For Preparation:
The instructions that came with the unit (Quick Instruction Guide) with German (and French) text and graphics has 12 pages. Thus it is enough to start with. The detailed instruction manual as a PDF file (download from the Philips website), however, has 57 pages, plus two pages about the toiletries (descaler, INTENZA water filter, etc.).
It is highly recommended to study these Pdf file carefully as it contains important details that do not appear in the Quick Start Guide.
(: 43 cm, width: 22cm, height: 33 cm length) to eg on all sides a minimum distance of 15 cm from other objects, walls, etc. are complied already with regard to the installation of the device.
Advantages of Saeco Minuto:
- This fully automatic coffee machine does not take much space a, like many others and therefore fits well in smaller kitchens.
- The ceramic grinder that does not overheat and thus the flavor of the coffee beans also not damaged.
- The device has several programming or adjustment for the desired aroma of coffee (Saeco Adapting System):
1. Using the supplied (plastic) key 5 different grinding degrees - and thus a stronger or milder flavor - be adjusted. This may only be done while the grinder is in operation and only change per one degree!
2. From the outside, via the display, the amount of coffee beans to be ground can be selected in five levels, from extra-mild to extra strong aroma.
(It can also be pre-ground coffee may be used. However, this may only be in the opening provided (to be filled in addition to those for beans)!)
- The buttons for coffee and espresso can be programmed for a desired dispensed quantity and are thereby memo keys.
- Examples of other programming options:
- The desired temperature for the spent coffee
- Switch to standby after the last coffee brewing
- Set the unit to the measured water hardness (test strips attached)
- Control of the water filter INTENZA, descaling, etc.
- The importance of (bright) displays are useful and thus more easily understood.
- The various acute become necessary measures are displayed automatically via the display. Examples: grounds container full; Drip tray full; Decalcification (Calc Clean) required etc.
- The brewing group is easy to remove and to clean and greased.
Caution should be:
- In connection with preparation and cappuccino milk frothing and on the issue of hot water (for example, even if necessary for tea), the steam nozzle must be used with caution to avoid burns (scalding).
There is something for improvement:
- The water tank of transparent plastic weighs maximally filled 190 grams and has a very elegant plastic handle. I leave the tank therefore prefer the appliance and fill it from the outside, using a jug. Only for cleaning I take him out.
- The control buttons have no noticeable pressure or locking point. You push it (relatively strong) and then waits for the machine responds (slightly delayed). Okay, but you learn quickly.
In addition:
- A device with so many options also needs quite a bit of care, divided into daily, weekly and monthly maintenance (See Quick Instruction Guide and PDF). But that is understandable and difficult to avoid. However, the required frequency of some maintenance also depends on how often and how intensively you use the machine.
- Who filters the water before filling in the machine must logically in the machine significantly fewer filters and descaling.
- I have seen in Amazon also an attractive offer for five matching Saeco INTENZA water filter plus five descaler. So you have a long-term stock.
I wish a lot of pleasure with the unit, and especially: enjoy!
