What’s the Best Espresso Machine That’s Energy-Efficient? – 3 Top Home Espresso Machines + One Commercial Espresso Machine You Need to See

Long story short: The De’Longhi Magnifica XS is the best overall espresso machine for saving energy and making high-quality coffee at home. Amongst commercial machines, Ascaso Steel UNO is the best green choice.

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the best energy-reducing espresso machines for both home and commercial use. As current and former baristas, the Coffee Hex team loves to geek out about all manner of coffee and espresso machines on the market.

And that’s what we did for this article, comparing our personal experiences with a day off all-out research, here’s what the team trimmed down for your eco-friendly espresso machine consideration.

Maybe you’re a coffee drinker who’s passionate about coffee and reducing your energy consumption—or you’re a cafe owner passionate about serving coffee drinkers and want a machine to help keep costs down. Either way, investing in an energy-conserving espresso machine is a wise choice.

In this article, we will discuss what to look for in an eco-friendly machine and provide you with our top recommendations in both home and commercial categories.

Overview of the Best Energy-Saving Espresso Machines

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Top 3 Energy-Efficient Home Espresso Machines 

Now let’s dive deeper into our top home machine recommendations for smart energy use.

One of the key features of the De’Longhi Magnifica XS is its Energy Saving mode, which significantly reduces its power consumption, making your home greener.

Coupled with the cappuccino system that mixes steam, air, and milk to produce a rich, creamy froth, and the removable brewing unit that ensures long periods of use without malfunctioning, this feature makes De’Longhi Magnifica XS a valuable asset to any kitchen. 

The De’Longhi Magnifica XS is designed for coffee lovers who want a professional-grade coffee experience right in the comfort of their own kitchen. Whether you’re an espresso enthusiast or a cappuccino connoisseur, this machine is built to accommodate your coffee preferences while leaving a minimal environmental footprint.

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If space is a concern, this compact machine is the perfect choice. It offers all the features you need to make great espresso while being mindful of energy consumption.

A noteworthy feature of the Nespresso Pixie is its quick heating time which pumps hot water in less than 30 seconds due to its thermoblock heating element. Its energy-saving feature automatically switches the machine off after 9 minutes of inactivity, significantly lowering energy consumption. The convenience this machine offers is evident in its backlit LED water level detection indicators and its capability to hold up to 10 used capsules.

The Nespresso Pixie is ideal for busy individuals who value convenience, style, and sustainability. The machine caters to the needs of today’s individual lifestyles and modern kitchen aesthetics where the size of the machine matters.

Its sleek and compact design takes up minimal counter space making it perfect for small kitchens or for people who don’t want a large appliance dominating their kitchen space.

Although the Nespresso Pixie may have its limitations, its stylish design, ease of use, and low energy usage stand out, making it a worthwhile investment. 

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The CASABREWS Espresso Machine effortlessly claims a spot in the top three energy-preserving espresso machines that are perfect for at home. Ideally designed for novice baristas, this entry-level espresso machine illustrates how user-friendly operation does not have to compromise lowering energy use or deliver subpar coffee extraction. It delivers far more than you might expect from a machine at its price.

Utilizing significantly less energy than its competitors, it’s been engineered with several standout features like its quick heating system that decreases energy consumption—along with its integrated steaming wand, which provides the flexibility to froth milk for cappuccinos and lattes. 

The CASABREWS Espresso Machine is user-friendly, too, making it a popular espresso machine option for beginners or individuals with limited experience in operating espresso machines. 

However, the machine is not without its cons. Advanced baristas might find it somewhat limiting due to its relatively simple features. Its durability has also been questioned, with some users noting a decline in performance over time.

Nonetheless, for beginners or budget-conscious individuals who prioritize greener living, the CASABREWS Espresso Machine remains a largely unbeatable choice. The pros heavily outweigh the cons, making this espresso machine an excellent investment for those just starting their journey in the world of coffee brewing.

Not only does it effectively meet the needs of beginners but it also offers an excellent avenue for learning the art of espresso brewing, all while ensuring efficient energy consumption. Therefore, the CASABREWS Espresso Machine holds its own as the best beginner-friendly option among the machines we recommend.

