Last Updated on February 25, 2023 by Timothy Byron Smith
It is like a fantasy for a home barista to get a low-budget espresso machine that produces excellent coffee and tasty espresso-based drinks. This is because such espresso machines with all the advantages are usually expensive and unaffordable. But don’t worry! We’re here to tell you that you can get it! And you’ll be persuaded by our Calphalon espresso machine review.
The Calphalon Temp IQ espresso maker is a dream come true for coffee enthusiasts! Not only it is affordable but has exceptional functioning too. So, if you are looking for a coffee maker that is cheap and yet makes no compromises on quality, Calphalon will be great for you!
Calphalon Espresso Machine Review
To get some technicalities that must be bugging you out of the way, the Calphalon comes in two models. They are both semi-automatic and super amazing. However, the only difference between them is that one is equipped with a built-in grinder and the other isn’t.
Don’t you worry, we won’t leave you with just these basics. We’ll discuss all these technicalities in detail through the course of this review.
1. Specifications of the Calphalon Temp IQ
The company began its journey as Commercial Aluminium Cookware, focussing mainly on the restaurant market. However, with time it grew in popularity and reputation as a result of its products’ superior quality and exceptional performance.
As such, in the year 1992, the company was rebranded as what we now know to be Calphalon. Among the several kitchen appliances, it also produces two espresso machine models with the following specifics:
| Brand: | Calphalon |
| Model: | BVCLECMPBM1 |
| Model Name: | Temple IQ |
| Product Type: | Pump Espresso Maker |
| Exterior Finish: | Plastic, Stainless |
| Blade Material: | Metal |
| Color: | Stainless Steel |
| Dimensions: | 13.66 x 12.68 x 16.02 |
| Programmable: | No |
| Wattage: | 1450 |
| Power Source: | Plug |
| Automatic Shut Off: | Yes |
| Backlit Display: | No |
| Cord Length: | 32 inches |
| Warranty: | 3 years |
2. Design and Build Quality:
Calphalon has a highly elegant and attractive design. With a stainless steel and plastic exterior, it is designed to be sturdy. Nothing complex about it. In fact, despite being very economical, it exudes a class and refined look that make it appear high-end.
You will be mind blown to know the features that this machine includes despite its affordable price range. Here are some features you will absolutely enjoy with this espresso machine:
- Steam wand
- Hot water dispenser
- Cup-warming tray
- Storage space for the tamper and portafilter
- Drip tray
- Grinder (depending on your Calphalon model)
- Stainless steel milk pitcher
- Double spouted for split coffee
Additionally, the espresso machine has an aesthetically attractive button interface that is super easy to use! Not to mention it’s got abundant capacity in its water reservoir which is also removable. All these features indicate that this machine is designed for elegance and convenience.
3. Usage and Brewing Performance:
Coffee brewing can be a complex task for a home barista. However, the Calphalon makes sure you brew with ease. It features both single and double-shot filter baskets (pressurized) to ensure you get great coffee.
Moreover, it’s got a highly impressive commercial-sized portafilter (58mm). Not only does it have a higher capacity to hold coffee but ensures perfect extraction for a flavourful delicious cup of coffee. However, dual baskets can sort of dampen the flavor for strict coffee people.
The one drawback of the portafilter is its plastic bottom. Compared to a robust bottom made of stainless steel, it can be a bit fragile.
4. Milk Steaming & Frothing Performance
Once you’ve brewed a grand shot of espresso, the temp IQ is equipped to take your beverage to the next level. Its powerful steam wand creates an extremely creamy froth and microfoam milk to transform your espresso into a heavenly, rich, and creamy delicacy!
With its advanced Thermoblock heating function, it’ll only take you about 15 seconds to go from brewing to steaming. The commercial-style steam wand allows greater control over the steaming process. In case the 60 ounces milk pitcher feels small, you can easily replace it with a larger one.
The only issue is that this advanced system can be a bit complex. Some consumers claim it is very noisy while frothing. However, we believe the noise is like that of any other espresso machine.
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The Calphalon Temp IQ Espresso Machine Features
The Calphalon Temp IQ espresso machine is innovative, in spite of being affordable. It has earned every bit of its glowing reputation through the performance and quality of the following features.
1. Enlarged Portafilter:
Calpahlon’s portafilter is designed to produce nothing short of the perfect shot of espresso. The 58mm and 2.5” deep portafilter is also pressurized. It holds a generous amount of ground coffee and contributes to bringing out rich flavors.
The portafilter is where the magic happens. And Calphalon’s portafilter ensures maximum and thorough distribution of water to extract every bit of flavor from the ground coffee into your espresso shot.
2. Auto-Shot Control:
The auto-shot control feature eliminates wastage and maintains proportions to the best accuracy. The dial interface helps you select options like hot water, steaming, and double or single shot. It is extremely easy to operate since it’s got icons to assist you in your choice.
All you have to do is turn the dial to 1 or 2 for your shot. The coffee machine will automatically pour just the right and precise amount of water and halt on its own. Nothing, but delectable coffee is guaranteed!
3. Cup Warming Tray:
A bonus perk for coffee lovers is the cup warming tray (not all espresso machines have got them!). You can place your coffee mugs on it prior to brewing your coffee. It keeps the cup dry and maintains the perfect temperature of your beverage in the cup once you’ve pulled a shot.
This is extra useful when making latte art and making other espresso-based drinks!
4. Thermoblock:
The Thermoblock is a superior technology employed by Calphalon. It ensures consistent and accurate heating of the water at a fast rate. It optimally heats the required amount of water for your espresso shot for the perfect flavorsome extraction.
