Difference between revisions of "ECM Technika IV"

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The ECM Technika IV is a  [[:Category:Prosumer|Prosumer]] espresso machine that brings quality to both form and function. {{Description-Table
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{{Getting-Started
|title        = ECM Technika IV  
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|product_banner = [[File:Wiki_ProductPageBanner_1200x175_ECMTechnikaIV_v1.jpg| link=]]
|machine_image = [[File:ECM_TECHNIKA_IV_PROFI.gif]]
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|product_page_title = ECM Technika IV
|manufacturer  = ECM
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|machine_type = Prosumers
|model_name    = Tecknika IV
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|page_type = set up
|type          = [[:Category:Prosumer|Prosumer]]
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|section1 = Install It
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|anchor1 = Install
 +
|section2 = Get it Good & Hot
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|anchor2 = Heating
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|section3 = Get a Handle on your Tamp
 +
|anchor3 = Tamping
 +
|section4 = Brew Better
 +
|anchor4 = Brew Better
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|section5 = Brew the Best You Can Brew
 +
|anchor5 = Brew Best
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|section6 = Preinfusion and You
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|anchor6 = Preinfusion
 +
|section7 = Get Frothing
 +
|anchor7 = Get Frothing
 +
|section8 = Froth Better
 +
|anchor8 = Froth Better
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|section9 = Frothing and Habits to Avoid
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|anchor9 = Frothing Mistakes
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|section10 = Steam & the Heating Sweet Spot
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|anchor10 = Steaming Temperature
 +
|section11 = Steam with Thermometers
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|anchor11 = Steam with Thermometers
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|section12 = Steam Tip Compatibility
 +
|anchor12 = Steam Tip Compatibility
 
}}
 
}}
 
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{{Set-Up-Content
==Machine Description==
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|dual_boiler =  
 
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It's a rare thing to find a machine that seamlessly combines form and function, a feat that has been achieved by ECM's Technika IV espresso machine. From the outside, you'll be drawn to the curved stainless steel housing, front-mounted pressure gauges, and custom grouphead, but it is what you're not seeing that rounds out the entire package. The Technika IV's commercial grade internal components were selected by German engineers at ECM for superior performance and build quality.
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Before getting into the internals of the machine, the housing and frame deserve a special mention. Made of curved stainless steel, the Technika IV is gorgeous to look at, but it's important to note that the frame is actually one solid piece. To save money, some companies will weld the drip tray onto the body of their machine. Not content with cutting corners, ECM has actually built the drip tray as part of the frame, making it far more durable. Additionally, the body of the machine has been designed to absorb noise produced by the internal components for a quieter brewing process.
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With regards to brewing, the Technika IV uses a 2.1 liter copper, heat exchange boiler and a vibration pump. The heat exchanger allows you to brew and steam at the same time. Similar to the design of commercial machines, the boiler is mounted horizontally by a solid bracket to protect it from from shifting during shipping. The boiler is heated by a 1400 watt heating element and the pump is monitored by a Sirai pressure stat. The Technika IV’s water reservoir holds a total of 3 liters of water and is fitted with a sensor that will shut off the boiler automatically to prevent it from running dry. Temperature stability is promoted throughout the machine, not only by the boiler but by the E61 group head and chrome plated brass portafilters as well. The Technika IV comes with both a single and double spouted portafilter, each has been designed with weighted handles to ensure that they remain balanced in your hand.
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==Basic Usage==
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===Getting Started===
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{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IBtZ3Bkk3g4|480|center}}
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===Adjusting Brew Pressure===
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====Reservoir Version====
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Adjusting brew pressure on the reservoir version of this machine is simple. The adjustment screw can be found at the top of the machine underneath the drip tray cover. {{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l9Xv1ImphAU|480|center|||start=55}}
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The brew pressure should only be adjust 1/4 turn at a time. A small adjustment will make a large difference in brew pressure. Turning the screw clockwise will raise pressure, and counterclockwise will lower it.
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====Profi Version====
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The brew pressure adjustment on the Profi version of the machine will be accessed from the bottom of the machine. Again, only quarter turn adjustments should be made.
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[[File:ECM Brew Pressure Adjustment Screw.png|400px|thumbnail|center|The adjustment screw is circled in red.]]
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One trick for easily accessing this screw can be found in the video below, where they show how to use the portafilter to stand the machine up so that the bottom can be accessed:{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HWZpLC7K8aA|480|center|||start=73}}
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===Draining The Boiler===
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{{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ln25nJbyQQc|480|center}}
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== Cleaning & Maintenance ==
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{{Maintenance-Prosumer
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|single_heat_exchange = Yes
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|softener_info        = Anti scale filters can be purchased from the website [https://www.wholelattelove.com/products/ecm-anti-scale-filter-for-espresso-machines here]. These filters are not compatible with the Profi version of this machine since it uses a rotary pump. The filter should be changed every 2 months.
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}}
 
