Rocket Appartamento: The Ultimate Espresso Machine for Home Use

Rocket Appartamento is a compact espresso machine that has become increasingly popular among coffee enthusiasts. It is designed and manufactured by Rocket Espresso, an Italian company that has been producing high-quality espresso machines for over a decade. The Rocket Appartamento is a perfect choice for those who want to enjoy the taste of authentic Italian espresso in the comfort of their own home.

The Rocket Appartamento is known for its sleek design, which combines modern and traditional elements. It is available in stainless-steel or Serie Nera editions, with white or copper side panel inserts. The machine has a heat exchanger system that allows for simultaneous brewing and steaming, making it easy to create lattes, cappuccinos, and other espresso-based drinks. The machine is also compact, making it ideal for small kitchens or coffee bars.

Key Takeaways

• The Rocket Appartamento is a compact espresso machine designed and manufactured by Rocket Espresso.
• The machine has a sleek design and is available in stainless-steel or Serie Nera editions, with white or copper side panel inserts.
• The Rocket Appartamento has a heat exchanger system that allows for simultaneous brewing and steaming, making it ideal for creating lattes, cappuccinos, and other espresso-based drinks.

Overview of the Rocket Appartamento

The Rocket Appartamento is a compact yet powerful espresso machine designed for home use. Manufactured by Rocket Espresso, a brand known for its premium quality and attention to detail, the Appartamento offers an excellent balance of performance and aesthetics.

Design and Build Quality

The Appartamento features a sleek and modern design, with a polished stainless steel finish and a compact footprint that makes it ideal for small kitchens. The machine is built with high-quality materials and features a solid steel frame that ensures durability and stability.

One of the Appartamento’s standout design features is its iconic circular side panel cutouts, which add a touch of personality to the machine and allow for easy access to the water tank and drip tray. The machine also features a large cup warmer on top, which is perfect for keeping your espresso cups warm and ready for use.

Specifications and Performance

The Rocket Appartamento is equipped with a powerful 1200 watt heating element and a 1.8 liter copper boiler, which allows for rapid heating and excellent temperature stability. The machine also features a commercial-grade rotary pump, which provides consistent pressure and ensures optimal extraction.

The Appartamento is designed to be user-friendly, with intuitive controls that allow you to easily adjust the temperature and volume of your shots. The machine also features a pre-infusion function, which wets the coffee grounds before extraction to ensure a more even extraction and better flavor.

Overall, the Rocket Appartamento is an excellent choice for home baristas who want a high-quality espresso machine that is both stylish and functional. With its powerful performance, intuitive controls, and sleek design, the Appartamento is sure to impress even the most discerning coffee lovers.

Key Features

Heat Exchange Boiler

The Rocket Appartamento features a heat exchange boiler, which allows for simultaneous brewing and steaming. The 1.8-liter copper boiler is heated by a 1200 watt element and is capable of producing consistent and stable temperatures for optimal espresso extraction. The heat exchange system also allows for quick and efficient steam production for frothing milk.

E61 Group Head

The Rocket Appartamento is equipped with an E61 group head, a commercial-grade component that ensures temperature stability and pre-infusion for optimal espresso extraction. The E61 group head is made of chrome-plated brass and is designed to maintain a constant temperature throughout the brewing process. This results in a rich and flavorful espresso shot every time.

Pressure Gauge and Steam Wand

The Rocket Appartamento features a pressure gauge that allows the user to monitor the brewing pressure and make adjustments accordingly. This feature is particularly useful for achieving consistent and repeatable results. The steam wand is also a standout feature, with its two-hole tip providing excellent milk frothing capabilities. The wand is mounted on a ball joint for easy maneuverability and can be easily cleaned with a damp cloth.

Overall, the Rocket Appartamento is a high-quality espresso machine that offers a range of features for the home barista. Its heat exchange boiler, E61 group head, and pressure gauge and steam wand make it a versatile and reliable choice for those seeking cafe-quality espresso at home.

Espresso Extraction Quality

The Rocket Appartamento espresso machine is highly regarded for its consistent and high-quality espresso shots. The following subsections explain how the machine achieves this reputation.

Consistency and Temperature Stability

The Rocket Appartamento espresso machine features a heat exchange system, which allows for simultaneous brewing and steaming. This system ensures consistent heat and pressure throughout the brewing process, resulting in a consistent extraction. Additionally, the machine’s commercial pressure stat provides precise temperature control, ensuring that the coffee is brewed at the optimal temperature for the best flavor.

Steam Pressure and Milk Frothing

The Rocket Appartamento espresso machine’s steam wand features cool-touch insulation, making it easy to use and safe to touch. The machine’s single 1.8-liter copper boiler and vibration pump provide ample steam pressure for milk frothing, resulting in a creamy and velvety texture. The machine’s ability to extract and steam milk at the same time makes it efficient and convenient for making multiple drinks in a row.

