The Breville BES870XL Barista Express is a highly regarded espresso machine designed for home baristas who want to enjoy high-quality espresso without the need for advanced skills. This guide covers the installation, adjustment, maintenance, and troubleshooting of the BES870XL, along with tips for optimal performance. Whether you’re new to espresso brewing or an experienced enthusiast, this comprehensive guide will help you maximize the potential of your Barista Express.

Installation of the Breville BES870XL Barista Express

Setting up the Breville BES870XL is a straightforward process. To ensure your machine is installed properly and ready for use, follow these steps:

1. Unbox the Machine:
   • Remove all packaging materials.
   • Place the machine on a stable, flat surface near a power outlet and a water source.
2. Assemble the Components:
   • Attach the drip tray, water tank, portafilter holder, and grind collection tray.
   • Ensure that the water tank is securely placed and filled with fresh water.
3. Connect to Power:
   • Plug the machine into a grounded electrical outlet.
   • Turn on the power switch located at the back of the machine.
4. Run the Initial Water Cycle:
   • Turn the power dial to the “on” position.
   • Run water through the espresso machine without any coffee grounds. This will clean the internal components and prepare the system for brewing.
5. Set Up the Grinder:
   • Adjust the grind size by turning the grind size dial on the front of the machine.
   • Set the grind amount dial to your desired level of coffee per shot (typically 1 to 2 cups).

Adjustments for Optimal Performance

Once the BES870XL is set up, you can adjust it to your specific preferences. These adjustments will help you brew espresso shots with the ideal flavor profile and consistency.

1. Grind Size Adjustment:
   • Adjust the grind size based on your preferred espresso style. Finer grinds will lead to a slower extraction, ideal for darker, bolder espressos, while coarser grinds may result in a faster extraction for lighter, more delicate shots.
   • The grind size dial is located on the front of the machine; turning it clockwise will result in finer grounds.
2. Dose Amount:
   • The dose amount dial allows you to control how much coffee is ground for each shot. Adjust the dial based on the size of your portafilter and the desired strength of your espresso.
3. Tamping Pressure:
   • After dosing your coffee grounds into the portafilter, use the provided tamper to apply firm and even pressure to the coffee grounds. A consistent tamp will help with even extraction.
4. Water Temperature:
   • The BES870XL has a built-in PID temperature control system that helps maintain a consistent water temperature. This feature ensures that your shots are brewed at the optimal temperature for flavor extraction.
5. Steam Wand Settings:
   • The steam wand is adjustable, allowing you to create frothy milk for lattes and cappuccinos. Experiment with the steam pressure and angle to find the perfect froth texture.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Maintaining the BES870XL is essential for prolonging its lifespan and ensuring it continues to brew excellent espresso. Regular cleaning will prevent the buildup of coffee oils, mineral deposits, and other residues.

1. Daily Cleaning:
   • Portafilter and Basket: After each use, rinse the portafilter and the basket with warm water to remove any leftover coffee grounds.
   • Drip Tray and Grinds Tray: Empty and clean the drip tray and grind tray after each brewing session to prevent overflow and odor.
   • Steam Wand: After steaming milk, wipe the steam wand with a damp cloth to remove milk residue. Purge the wand by briefly turning it on after each use to clear out any remaining milk.
2. Weekly Cleaning:
   • Group Head: Use the included cleaning tool to brush the group head and remove coffee oils.
   • Water Filter: Replace the water filter every two months or as needed to ensure clean, mineral-free water.
   • Descaling: Descale the machine every 1-2 months depending on the water hardness in your area. Follow the machine’s descaling instructions for best results.
3. Monthly Cleaning:
   • Brew Group: Run a cleaning cycle with the Breville cleaning tablets to deep clean the internal components of the machine. This helps remove any stubborn coffee oils and mineral buildup.
4. Portafilter and Basket Deep Clean:
   • For a more thorough clean, soak the portafilter basket and portafilter in warm water with a cleaning solution. Rinse thoroughly before reattaching to the machine.

