Breville Barista Express BES870XL Instruction Manual

Breville Barista Express BES870XL

About Breville

Breville is an Australian kitchen appliance manufacturer known for producing high-quality and innovative small kitchen appliances. The company was founded in 1932 in Sydney, Australia, and has since become a globally recognized brand.

Breville offers a wide range of kitchen appliances, including coffee machines, espresso makers, blenders, juicers, toasters, kettles, food processors, ovens, grills, and more. Their products are designed with a focus on functionality, durability, and aesthetics.

One of Breville’s notable product lines is its coffee and espresso machines. They offer a variety of models that cater to different brewing methods, from espresso machines for home use to professional-grade espresso machines. Breville’s coffee machines often incorporate advanced features such as built-in grinders, customizable settings, and automatic milk frothers.

Breville appliances are known for their attention to detail, user-friendly interfaces, and high-performance capabilities. They are often praised for their innovative designs and the ability to replicate professional-grade results in the comfort of one’s home.

BREVILLE RECOMMENDS SAFETY FIRST

At Breville, we are very safety conscious. We design and manufacture consumer products with the safety of you, our valued customer, foremost in mind. In addition, we ask that you exercise a degree of care when using any electrical appliance and adhere to the following precautions.

IMPoRtAnt SAfEGUARdS

When using electrical appliances, basic safety precautions should always be followed, including:

• Carefully read all instructions before operating and save them for future reference.
• Remove any packaging material and promotional labels or stickers before using the espresso machine for the first time.
• To eliminate a choking hazard for young children, remove and safely discard the protective cover fitted to the power plug of the espresso machine.
• Do not place the espresso machine near the edge of a bench or table during operation. Ensure the surface is level, clean, and free of water and other substances.
• Do not place the espresso machine on or near a hot gas or electric burner, or where it could touch a heated oven.
• Do not use the espresso machine on metal surfaces, for example, a sink drainboard.
• Always ensure the espresso machine is properly assembled before connecting to a power outlet and operating.
• Do not attempt to operate the espresso machine by any method other than those described in this book.
• The espresso machine is not intended to be operated using an external timer or a separate remote control system.
• We recommend using cold, filtered water. We do not recommend the use of de-mineralized or distilled water as this may affect the taste of the espresso and how the machine is designed to function. Do not use any other liquid. Never use the espresso machine without water in the water tank
• Do not leave the appliance unattended when in use.
• Ensure the portafilter is firmly inserted and secured into the group head before using the machine.

• Never remove the portafilter during the brewing operation as the machine is under pressure.
• Do not touch hot surfaces. Use handles or knobs. Allow the espresso machine to cool down before moving or cleaning any parts.
• Do not place anything other than cups for warming on top of the espresso machine.
• Do not operate the grinder without the hopper lid in position. Keep fingers, hands, hair, clothing, and utensils away from the hopper during the operation.
• Always switch off the espresso machine by pressing the POWER button and unplugging if the appliance is to be left unattended, if not in use, before cleaning, before attempting to move the appliance, disassembling, assembling, and storing the appliance.
• Keep the espresso machine and accessories clean. Follow the cleaning instructions provided in this book.
• Do not use espresso machine attachments other than those provided. The use of accessory attachments not recommended by Breville may result in fire, electric shock, or injury to persons.

IMPoRtAnt SAfEGUARdS foR ALL ELECtRICAL APPLIAnCES

• Fully unwind the cord before use.
• To protect against electric shock, do not immerse the cord, plug, or appliance in water or any other liquid. Do not let the cord hang over the edge of a bench or table, touch hot surfaces,  or become knotted.

