Frequently Asked Questions

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Which espresso machine brands and models do you work on?

We specialize in home/consumer espresso machines — both “super-automatic” machines that grind the beans and brew espresso at the push of a button, as well as the more traditional “semi-automatic” machines that require a separate grinder and a little more finesse on the part of the user. The most common brands we service are De’Longhi, Saeco, Gaggia, Rancilio, Solis, Ascaso and Baratza, but if you’ve got a machine that isn’t on that list (and isn’t on our “brands we don’t work on” list below), drop us a line and we’ll let you know how we can help.

Which brands and models do you not work on?

– Jura and Breville: These are popular brands in the US, and we’d like to service these lines, but there are few spare parts or technical documentation made available to the public (which includes us). Your best, and only option is to contact the manufacturers directly for service.

– Rocket, Quick Mill, ECM, Lelit, Profitech, La Marzocco and any other commercial or “prosumer” machine. These machines are wildly different inside from the more common home equipment we work on, and we have neither the tools nor the experience to take them on. Your best bet is to seek out a commercial tech in your area, as shipping these machines can be risky and expensive.

– Bosch, Miele, Wolfe and other in-wall super-automatic machines from kitchen appliance manufacturers. These are often re-badged machines from an OEM factory, so there’s no way to know who actually made the machine without opening them up, and we frequently can’t get parts for them. Your best option for service on these is usually through whoever installs or sells that brand in your area.

– Krups, Kitchenaid, Mr. Coffee, Melitta, Espressione, Capresso, Cuisinart and Bene, to name but a few, as well as capsule machines like Nespresso and Keurig. These small, semi-automatic machines usually sell for $75-200 new, so it’s difficult to make repairs cost-effective compared to the replacing the machine. These brands are also difficult, if not impossible, to find parts for, so repair is often not even an option.

– La Pavoni and other level-action (non-pump) machines. In the Seattle area, Home Espresso Repair (206-789-9513) is your best option for service on these.

Can I talk directly to a technician?

YES, absolutely. We’re a small, two-person shop and we are both trained technicians. We’re available via phone and email, or feel free to just stop by.  We’ve always got time to talk tech with our customers.

How long does it take to repair my machine?

This varies widely depending on the time of the year, how many machines we have in the shop and what exactly your machine needs; you can always call or email to check on our current turn-around time before sending your machine in.

How much does it cost to repair my machine?

Costs vary widely depending on the the make and model of the machine as well as it’s age and condition. Repair costs for most superautomatic machines range from $150 – $350; semi-automatic machines are typically much less. We are always happy to provide a free assessment and quote for repair once we’ve taken a good look at your machine.

Is my machine even worth repairing?

Usually, yes. It’s rare for the repair estimate to come even close to the cost of replacing the machine with a comparable model. Most machines that we see just need a good professional overhaul, and then they’re ready to provide many more years of service. The exception is entry-level models that cost $50-150 new; these machines often last only a few years and the cost to replace any parts on them is usually close to, if not more than the replacement cost.

What if my machine isn’t worth repairing?

Occasionally we’ll see a machine that’s in such rough shape that we don’t think it’d be wise to sink any more money into it, or one where the repair cost might come close to or exceed the replacement cost of the machine; in either case we’ll tell you as such and leave the decision up to you. If you decide not to move forward with the repair you don’t owe us anything for the diagnosis, and we can recycle the machine for you at no cost as well.

Do you offer free estimates?

Yes we do. We can usually ballpark the repair cost just from learning what problems you’re having with the machine, but once we get it on the bench and inspected we’ll have an exact quote for you to consider. It’s rare for a repair to exceed this quoted cost.

I’m not near Seattle, do you know of a repair shop in my city?

There are very few shops that specialize in home espresso machines the way we do, and most of the ones we know of also happen to be near Seattle. Google and/or Yelp is probably your best tool for finding someone closer.

Isn’t it difficult to ship my machine to you?

It’s not as difficult or as expensive as you might think. The most important thing is that the machine is packaged well, as espresso machines can be easily damaged if not properly protected, especially given how rough the boxes are often handled.

How should I package my machine for shipping?

Click here for some tips from us

Click here for some tips from UPS

Click here for some tips from FedEX

How/when do I pay for my repair?

We don’t take payment until the repair is complete and the machine has been thoroughly tested. If picking it up in-store we accept credit cards, cash and local checks. If you shipped your machine to us we’ll email you an invoice so you can pay online, and we can also take your credit card over the phone.

Is there a warranty on my repair?

Most definitely. All labor and installed parts are warrantied for 90 days from when you receive your machine back. If you shipped your machine to us the warranty also covers the return shipping charges, provided the issue the machine is returned for actually falls within the scope of the previous work. This shipping policy only applies to the contiguous United States; if you choose to ship a machine to us from Alaska or Hawaii please be aware that you will be responsible for all shipping costs regardless of the reason for the machine’s return (with the exception of shipping damage covered by an insurance claim). This is unfortunately necessary due to the high cost of shipping to these locations from Seattle. If you’re past 90 days and having a problem, don’t fret — it really is our priority that you have a well-running machine that you can continue to use for a long time. Just give us a call and we’ll work something out.