Troubleshooting Common Set-Up Issues

While the BES870XL is designed for ease of use, you may encounter some common issues during setup or brewing. Here’s how to address them:

1. Machine Not Turning On:
   • Ensure that the power switch at the back is in the “on” position and that the machine is plugged into a working outlet.
   • Check that the water tank is properly seated and filled with fresh water.
2. No Water Flowing from Group Head:
   • If water is not flowing from the group head, it may be due to a clogged portafilter. Remove the portafilter and check for any blockages.
   • Clean the group head with the provided brush, and ensure the filter basket is properly inserted.
3. Poor Steam Pressure:
   • If the steam wand is producing weak steam, ensure the steam knob is turned to the right position and that the machine has had sufficient time to reach the proper temperature.
   • Check the steam wand for any milk buildup and clean it thoroughly.
4. Bitter or Over-Extracted Espresso:
   • If your espresso tastes bitter, it may be due to too fine a grind. Adjust the grind size to be coarser and experiment with the dose amount.
   • Also, ensure the tamping pressure is consistent to avoid channeling.

Customization and Optimization for Better Performance

To achieve the best possible espresso, fine-tune your BES870XL settings over time. Here are some tips to further customize and optimize your setup:

1. Use Freshly Ground Coffee:
   • The grinder’s ability to produce freshly ground coffee is one of the most important factors in espresso quality. Always use freshly roasted coffee and grind just before brewing to preserve flavor and aroma.
2. Experiment with Water Quality:
   • The quality of water plays a crucial role in the taste of your espresso. Consider using filtered water or an advanced water filtration system to remove impurities that can affect the flavor.
3. Adjust Grind Size for Different Beans:
   • Different coffee beans require different grind sizes. Lighter roasted beans typically need a finer grind, while darker roasted beans perform better with a coarser grind. Experiment to find the optimal grind size for each batch.
4. Play with Brew Time:
   • Adjust the extraction time by altering your grind size or dose amount. A longer extraction time may yield a richer, more complex shot, while a shorter extraction might produce a lighter, more refreshing espresso.

Comparison with Similar Products

When comparing the Breville BES870XL Barista Express to similar espresso machines, consider the following factors:

1. Breville BES870XL vs. Breville BES880BSS Barista Touch:
   • The BES880BSS Barista Touch offers a touchscreen interface, an automatic milk frother, and greater customization options compared to the BES870XL. However, the BES870XL is more affordable and offers similar functionality for those who prefer manual control over brewing parameters.
2. Breville BES870XL vs. Rancilio Silvia:
   • The Rancilio Silvia is a more traditional espresso machine with a commercial-grade build and fewer automated features. It offers superior steam power and build quality but lacks the integrated grinder and ease of use found in the BES870XL.
3. Breville BES870XL vs. Gaggia Classic Pro:
   • The Gaggia Classic Pro is another popular option for home baristas. While it offers a similar espresso experience, the BES870XL stands out with its built-in grinder and integrated features, making it an all-in-one solution for those who want simplicity and convenience.

Compatibility with Other Coffee Products

To enhance your brewing experience, consider pairing the Breville BES870XL with compatible coffee accessories:

1. Grinders:
   • The BES870XL comes with an integrated grinder, but if you prefer a more specialized grinder, the Baratza Encore or the Eureka Mignon Speciality are both excellent choices for consistent, uniform grinds.
2. Brewing Scales:
   • For precise dosing and shot timing, consider pairing the BES870XL with a digital brewing scale such as the Hario V60 Drip Coffee Scale or the Acaia Lunar. These scales will help you achieve precise measurements for the perfect espresso shot.
3. Water Filtration Systems:
   • To improve the taste of your espresso and prolong the life of your machine, use a water filtration system like the Breville BES870XL’s included water filter or an external filtration system like the AquaTrue filter.

By following these tips and maintaining a consistent brewing routine, you can enjoy high-quality espresso every time you use the Breville BES870XL Barista Express.