIS COVER. NO USER– SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE. REPAIR SHOULD BE DONE BY AUTHORIZED SERVICE PERSONNEL ONLY.

Save These Instructions
Household Use Only

North American models with polarized plugs:

Polarized plug
This appliance has a polarized plug, (one blade is wider than the other). As a safety feature to reduce the risk of electrical shock, this plug is intended to fit in a polarized outlet only one way. If the plug does not fit fully in the outlet, reverse the plug. If it still does not fit, contact a qualified electrician. Do not attempt to defeat this safety feature or modify the plug in any way. If the plug fits loosely into the AC outlet or if the AC outlet feels warm do not use that outlet.

POWER CORD INSTRUCTIONS

A short power-supply cord (or detachable power-supply cord) may be provided to reduce risks resulting from becoming entangled in 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 long detachable power-supply cord or extension cord is used:

1. The marked electrical rating of the detachable power-supply cord or extension cord should be at least as great as the electrical rating of the appliance;
2. If the appliance is of the grounded type, the extension cord should be a grounding type 3-wire cord; and
3. The longer cord should be arranged so that it will not drape over the counter top or table top where it can be pulled on by children or tripped over unintentionally.

Do not pull, twist or otherwise abuse the power cord.

PRODUCT NOTICES

1. Place the appliance on a hard, flat, level surface to avoid interruption of airflow underneath the espresso maker.
2. Do not operate the appliance with an empty water tank.
3. Keep the area above the appliance clear during use, as hot steam will escape the appliance.

Do you still have questions? You can call us toll-free at the MR. COFFEE Consumer Service Department, 1-800-MR COFFEE (1-800-672-6333) or you can visit us at www.mrcoffee.com.

Documents / Resources

References

• Genuine Replacement Parts | Fast Shipping | Huge Selection | eReplacement Parts

Download manual

Here you can download full pdf version of manual, it may contain additional safety instructions, warranty information, FCC rules, etc.

Download Mr. Coffee BVMC-ECM171 Series - Coffee Maker Manual