}}
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----
 +
===Steam Tip Compatibility===
 +
: There are several different steam tips for ECM and its sister brand Profitec, some of which are interchangeable and others not. Consult [https://wiki.wholelattelove.com/images/6/60/Profitec-pro-steam-tip-comp.pdf this comprehensive document] on the topic for more information.
  
== Troubleshooting ==
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[[Category:ECM]]
 
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===No Crema or Bad Tasting Shots===
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{{Troubleshooting-No-Crema-Bad-Shots}}
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===Difficulty Frothing===
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{{Troubleshooting-Frothing}}
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===Flow Issues===
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The first place to start with any flow issue is cleaning the machine. Before going through these steps please make sure the machine is cleaned according to the [[#Cleaning & Maintenance|Cleaning & Maintenance]] section of this article.
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{{Troubleshooting-Prosumer-No-Steam
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|steam_gauge        = Yes
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|vacuum_relief_instr = Instructions for cleaning the vacuum relief valve can be found in the video below: {{{vacuum relief video}}}
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|hls_reset_instr    = Instructions for resetting the high limit switches can be found in the video below: {{{hls video}}}
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|pstat_adjust_instr  = Instructions for adjusting the pressurestat can be found in the video below: {{{pstat video}}}
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}}
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{{Troubleshooting-Prosumer-Brew-Blocked
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|grouphead_instr = Instructions for taking the grouphead apart for cleaning can be found on pp.30-31 of the machine's manual. Use a grouphead brush or old toothbrush to scrub down the metal components, and then soak them in a solution of hot water and backflushing powder for ten minutes before reassembling the grouphead.
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|backflush_instr = Instructions for backflushing a lever style machine are found in the video below: {{#ev:youtube|https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k1Vkfj83uyg|480|center}}
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|valve_instr    = The brew pressure valve may need to be adjusted, it may be set too low. Instructions for adjusting this valve can be found in the video below: {{{brew pressure video}}}
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}}
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{{Troubleshooting-Prosumer-No-Hot-Water
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|steam_gauge        = Yes
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|vacuum_relief_instr = Instructions for cleaning the vacuum relief valve can be found in the video below: {{{vacuum relief video}}}
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|hls_reset_instr    = Instructions for resetting the high limit switches can be found in the video below: {{{hls video}}}
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|pstat_adjust_instr  = Instructions for adjusting the pressurestat can be found in the video below: {{{pstat video}}}
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}}
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====No Flow At All====
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Since there are two versions of the ECM Technika IV you will need to follow the appropriate instruction set to resolve a no flow issue for your unit.
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=====Reservoir Version=====
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{{Troubleshooting-Prosumer-No-Flow-At-All
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|water_supply = Reservoir
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|sensor_instr = The water tank magnet may be sitting in the machine incorrectly, or the water tank sensor wiring may be loose or disconnected.
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###The water tank magnet is embedded in a white plastic float, which can be found in the front left corner of the water tank. The float should be positioned so that the magnet is on the top and is facing the corner of the tank. [[File:ECM Magnet Alignment.png|200px|thumbnail|center|Properly Aligned Magnet]]
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###The magnet needs to be aligned with this sensor. If the magnet is positioned properly but the machine still thinks there is no water, then there may be a wire loose/disconnected on the sensor. [[File:ECM Magnet Sensor.png|200px|thumbnail|center|Water Tank Sensor]]
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|pump_instr  = Check to make sure there are no loose or disconnected wires on the pump.
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|valve_instr  = The machine may need to be professionally repaired.
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}}
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=====Profi Version=====
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{{Troubleshooting-Prosumer-No-Flow-At-All
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|sensor_instr = The machine may be set to the wrong mode. The plumb valve is on the bottom back of the machine. For reservoir mode the valve handle should point toward the back of the machine; for plumb mode it should face the front of the machine.
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|pump_instr  = Check to make sure there are no loose or disconnected wires on the pump.
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|valve_instr  = The machine may need to be professionally repaired.
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|socket_style = Yes
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}}
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===Machine Is Leaking===