• This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities, or lack of experience or knowledge unless they have been given supervision or instruction concerning the use of the appliance by a person responsible for their safety.
• Children should be supervised to ensure they do not play with the appliance.
• This appliance is recommended for household use only. Do not use this appliance for anything other than its intended use. Do not use it in moving vehicles or boats. Do not use outdoors.
• It is recommended to regularly inspect the appliance. Do not use the appliance if the power cord, power plug, or appliance becomes damaged in any way. Immediately cease to use and call Breville Consumer Support.
• For any maintenance other than cleaning, call Breville Consumer Support.
• This appliance is equipped with a power cord having a grounding wire with a grounding plug. The appliance must be grounded using a 3-hole properly grounded outlet. In the event of an electrical short circuit, grounding reduces the risk of electrical shock.
• If the appliance is of the grounded type, the extension cord should be a grounding 3-wire cord.
• If the power outlet is a standard 2-prong wall outlet, it is your responsibility and obligation to have it replaced with a properly grounded 3-prong wall outlet.
• Do not, under any circumstances, cut or remove the third (ground) prong from the power cord or use an adapter.
• Consult a qualified electrician if the grounding instructions are not completely understood, or if doubt exists as to whether the appliance is properly grounded.

Know your Breville product

• IntEGRAtEd ConICAL  BURR GRINDER Stainless steel conical burrs maximize ground coffee surface area for a full espresso flavor. Upper and lower burrs are removable for cleaning.
• AdjustABLE GRInd SIzE Espresso grind settings from fine to coarse for optimal extraction.
• AdjustABLE GRInd AMoUnt Adjust the amount of fresh ground coffee dosed into the filter basket to suit the fineness or coarseness of the grind.
• AUtoMAtIC doSInG Use the FILTER SIZE button to tell the machine if you are using a 1 CUP or 2 CUP filter basket. The grinder will dispense the required amount of ground coffee for a single or double-cup dose.
• HAndS fREE GRIndInG Auto stop for hands-free grinding directly into the portafilter.
• The RAzoR™ doSE tRIMMInG tooL Patented twist blade trims down the puck to the right level for precision dosing and consistent extraction.
• AdjustABLE tEMPERAtURE  ContRoL For optimum coffee flavor.
• PId tEMPERAtURE ContRoL Electronic PID temperature control for increased temperature stability.

• tHERMoCoIL HEAtInG SyStEM Integrated stainless steel water coil accurately controls water temperature.
• CoMMERCIAL StyLE STEAM WAnd Stainless steel 360° swivel-action steam wand for effortless milk texturing.
• Instant Hot WAtER Dedicated hot water outlet for making Americanos and pre-heating cups.
• LoW-PRESSURE PRE-InfUSIon Applies low water pressure at the start of the extraction to gently expand grinds for an even extraction.
• ESPRESSo PRESSURE GAUGE Monitors espresso extraction pressure.
• voLUMEtRIC ContRoL Preset 1 & 2 cup volumes, manual override or re-programmable shot volumes.
• dRy PUCK fEAtURE Removes excess water from the ground coffee in the filter basket after extraction for easy disposal of the coffee puck.

 

1. ½lb bean hopper With a locking system for easy removal, storage, and transfer of coffee beans.
2. Integrated conical burr grinder
3. Grind outlet
4. Grinding activation switch
5. Hands-free grinding cradle
6. GRIND SIZE selector Espresso grind settings from fine to coarse.
7. GRIND AMOUNT dial Adjust the amount of fresh ground coffee dosed into the filter basket to suit the fineness or coarseness of the grind.
8. FILTER SIZE button Tell the machine if you are using a  1 CUP or 2 CUP filter basket and the grinder will dispense the required amount of ground coffee for a single or double cup dose.
9. POWER button
10. Integrated removable 54mm tamper
11. Group head
12. 54mm stainless steel portafilter With commercial style spouts.
13. Extra-tall cup clearance for tall mugs
14. Removable wet & dry coffee separator drip tray With Empty Me! tray full indicator.
15. Storage tray (located behind drip tray) Houses accessories when not in use.
16. 360˚ swivel-action steam wand
17. Dedicated hot water outlet
18. Steam/Hot Water dial Selector dial for steam and hot water.
19. Steam/Hot Water light Illuminates to indicate that the steam or hot water function is selected.
20. CUP and 2 CUP buttons With preset, manual override, or re-programmable shot volumes.
21. CLEAN ME light Illuminates when a cleaning cycle is required.
22. Espresso pressure gauge
23. PROGRAM button Re-programs the preset 1 CUP and 2 CUP shot volumes.
24. Cup warming tray
25. 67 fl. oz (2L) removable water tank With replaceable water filter to reduce impurities and scale.

