Choosing your first or new carob coffee maker can often be a daunting task due to the abundance of technical features and marketing promises. Model DeLonghi EC685 BK has earned popularity among espresso connoisseurs due to its compact design and consistent quality of brewing drinks. This device combines classical extraction principles and modern heating technologies, making it attractive for home use.
The stylish black body will harmoniously fit into the interior of any kitchen, and the narrow design will save useful space on the countertop. Many users note that exactly ergonomics and appearance become deciding factors when purchasing. However, behind the beautiful facade lies serious technical potential that requires the right approach.
In this review, we will take a detailed look at the functionality of the device, analyze the features of its operation and answer the most common questions that arise from owners. Understanding how it works will help you get consistently delicious coffee and extend the life of your device. Let's dive into the technical details.
Design and structural features of the case
Appearance EC685 BK made in a strict minimalist style, which is typical for modern household appliances. The width of the body is only 19 centimeters, which is a record figure for carob coffee makers of this class. This allows you to place the device even on the narrowest kitchen tables or in cabinet niches.
The metal body is not only aesthetically pleasing, but also functional. It effectively retains heat inside the thermoblock, ensuring a stable temperature in the cooking chamber. The surface is coated with a special composition that is resistant to scratches and fingerprints, which simplifies the maintenance of the device.
On the front panel there are three programmable buttons for selecting the serving size and a mechanical mode switch. This combination of control elements is considered optimal: the mechanics are reliable, and the electronics ensure accurate water dosing. The drip tray is equipped with a level indicator to indicate when it needs to be emptied.
Technical characteristics and heating system
The heart of any coffee maker is the heating system, and the model DeLonghi An advanced thermal block is used. Unlike boilers, it heats water directly as it passes through the system, eliminating waiting and heat loss. The time to reach operating temperature is only 40 seconds.
The pump pressure is stated at 15 bar, which is the standard for professional espresso extraction. However, it is worth remembering that the working pressure in the brewing group itself is about 9 bar, which is ideal for revealing the taste of the grain. System Thermoblock ensures that each portion of water is at the same temperature.
The cappuccino maker in this model is made using technology Cappuccino System. It mixes steam, air and milk to create a thick and dense foam. Adjustable steam control allows you to control the texture of the drink, making it suitable for both cappuccino and latte.
| Parameter | Meaning | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Power | 1100 W | Efficient heating of the thermoblock |
| Pump pressure | 15 bar | Optimal flavor extraction |
| Tank volume | 1 liter | Removable water tank |
| Weight | 3.3 kg | Compact and stable |
Use filtered water to make coffee - this will reduce the formation of scale in the thermoblock and improve the taste of the drink.
Portion control and programming
Operating the coffee maker is intuitive and does not require lengthy study of the instructions. There are three keys on the front panel, two of which can be programmed for the required volume of water. This allows you to prepare espresso or lungo at the touch of a button, getting the same result every time.
To adjust the volume, you need to hold down the corresponding button and release it when the desired volume of liquid is poured into the cup. The device will remember this setting even after being disconnected from the network. The third button is used for manual stop-start or preparation of a standard volume drink.
A mechanical selector switches modes between coffee preparation and steam supply. A clear click and light indication indicate readiness for use. This control system is considered more durable compared to fully touch panels.
How to reset settings to factory settings?
To reset the programmable buttons to factory settings, you must turn off the coffee maker, then hold down both programmable buttons and, without releasing them, turn on the device. Hold the buttons until the indicators flash three times.
The process of making coffee and cappuccino
Preparing espresso begins with warming up the cup and brewer. Hot Cup System allows you to pass hot water through the holder, which prevents the drink from cooling suddenly when it comes into contact with cold ceramics. This is an important nuance to obtain the correct temperature profile.
To create milk foam, a panarello with manual adjustment is used. Turning the ring on the nozzle changes the degree of air suction. To obtain a dense foam, the ring must be lowered, and to heat milk without foam, it must be raised. Practice shows that the optimal result is achieved by using cold milk with a fat content of 3.2-3.5%.
