The ACM Milano Homey is one of the most affordable dual-boiler espresso machines we know of. The basic version costs just €979, despite its proven Faema E61 brew group. Of course, at this price point, compromises are to be expected, but the ACM Homey can still be tuned for good espresso. In this review, you can read what we think of the machine, how we use it, and which coffees are suitable.
You can find out more about the comparison with 11 other dual-boiler espresso machines here.
Faema E61 Brew Group in the ACM Homey
The principle of the Faema E61 brew group has proven itself over the years. Through circulating water in the thermosiphon, the entire group is heated, and constant temperatures can generally be expected. It is important to preheat the espresso machine well and, especially during the first use of the machine, to draw water so that the thermosiphon fills. Warm-up times of 20 to 25 minutes should always be planned for a Faema E61 brew group to reach the desired target temperatures. By pressing the lever, the valves are opened, and water is delivered to the coffee.
Dual-boiler espresso machines with Faema E61 brew groups tend to overheat if left unused for extended periods. The ACM Homey is also a candidate for this. A "cooling flush," a few seconds of drawing water without a portafilter, can cool the temperature down to a desirable range.
With the ACM Homey, we had to flush for a very long time to bring the brew water temperature close to a good brewing range, which is around 93 degrees. Without a long flush, we sometimes measured brewing temperatures of well over 96 degrees. During the brewing time itself, the temperature is relatively constant and fluctuates by about 0.8 degrees.
Which coffee at high temperatures?
The high temperatures in the brewing phase particularly emphasize an unpleasant bitterness in the espresso and often lead to a dry aftertaste. The acidity is unbalanced, and the espresso is uneven. This is especially the case when the coffee itself brings bitter notes.
Bitterness is caused by the choice of green coffee and by the roasting. Darker roasts have a significantly more pronounced bitterness, often with unpleasant metallic and harsh aspects. This bitterness is triggered by the formation of phenylindanes, which we have discussed in a separate article.
Espresso blends with a high robusta content also tend to be more bitter and less suitable, unless they are explicitly very high-quality robusta.
Our tip, therefore: for higher temperatures like with the ACM Homey, use lighter roasts. Such roasts are rarely found in supermarkets, and certainly not among espresso roasts (if at all, then among filter roasts).
Specialty coffees that are roasted lighter are much better suited for higher brewing temperatures. A selection of roasters that specialize in specialty coffee has registered for the Kaffee-Panel project. Just give them a try!
Workmanship and technical information of the ACM Milano Homey
With a width of 27 cm, a depth of 40 cm, and a height of 40 cm, the ACM Milano is average. It is neither particularly compact nor huge – a medium dual-boiler, so to speak. The machine's weight of 18 kg is also similar to many other dual-boilers. The machine has a built-in vibratory pump, which produces a fair amount of noise. This is also because it is simply screwed on, and no rubber pads or similar dampen the rattling of the lid and drip tray.
The machine's boiler has a volume of 1.5 liters and draws its water from a 2.8-liter tank. The tank can be removed for refilling – with a lot of tugging and some effort. In fact, there are no handles or space for fingers to grip it well. Our test machine had some dirt residue in the water tank, and there were also scratches and dust residues on the machine. Thorough cleaning before first use is recommended.
The water reservoir itself appears to be of higher quality than, for example, that of a Bezzera BZ10. It also doesn't use hoses and can be easily connected to the machine via a valve.
The numerous sharp edges of the machine are striking. Hardly any espresso machine between 1000 and 2000 euros has truly well-finished edges, so one can hardly expect that from the cheapest on the market. Nevertheless, this point needs to be mentioned, and caution is particularly advisable when removing the drip tray or opening the lid to the water tank.
Speaking of the drip tray. It is rather small, as the space of the cover is not fully utilized.
The railing, on the other hand, is made of metal and thus scores points against, for example, the Rocket Appartamento, which costs significantly more but only comes with a plastic railing. The metal version has to be purchased separately.
Included in the delivery is a plastic tamper, which should be replaced by a solid tamper as soon as possible. Plastic tampers are the best impediment to good extractions, as they prevent consistent work.
Also included: 1-shot portafilter, 2-shot portafilter, and metal brush. The purpose of the metal brush is unclear to us. Please do not clean your machine with it!
By the way: the pictures and video show the machine with a time display, which costs 120 Euros more than the basic version.
High temperature? Good for milk frothing!
The high basic temperature in the boiler, which leads to excessive brewing temperature, is, however, a plus for preparing milk foam and cappuccino.
When frothing, we have so much steam pressure that a large pitcher can be frothed without any problems, and the milk rolls wonderfully. This is especially enjoyable when you have several guests and want to try your hand at latte art.
However, the steam wand gets very hot, including the rubber sleeve, which is actually meant for gripping. The temperature, which is an advantage on the one hand, also has a disadvantage here.
The prepared cappuccinos were very tasty and also looked good.
Conclusion on the ACM Milano Homey
The ACM Homey is an entry-level opportunity into the world of dual-boiler espresso machines. In terms of workmanship, one accepts compromises, but receives a solid espresso machine. The technology used is proven and will provide good service in the long run – provided it is maintained and cleaned.
Important: use lighter espresso roasts, as the brewing temperature is a bit too hot. Long pre-flushing helps to bring the temperature into a good range. Those who enjoy cappuccino will get their money's worth with the ACM Homey. The machine really delivers! The milk wand is almost too hot to touch, but all the better for frothing.
Since milk foam is sweet and also balances presumably somewhat bitter espressos, we see the ACM primarily for lovers of milk drinks.
In the Home Barista Course, you will learn how to prepare perfect espresso. Now also available online!
To the overview of all tested espresso machines.