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{{Troubleshooting-Prosumer-Bad-Gasket
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|gasket_instr = Instructions for replacing the group gasket can be found on pp.30-31 of the machine's manual.
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}}
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{{Troubleshooting-Prosumer-E61-Leak
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|lever_style              =
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|lever_leak_instr        =
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|top_valve_leak_instr    =
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|bottom_valve_leak_instr  =
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|E61_group_cleaning_instr =
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|E61_attach_instr        =
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}}
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{{Troubleshooting-Prosumer-Bottom-Leak
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|water_source      =
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|tube_reservoir    =
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|level_probe_instr =
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|drain_line        =
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}}
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{{Troubleshooting-Prosumer-Top-Steaming
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|vacuum_cleaning_instr =
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|vacuum_replace_link  =
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|steam_adjust_style    =
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|pstat_adjust_instr    =
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|relief_stuck_instr    =
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}}
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{{Troubleshooting-Prosumer-Wand-Leak
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|knob_instr        =
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|descalable        =
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|valve_rep_instr    =
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|tip_instr          =
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|ball_joint_instr  =
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|valve_attach_instr =
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}}
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===Machine Not Heating Or Powering On===
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{{Troubleshooting-Prosumer-No-Power}}
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{{Troubleshooting-Prosumer-Brew-Cold
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|temp_adjust_style    =
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|pid_adjust_instr      =
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|pstat_adjust_instr    =
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|hls_instr            =
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|element_testing_instr =
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}}
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{{Troubleshooting-Prosumer-Steam-Cold
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|steam_test_instr      =
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|temp_adjust_style    =
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|pid_adjust_instr      =
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|pstat_adjust_instr    =
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|hls_instr            =
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|element_testing_instr =
+
}}
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{{Troubleshooting-Prosumer-No-Heat
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|tank_instructions =
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|dual_boiler      =
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|hls_reset_instr  =
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}}
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===Portafilter Handle Not Fitting On Machine===
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{{Troubleshooting-Prosumer-Portafilter}}
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==Diagrams & Manuals==
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{{Support-Documents
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|table_style        =
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|title              =
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|electrical_diagram =
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|hydraulic_diagram  =
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|machine_manual    =
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|parts_diagram      =
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|service_manual    =
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|startup_guide      =
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}}
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==Specifications==
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{{Specifications-Prosumer
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|basic_specs              = yes
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|width                    = 12.68 in.
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|height                  = 14.96 in.
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|depth                    = 18.58 in.
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|weight                  = 51 lbs
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|watts                    = 1400
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|volts                    = 115
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|housing                  = yes
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|housing_material        = Mirror Finish Stainless Steel
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|drip_tray_material      = Mirror Finish Stainless Steel
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|drip_tray_cover_material = Mirror Finish Stainless Steel
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|drip_tray_capacity      =