5. PID Controller:
PID controller is a powerful technology that accurately regulates temperature and pressure as well as other processes for a smooth brewing process. This system assists the Thermoblock system to provide stability and consistency in the extraction of espresso.
This technology enables Caphalon to deliver a precise amount of water at optimal temperature and pressure to the ground coffee. This results in an espresso shot that is bold, rich, and flavourful beyond imagination!
6. 15 Bar Italian Pump:
The greater the pressure the better your coffee will taste. The 15-bar Italian pump featured in the Calphalon works together with the Thermoblock system to create optimal and accurate water pressure. Plus, it is fitted with pressure relief to avoid any overpressure too.
This system ensures a thorough extraction of oil, flavor, and aroma from the coffee. Once you’ve successfully extracted your espresso, turn the dial to ‘Ready’ and the remaining pressure will be released onto the drip tray.
7. Italian Cream System:
The Calphalon is equipped with dual-walled filter baskets. The second layer of the basket has a single hole compared to a uniform distribution of many holes in the first layer. This creates extra pressure during the extraction process.
The added pressure creates a smooth and rich shot of espresso with a prominent layer of crema on top. It gives you extra crema! The dual-walled filter basket can be used with both pre-ground and freshly ground coffee beans.
8. Steam Wand:
The steam wand hangs to the side of the Calphalon espresso machine. Equipped with a ballpoint, it delivers pressurized steam into the milk and simultaneously warms it. At the same time, it’s adding air to the milk to create that beautiful froth!
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Perks and Pitfalls of The Calphalon Espresso Machine
The Calphalon Temp IQ is full of amazing features. However, it hasn’t escaped drawbacks either. As there is much to love about this espresso machine, there are also things you might find yourself at odds with.
Pros:
- Not excessively noisy
- 15 Bar Italian Pump
- Easy to clean
- High-functioning and powerful steam wand
- Cup warmers included
- Removable water tank which is also easy to refill
- Consistent heating through Thermoblock System
- Advanced PID controller
- Fast warming of the machine
- Shot volume can be efficiently calibrated
Cons:
- Some practice is required to get a hang of the machine
- Difficult to check the level of the water reservoir
- Group heads are made of plastic and therefore fragile
It is obvious that the pros outweigh the cons significantly.
Calphalon Espresso Machine Without Grinder VS Built-in Grinder
Although the brewing and steaming are perfect across both models, there are some differences. You need to figure out whether you require a built-in grinder or not. If you wish to purchase an espresso grinder separately the basic model will do. However, grinders can be expensive, so you may want to save money by buying the grinder model.
The grinder model of Calphalon features a burr grinder with 30 adjustable settings. It precisely grinds fresh coffee beans to extract maximum flavor. However, you will need to spend a little extra on this model.
Additional perks of an espresso grinder model include a larger water tank as well as two extra pressurized filter baskets (double and single shot).
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Why Should You Consider a Calphalon Espresso Machine?
There are a number of reasons why the Calphalon Temp IQ espresso machine is the best for you. We have jotted down a few of them right here:
- It is equipped with powerful and advanced technology to brew you a bold and fantastic cup of espresso.
- It is a quality espresso machine that comes in an affordable price range.
- The Calphalon manual is very easy to understand and the machine can be easily set up
- Calphalon helpline is always active to assist you with any need.
- Powerful steam wand to make espresso-based beverages like lattes and cappuccinos, etc.
- Designed for ease of use with a button and dial interface. It also includes pictorial icons to assist in operating the machine.
- The grinder model saves you extra expenses.
- Calphalon features a number of added perks as well. For instance, a cup warmer, storage space for a portafilter, etc.
How To Use a Calphalon Espresso Machine?
Brewing espresso with Calpalon is fairly simple. There are a few steps you need to follow and you will reward yourself with a world-class espresso shot!
Step 1: Switch on the machine. When you see the indicator light flash, it will take around 40 minutes to heat up. Wait for the ‘ready’ light to flash. When it does, the espresso machine is ready to brew and pull a shot.
Step 2: Depending on your choice of a single or double shot, place the right filter basket in the portafilter.
Step 3: If you are brewing a single shot, you will need 13 to 15 grams of ground coffee. For a double shot, you will need 20 grams. Make sure you know how many espresso shots are enough and also properly tamp the grounds.
Step 4: Attach the portafilter to the espresso machine. Place your coffee cup/s on the drip tray below the spout.
Step 5: Position the dial to the shot you want (1 or 2). In a few seconds, your shot of espresso will start pouring from the spout. It will automatically stop when the right volume is reached.
See? Using an espresso machine is so simple and easy!
How Do You Clean a Calphalon Espresso Machine?
Oils and coffee grounds can build up in the espresso machine over time. This can really ruin the coffee flavor for you. Hence, it is important that you frequently clean the espresso machine.
To clean the coffee machine, purge warm water through the group head, spouts, and steam wand to clean them. You can use white vinegar or citric acid (refer to the manual for quantity) in water for a good cleaning.
For the removable parts, place them in the dishwasher if they are dishwasher friendly. Otherwise, rinse them thoroughly using warm water and dry them up before reattaching them to the espresso machine.
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FAQs
If the water doesn’t come out, you can use a priming pump to prime it manually. Remove the water tank, fill the priming pump with water, and attach it to the water inlet. Turn on the machine as instructed earlier and press down on the pump. Switch it off after a couple of seconds and repeat with the water tank.
Conclusion
This Calphalon espresso machine review covers everything that you need to know about Calphalon coffee makers. The Calphalon espresso machine is designed to be excellent. And if you are a true coffee enthusiast you’ll want this machine sitting on your kitchen counter!