ACCESSORIES

All parts of the Barista Express™ that come into contact with coffee, water, and milk are BPA-free.

1. Stainless steel milk jug
2. Cleaning disc
3. Cleaning tablets
4. Dual Wall filter baskets (1 cup & 2 cups) Use with pre-ground coffee.
5. Allen key
6. Single Wall filter baskets (1 cup & 2 cups) Use when grinding fresh whole coffee beans.
7. Cleaning tool
8. Water filter holder and filter
9. Coffee scoop Measures the amount of pre-ground coffee when using dual wall filter baskets.
10. Cleaning brush
11. The Razor™ precision dose-trimming tool

OPERATING

Before fIRSt USE

Machine Preparation Remove and discard all labeling and packaging materials attached to your espresso machine. Ensure you have removed all parts and accessories before discarding the packaging. Remove the water tank located at the back of the machine by lifting the water tank handle. Remove the plastic bag containing the water filter and water filter holder. Clean parts and accessories (water tank, portafilter, filter baskets, milk jug) using warm water and a gentle dishwashing liquid, then rinse and dry thoroughly. Wipe the outer housing, bean hopper, and drip tray with a soft damp cloth and dry thoroughly. Do not immerse the outer housing, power cord, or power plug in water or any other liquid.

CondItIonInG tHE WAtER fILtER

• Remove the water filter and water filter holder from the plastic bag.
• Soak the water filter in a cup of water for 5 minutes, then rinse under cold running water.
• Wash the water filter holder with cold water, carefully rinse the stainless steel mesh.
• Insert the water filter into the two parts of the water filter holder.
• Set Date Dial 2 months ahead.
• To install the assembled water filter holder into the water tank, align the base of the water filter holder with the adapter inside the water tank. Push down to lock into place.
• Slide the water tank back into position at the back of the machine, ensuring to pushed down completely to lock it into place.

fIRSt USE

Initial Start-Up

• Ensure the water filter is securely fitted inside the water tank.
• Fill the water tank with cold, preferably filtered water up to the MAX mark. When replacing the water tank, ensure to push it down completely to lock it into place.
• Ensure the hopper is locked into position.
• Plug the power cord into a 110/120V power outlet.
• Press the POWER button to switch the machine on. The POWER button light will flash while the machine is heating.
• A pumping sound will be heard. This is normal. When the machine has reached the correct operating temperature, the POWER button light will stop flashing and all button lights on the control panel will illuminate. The machine is now in STANDBY mode, ready for the next step ‘Flushing The Machine’

flushing the Machine
It is recommended to complete a water flushing operation, without ground coffee, to ensure the machine has been conditioned.

When the machine has reached STANDBY mode, follow these steps:

1. Press the 2 CUP button to run hot water through the group head.
2. Position the steam wand tip over the drip tray. Rotate the STEAM/HOT WATER dial to the STEAM position and run steam through the steam wand for 10 seconds.
3. Rotate the STEAM/HOT WATER dial to the HOT WATER position and run water through the hot water outlet for 10 seconds.
4. Repeat steps 1–3 until the water tank is empty.

GEnERAL oPERAtIon

Setting the Grind Size

The grind size will affect the rate of water flow through the coffee in the filter basket and the flavor of the espresso. When setting the grind size, it should be fine but not too fine and powdery. There are numbered settings on the GRIND SIZE selector. The smaller the number, the finer the grind size. The larger the number, the coarser the grind size.

We recommend you start at setting 5 and adjust as required.

Setting the Grind Amount

Set the GRIND AMOUNT dial to the  3 o’clock position as a starting point. Adjust towards LESS or MORE as required to adjust the dose amount so the metal cap on the supplied tamper is level with the top edge of the filter basket rim, AFTER tamping.

Purging the Group Head

Before placing the portafilter into the group head, run a short flow of water through the group head by pressing the 1 CUP button. This will stabilize the temperature before extraction.

Inserting the Portafilter

Place the portafilter underneath the group head so that the handle is aligned with the INSERT position. Insert the portafilter into the group head and rotate the handle towards the center until resistance is felt.