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Top Commercial Espresso Machine for Energy Efficiency

Of all the espresso machines we tested in our as baristas at cafes, there’s one commercial machine for energy saving that stands out above others we’ve tried. For the sake of this article, we’re going to go deeper into our thoughts on that specialty coffee shop machine specifically.

For those in the coffee shop business or any commercial setting that requires high-volume espresso production, this efficient espresso machine is packed with advanced features that help preserve energy while delivering outstanding espresso drinks.

Ascaso is renowned for making modern espresso machines that are solid energy savers and simple to use. And the UNO’s state-of-the-art design and technology make it a top choice for any commercial setting.

The Ascaso Steel UNO PID Programmable Espresso Machine w/ Volumetric Controls has been highly praised as a top commercial espresso machine with incredible efficiency. This machine articulates a beautiful blend of style, functionality, and superior performance, which makes it stand out from other espresso makers in the market.

For a business that desires efficiency without compromising quality, this espresso machine could be the game-changer. With a 48-ounce water tank, pressure-customizable steam wand, and integrated cup warmer, this espresso machine pledges not only to perform but also to provide consistent, flavorful, and perfect coffee every time.

The PID temperature controller and volumetric programmable buttons offer a high level of precision and control over brewing variables, making it easier to attain that perfect espresso shot every time. 

It’s ideal for commercial settings where a bunch of coffee orders needs to be handled efficiently, without sacrificing a thing when it comes to espresso quality. Its high-performance capability and user-friendly interface make it a practical choice for businesses such as cafes, restaurants, and coffee shops. 

The Ascaso UNO delivers lots of pros. Firstly, its low energy usage competes remarkably, which is a critical feature for any business in this day and age where sustainability is a vital concern. Secondly, the programmable volumetric brewing aids consistency in the espresso produced — an essential factor in the coffee business. Lastly, the machine is durable with a compact design, which ensures longevity and economizes on space.

However, this elegant piece of machinery comes with a couple of downsides. The most significant con is its high price tag for the size. Another drawback is that its intricacies may confuse or intimidate a beginner barista, but you can easily solve this in your training program. 

Despite these few downsides, the Ascaso Steel UNO PID Programmable Espresso Machine w/Volumetric Controls remains a top commercial espresso machine for saving energy, exceeding in offering excellent, consistent espresso and an elegant design. 

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Why Does Energy Conservation Matter for the Home Barista?

If you’re looking for a good machine to use at home, you may already know why the energy aspect matters greatly. But let’s go over why coffee lovers like you should want a greener machine.

1. Keep electricity costs down.

First and foremost, energy-conserving espresso makers help in reducing the electricity bill significantly. Especially if you use your coffee machine more than once per day, it can quickly add up in terms of energy usage. By having an energy-optimized machine to use at home, you can keep the utility bills under control. 

2. The machines last longer.

Furthermore, eco-friendly machines generally have a longer lifespan, thus saving the expense of frequent replacements.  Over time, these machines reduce not only your energy consumption but also your expenditure on maintenance and repair.

The initial investment in energy-saving technology may be higher than less efficient options, but the lifetime cost of the equipment and replacing espresso parts is often much lower due to its extended lifespan and lessened energy usage. 

3. Environmental impact.

In addition, energy reduction contributes positively to environmental sustainability. Conventional espresso machines tend to consume a disproportionate amount of energy per use, which in turn causes more fossil fuels to be burned to generate this power, leading to increased greenhouse gas emissions. 

On the other hand, lower-energy machines require less power to operate, reducing the overall carbon footprint. Environmentally, investing in efficient machines also helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and other harmful pollutants, contributing positively toward combating global climate change.

4. Better performance.

There is also the aspect of excellent performance. Just because a coffee appliance is energy efficient, it doesn’t mean it lacks in terms of its functionality or ability to deliver quality brews. Many modern, high-performance machines are engineered for high efficiency and low energy consumption without cutting corners on the quality of coffee they produce.