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|power_cord_length        = 48 in.
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|cup_height              = yes
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|max_cup_height          = 3.25 in.
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|frothing                = yes
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|wand_material            = Stainless Steel
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|wand_style              = Commercial Style
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|wand_movement            = Articulating
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|usable_length            = 4 in.
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|height_off_counter      = 4 to 6.5 in.
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|number_of_holes          = 2
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|no_burn_wand            = Yes
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|optional_tips            =
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|water_source            = yes
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|source_type              = Reservoir
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|reservoir_capacity      = Plastic
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|reservoir_material      = Plastic
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|reservoir_removable      = Yes
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|controls                = Lever
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|control_type            =
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|display_type            = Indicator Lights
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|temp_control            =
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|pre_infusion            = Yes
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|low_water_warning        = Yes
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|energy_saving            =
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|pressure_gauges          = Brew and Steam
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|steam_control            = Yes
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|brew_temp_display        =
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|cup_warmer              = yes
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|warmer_material          = Stainless Steel
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|warmer_size              = 10 X 4 in.
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|warmer_type              = Passive
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|portafilter              = yes
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|portafilter_material    = Chrome Plated Brass
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|portafilter_type        = Commercial Style
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|quantity_included        = 2
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|portafilter_weight      = 1.25 lbs
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|portafilter_diameter    = 58 mm
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|commercial_baskets      = Single & Double
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|pressurized_baskets      =
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|pod_compatibility        =
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|bottomless_portafilter  = Yes
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|tamper_size              = 58 mm
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|brew_group              = yes
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|group_material          = Chrome Plated Brass
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|group_type              = ECM Group Head
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|preheat                  = Yes
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|solenoid                =
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|capsule_friendly        =
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|back_flushable          = Yes
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|boiler_data              = yes
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|num_boilers              = 1
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|brew_steam_simultaneous  = Yes
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|brew_boiler              = yes
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|brew_boiler_type        = Heat Exchanger
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|brew_boiler_wattage      = 1400
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|brew_boiler_volume      = 2 Liters
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|brew_boiler_material    = Copper
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|brew_boiler_orientation  = Horizontal
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|brew_element_location    = Internal
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|brew_boiler_autofill    = Yes
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|brew_boiler_insulated    = Yes
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|steam_boiler            = yes
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|steam_boiler_type        = One Boiler for the Brew and Steam
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|steam_boiler_wattage    =
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|steam_boiler_volume      = 2.1 L
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|steam_boiler_material    = Copper
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|steam_boiler_orientation =
+
|steam_element_location  =
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|steam_vacuum_relief      =
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|steam_boiler_insulated  =
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|pump_data                = yes
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|pump_type                = Vibration
+
|pump_wattage            = 115
+
|pump_pressure            = 16 Bar
+
|pump_pressure_adjust    = Yes
+
|pump_deairator          = Yes
+
|pump_self_prime          =
+
 