Overall, the Rocket Appartamento espresso machine is a reliable and consistent machine that produces high-quality espresso shots. Its heat exchange system, precise temperature control, and ample steam pressure make it a great choice for home baristas who are looking for a professional-grade machine.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Routine Cleaning Procedures

Regular cleaning of the Rocket Appartamento is essential to maintain its performance and prolong its lifespan. Here are some routine cleaning procedures that should be followed:

• Daily Cleaning: Wipe down the exterior of the machine with a damp cloth. Clean the steam wand after each use by purging it and wiping it down with a damp cloth. Brush the brew head filter daily to remove any coffee residue.
• Weekly Cleaning: Backflush the machine with water to remove any buildup of coffee oils. Remove and clean the filter basket and shower screen. Clean the water tank by removing it and washing it with warm soapy water.
• Monthly Cleaning: Descale the machine to remove any mineral buildup that can affect the taste of the coffee. Use a descaling solution that is suitable for espresso machines.

Long-Term Maintenance

In addition to routine cleaning, there are some long-term maintenance procedures that should be followed:

• Replace Seals and Gaskets: Over time, the seals and gaskets in the machine can become worn and need to be replaced. This can affect the performance of the machine and cause leaks. Check the seals and gaskets periodically and replace them if necessary.
• Check the Pressure Stat: The pressure stat is responsible for regulating the temperature of the water in the boiler. If it is not functioning properly, the machine may not reach the correct temperature. Check the pressure stat periodically and replace it if necessary.
• Clean the Heating Element: The heating element can become covered in scale and mineral buildup over time. This can affect the performance of the machine and cause it to heat up slowly. Clean the heating element periodically with a descaling solution to remove any buildup.

By following these routine cleaning procedures and long-term maintenance steps, the Rocket Appartamento can continue to produce high-quality espresso for years to come.

Accessories and Customization

The Rocket Appartamento comes with a few essential accessories to get you started with your espresso-making journey. However, there are also optional upgrades and add-ons available that can enhance your experience with the machine.

Included Accessories

When you purchase the Rocket Appartamento, it comes with a few accessories to help you get started with making espresso. These accessories include:

• Two portafilters: a single and a double shot
• A blind basket for backflushing
• A tamper
• A grouphead brush
• A user manual

These accessories are all you need to start making espresso with your Rocket Appartamento. However, if you want to take your espresso-making to the next level, there are several optional upgrades and add-ons available.

Optional Upgrades and Add-Ons

There are several optional upgrades and add-ons available for the Rocket Appartamento that can enhance your espresso-making experience. Some of these upgrades and add-ons include:

• Bottomless portafilter: This allows you to see the espresso as it is being extracted, which can help you diagnose any issues with your shot.
• Precision baskets: These baskets are designed to be more precise than the standard baskets that come with the machine, which can help you achieve a more consistent shot.
• Smart Plug: This allows you to remotely turn on and off your Rocket Appartamento, which can save you time and energy.
• Custom panels: Whole Latte Love offers custom panel options for the Rocket Appartamento, which can allow you to personalize the look of your machine.

It’s important to note that while these upgrades and add-ons can enhance your experience with the Rocket Appartamento, they are not necessary to make great espresso. It all comes down to personal preference and how much you are willing to invest in your espresso-making setup.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the dimensions of the Rocket Appartamento machine?

The Rocket Appartamento is a compact espresso machine designed to fit in environments where space is at a premium. It measures 274mm (W) x 425mm (D) x 360mm (H) and weighs around 20kg.

How long is the lifespan of the Rocket Appartamento?

The lifespan of the Rocket Appartamento depends on several factors, including usage, maintenance, and quality of water. With proper care and maintenance, the machine can last for many years.

Does the Rocket Appartamento have a PID temperature controller?

Yes, the Rocket Appartamento comes equipped with a PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) controller. The PID controller ensures that the temperature of the water used for brewing is consistent and accurate, resulting in a better-tasting espresso.

What is the warm-up time for the Rocket Appartamento?

The Rocket Appartamento has a relatively quick warm-up time. It takes approximately 20-30 minutes to reach the optimal brewing temperature of 200-205 degrees Fahrenheit.

In which country is the Rocket Appartamento manufactured?

The Rocket Appartamento is manufactured in Italy, where Rocket Espresso machines have been made since 2007.

How much does the Rocket Appartamento weigh?

The Rocket Appartamento weighs around 20kg, making it easy to move around if needed. Its compact size and weight make it a great choice for those who need an espresso machine that can fit in tight spaces.