Preset Shot volume – 1 CUP button

Press the 1 CUP button once to extract a single shot of espresso at the preset volume (approx. 1oz / 30ml). The extraction will start using the low-pressure pre-infusion (see page 16). The machine will stop after the preset volume has been extracted.

Preset Shot volume – 2 CUP button

Press the 2 CUP button once to extract a double shot of espresso at the preset volume (approx. 2oz / 60ml). The extraction will start using the low-pressure pre-infusion (see page 16). The machine will stop after the preset volume has been extracted.

COFFEE MAKING TIPS & PREPARATION

CARE & CLEANING

Replacing the Water filter
The provided water filter helps prevent scale build-up in and on many of the inner functioning components. Replacing the water filter every two months will reduce the need to decalcify the machine. If you live in a hard water area, we recommend you change the water filter more frequently.

• Remove the new water filter from the plastic bag.
• Soak the new water filter in a cup of water for 5 minutes, then rinse under cold running water.
• Wash the water filter holder with cold water, carefully rinse the stainless steel mesh.
• Insert the new water filter into the two parts of the water filter holder.
• Set Date Dial 2 months ahead.
• To install the assembled water filter holder into the water tank, align the base of the water filter holder with the adapter inside the water tank. Push down to lock into place.
• Slide the water tank back into position at the back of the machine, ensuring to pushed down completely to lock it into place. The water filter should be removed if using filtered or bottled water.

CLEAnInG CyCLE
The CLEAN ME light will illuminate when a cleaning cycle is required. This is a back-flushing cycle and is separate from decalcifying.

1. Insert the 1 CUP filter basket into the portafilter, followed by the supplied cleaning disc, followed by  1 cleaning tablet.
2. Lock the portafilter into the group head and place a large container beneath the portafilter spouts.
3. Ensure the water tank is filled with cold water and the drip tray is empty.
4. Press the POWER button to switch the machine off.
5. Press the 1 CUP and 2 CUP buttons simultaneously, then also press the POWER button. Hold all 3 buttons together for approximately 10 seconds.
6. The cleaning cycle will commence and last for approximately 5 minutes. During this time, water will intermittently flow from the portafilter spouts. Once complete,  3 beeps will sound.
7. Remove the portafilter and ensure the tablet has completely dissolved. If the tablet has not dissolved, repeat until the tablet has dissolved.

dECALCIfyInG
After regular use, hard water can cause mineral buildup in and on many of the inner functioning components, reducing the brewing flow, brewing temperature, power of the machine, and taste of the espresso. We advise decalcifying the machine every month and especially if not using the machine for an extended period eg. before going on vacation.

1. Press the POWER button to switch the machine off.
2. Pour a 50/50 mixture of white vinegar and cold tap water into the water tank.
3. Remove the portafilter from the group head and place a large container beneath the group head and steam wand.
4. Press the POWER button to switch the machine on. When the brewing temperature has been reached and all the button lights on the control panel have been illuminated, press and hold the 1 CUP button to commence a manual pour. Release the button once half the mixture of white vinegar and water has run through the group head.
5. Set the STEAM/HOT WATER dial to the HOT WATER position and allow hot water to run through the hot water outlet for approximately  30 seconds. Return the dial to the STANDBY position.
6. Set the STEAM/HOT WATER dial to the STEAM position and allow steam to run through the steam wand for approximately 2 minutes. Return the dial to the STANDBY position.
7. If any of the mixture remains in the water tank, press and hold the 1 CUP button to commence a manual pour. Release the button once the tank is empty and nothing runs through the group head.

7. In harder water environments, we recommend repeating this cycle.
8. After decalcifying, remove the water tank, rinse thoroughly then refill it with fresh cold water only. To rinse the machine, repeat steps 3–7.

WARNING Do not immerse the power cord, power plug, or appliance in water or any other liquid. The water tank should never be removed or completely emptied during decalcification.

CLEAnInG tHE ConICAL BURR GRIndER This grinder cleaning cycle removes oil build-up on the burrs which can impede performance.

Advanced CLEAnInG foR tHE ConICAL BURR GRIndER This step is only required if there is a blockage between the grinding burrs and the grinder outlet.