+
|performance              = yes
+
|heat_up                  = 600 secs
+
|recommended_heat_up      = 900 secs
+
|steam_time_8            = 50 secs
+
|hot_water_temp_8        = 199
+
|hot_water_time_8        = 7 secs
+
|hot_water_recovery      = 0 secs
+
|brew_sound_level        = 55 Db
+
 
+
|details                  = yes
+
|manufacture_country      = Germany
+
|nsf_certified            = No
+
|recommended_application  = Home Use
+
}}
+
+
<!-- Categories -->
+

Revision as of 11:21, 20 August 2018

ECM Technika IV

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Install It

  1. Find a swanky spot in your home for your new machine to live, preferably where the morning sun can strike the mirror-finished housing so you can fully appreciate the bright idea that is your purchase.
  2. Get the power cord and the accessories out of the box.
  3. Plug the machine directly into an outlet. Don't plug it into surge protectors, extension cords, or timers.
  4. Fill the water tank.

Get it Good & Hot

It's time to get heated.

  1. Turn on the machine.
  2. Lock the portafilter into the group head.
  3. Wait 30 minutes.
  4. Take this time to start reading up on how to brew and froth below, if this is your first machine or you're new to pulling shots.
Heating Prosumer Image.jpg



Get a Handle on your Tamp

  1. Level off the grounds in your portafilter
  2. Keep your tamper level with the basket
  3. Apply consistent force downward, evenly, and level with the portafilter
    • 30 lbs. of pressure is a good rule-of-thumb to follow for beginners
Wiki-YT-HowToTampEspresso.jpg

How To: How Do You Tamp for Espresso?



Brew Better

  1. Lock the portafilter into the brew group.
  2. Lift the brew lever all the way up.
    • Aim for 2 to 2.5 oz. in about 25 seconds.
  3. Drink your shot to test.
  4. Repeat until properly motivated to get work done.


The big secret to finding that exact flavor you're after, that big punch-in-the-mouth feel, is dialing in your grind. For a basic rule-of-thumb, a coarser grind makes for a lighter, fluffier coffee, and a finer grind makes for a more intense, flavorful espresso. Check out the video on the right for more info.

Wiki-YT-BasicEspressoTechnique-DialingGrindSize.jpg

How To: Basic Espresso Technique - Dialing in Grind Size



Brew the Best You Can Brew

For more control, you'll want to know about how brew ratios and weighing your shots can help you keep a recipe so you can repeat your favorite results. Brew rations and weighing take all the guesswork out of the process so you always know what you're going to get.

Wiki-YT-HowToBasicRatiosAndWeight.jpg

How To: Basic Espresso Technique - Brew Ratios & Weight



Preinfusion and You

You can think of preinfusion is sort of a special trick to help bring out the best flavor in your coffee just before extraction. The idea is to softly wet the grounds before pressure is exerted by the pump.

  1. Bring the brew lever to a 45 degree angle. You will feel it stop there.
  2. Lift the lever slightly higher. This will allow for water to flow, but with no pressure from the pump.
  3. Lift the lever fully when satisfied and you're ready to brew.
Wiki-YT-HT Pre-Infusion E61 Brew Group 660x338.jpg

Pre-infusion on the Expobar Brewtus IV Espresso Machine


Get Frothing

If you like cappuccinos, lattes, Flat Whites, and other milk drinks, you're gonna need to know how to froth.

Wiki-YT-MilkFrothingforBeginners.jpg

Milk Frothing for Beginners



Froth Better

For a few quick tips to improve your frothing technique, check out the video on the right. You'll learn a few tricks to make your drinks even better.

Wiki-YT-5BasicTipsForFrothingMilk.jpg

Quick Tip: Five Basic Tips for Frothing Milk



Frothing and Habits to Avoid

Frothing can be a delicate process. There's a number of mistakes you can make that really bring down the quality of your drinks. Check out the video on the right to learn some easy things you can avoid going forward.

Wiki-YT-6CommonMilkFrothingMistakes.jpg

Quick Tip: Six Common Milk Frothing Mistakes



Steam & the Heating Sweet Spot

The literal sweet spot for steaming milk falls between 140°F and 155°F, with smaller drinks on the lower end and larger drinks on the higher end. A quick rule-of-thumb we follow is to steam just until the frothing pitcher becomes a little too hot to hold comfortably.

Wiki-YT-WhatIsTheBestTempForLatteMilk.jpg

What is the Best Temperature for Latte Milk?



Steam with Thermometers

If you're using a thermometer, you'll want to learn about lag time and how to read a frothing thermometer to correctly gauge the steaming process.

Wiki-YT-HowToUseAThermometer.jpg

How to Use a Thermometer When Frothing Milk for Latte and Cappuccino




Steam Tip Compatibility

There are several different steam tips for ECM and its sister brand Profitec, some of which are interchangeable and others not. Consult this comprehensive document on the topic for more information.