The fully automatic coffee machine is the heart of the kitchen. It is the first device that has aCoffee lovers in the morningtouched in the kitchen when he starts his workday. It brings its owners through the day with energy. And on weekends it is its smell that attracts the family to the kitchen for breakfast together. It goes without saying that coffee lovers think a lot about the placement of the fully automatic coffee machine. In general, you have two options for integrating the fully automatic coffee machine into the kitchen: a free-standing model or a fully automatic machine that can be integrated into the kitchen unit. The pros and cons are more than just a question of cost.
Integrating a fully automatic coffee machine into the kitchen: Why is it actually worth it?
Fully automatic coffee machines are trendy. This is due to a major rethink that is currently taking place in the coffee market. Coffee lovers have new preferences and want to drink classic filter coffee less and less. Research from Statista has shown that filter machines are becoming less popular, while espresso, latte macchiato and cappuccino are increasing in popularity. This is also accompanied by increasing interest in fully automatic coffee machines, which can produce all coffee variations from the whole coffee bean in the most efficient and high-quality way. According to Statista, their share in German private households is increasing in contrast to filter machines. Their advantages are wide-ranging, but coffee lovers most often mention their high quality, easy operation and high versatility.Fully automatic coffee machinesare a well-rounded product that covers all the needs of a coffee lover. But when you make the purchase, the central question comes up: How do I integrate my fully automatic coffee machine into my kitchen? To answer this question, questions of price, appearance and maintenance must first be answered.
Integrating a fully automatic coffee machine into the kitchen: Price ranges for fully automatic coffee machines
Fully automatic coffee machines are true all-rounders. Their versatility is also reflected in their price. In general, when buying a fully automatic coffee machine, you should expect costs of between €250 and €1,500. In the lower price segment you will find simple models that can easily prepare several coffee variations, but may not have a milk frothing system. In addition, maintenance often has to be carried out manually. This isn't rocket science. All you have to do is remove the brewing group and rinse it with hot water, ideally weekly. However, this is an additional maintenance effort that many would like to avoid. That's why most coffee lovers can find what they're looking for in the mid-price segment.
There are numerous free-standing fully automatic coffee machines from renowned manufacturers that impress with their good looks, intuitive operation, integrated cleaning programs and complete equipment. These are perhaps the most popular fully automatic coffee machines. There are only a few fully automatic coffee machines above them. The upper price segment rarely exceeds the quality of more affordable models. Instead, they impress with outstanding designs. In addition, at the top of the segment and beyond there are integrated fully automatic machines that can be seamlessly integrated into kitchen units. They offer some of the best looks in a modern kitchen, but they also have their pitfalls.
Integrating a fully automatic coffee machine into the kitchen: the tension between appearance and maintenance
Purchasing an integrated fully automatic coffee machine involves numerous detailed questions that everyone has to answer for their individual case. As a rule, these revolve around installation dimensions, a possible fixed water connection and theMaintenance options. An integrated machine is thought through down to the last detail. How do I get to the containers to be cleaned? Does my machine need a permanent water connection? How does the machine open? How far is the trash can or sink? Where could leaking liquids drip? Where will the fully automatic machine definitely stay out of the way? If you can answer all of these questions to your own satisfaction, your kitchen could be ready for the investment in an integrated fully automatic coffee machine.
Otherwise, you are best served with a free-standing machine. This means you don't risk any problems with maintenance and, by the way, some kitchen looks are more suitable for a free-standing machine anyway. A modern, simple kitchenette can be perfectly complemented by an integrated machine. The situation is similar with classic kitchen designs.
A rustic, traditional kitchen in a country house style, on the other hand, works much better with free-standing appliances with a sophisticated look. In this case you can freely choose the location of your machine; ideally close to the sink and in a place where it does not have to be moved. Because a fully automatic coffee machine can be quite heavy. Ultimately, the choice of coffee machine is also a question of space. Can you sacrifice even more of your valuable work space or can you free up space in one of the cupboards?
Crucial point functionality
Considerations about integrated and free-standing fully automatic coffee machines are good and right. But at the end of the day, functionality should decide whether to purchase a coffee machine. Because a nice machine doesn't necessarily make good coffee. But a machine that makes excellent coffee is definitely not ugly. When giving advice, prioritize the operation of the fully automatic coffee machine and the taste of the end product. You can still make fine adjustments at home.
This is possible, for example, by adjusting the grinding degree. However, you cannot compensate for an unsuitable machine. Ultimately, taste trumps everything. In the event of a defect, a free-standing fully automatic coffee machine can also be a lifesaver. After all, it is much easier to bring it in for inspection. Having an expert come to your house for an integrated machine can be significantly more expensive.
Integrating a fully automatic coffee machine into the kitchen: This is what you need to keep in mind!
So let's summarize what conclusions we came to:
1. Know your price! There are fully automatic coffee machines in a wide variety of price ranges. Affordable models require a little more effort on your own. Mid-range devices offer the best balance of price and performance. The upper segment stands out primarily due to its first-class designs.
2. Find the right look! Pinterest can help uscome up with good ideas. Modern and classic kitchens benefit from the simple look of an integrated fully automatic coffee machine. Free-standing coffee machines, on the other hand, shine in country-house style kitchens.
3. Functionality over optics. Flawless functionality always goes beyond good looks. If maintenance is guaranteed, an integrated fully automatic coffee machine can make sense. Otherwise, you are well served with a free-standing machine.
4. Quality above all. And last but not least, the qualityof the coffee are correctbefore you think about appearance and functionality. The central question should be: Which fully automatic coffee machine can I use to brew the best coffee for me? Only then should all other questions be asked.
Once you have clarified these points, nothing stands in the way of the perfect appliance for your kitchen.
