Too Much Pressure Advice
Just joined the list, looks great. Bought my first Brikka (4 cuP) and have been trying it out. The problem I am having is it is not releasing for about 6+ minutes, and by then, so much pressure has built up that it blows over 1/2 the coffee out of the top and all over the stove. I can manualy lift up on the release valve after about 4 minutes and it will release in a more controlled manner, but if I do not do this, it is an eruption.
I am following the instructions. The valve does move freely as well. It just seems the valve is waiting until too much pressure has built up before releasing.
I have tried at a few different heat levels, and grounds from coarse to medium-fine. Nothing even approaching a fine espresso ground. Also have tried adding coffee from about 3/4 full to full. I am adding the propper amount of water as well (to the fill line).
Any ideas?
Posted by nathico on Fri, Feb 22, 2008, 15:21 Permalink
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Too Much Pressure Advice: I have a 2 cup so I'm not sure on the timing of the 4 cup.
I believe that 6+ minutes is a bit long - on my 2 cup I'm done in 3 minutes.
Keep the water level just under the steam valve and try a strong flame - on my gas stove, I use a medium flame ona large burner.
Grind is important too. I found that a bit coarser than espresso works great - I use a setting of "12" on my Baratza grinder in which 0 to 10 is the espresso range.
Once you've got it, it should work like a charm every time.
Keep at it - it took me at least a dozen or so times (including a couple explosions) to get it right-
Marshall Schmidt
Posted by a non-member on Fri, Feb 22, 2008, 17:56
: did u check if there is anything blocking the pipe to the coffee or hinders the pressure. if the valve moves freely as you say, then something is blocking the pressure to release upward. or just return and get a new one, it could be defective.
napoleon
Posted by a non-member on Mon, Feb 25, 2008, 01:46
he problem is in the grind: The problem is in the grind, too fine & the briktka won't work. lavazza rossa is perfect anonaymous
Posted by a non-member on Thu, Feb 28, 2008, 16:32
Brikka blasting!: Brikka blasting eh? 1. grind may be too fine or 2. you left the lid down while brewing! Me too... leave it up or else it WILL spew out. 6 minutes is about right for me on Medium-high heat.
Eric
Posted by a non-member on Sun, Jun 15, 2008, 20:47
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