The days of making a full pot of coffee are going by the wayside. Single serve coffee makers are the latest trend in coffee makers. The most popular of these are the Keurig, the Tassimo, and the Senseo coffee makers. The Keurig machines were recently voted "The Best Single-Serve Coffee-Makers" by RealSimple magazine. This article's intent is to give you a brief overview of the features of the Keurig coffee makers as well as my personal experience with this brand.
Ease of Operation: The Keurig coffee maker is very easy to use. It warms up in less than two minutes once the power is turned on. It has a large removable water reservoir that, depending on which model you choose, can hold as much as 48 ounces of water. The reservoir is easy to fill when needed and slides easily into its proper location on the machine. When you are ready to brew your coffee, place your coffee cup under the dispenser. You then select the K-cup of your choice. Easily lift the lever in the center of the machine and place the K-cup in the holder. Shut the lever and select the size cup that you would like. The coffee is dispensed and ready to drink in less than one minute.
Device Options: Depending on the model that you choose, you can select anywhere from 6 to 10 ounces per cup. Many of the machines also have programmable options such as automatic on/off feature, an adjustable brew temperature, and a 24-hour digital clock.
Selection and Availability of Coffees: The coffee pods that the Keurig coffee maker uses are called K-cups. There are over 200 different kinds of coffees, cappuccinos, teas, and hot chocolate K-cups to choose from. The largest selection of K-cups will be found through online stores, but stores such as Bed, Bath & Beyond, Kroger, and some department stores have a large selection as well.
Keurig also offers a reusable K-cup coffee filter. If you purchase one of these, you are able to use any type of ground coffee that you choose to brew your coffee. This reusable filter is easily cleaned after each use by simply rinsing with water.
Reliability: I have had my Keurig for over eight years and have had no problems. I know many others who have had their Keurigs for several years without any problems as well. If you do encounter a problem, Keurig offers a one year warranty on their products.
Maintenance: Cleaning the Keurig coffee machine is simple. Simply mix one part white vinegar and two parts water and add this to the water reservoir. Run this solution through the coffee maker on a regular basis, typically once a month. This will remove any residual oils and calcium deposits from the water lines and will keep the machine running at its best.
Variety of Models: Keurig offers a variety of models including mini versions, home versions, office versions, and commercial versions. Cuisinart, Mr. Coffee, and Breville also make coffee makers that use the K-cup technology as well.
Keurig coffee machines offer individuals the ability to select exactly the type of coffee they want, in the amount that they want, and the strength that they want every time. With single serve coffee machines like the Keurig, you no longer have to drink the same thing that everyone else is drinking. You get a fresh cup of coffee exactly how you want it any time of the day.
On a personal note, I received my Keurig as a birthday gift approximately eight years ago. My husband and I use the Keurig everyday of the year, and my children will brew hot chocolate and tea from time to time. It always brews a great cup of whatever we decide to make. It has been a quality purchase for us and I have enjoyed every cup of coffee it has given me. I would highly recommend a Keurig coffee machine.
