Back in August of 2007 I acquired a gently used Elektra Microcasa a Leva, which has seen almost daily use since then. In the last two or three weeks, I noticed that the first time I turn on the steam valve once the pressure gauge indicates it is at temperature, at about 1.1 bar or so, the pressure gauge will drop off to well under one bar. After recovery, the machine maintains pressure as it should.

According to what I've read, this machine should not show false pressure such as the Pavoni machines do. So far, the quality of the espresso, as well as that of the steamed milk the wand produces has not changed at all.

Should I be concerned?

Your vacuum breaker may not be functioning properly. Its that nut like shaped unit next to your pour in hole.

Jacubird wrote:Back in August of 2007 I acquired a gently used Elektra Microcasa a Leva, which has seen almost daily use since then. In the last two or three weeks, I noticed that the first time I turn on the steam valve once the pressure gauge indicates it is at temperature, at about 1.1 bar or so, the pressure gauge will drop off to well under one bar. After recovery, the machine maintains pressure as it should.

According to what I've read, this machine should not show false pressure such as the Pavoni machines do. So far, the quality of the espresso, as well as that of the steamed milk the wand produces has not changed at all.

Should I be concerned?

Jacubird,

I do not know where you read that a Microcasa a leva should not show false pressure. I bought mine in July, 2005 and use it daily. The manual I have says under Item D of "Directions for Use" in every language that you should turn the steam knob "to blow off for a second" in order to "reach optimum pressure."

I do not think you should be concerned. You should be releasing false pressure.

KS

Jacubird wrote:According to what I've read, this machine should not show false pressure such as the Pavoni machines do. So far, the quality of the espresso, as well as that of the steamed milk the wand produces has not changed at all.

The vacuum breaker may have stuck because of some scale or dirt. If it happens again, remove and soak it in vinegar / descaler.