- Sign in
- Write a review
Sunbeam Piccolo Espresso EM2800
RobertSouth East Queensland, QLD
Amazing
I've had this for years - couldn't tell you how many. No bells and whistles, which frankly I don't care for, just an extremely reliable and simple-to-use machine. It makes consistently good coffee with great crema and milk frothing. I have made literally thousands of brews with this mighty little machine.
Purchased in July 2013 at Big W for $99.00.
HelenGreater Melbourne (Inner), VIC
- 6 reviews
- Verified purchase
WORST CUSTOMER SERVICE!
Literally the worst customer service experience.
TLDR; If your machine is broken (even if just out of the box) might as well give up. Sunbeam's customer service would get you to cut the cords and throw out your machine with the premise of replacement but won't deliver.
I ordered a machine back in April and it had a leaking water tank. I contacted sunbeam through their website to see if there was a fix or if I could swap the water tank it given it is just out of the box. They sent a reply to cut the cords, send them a photo prove, then thro...
Read morew out the machine in the regular waste bin and they will "dispatch your replacement product which will arrive at your nominated address within 7-10 business days". I did all the steps on the day, sent them the photo and assumed they will action since they gave no reply. 3 weeks later I followed-up for an estimated delivery date, they said the courier hasn't provided the tracking number yet and might be delayed due to the pandemic. Completely understandable so I told them no stress and would be great if they could send me an estimated delivery date if they had any. They didn't reply. 2 months later (3 months since they told me to cut the cords), I followed up on it again. This time they replied saying that "EM2800 is currently out of stock. We expect to receive a shipment by the end of the month or in the coming weeks. We'll keep you updated once item is available." Which is absolutely ridiculous because it means that they haven't even sent the machine in the first place and goes against their first email and the reply to my first follow-up. I stated that all I wanted was either a confirmation on delivery date estimate or a refund, to which I had no reply again.Purchased in April 2020.
1 comment
KJRSouth East Queensland, QLD
- 8 reviews
- 4 likes
You buy cheap you get cheap
Bought this the other day to use in Caravan and leave at my daughters so I can have real coffee when I visit. It is adequate.. just. Steamer pushes out hot water more than steam, I leave it to heat up for quite a while and it seems to improve it a bit but.... Creama is almost non-existent. Will see if I can master it over time. Shouldn't compare with my $800 Sunbeam Cafe Series Twin Thermoblock System which also has it's issues (see my other review).
Purchased in July 2020 at Big W for $99.00.
BernMaeSydney, NSW
- 2 reviews
Unbeatable value.
Great little performer. But as with all espresso machines, it needs to be paired with a good grinder that will cost you two to three times the price of the machine. The grinder is by far the most important component of a brewing setup and has the biggest effect on the flavour outcome. Only use freshly roasted coffee beans - purchased about two weeks from the roasting date, and consume the beans within a month. Avoid supermarket beans and pre-ground coffee because these products are stale.
Purchased at The Good Guys for $90.00.
Find out how Sunbeam Piccolo Espresso EM2800 compares to other Semi-Automatic and Manual Coffee Machines
Know better, choose better.
ShaneASydney Surrounds, NSW
A great little bench warmer.
I have had this machine for 18 months, purchasing it from Target for $129, and it has been very good.
I would consider myself a coffee snob, and I like to roast my own beans to a level that I prefer. I have several means available to me to make a good coffee, including cold drip, several percolators and a significantly larger Sunbeam Cafe series machine. For personal reasons I needed a cheapie in a hurry, and this was perfect for what I needed. It made a nice cup of coffee, with minimal warmup time. The steam wand also functions according ...
Read moreto it's purpose. However, a week ago, the water under pressure started leaking out past the seal, with the group head attached and locked into place. Fine, I thought... I'll buy a new seal, as it could probably use it now. New genuine seal arrived today and was promptly fitted, ensuring that the grooves lined up with the notches. All good, and ready to go...! Still leaking! I like to think that this machine can be made to be serviceable again, as I abhor throwing things out at the first sign of resistance. It does make a very good espresso and macchiato, and is worth holding onto.Purchased in October 2018 at Target Australia for $129.00.
Sunbeam - WORST CUSTOMER SERVICE!!
