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As it can run fully automatic, it is very quick to dial in the perfect shot. Adjust grind to get a nice extraction, then adjust water volume to preference. Automatic milk steaming is very consistent and convenient. Automatic americano function is also great. Pulled dozens of shots in the first few days getting it set up then making espressos for my friends, family, and I.
Then, on day 3, it faulted. I turned the steam temperature knob and the main LCD flickered out. Then it came back, flashing randomly (see video attached). All functions still work, but without the main LCD the menu system cannot be accessed. After unplugging the unit for a few hours everything was back to normal. A couple of days later, the the bottom line disappeared from the main LCD again.
I have NOT contacted Breville (yet); 鶹 is sending me a replacement, no questions asked, and I'll ship the defective one back when the replacement arrives. I will not pass judgement on a single defective unit - yes it is so expensive that anything but top quality is disappointing to say the least - but I'll give it another chance. Will update with a more damning review if the replacement is anything less than perfect.
**update 1. Have been using the replacement machine to pull 2-4 shots per day for the last 9 months with no issues. This thing is nothing short of brilliant.
**update 2. As reviewer “Doug” notes, at the 2 year mark my machine also started leaking. Small puddles appeared in the morning. I also am finding I can’t even pull 2 shots and steam a pitcher of milk without it stopping to reheat. Last year I could pull shot after shot for guests and it never skipped a beat. Good thing I purchased the extended warranty. They’re sending a cheque for replacement cost, which should cover repairs and then some. For 2 years this thing has brought me joy. Really disappointing turn of events...
**update 3 - I contacted Breville Canada and they provided me a free shipping label to ship the machine to their shop in Vancouver for repairs. It was returned to me in 2 weeks working perfectly. All free of charge. My only complaint was that the service technicians did not communicate what was found and what was fixed - Just got a machine in a box that works like new. I called Breville and they confirmed that the seals were replaced. Hopefully it will perform consistently for more than 2 years this time. I wonder how much the bill for new seals will be once I’m out of the warranty period...
Beyond the issues I’ve encountered it really is great. When I think about it the failure rate isn’t terrible; I use it at least twice a day to grind and pull at least 3 shots per day, 365 days/year! It leaked after 2 years and was repaired for free. Not sure I could reasonably expect better of a machine this complex...
