Alex Espresso Machine
3
Introduction
First of all, thank you for your business! You are going to love your new Alex espresso
machine. It combines classic beauty, value, and great performance for making the best
espressos, cappuccinos, and lattes you‟ve ever tasted! These instructions include tips that
will help bring out the Barista that‟s hidden within! Enjoy your new machine!
First Time Set Up – Reservoir Mode
Remove the machine from the box and screw the legs into the threaded inserts on the
base of the machine.
Before filling the reservoir with water, test your water for hardness using the provided
test strips.
Fill a glass with cold tap water; dip the tip of the test strip into the water for one second,
then pull the strip out of the water and hold it horizontally for fifteen seconds. After
fifteen seconds, compare the color of the strip to the chart on the side of the package to
determine how many grains of hardness are in your tap water. Three grains or less of
hardness is acceptable.
Note:
Should your water‟s hardness level exceed three grains, then it is strongly
recommended that a softener or a different source of soft water be used. If you are
using bottled water then it should also be tested prior to use as some bottled water can
also be very hard. A Brita or Pur style filter should only be used if the water is already
soft as they DO NOT remove any hardness from the water. Using soft water will prolong
the life of your machine and help prevent costly repairs.
Remove the water reservoir and rinse thoroughly before use. The reservoir can be
washed with mild dish detergent. It should NOT be cleaned in a dishwasher.
Fill the reservoir with cold softened water being careful not to over fill it or it can splash
out and get the electronics wet.
Return the reservoir to the machine and be sure to put the silicone line back into the
reservoir.
Note:
Older style machines will have an additional shorter silicone water line going into
the reservoir. It may have slits cut into it which is normal and no cause for concern. On
heat up there will be a small amount of steam and water discharged into the reservoir
which is normal.