5. Faster and more convenient.

Finally, power efficiency also plays a huge role in making a home coffee operation more convenient and flexible. With lower-energy machines taking less time to heat up and having faster brew times, you can serve up the same quality of coffee in a shorter period. 

In conclusion, energy savings in coffee devices brings about financial savings, environmental benefits, quality performance, and convenience — all essential elements for the perfect barista experience at home. 

Why Does Energy Efficiency Matter for the Best Commercial Espresso Machines?

Energy consumption matters greatly when considering the best commercial espresso machines, for many of the same reasons as you’d want energy-saving at home, with a few twists.

1. Lower overhead costs.

One of the primary reasons is the cost-effectiveness. An energy-conserving espresso machine reduces the amount of electricity needed for operation, thus lowering utility bills. This aspect is critical for commercial settings where machines are often running continuously for multiple hours in a day, and therefore, any reduction in energy usage can have a significant impact on overhead costs. 

2. Contribute to sustainability.

Additionally, energy usage has a substantial role in environmental conservation. Energy-efficient espresso machines consume less power, mitigating the levels of carbon emissions, which, in turn, helps in combating climate change.

When businesses opt for energy-optimized appliances, they contribute towards building a sustainable environment, by limiting the amount of greenhouse gasses released into the atmosphere during electricity generation. 

3. Longer-lasting machines.

Another noteworthy advantage of lower energy usage is its association with the longevity of the machine. Lower-energy professional espresso machines tend to last longer, as they generally operate using innovative designs that reduce wear and tear, thereby extending the life of the machine. For a business, when you make more coffee drinks, you make more money.

4. Possible tax advantages.

Moreover, in some regions, businesses can benefit from government incentives, rebates, or programs geared toward promoting greener appliances. For instance, tax credits and rebates can help cover the higher upfront costs associated with more efficient espresso makers. This helps to lessen the impact of otherwise expensive machines.

So, energy use in commercial espresso machines matters due to the cost-saving component, environmental considerations, durability factor, and potential financial incentives. 

What to Look for in an Energy-Efficient Espresso Machine

When shopping for a greener espresso machine, there are several key factors to consider. Understanding these factors will help you make an informed decision and choose a machine that suits your needs.

Automatic vs. Traditional Espresso Machines

Deciding between an automatic and a conventional espresso machine can dramatically affect energy use. Automatic brewers are generally more energy-conserving, with built-in systems that control water temperature and extraction time. On the other hand, traditional machines require manual control, leading to more energy waste if not operated properly.

Automatic espresso machines are designed to give a consistent cup of coffee each time. They automatically grind, tamp, and extract the coffee with just a press of a button, saving time and energy. You can also customize some models to make cappuccinos, lattes, and other types of coffee drinks.

They are great for offices or homes where different people want different styles of coffee. Using an automatic means less training for staff and less time spent making drinks in a busy café.

Traditional machines, on the other hand, offer more control over brewing variables (like temperature, pressure, and extraction time). This can result in a superior cup of espresso – if you know what you’re doing. However, it also means there’s more room for error, which can waste energy and coffee.

They require more skill and practice to master, but provide the satisfaction of creating a perfect espresso “from scratch”. These machines suit trained baristas who crave the art and science of espresso making.

In the world of coffee, automatic brewers offer convenience and consistency while conserving energy, while traditional machines cater to coffee enthusiasts who enjoy the process of manual brewing and don’t mind the potential for wasted energy. Choosing between the two ultimately depends on your personal needs, skill level, and coffee preferences. 

Boiler Type

The boiler type is another important consideration. Single boilers are more energy-optimized than double ones as they use less energy to heat up.

However, double boilers allow you to use your steam wand to steam milk and pull an espresso shot simultaneously.

To meet in the middle, high-end machines focused on power saving often feature innovative boiler designs that help decrease energy consumption. Look for machines with boilers that have advanced insulation along with the other energy-saving features on this list.

Power Usage

Look at the wattage of the espresso machine as this determines its power consumption. Anything higher than 1000 watts may consume more energy. The power usage of an espresso machine can be determined by looking at its wattage, which indicates how much electricity the machine will use.

