We have a Hamilton beach espresso machine that has a steamer that stopped working. We don't know if it's plugged or has just stopped working.
I have the same issue -- machine is NOT clogged. I've torn the think apart, and looking at the way it is designed I am thinking that the pressure relief valve (at least that is what it appears to be) is malfunctioning.
The steamer will work briefly, but runs out of steam almost immediately. If your machine is having a similar problem, I suggest that you open it up and look at how it works (there are two screws on the top under the door for the scoop. You've got to drill out the cover caps to get to the screws underneath -- at least that is how I got them out...they covers are really long plastic plugs and trying to get them out with a thin screwdriver did not work -- but using a drill bit pulled them right out).
I don't know where to find a replacement valve -- sorry.
When you turn on the steam switch, does the steam light turn on, then eventually turn off when it comes up to temp?
If so, your wand may be plugged with a dried plug. I have resolved this by pouring boiling water into my steaming pitcher and soaking the wand for several minutes, then fire up the machine and heat for steam, then blast it out.
Might take a few tries. You may also need to run a thin wire, like a guitar string, up the wand to help free up the plug.
If it's plugged right at the end of the nozzle, a push-pin can clear it. The real solution is that when you finish steaming the milk you need to flush it out while cleaning the machine: wipe the nozzle first, then open the valve long enough to blow out any milk that got into the end of the nozzle.
SOURCE: How to open a Hamilton Beach 40729 Espresso machine
Easy to open. It is servicable if you have enough ingenuity and can find some generic parts to fit, but certainly not designed with servicability in mind -- the thing was obviously build as a "throw away". There is plenty of space in there for generic parts, but keep safety in mind since you are dealing with electrical parts that get hot and operate under pressure!
First, you need to remove the little plug caps that cover the two screws under the door for the scoop / emergency tamper (sorry, but IMHO a more substantial tamper is a requirement!). I found that the only sane way to remove these caps is with a drill. Carefully drill into the caps. The drill bit will catch, and you can pull the plug right out.
Next you need to deal with the odd screws. They are triangle, so even if you are a serious electronics guy like myself you are probably not going to have that screw bit. No problem though, use a very small flathead screwdriver that fits as closely in one side of the triangle as possible. It will easily remove the screw (and reinsert when you are done)
Once the screws are out, gently pry the top off as indicated by john. The plastic top should have two catches in the front near the edges, and two catches on the sides about mid-way back.
1,049 views
Usually answered in minutes!
I have the same problem!
×