Bezzera Unica Espresso Machine

Bezzera Unica Single Boiler Espresso Machine

Bezzera offers a wide selection of espresso machines.From the large Matrix DB (dual boiler) to the compact Aria HX (heat exchanger) , they also offer a lever model in the Strega.  For espresso lovers that don’t want a large machine, they offer the Unica SBDU (single boiler, dual use).

One of the keys to great espresso is proper temperature. The Unica features PID controls that keep the water in boiler at a set temperature with minimal fluctuation. The classic E61 grouphead,also helps keep the water temperature stable throughout the extraction process. Also it’s large 3 liter water tank will allow to keep making back to back shots with little interruption. For the occassional cappuccino, you have the option to steam by switching the boiler to steam mode through the PID display. Simply hold the “+” button until the display shows “c -> s”. Just remember to switch back to coffee mode using the same process.

Most SBDU machines are built very basic and don’t have many features that the Unica has. One example is the Rancilio Silvia, which doesn’t have PID controls or an E61 grouphead. So if you are an espresso only lover and want the best of the best (in a SBDU), choose the Bezzera Unica.

• Single boiler machine: Can handle both espresso extractions and steaming functions. To get to steam mode, hold the “+” button on the PID controls until the display shows “c -> s”. Just remember to switch back to coffee mode using the same process.
• PID temperature control: Manages the coffee and steam temperature set by the user.
  • The coffee temperature can be programmed between 80° C – 100° C. 93° C is the optimal temperature for medium roasts. For lighter roasts, use hotter temperatures to help extract more flavor. For darker roasts, use cooler temparatures to avoid bitterness.
  • The steam temperature can be programmed between 105° C – 120° C. Increasing the temperature will help give you more steaming power.
• Stainless steel body: Polished to a mirror finish.
• E61 grouphead: Hot water circulates from thermosyphon tubes to/from the grouphead and boiler. As a result, this system keeps the grouphead and your portafilter nice and hot. This is a dual-purpose, single-boiler machine that does not have a heat exchanger. The lever next to the grouphead activates a microswitch which turns on the pump to pump water through the coffee grinds.
• Pump pressure gauge: Indicate the brewing pressure during espresso extraction. Below the pump pressure gauge, there is a ‘P’ switch that powers the pump for hot water delivery through the opened steam wand. The ‘O/I’ switch is for powering up the espresso machine. The light in between is the power light.
• Multi-directional steam wand: Allows for more flexibility. In addition, the joystick controls for the steam wand give an instant on / off operation as opposed to knobs that you must turn clockwise/counterclockwise. The control locks to fully open in the up position allowing you to use both hands when steaming.
• Powerful vibratory pump: Rated at 15 bar. Please note that you only need 9 bars for espresso.
• Three-way solenoid valve: Allows quick removal of portafilter after espresso extraction and immediately prepares for the next extraction.
• Over pressure valve (OPV): Adjustable.
• Water tank: Very large and removable.
• Passive cup warmer on the top: Heat from the boiler rises and heats the top panel. Like any other espresso machine, it can take up to two hours to preheat your cups. Therefore, it is better to flash heat the cups from hot water from the grouphead or steam/water wand.
• Accessories included: Single spout portafilter, double spout portafilter, 1-cup filter basket, 2-cup filter basket, blind filter basket, plastic tamper, plastic scoop, grouphead cleaning brush, and instruction manual.

• Drip tray: Normally the included drip tray with the Unica is not drainable. If you wish to do so, you an purchase the drip tray separately (5340510)

General Espresso Machine Notes/Warnings:

• Upon first use (tank/reservoir models): On the initial start-up (or after a long period of non-use), it is important to make sure the pump is removing water from the tank. When the machine is powered on, you will hear the pump running. After 5 seconds, squeeze the in-line hose in the tank (usually the longest hose, has a particle filter attached). if you hear a different sound, this means the pump is working correctly. If not, immediately power down the machine and contact us. For more information, visit this page General Manual Pump Priming.
• Electrical: To avoid electrical damage to this espresso machine which is not considered a manufacturer's defect, please acquire and install a single-outlet surge suppressor rated at 1080 joules or higher. Without the recommended surge suppressor, the espresso machine can be damaged at the power switch, the electronics, the heating element, the pressurstat, or the wiring inside. For more information, visit this page Power Protection.
• Water: To increase the useful life and not damage your espresso machine, please use softened water. Softened water is water without calcium and magnesium, but still has other minerals for espresso extraction. Do not use distilled, purified, or reverse osmosis water as these types of water create oxidation with the metals and cause the same damaging effects as limescale. For more information, visit this page Water Choice.
• Descaling: We do not recommend descaling unless there is an issue with the espresso machine. Too much descaling can eat away at the metals and gaskets inside an espresso machine. As a preventative measure, we recommend using softened water as explained in the bullet point above.
• Backflushing: This procedure of cleaning the grouphead will need to be performed from time to time. For more information, visit this page Espresso Machine Backflush – Why 50?

• Instruction Manual
  • Addendum