I bought a Cremina 2002 from this forum a couple of years ago, and have been enjoying it very much since then. I use it for one espresso daily, sometimes a bit more. In 2 years, I've had to replace some wiring (which was dodgy when I bought it), and the power switch (because the light stopped working). I also replaced the pressure sensor, which was dodgy. Other than that, I've taken the shower screen out every couple of months and cleaned and relubed the insides of the group head.
Today, for the first time in ages, I had to do some maintenance. The group head gasket had cracked, so I had to replace it.
When I look back on that list of maintenance, it actually seems like quite a lot, and I'm not very skilled with my hands. I find myself wondering if there's anything out there that needs even less maintenance. There are other reasons to love the Cremina (small footprint, manual lever makes me feel connected), but perhaps there's something else I should consider.
I agree with Timmyjj21. For a 14 year old machine you have got off very lightly. The element, in particular, owes you nothing after that time. I'd stick with the machine you have, if you still like it. If upgradeitis is striking, that's another matter.
I agree with Timmy and Robb, for the age of the machine the maintenance required would seem proportionate. As you pointed out the group seal was cracked, this should be a regular maintenance / cleaning point.
Consider your coffee machine's age as you would a car-- It will need repairs/ replacements and wiring does age/ harden/ deteriorate.
If you buy a new machine you can still have problems, if it has any electronics they can be expensive!!!!
Thanks for the perspectives, I'm inclined to agree. Even so,what do you think is the most bulletproof lowest maintenance machine available today?
I used up my spare group seal today. The Olympia replacement is famous for breaking whenever you remove the shower screen. That leaves the OE seals, of which I've just ordered 3. There is no UK distributor as far as I know so I feel like it's all down to my feeble diy skills and parts ordered from the states over the internet.
Does anyone have a go-to guy for coffee machine maintenance who can handle Creminas? I don't need it right now but would be reassured to know I could get help if I needed it!
Lowest maintenance coffee apparatus is definitely a steel/copper pour over cone.
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