Best step by step guide to Rancilio Silvia use?

Beginner and pro baristas share tips and tricks for making espresso.
jonbauer
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#1: Post by jonbauer »

I'm new, and want to learn with no "bad habits..."

Do you guys/gals have a guide that you can refer me to that goes over the entire espresso creation process STEP BY STEP that I can follow? Would be cool if it was showing it with a Silvia, but not absolutely necessary...

- Thanx!
- Jon

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Compass Coffee
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#2: Post by Compass Coffee »

Mike McGinness

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HB
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#3: Post by HB »

Silvia really isn't that complicated and the basic techniques you need apply to all espresso machines. Here's my must-read list: For HX espresso machine owners, add: These and other noteworthy articles on the web are listed on the Resources page. This forum's FAQs and Favorites rounds out my recommended reading. I realize these how-tos aren't specifically addressing Silvia usage, but they build the foundation of knowledge that will carry you well beyond the early learning stage.
Dan Kehn

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erics
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#4: Post by erics »

Here is a Silvia specific site (almost from soup to nuts) BUT I would go with Dan's recommended reading FIRST.

http://www.EspressoMyEspresso.com

Eric S.

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Compass Coffee
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#5: Post by Compass Coffee replying to erics »

Just be aware mentioned surf timings are based on the old 110c tstat not the newer 100c tstat.
Mike McGinness

2xlp
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#6: Post by 2xlp »


Everman
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#7: Post by Everman »

Outside of temp surfing I'd say technique is the key factor, this includes mechanics like proper dose amounts. The proper amount of coffee will yield a firm puck with a slight screw indentation after the shot it pulled, this is about 17 grams.

Make sure you keep the machine clean, water backflush at the end of a session is good, chemical backflush once a week.

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jonbauer (original poster)
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#8: Post by jonbauer (original poster) replying to Everman »

Rancilio says that you should never backflush the Silvia... They say that it can be damaged...

- Jon

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HB
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#9: Post by HB »

That recommendation has always mystified me. Backflushing is less strain on Miss Silvia than pulling a ristretto.
Dan Kehn

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jesawdy
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#10: Post by jesawdy »

I portafilter wiggle and backflush Silvia with water only after every session. I find myself only using a backflush detergent (JoeGlo), about every 3-4 weeks. Of course it depends on volume... I do wash the basket daily and the portfilter when I detect a smell. Everything gets a detergent soak when I do a chemical backflush.
Jeff Sawdy

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