It is important to promptly remove any remaining milk from the system. After each use of the cappuccino maker, turn on the steam for a few seconds to clear the channels of milk residues. This will prevent the growth of bacteria and the appearance of an unpleasant odor.
☑️ Preparing to brew the perfect espresso
Maintenance and decalcification
Regular maintenance is the key to a long life for your DeLonghi EC685. The main enemy of coffee makers is scale, which is formed from hardness salts contained in water. The device is equipped with a warning system about the need for decalcification, which is activated automatically.
The cleaning process takes about 30 minutes and consists of several cycles of passing a special solution through the system. Use vinegar or citric acid strictly prohibited, as they can damage internal seals and plastic elements. It is recommended to use original products or specialized liquids for coffee machines.
⚠️ Attention: Never ignore the decalcification indicator. Operating a coffee maker with a heavily deposited thermoblock can lead to overheating and failure of the device, which is not covered under warranty.
In addition to decalcification, it is necessary to regularly wash the removable parts: tray, water tank and horn. Filters in the coffee horn also require periodic cleaning to remove coffee oils, which oxidize over time and spoil the taste of the drink. To do this, they can be soaked in a special solution or simply washed with hot water and a brush.
Timely decalcification using original products is the only way to maintain the warranty and avoid costly repairs of the thermoblock.
Common problems and their solutions
During operation, users may encounter a number of typical situations that are not breakdowns. For example, if the water drips from the spout very slowly or not at all, the coffee grind may be too fine or the tablet may be compressed too tightly. The degree of grinding or pressing force is required.
Sometimes water leaks into the pan during operation. This may be because the grind used is too fine and the water cannot pass through the pressurized coffee tablet, escaping through the seals. It could also be due to an overfilled pan or an incorrectly installed horn.
⚠️ Attention: If the lack of water indicator flashes even though the tank is full, check the magnet on the float. Sometimes it gets dislodged or lost and the sensor doesn't see the water. Also make sure that the tank is installed tightly until it clicks into place.
Pump noise is normal for the vibrating pumps used in this model. However, if the sound becomes unnaturally loud or grinding, you should contact a service center. Disassembling the pump yourself may lead to a leak in the system.
Comparison with competitors and final conclusions
In the market of compact carob coffee makers, EC685 BK There are few direct competitors with a similar combination of price and quality. The main competitors are models from Breville and Krups, but they are often inferior in size or heating speed. The DeLonghi metal body outperforms its plastic counterparts in durability and thermal insulation.
The main advantage is its versatility: the machine is suitable for both beginners and experienced users who are ready to experiment with grinding and temperature. The ability to use both ground coffee and ESE pods makes the device a flexible tool for preparing drinks.
To summarize, we can say that this coffee maker is an excellent choice for a city apartment. It takes up minimal space, quickly gets ready for work and produces stable results. With proper care and using quality ingredients, DeLonghi EC685 will become a reliable assistant in preparing morning coffee for many years.
Can I use ESE pods?
Yes, the coffee maker comes with a special filter adapter for pods with a diameter of 44 mm. This allows you to use pre-portioned packets, which is convenient if you don't want to bother with grinding and tamping.
How often should decalcification be carried out?
The frequency depends on the water hardness and intensity of use. On average, with daily preparation of 3-4 cups and average water hardness, it is recommended to carry out the procedure once every 2-3 months. The indicator on the panel will tell you when this needs to be done.
Why does the coffee turn out cold?
The main reasons: the cone and cup are not warmed up, the grind is too coarse (the water flows through too quickly) or the network temperature is low. Be sure to warm up the holder by running water before cooking.
Can the cone be washed in the dishwasher?
The manufacturer does not recommend washing the metal horn and filters in the dishwasher, as aggressive detergents can damage the coating and seals. It is better to rinse them with warm water by hand immediately after use.
What should I do if the scale indicator is constantly on?
It is necessary to carry out a full decalcification cycle according to the instructions. If the indicator does not go off after successful completion of the cycle, you may need to reset the counter or have the sensor diagnosed by a service center.