Cuisinart Buona Tazza EM-500 Series Manual

The Cuisinart Buona Tazza EM-500 Series is a premium espresso and cappuccino maker designed for home use. It features a 15-bar pump pressure system, a professional-grade steam wand for milk frothing, a removable water reservoir, a cup warming tray, and a built-in conical burr grinder with adjustable settings. The machine supports both ground coffee and ESE pods, includes programmable shot volumes, and has an automatic shut-off function for safety. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 15-bar pump, steam wand, removable water tank, cup warmer, built-in grinder, portafilter, drip tray, control panel.

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect all parts. Place on a stable, level, and heat-resistant surface.

1. Remove all packaging materials and stickers from the machine.
2. Wash the water tank, portafilter, baskets, and drip tray with warm soapy water. Rinse and dry.
3. Fill the water tank with fresh, cold water and reinsert it into the machine.
4. Plug the power cord into a grounded 120V AC outlet.
5. Allow the machine to heat up for about 10-15 minutes before first use.

WARNING! Ensure the machine is on a stable surface away from edges. Keep away from children and pets during operation.

First-Time Use

Prime the machine and set your preferences before brewing.

1. Turn on the machine using the POWER button. The indicator light will illuminate.
2. Run water through the group head without coffee to flush the system: Place a cup under the portafilter and press the BREW button for 10 seconds.
3. Set the clock (if applicable) using the PROGRAM button.
4. Program your preferred shot volumes: Hold the SINGLE or DOUBLE button until desired volume is reached, then release to save.
5. Adjust the grinder setting based on your coffee beans (start at medium).

CAUTION! The machine and steam wand become extremely hot during use. Always use the handle and avoid touching hot surfaces.

Specifications

• Model: Buona Tazza EM-500 Series
• Power: 120V AC, 60Hz, 1500W
• Pump Pressure: 15 bar
• Water Tank Capacity: 1.8 liters (removable)
• Grinder: Conical burr, adjustable settings
• Portafilter Size: 58mm commercial standard
• Dimensions: 12.6" W x 15.7" D x 14.2" H
• Weight: 22 lbs
• Materials: Stainless steel housing, BPA-free components
• Warranty: 3-year limited warranty

Controls and Settings

Front Panel: POWER button, BREW button, STEAM button, PROGRAM button, Grinder adjustment dial, Grind time selector.

Functions: POWER turns machine on/off. BREW starts espresso extraction. STEAM activates the steam wand. PROGRAM sets clock and shot volumes. Grinder dial adjusts coarseness. Grind time selector sets duration for dosing.

Settings: Shot volume programming (25-60ml per shot), grind size (fine to coarse), steam pressure adjustment (via steam knob), automatic shut-off timer (30 min default).

Brewing Espresso

Use freshly ground coffee beans for best results.

1. Ensure the machine is heated (POWER light steady).
2. Grind coffee: Adjust grinder dial, place portafilter under grinder outlet, press and hold the grind button until basket is filled.
3. Tamp the coffee evenly with moderate pressure (about 30 lbs).
4. Lock the portafilter into the group head.
5. Place a pre-warmed cup under the portafilter.
6. Press SINGLE or DOUBLE button to start extraction. The brew will stop automatically at the programmed volume.
7. Remove the portafilter and knock out the used coffee puck immediately.

Tip: For optimal crema, use coffee beans roasted within the last 2 weeks and ensure water tank is filled with fresh water.

Frothing Milk

Create microfoam for cappuccinos and lattes.

1. Fill a stainless steel pitcher with cold milk (about 1/3 full).
2. Press the STEAM button; wait until the STEAM light stops flashing and remains steady.
3. Open the steam wand by turning the knob slowly. Purge any condensed water for 2 seconds.
4. Submerge the steam wand tip just below the milk surface. Turn the pitcher to create a vortex.
5. Lower the pitcher as foam forms to keep the tip near the surface. Heat milk to 150°F (65°C).
6. Turn the steam knob to close. Wipe the wand with a damp cloth immediately.
7. Purge the steam wand briefly to clear any milk residue.

WARNING! Steam is extremely hot. Always point the wand away from yourself and others. Use a pitcher with a handle.

Cleaning & Maintenance

Regular cleaning ensures performance and longevity.

Daily: Wipe housing with a damp cloth. Clean steam wand after each use. Rinse portafilter and baskets. Empty and rinse drip tray.

Weekly: Backflush with cleaning tablet (if applicable): Insert tablet into empty portafilter, lock in, press BREW for 10 seconds, pause 5 seconds, repeat 5 times. Descale as needed based on water hardness.

Monthly: Remove and clean the shower screen. Clean the grinder with a brush.

CAUTION! Always unplug the machine and allow it to cool completely before cleaning internal parts. Never immerse the machine in water.

Safety Information

Read all instructions before use. Use on a stable, level surface. Do not operate if cord or plug is damaged. Do not use outdoors. Unplug when not in use and before cleaning. Do not touch hot surfaces; use handles or knobs. This appliance is not intended for use by persons with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities. Keep cord away from heated surfaces.

Regulatory Information

This appliance complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device. Copyright © Cuisinart. Cuisinart is a registered trademark of Conair Corporation. For support, visit www.cuisinart.com or contact 1-800-726-0190.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Unplug for 2 minutes, then plug back in to reset electronic controls.

Service: For repairs, contact Cuisinart Customer Service: 1-800-726-0190 or www.cuisinart.com.