CLEAnInG tHE StEAM WAnd The steam wand should always be cleaned after texturing milk. Wipe the steam wand with a damp cloth. Then with the steam wand tip directed over the drip tray, briefly set the STEAM/ HOT WATER dial to the STEAM position. This will clear any remaining milk from inside the steam wand.

• If any of the holes in the tip of the steam wand become blocked, ensure the STEAM/HOT WATER dial is in the STANDBY position. Press the POWER button to switch the machine off and allow it to cool. Use the pin on the end of the provided cleaning tool to unblock the hole(s).
• If the steam wand remains blocked, remove the tip using the integrated spanner in the cleaning tool and soak it in hot water. Use the pin on the end of the provided cleaning tool to unblock the hole(s) before re-attaching it to the steam wand.

CLEAnInG tHE fILtER BASKEtS And PoRtAfILtER

• The filter baskets and portafilter should be rinsed under hot water immediately after use to remove all residual coffee oils.
• If any of the holes in the filter basket become blocked, use the pin on the end of the provided cleaning tool to unblock the hole(s).
• If the hole(s) remain blocked, dissolve a cleaning tablet in hot water and soak the filter basket and portafilter in solution for approx. 20 minutes.  Rinse thoroughly.

CLEAnInG tHE SHoWER SCREEn

• The group head interior and shower screen should be wiped with a damp cloth to remove any ground coffee particles.
• Periodically purge the machine. Place an empty filter basket and portfilter into the group head. Press and hold the 1 CUP button and run a short flow of water to rinse out any residual coffee.

CLEAnInG tHE dRIP &  StoRAGE tRAy

• The drip tray should be removed, emptied, and cleaned at regular intervals, particularly when the drip tray full indicator is showing EMPTY ME!
• Remove the grid from the drip tray. Lift the coffee grind separator and dispose of any coffee grounds. The EMPTY ME! indicator can also be removed from the drip tray by pulling upwards to release the side latches. Wash all parts in warm soapy water with a soft cloth. Rinse and dry thoroughly.
• The storage tray (located behind the drip tray) can be removed and cleaned with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners, pads, or cloths which can scratch the surface.

CLEAnInG tHE oUtER HoUSInG & CUP WARMInG tRAy

The outer housing and cup warming tray can be cleaned with a soft, damp cloth. Polish with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners, pads, or cloths which can scratch the surface.

StoRInG yoUR MACHInE

Before storing, ensure the STEAM/HOT WATER dial is in the STANDBY position, press the POWER button to switch the machine off, and remove the plug from the power outlet. Remove unused beans from the hopper, clean the grinder (see page 29), and empty the water tank and the drip tray.

• Ensure the machine is cool, clean, and dry.
• Insert all accessories into the storage tray.
• Store upright. Do not place anything on top.

 WARNING Do not immerse the power cord, power plug, or appliance in water or any other liquid.

Using the Allen KEy

Over time, the silicone seal surrounding the shower screen will need to be replaced to ensure optimum brewing performance.

1. Press the POWER button to switch the machine off and unplug the cord from the power outlet.
2. Carefully remove the water tank and drip tray, taking particular care if they are full.
3. Using a skewer or similar, clean the center of the screw of any residual coffee.
4. Insert the shorter end of the Allen Key into the center of the screw. Turn counterclockwise to loosen the screw.

5. Once loosened, carefully remove and retain the screw, stainless steel shower screen, and black dispersion plate. Make note of the side of the shower screen and dispersion plate that are facing downwards. This will make re-assembly easier. Wash the shower screen and dispersion plate in warm soapy water, then dry thoroughly.

6. Remove the silicone seal with your fingers or a pair of long-nose pliers. your fingers, turn the screw clockwise for 2-3 revolutions then insert the Allen Key to tighten until the screw is flush with the shower screen. Do not overtighten the screw.
7. Re-insert the dispersion plate, then the shower screen, then the screw. With your fingers, turn the screw clockwise for 2-3 revolutions then insert the Allen Key to tighten until the screw is lush with the shower screen. Do not overtighten the screw.
8. Re-insert the drip tray and water tank.

Contact Breville Consumer Support or visit www.breville.com for replacement silicone seals or advice.

TROUBLESHOOTING

FAQS About Breville Barista Express BES870XL

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