Wattage is a unit of power, usually expressed in watts (W), and it shows how much energy a device uses per unit of time.

For example, an espresso machine with a wattage of 1000 W operating for one hour will consume 1000 watt-hours (Wh) or 1 kilowatt-hour (kWh), a unit commonly used in energy bills. 

Using this machine to make coffee for 10 hours would consume 10 kWh, and so on. The more you use the espresso machine, or the higher its wattage, the more energy it will consume. 

Therefore, if you want to save on power, consider choosing an espresso machine with a lower wattage. However, keep in mind that the machine’s wattage may also affect its performance. High wattage often means the machine can heat up faster and maintain its temperature more efficiently, which matters for high-quality espresso. 

Thus, when choosing an espresso machine, you need to balance between power usage and performance. Always check the power rating of the machine, as it can have a significant impact on your energy bills, especially if you use the machine frequently. 

In addition, consider adopting energy-saving practices, such as turning off the machine when not in use, and ensuring that it’s well-maintained and functioning efficiently. 

Other Top Espresso Machine Energy-Saving Features

Some machines have features such as automatic shut-off, which reduces energy consumption by switching off the machine when not in use. Also, a built-in grinder can preserve energy by reducing the need for a separate grinder.

1. Energy Ratings

Pay attention to the energy ratings of the espresso machine. Look for machines with a high rating, which indicates that they consume less power while still delivering excellent coffee.

2. Programmable Settings

An espresso machine with programmable settings can conserve energy by accurately controlling water temperature and shot volume.

3. Construction Materials

Espresso machines made with brass and stainless steel tend to hold heat more efficiently compared to other materials, thereby consuming less energy.

4. Standby Mode

Some advanced espresso machines come with a standby mode which consumes less power when the machine isn’t in use.

5. Insulation

Well-insulated espresso machines maintain temperature efficiently, thus reducing energy use. 

In conclusion, automatic machines tend to be easier on the energy side than traditional ones. However, your energy-saving capacity may also depend on how effectively you use the machine. Making sure to switch it off when not in use, limiting the heating period, and maintaining the machine in good condition can help to conserve energy.

Good espresso machine design geared toward energy conservation should have features that make it easy.

How to Make Your Espresso Machine More Energy-Conserving

Aside from choosing an espresso machine based on the factors above, you can take additional steps to make your machine more sustainable. 

1. Proper Machine Maintenance

Like all coffee equipment, maintaining your espresso machine regularly is essential to ensure optimal energy consumption. Clean the machine according to the manufacturer’s instructions, descale it regularly, and keep all the components in good condition.

2. Optimal Brewing Techniques

Learn and apply proper brewing techniques to minimize energy waste. This includes mastering how to grind your coffee by using the right amount of ground coffee, adjusting the coffee grind size, and properly tamping the coffee to achieve optimal extraction.

3. Use Induction Heating Technology

Consider using an espresso machine that utilizes induction heating technology. This advanced heating method means the machine heats faster with less energy vs. traditional heating, which uses more energy and is often slower. 

By following these tips and investing in an energy-optimized espresso machine, you can enjoy delicious, quality coffee while minimizing your environmental impact and reducing energy costs.

Whether you’re a home barista or managing a coffee shop, prioritizing power efficiency is always a great choice and is where the coffee industry is headed.

Our Verdict on the Best Espresso Machine That’s Energy-Efficient

After careful evaluation and comparison of several models, our verdict is clear. The De’Longhi Magnifica XS reigns supreme as the best energy-conscious espresso machine for home use. It combines exceptional performance with an innovative energy-saving switch, allowing for impressive power consumption reduction.

Its superior functionality, coupled with a sleek design, makes it a standout in the market. Beyond its eco-friendly credentials, it also promises barista-quality espresso at home – a much-needed indulgence for coffee connoisseurs. 

All in all, if you’re committed to environmentally friendly practices without compromising on the quality of your espresso, the DeLonghi is absolutely the best choice.

And on the commercial side, we stand by the Ascaso Steel UNO PID Programmable Espresso Machine as the best energy-reducing choice. You can order that here:

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Energy-Efficient Coffee Machines – FAQs