My machine broke after 3 months of use. I contacted Sunbeam who agreed to replace the product. This was over 5 weeks ago!
What I found out was they addressed the delivery incorrectly. When it was returned they did nothing. Never thought of contacting me or re-sending it until I worked it out. Then I was promised an express delivery, never happened. And to this day, over a week since it was resent allegedly, they have not provided me with a tracking number even though I have asked 3 times and I am still without a machine.
God help you with you have to deal with this incompetent bunch. All I want is my money back now.
Purchased in June 2019.
3 comments
Customer CareSunbeam
Hi Jonathan,
I apologies about the level of customer care you have had, I would like to help you resolve this issue. Could you please provide me with your case number?
Please, i got no where with them today. They asked me cut the cut cord and throw out the machine for a second time. Ref #00735283
Customer CareSunbeam
Hello again Jonathan,
I have escalated your case - I have confirmed your address is correct and approved your replacement. You should have your replacement within 5 business days. You will have an em...
BobaGreater Melbourne (Inner), VIC
- 5 reviews
- 5 likes
Reasonable result
I've never had a machine before so perhaps I'm expecting to much. The machine is very easy to use. I don't use the frother. It makes a good cup of coffee and gives an excellent crema. However it isn't warm enough. Sunbeam replaced my first machine but the replacement is the same. The green indicator light goes off even before a very small cup has been filled. It is also quite noisy. I bought because I wanted a cheap simple machine and Choice recommended it. If the coffee was hotter I'd be happy but because of that I couldn't recommend it. Incidentally the after sales service from Sunbeam was excellent. Quick, positive and helpful.
I now just give the coffee a quick zap in the microwave to bring up the temperature.
Purchased in June 2019 at Target Australia for $109.00.
3 comments
Customer C.Sunbeam
Hi Boba,
Thank you for the good review. Espresso coffee is never as hot as instant boiled from the kettle but microwaving to your liking can be a good option...
Thanks for the quick response. The Sunbeam after sales service has been great. Many companies don't respond to reviews so it's good to see that Sunbeam are interested in customer reviews.
Customer C.Sunbeam
Hi Boba,
We appreciate it...
John M.Metropolitan Adelaide, SA
- 5 reviews
- 3 likes
Perfect coffee at bargain price
Had this machine for 6 years and have just had to replace the brew head seal ($15 delivered via eBay). Quick warm up and very easy to use.Makes perfect coffee and good milk frother. Never missed a beat just hope I can still get replacement deals when I next need to replace it. Not as stylish as some machines but the quality of the coffee is what counts.
Purchased in May 2013 at Big W Retail Stores for $99.00.
1 comment
Customer C.Sunbeam
Hi John M. Thanks for the great review. Enjoy ! Kind Regards Sunbeam
AlbyBallina
- 2 reviews
- 3 likes
Very good coffee Great value
Had this machine for six years and hasn’t missed a beat. Makes excellent espresso and froths milk very well. Provided fresh quality beans are used and you have a good idea how to make a barista quality shot you won’t find a better result in a machine 10times the price. (Mine was $99).
Nice and compact and easy to clean.
Only maintenance is I run a cleaning chemical through it once a year and replaced group head and froth wand silicon seals after 4yrs.
Would not hesitate to purchase another should mine die.
Purchased in February 2013 at Big W Retail Stores for $99.00.
1 comment
Customer C.Sunbeam
Thanks for the great review Alby
myselfPerth, WA
- 2 reviews
- 3 likes
Value for money
I'm very happy with machine, very good for medium single cup. I take only black coffee. I do have one problem with Group Handle. I unscrew the little screw to clean the handle than I noticed whole thing was mouldy (look like). I could not clean the handle, it appears coating its gone and left black stains. That part its not Staines steal. That metal don't like hot. I'm still using the machine but it does put me off because I have to pull apart every time after use. Please can you tell me why is that happening I do love my little machine. I got the machine online on 30/08/2017. Hope I hear from you soon. Thank you
Regards
Sonja Turina
Perth
4 comments
Customer C.Sunbeam
Hi,
You shouldn't need to take screws off to clean. You really should just remove the filter basket and scrub all over and this should take care of the cleaning for the handle.
Yes I did that but when I remove the screw and under the black round plastic part was look a like mould and all over the little holes where coffee comes out. Coffee didn't coming out as before. That ...
