Home ownership of coffee machines in the UK has been on the rise for a number of years. There are many different types of coffee machines to choose from such as capsule or pod, filter, built-in, bean to cup, or a specific coffee type such as cappuccino or espresso. Some people may consider their coffee machine to be their most important kitchen tool, and rightly so. While these morning-making tools are relied on daily, they are electric to heat water to a high temperature, so keep in mind they pose a safety risk if used incorrectly.
Which Coffee Machine Should I Buy?
Best Coffee Machine
- The best coffee machine to buy is one that you purchase from a retailer you know and trust, like a well known High Street name. Avoid third party sellers on online marketplaces.
- Whichever coffee machine you buy, make sure you register it with the manufacturer so if something does go wrong, they can contact you easily. To register any of your appliances, regardless of age, visit our Product Registration page.
Coffee Machine Reviews
- If you’re buying online, don’t rely on reviews as these can be faked by unscrupulous sellers.
Coffee Machine Safety
- Use our free online checker to see if you have any recalled electrical items.
- Check that your coffee machine has a UK plug, but if it doesn’t, do not use a UK travel adaptor. Seek advice from the retailer or manufacturer.
- Do regular checks of the plug and socket for burn marks, sounds of ‘arcing’ (buzzing or crackling) or if it feels too hot to touch.
- Ensure your home is fully protected by an RCD (residual current device), which can generally be found in your fuse box (also known as a consumer unit). An RCD is a life-saving device that protects against dangerous electric shock and reduces the risk of electrical fires.
- If you don’t have RCD protection in your fusebox for your sockets, consider installing an RCD socket or use an RCD plug to protect you and your property from serious appliance faults.
- Sometimes, appliance fires are caused by something beyond your control. Smoke alarms and heat detectors are essential in keeping you safe by raising the alarm in the event of a fire. There should be a minimum of one alarm/detector per floor and fit enough to cover all areas where a fire could start, and make sure they are tested regularly.
- If a fire does start, don't try to fight the fire. Get out and call 999 immediately.
Using your coffee machine safely
- Make sure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- The coffee machine must only be used by or under the supervision of a responsible adult. Use and store the coffee machine out of reach of children
- Sit the coffee machine on a stable, level, heat-resistant surface
- Don’t fill the coffee machine above the max mark.
- Always be careful when pouring water in or out of the coffee machine so that the power cord and socket stays dry.
- If you notice an odd smell or any sparking, unplug the coffee machine immediately and contact the retailer and/or manufacturer
- Make sure the coffee machine is switched off and unplugged before cleaning. Ensure the appliance is dry before being used again. Do not immerse the coffee machine in water for cleaning.
- Removable components such as filter baskets and carafes should be washed in line with the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Always turn off the appliance when not in use.