Kind of a non sequitur here, but I was just googling this peculiar product and came across the following YouTube video... As far as reinventions of the wheel go, the below seems a little overly complicated... But of course I haven't the slightest understanding of the language he's speaking, save for the words "preinfusion" and "espresso." Maybe there's a totally innovative thing going on down there, but that handle seems like a dead giveaway if ever there was one.

Here 'ya go:

EspressoStrietman ES1 - Crazy open platform lever

Ah... But of course. Thanks, Henry, I'll see how it's hashed out over there.

just to update on my Caravel tripping the circuit...

After further consultation, Doug (LMDOE) suggested that I try a standard outlet instead of the current GFCI that I have my pump machine on. This morning she got half of the boiler to 180F in about 15 mins and no more tripping. Doug thinks it's condensation inside of the element that's been sitting for too long.

Can't wait to pull shots tonight!!!

Any chance anyone has a Sama/PV Export available for me to pair w/ the Caravel to help me rid of my pump machine?

Just wondering which basket you prefer to use, the "single" or the "double"?

So far I've been experimenting mostly with the single basket, simply because I can only consume
2 shots a day. The difference between the smaller single and the double is minimal,
at my current grind setting, 9-11g in the single, 12-14g in the double (perhaps it was 11-13g
instead).

Also, depending on where I put the thermometer, I get very different temp readings. If it's
near the rear of the boiler, it's usually up to 5F higher than the front of the boiler. Then I
bought an Ikea thermometer and using both at the same time, similar results. If the tip is
touching the bottom of the boiler, it reads higher perhaps because due to the heating element
or the boiler's bottom is hotter. Next will try a clip to keep the tip from the bottom.

Tips?

I would like to try the caravel but have two small children in the house. Bad idea? My Pavoni seems on the edge already...

What is your experience?

Note the top drawing from the original Caravel instructions. I don't suppose it is any more dangerous than any other pot of boiling water - caution is warranted. The water is cooler than the Pavoni.

+1 with Jack.

My Caravels do not get significantly hotter than my other espresso machines—open top or not.

Compared to a La Peppina, for example, the Caravel is probably safer because the hot water is contained in a more stable base that is also lower and sealed with a stay-on lid. All espresso equipment bears hazards when in use. Child-proof measures to keep power from being accidentally turned on is your safest measure.

Jack's image reminded me that I scanned the instruction manual that came with my Type 1 Caravel. Download the PDF here if you want it: https://files.me.com/danomar/x1737t

It is in Italian and there was a big piece of tape holding it all together, but it is still authentic. Enjoy!

Thanks! I'll free up some counter space.