Read moreis the reason why I did removed screw than I find out that holes was almost blocked. I had a similar coffee machine before (Breville) but no any kind of this. Design of handle was slightly different. If is only to remove filter basket would be breeze, but even that is the bit hard. Anyway I'm writing to you and asking for advice or your opinion how can I resolved this issue. Sunbeam is very well known brand but some of the product could have faulty designs. If I have to removed screw once in 4 weeks I will be very happy, but doing that every time no I'm not happy. RegardsCustomer C.Sunbeam
Hi The filter basket needs to be removed from the handle to give it a good clean....it can be quite tight whilst new. You could try using a toothbrush to get around the screws and into the holes in the filter basket itself.
Find out how Sunbeam Piccolo Espresso EM2800 compares to other Semi-Automatic and Manual Coffee Machines
Know better, choose better.
Nene
- 2 reviews
- 3 likes
Stopped working after 6 months
I was very happy with this machine at first, it made lovely espresso. Then 6 months later it started to leak from the seal where the group handle attaches. It doesn’t matter what type of coffee I use, it just doesn’t work anymore. I’ll be spending a bit more next time to get something that lasts longer.
1 comment
Customer C.Sunbeam
Hi Nene, it could be that there is a problem with the rubber seal but hard to say.
Please return to the store of purchase with your receipt as your machine is still under warranty and the store will replace it for you.
ConnieRedcliffe
Love my Piccolo
I’ve had my little Piccolo for around 7years and has been used every day. Unfortunately I’m going to have to buy a new machine pretty soon as the cup now stays stuck in the machine when I remove the wand and it hurts my arthritic hands to remove it.
It’s been a brilliant. I’m hoping I can buy another.
3 comments
Customer C.Sunbeam
Hi Connie. Thanks for the great review!! The EM2800 is still available to buy through all major retailers.
Thanks Sunbeam. I have enquirer in department stores here in my area. None of them sell the Piccolo.
Do you have a list of places in or around Brisbane. Would really appreciate your help. Thanks. connie
Customer C.Sunbeam
Hi Connie. Unfortunately we don't have visibility of the retailer's stock levels so I can't guarantee you of a place to purchase. If it's easier for you, you can purchase directly from www.sunbeam.com.au and we will post it directly to you!
JessMelbourne
Fantastic Coffee Machine
I love this coffee machine. The stream wand to froth the milk is the perfect size, I used to be a barista and compared frothing the milk with the sunbeam vs my mum's expensive machine (cant remember the brand but it was a $600 purchase) and hands down the Sunbeam makes much better milk. If you're like me and only making 1-2 coffees a day then don't waste your money on a fancy machine - this is all you need.
Didn't get to make coffee because water tank leaked like a sieve returned it and replacement did the
Didn't get to make any coffee as the water reservoir leaked like a sieve. Liked the fact it came with a milk jug and cup warmer tho. Second machine leaked as well but store wouldn't replace a second time but refunded money instead so bought a Delonghi instead which I'm very happy with.
jay
- 6 reviews
- 1 like
Does the job
I purchased this machine to practise my milk frothing but this machines milk frother air nosel is not very strong so it takes abit longer than an industrial machine. That being said, it does make beautiful coffee, just like barista made if you get your milk right. It heats milk well. It is easy to use, a little noisy but not too bad, not enough to be annoying. Easy to clean and maintain, not too bulky so doesn’t take up much bench space.
Robperth
- 10 reviews
- 3 likes
Great value for money
Paid $99 for this at Big W on special. The machine is small enough to travel with me in my suit case. I've had it for 2 1/2 years now and it hasn't missed a beat. Its been on oil rigs and half way round the world to the UK and back many times. Coffee needs to be pre-ground but for $99 makes better coffee (if you know how to make coffee) than most coffee shops in Perth WA. Would recommend this product anytime especially if you are looking to travel with it. Steamer works real well. Big thumbs up.
