How Long Do Espresso Machines Last?

It’s understandable to worry about how long an espresso machine lasts with so many working parts. Many espresso machines come with one-year warranties for home usage and are designed to last for several years.

If they fall apart too quickly, you can feel disillusioned with buying espresso machines in the future.

How Long Do Espresso Machines Last? 

Don’t have time to read the whole article? Here’s a quick answer to the question:   

Affordable home espresso machines last between three to five years with regular use. Infrequent use can increase this lifespan even more.

High-quality home espresso machines (aka, more expensive) can last up to twelve to fifteen years. This is one of those instances in which price matters!

Why do some espresso machines last longer than others? Are there ways you can predict their longevity? Read on below to learn more on the topic so you can make the best purchasing decisions. 

How Long Do Espresso Machines Last and Why?

The more working parts you have? The more likely something will go wrong and require a repair. This bodes especially true for espresso machines.

Budget-friendly home espresso machines have a lifespan of three to five years on average, though some can hit as high as a decade with infrequent use. High-quality home espresso machines have the ability to last up to twelve to fifteen years. To get a good idea on what to expect, read certified customer reviews and cross-reference from different buyer experiences.

The longevity of your purchase will depend on factors such as: 

• Brand
• Materials
• Frequency of use
• Maintenance
• Type

How Long Do Automatic Espresso Machines Last?

You may be wondering as to the difference between semi-automatic and automatic espresso machines. While they’re quite similar, their key difference is in control. 

A semi-automatic espresso machine provides you the ability to control your shots, while an automatic espresso machine is more hands-off. Regardless of which one you choose, you still have to grind and tamp your beans. 

Automatic espresso machines are well-known for their longevity and usually last for at least a decade. The better you take care of your machine, the less likely it will break down or wear out prematurely. This means you can’t skip routine cleaning procedures!

Is It Worth Repairing An Espresso Machine?

How much did you spend on your espresso machine? Is it a minor repair or an extensive one? This will inform your decision should your espresso machine stop working as intended.

A minor repair -- such as replacing a gasket -- costs little and will greatly improve your experience. A more extensive repair could involve replacing a damaged boiler or faulty wiring. While there are services available to repair the damage, it could be expensive enough to make you just buy a new machine.

When Should I Replace My Espresso Machine?

When you spend hundreds or thousands of dollars on your espresso machine, it’s hard to admit when it needs to be replaced. 

If your espresso machine isn’t working quite as well as intended, consider repairing it first. Sometimes you just need to swap out a few parts, such as a new gasket or filter. If you suspect parts of your espresso machine are failing, then it’s time to make a bigger decision. 

Some of the most common reasons people replace their espresso machines include:

An Outright Product Failure

Sometimes you buy a product that was made with faulty parts or put together poorly. You’ll notice right off the bat if your espresso machine just isn’t working properly. This can appear like:

• The machine not turning on or staying on
• Strange noises coming from the water heater
• Shots coming out tasting bland or sour

Aging Water Heater

You need hot water, steam, and pressure to create a delicious espresso shot. Your espresso machine’s water heater is showing its age when it creates cool, bland coffee.

The reason this happens is because of the gradual build-up of minerals through the machine. Although maintenance can clear these up, constant use will still wear down the machine’s inner workings. The time and cost needed to replace a water heater might not be worth it for some homebrewers, so a new espresso machine is in order.

Regular Usage

Do you use your espresso machine for daily lattes or do you prefer once-a-week treats? The frequency you use your machine will dictate when you need to replace it. 

While commercial espresso machines that we sell are explicitly built for high-volume activity, home espresso machines will vary. More budget-friendly, single-shot espresso machines shouldn’t be used more than once or twice a week. 

Wrap Up

Getting your money’s worth with your new espresso machine is easier than it looks. As long as you commit to regular maintenance and choose one that fits your lifestyle, you’ll enjoy years of quality coffee.

Reach out to our live chat or send us a message with all your coffee-related questions.