Coffee Machines

The type of coffee machine you use to brew your morning cup of Joe will have a direct impact on how it turns out. Use an inferior type of coffee machine and you could very easily end up with an inferior cup of coffee. However, using a superior machine can help you go a long way to making an outstanding brew. No matter the type of coffee machine you prefer, there are some things that can help you choose which will work best for you.

• Purpose. What kind of coffee are you going to be enjoying? Cappuccinos and lattes require a different kind of coffee machine to make than a regular cup of coffee.
• Cost. For a regular cheap cup of coffee, you can purchase an inexpensive coffee maker for as little as $20.00. These inexpensive types of coffee makers may have a lower cost initially, however they will usually require other items (like paper filters) which can end up costing more money over the long run. While a good coffee machine may be an investment, don't break the bank purchasing the most expensive machine you can find.
• Capacity. Will you be only drinking a couple coups of coffee a day? Then you might want to either get a single-cup brewer or, at most, a four-cup machine. However, if there will be others that will be sharing the coffee with you, then purchase one that will provide more cups.
• Features. What types of features do you want? The basics features for a decent coffee machine should include a programmable timer, a pause and serve feature, and a reusable filter.

Now that you have chosen the type of coffee maker you will have in your home, you need to know how to properly use it. The best way to ensure you are using your coffee machine properly is to follow the manufacturers' directions that come with the machine. However, if you have lost those instructions, or it did not come with instructions, then simply follow these step-by-step instructions.

1. Fill carafe. Fill the carafe (the thing that will hold the brewed coffee) with water. Tap water is OK, but distilled purified water is best.
2. Fill filter. Remove the filter from the basket and place fresh coffee grounds into the filter. Generally, for a decently strong cup of coffee, six tablespoons will provide about eight cups.
3. Place filter in the basket. Once you have filled the filter with coffee place it back into the basket. Close the basket so it is under the water drip element.
4. Empty water. Empty the carafe full of water into the water heating element and then place the carafe under the filter basket.
5. Turn on machine. If you will not wait for the programmed brewing time, turn the machine to on.

All that you have left to do is to wait for the brewing to stop. Once it is completely stopped brewing, go ahead and pour the coffee into your favorite cup and add sugar or cream to your taste. Sit back and enjoy your freshly brewed cup of Joe.