Find out how Sunbeam Piccolo Espresso EM2800 compares to other Semi-Automatic and Manual Coffee Machines
Know better, choose better.
leila
- 5 reviews
- 1 like
not bad
coffee machine is great in all experience coffee always tadted amazing
very easy to use ! easy to clean but it had its down falls it was loud nd graonsof coffee wete never melted proply it would be hard to get take out were the coffee went in it would jam alot aswell but its not bad
LisaBrisbane
- 4 reviews
- 4 likes
I love it
We have a cafe series Sunbeam machine that is a couple of years old and bought this for the smaller footprint and it does exactly the same job for 1/6 the price. It is compact on the bench and has the cup warmer. Its easy to use if u r used to frothing milk. I grind my own beans in the cafe series grinder and the machine delivers a nice crema and a great taste. Similar to the double wall on the cafe series. Its perfect for a couple or small family who doesnt drink a million coffees a day. You can just froth milk and make hot chocolate too, It h...
Read moreas nice pressure and I like how the spill tray can be taken out to fit a taller glass. Ideally for the price this is a steal. Nice coffee for a fraction of the price of other machines. What you save you can spend on beans. Its easy to fill and easy to clean. Nice one!RJ MSouth West, WA
- 15 reviews
- 11 likes
Works as it should....
Bought this on ebay for my wife who just finished a barista course.
Pretty basic but a good starting point to see if she continues interest.
Makes all the coffees she learnt in the course (8?) and is good inexpensive fun.
12 months warranty which is good.
Even if it only lasts a year or so, it is still good value at the $100 purchase price.
Great but leaking water,
I've just bought this machine few days ago. It's a nice creamy espresso but already leaking water from water rereservoir. I wondering , I can repair to change new O-ring??I don't want to have a repair at Sunbeam company because it's need to cost delivery fee n wait a couple of months I think..
Questions & Answers
Frequently Asked Questions about Sunbeam Piccolo Espresso EM2800
Why is my steam frother making loud noises?
When steaming milk, it sometimes produces a loud, high pitched "screaming" sound. This occurs when the steam wand is not drawing in enough air. This can be prevented by keeping the tip of the steam wand so that it's approximately 2cm in from the jug wall and no more than 1cm beneath the surface of the milk. Turn the steam wand on and adjust the jug with your hand until you hear the milk "hissing" - this is the sound it should make when milk is expanding.
Why is my machine constantly leaking water? What can I do to fix it?
- Make sure the drip tray is pushed tightly against the machine. Empty it regularly to avoid waste water overflow.
- Make sure the red plug on the water reservoir is removed and the reservoir is sitting flush against the machine. Check for any cracks or foreign particles stuck on the valve / connectors on the water tank and machine base.
- If it's leaking from the group head make sure the group head handle is on tight and check for the seal.
What is the correct way to brew coffee with my machine?
- Fill the water reservoir with cold water.
- Turn the Piccolo Espresso ‘On’. The power light will illuminate amber. When the steam/espresso indicator light is illuminated green the Piccolo Espresso is ready to prepare an espresso.
- Pre-heat your coffee cups.
- Select the required filter for 1 or 2 cups of coffee and place in the filter handle.
- Using the measuring spoon supplied, place one or two measures of ground coffee into the filter. With the other end of the measuring spoon, use the tamper to pack down the coffee grinds. Do not apply too much pressure. Do not overfill the filter with too much coffee. Wipe around the edge of the filter to remove any coffee grinds.
- Place the filter handle on the machine's brewing head. Position the handle so it points to the left, place the filter handle flat against the brewing head, then turn the handle towards the right as far as it can go.
- Place 1 or 2 pre-heated cups below the pouring spouts.
- When the Piccolo Espresso is at the correct temperature for preparing espresso the steam/espresso indicator light will illuminate green.
- To make an espresso, turn the operating dial to the espresso setting. Once the cups are filled to the desired level, turn the operating dial back to the stand-by position.
- Remove the filter handle and the filter by turning the filter handle to the left.
- To remove the used coffee grinds from the filter, simply turn the filter handle upside down and bang into a knock-bin.
Why is my seal broken and what should I do?
The brew head seal is located in the brewing head and creates a seal against the filter handle when making an espresso. When your Sunbeam Piccolo Espresso is not being used, it is recommend that you do not leave the filter handle attached to the machine as this will reduce the life of the seal. Over time this seal loses its elasticity and will require replacement – usually every 6-12 months. Signs that the seal is deteriorating are when: the filter handle rotates to the far right and feels loose, or steam escapes from around the brewing head during use.
