Cuisinart EM-500 Manual

The Cuisinart EM-500 is a versatile espresso and cappuccino maker designed for home use. It features a 15-bar pump system, built-in milk frother, removable water tank, cup warming tray, and programmable settings for coffee strength and temperature. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 15-bar pump, Milk frother, Removable water tank, Cup warming tray, Programmable buttons, Drip tray, Portafilter with single/double baskets.

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on clean, stable, heat-resistant surface.

1. Remove all packaging materials and stickers.
2. Fill water tank: Remove tank, fill with fresh cold water, reinsert.
3. Prime the machine: Turn on, run water through system without coffee to clear air.
4. Install portafilter: Insert into group head and turn clockwise to lock.

WARNING! Ensure machine is unplugged during installation. Keep away from water sources.

First-Time Setup

Plug into grounded outlet; follow initial setup steps.

1. Power on: Press POWER button; wait for ready light.
2. Program settings: Use PROGRAM button to set coffee strength and temperature.
3. Run cleaning cycle: Brew water through system to remove manufacturing residues.
4. Test frother: Activate steam wand to ensure proper function.

CAUTION! Do not touch hot surfaces. Use handles provided.

Specifications

• Model: EM-500.
• Pump Pressure: 15 bar.
• Water Tank Capacity: 1.8 liters.
• Power: 1350W.
• Voltage: 120V AC, 60Hz.
• Dimensions: 12.2" W x 10.6" D x 13.4" H.
• Weight: 15.4 lbs.
• Material: Stainless steel housing with plastic components.
• Warranty: 3-year limited warranty.

Controls and Settings

Front panel: POWER, BREW/STOP, STEAM, PROGRAM buttons, indicator lights.

Programmable Settings: Coffee strength (1-3), Temperature (Low/Med/High).

Operation: Press POWER to turn on; ready light indicates heating. Press BREW/STOP to start/stop extraction. Press STEAM to activate frother. Use PROGRAM to customize settings.

Brewing Coffee

For espresso shots using ground coffee.

1. Grind coffee: Use fine espresso grind.
2. Fill portafilter: Insert basket, add coffee, tamp evenly.
3. Lock portafilter: Insert into group head, turn right until tight.
4. Place cup: On drip tray under portafilter.
5. Brew: Press BREW/STOP; extraction starts. Press again to stop.
6. Remove portafilter: After brewing, turn left to unlock.

Tip: Preheat cups on warming tray for better temperature retention.

Frothing Milk

For cappuccinos, lattes, and other milk-based drinks.

1. Fill pitcher: Use cold milk (½ full for expansion).
2. Purge wand: Press STEAM briefly to clear condensation.
3. Submerge wand: Insert tip just below milk surface.
4. Froth: Turn STEAM on; move pitcher to create foam.
5. Stop: Press STEAM again; wipe wand with damp cloth.
6. Pour: Add frothed milk to espresso.

WARNING! Steam wand is extremely hot. Keep hands clear.

Cleaning & Maintenance

Daily: Clean portafilter, baskets, drip tray. Weekly: Descale if needed.

1. Unplug machine and cool completely.
2. Clean exterior with damp cloth; do not immerse.
3. Remove and rinse water tank, drip tray, portafilter.
4. Descale: Use vinegar solution or commercial descaler per instructions.
5. Clean steam wand: Wipe immediately after each use.

CAUTION! Never use abrasive cleaners. Empty drip tray regularly.

Regulatory Information

UL listed; complies with FCC Part 15. Copyright © Cuisinart. For support, visit www.cuisinart.com or contact 1-800-726-0190.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Unplug for 5 minutes, then restart.

Service: 1-800-726-0190; www.cuisinart.com