To replace the brew head seal, contact the Sunbeam Customer Service Center on 1300 881 861.
Why can't water make it through the grinds and instead sprays out of the top squirting hot water all over?
When the grind is too fine and the grounds are packed too tightly together, it will be harder for the water to penetrate the coffee puck. This will result in an extraction that is too slow, hence bitter drinks. Adjust the grind setting and make the grinds coarser. Don't apply too much pressure when tamping.
It seems the water filters through the machine too quickly and it affects the taste of my coffee. What can I do?
If the grind is too coarse and the grounds have not been packed tightly together, water will pass through the coffee puck too quickly. Adjust the grind setting and make the grinds finer. Apply a firm pressure when tamping.
Latest Consumer Questions
Barbasked
I am having problems removing 2 cup filter from the group handle, which seems immovable. Is there a simple way to get it out to change to the 1 cup please?
3 answers
I use edge of spoon or knife end or skewer in the little devit. Yes it is tight but it gets a bit easier as time goes by. It has to be tight to stay in I think.
Thank you KJR. Have tried all those but it still won't budge!
Yeah, I had the same problem. I just fill 2 cup filter half full. I'd actually forgotten it had been a problem! I always use a double shot for my own coffee anyway. You could probably get a replacement from Sunbeam if it is an issue, but with postage it might end up costing you half the price you paid for the machine. How long have you had it? if it's only a couple of years you would probably be covered under Consumer Law for 'reasonable expectation of use' - this 12 month warranty garbage has no legal standing - it's designed to make you take exy additional warranties on purchases. It's basically a con and a complete waste of money. Case in point: my 2+ year old Samsung flat screen that started playing up - I dug my heels in and mentioned Consumer Affairs and HN footed the repair bill, or maybe Samsung did - but it wasn't me and that's all I cared about. It's just not worth their while getting into that stuff and it could make them look pretty bad.
Jasmine93asked
I purchased this machine not even 2 weeks ago, it has started leaking water all over my bench already and for some reason no matter what I do, won’t make a good cup of coffee. It just burns the coffee and makes it taste terrible. I’m a barista so definitely know it’s something with the machine. :( Anyone else have this problem?
2 answers
When does it leak specifically and where does the water come out? Is it simply that the tray is full?
It seems unlikely that a seal would already be faulty.
I take it that you have read the manual thoroughly.
I don't understand how hot water can burn your coffee, even boiling water in a cafetiere doesn't burn coffee, there must be some other issue. What sort of coffee do you use? is it pre-ground when you purchase it, because it's too old to produce a really good cup of coffee.
You at least need to grind your own. You need a fairly fine grind. There's heaps of stuff on the net about this. Once beans are roasted, they will begin to deteriorate pretty quickly. You don't know how long they've been sitting in container ship with wild fluctuations in temperature. Best to roast your own if you are prepared to.
Hope this helps, let me know how you get on.
Hi Robert,
It definitely seems to be leaking from the seal and does constantly, my bench is always wet. It’s definitely not from the tray being full, it’s emptied after every use. Being a barista I know to check these things :) I ended up getting the coffee bit sorted itself but it’s definitely leaking from the seal and unfortunately where I purchased no longer sell them to replace it
Anyaaasked
Hi, just bought the em2800 & despite having water filled to max, machine on with green light, handle inserted no water comes through. Any help appreciated.
Anyaa
Details
Category | Semi-Automatic and Manual Coffee Machines |
---|---|
Price (RRP) | $139.00 |
Pump Pressure | 15 bar |
Dishwasher Safe Parts | No |
Water Tank Capacity | 1.3 L |
Colour / Finish | Silver and Black |
Dimensions | 288 x 205 x 255 mm |
Weight | 4.75 kg |
Milk Frother | Steam Wand |
Manufacturer Warranty | 1 year(s) |
Release date | Nov 2011 |
Manual | Download manual |
Visit official website
- GTIN14: 09311445018514
- MPN: EM2800
ProductReview.com.au has affiliate partnerships. These do not influence our content moderation policies in any way, though ProductReview.com.au may earn commissions for products/services purchased via affiliate links.
Customer CareSunbeam
Hello Helen,
I am so sorry about the service you had received, I'd like to rectify that and find a solution you're happy with. Please send me a private message with your case number so I can see your case history and escalate a solution for you.