Slayer STEAM EP User manual

SLAYER STEAM EP USER MANUAL V1.1 | SEPTEMBER 11, 2018 1
USER MANUAL
VERSION 1.1
SEPTEMBER 2018

SLAYER STEAM EP USER MANUAL V1.1 | SEPTEMBER 11, 2018 2
COPYRIGHT INFORMATION
Copyright © 2018, 2016 by Seattle Espresso Machine Corporation
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced,
distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior
written permission of the publisher, except in the case of noncommercial
uses permitted by copyright law. For permission requests, contact the
publisher.
Seattle Espresso Machine Corporation
6133 6th Avenue South
Seattle, Washington, USA 98108
SLAYERESPRESSO.COM
TERMS & CONDITIONS
Slayer makes no representations or warranties with respect to the
contents of this publication. Information contained herein is subject to
change without notice. Every precaution has been taken in the preparation
of this manual; nevertheless, Slayer assumes no responsibility for errors or
omissions or any damages resulting from the use of this information.
Read this manual completely before installing and operating your Slayer
espresso machine. Incorrect installation and operation may result in
damage to the equipment, personal injury, or even death. Disregarding
the instructions contained herein indemnifies Slayer from all resulting
damages and may void the equipment warranty.
For additional safety precautions, see the safety advisory on page 7.

SLAYER STEAM EP USER MANUAL V1.1 | SEPTEMBER 11, 2018 3
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Slayer Steam EP 1
Copyright Information 2
Table of Contents 3
Welcome 4
Resources 5
Warranty Information 6
Safety Advisory 7
Water Treatment Requirements 8
Recommended Tools & Accessories 9
Installation 10
PREPARATION & SETUP
Step 1: Prepare Site 11
Step 2: Unpack Equipment 12
Step 3: Connect Plumbing 13
Step 4: Connect Power 14
Step 5: Fill Tanks 15
Step 6: Turn On Elements 16
I’M READY, LET’S BREW THIS!
Using Slayer Steam EP 17
Espresso Basics 18
Factory Settings 21
The Barista Dashboard™ 22
Prepare Espresso 28
Steam Milk 29
Use Hot Water Tap 31
Advanced Menu 32
Adjust Brew Pump Pressure 37
Adjust Shot Volumes 37
Adjust Brew Tank Temperatures 38
Adjust Steam Tank Pressure 38
Adjust Hot Water Dose 39
Adjust Hot Water Temperature 39
Other Menu Actions 40
CLEANING & PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE 41
Clean the Machine Exterior 42
Clean the Steam Wands 42
General Group Head Care 42
Backflush the Group Head 43
Fast Clean 45
PARTS DIAGRAMS 46

SLAYER STEAM EP USER MANUAL V1.1 | SEPTEMBER 11, 2018 4
WELCOME
Established in 1997 the Slayer story
catalog of hand crafted machines
continues to grow and meet the
demands of Slayer users. One of
three machines in the new Steam
Box Set, Steam EP celebrates what
you have come to love in Slayer,
exceptional design, durability and
consistent results for high volume
cafes. When the details matter,
this practical, essential rich model
is a barflow dream. Professional
features that streamline beverage
production creating consistency and
fluid movement behind a beautifully
crafted espresso machine.
Jason Prefontaine founded Slayer when he had an idea for revolutionizing
espresso, but that was just the beginning. The Steam series is the result of
his continued commitment to Make Coee Better™. Expanding the Slayer
portfolio of professional equipment, we now turn to the milk-dominated
world of high-volume coee business with the same inventive approach
that we first took to espresso.
Slayer Steam EP highlights the ease of use in push button volumetric
actuation and a mission to give the owner a total value in form and
function. Staying true to our mission Slayer realized it’s potential to design
the most intuitive, volumetric machine including special product specific
features in programmable pre-wetting to prevent excessive channeling.
The barista dance is elegant, flows eectively bringing “fun” back to the
workflow.
Research and Development is led by Jason Prefontaine and his talented
engineers, design by, Chris Flechtner, influenced by the Customer
Success team. Steam is the result of a creative collaboration between this
dedicated group and many talented friends in the industry. When industry
professionals talk, Slayer listens with our most powerful tool being the
advise of professional baristas, coee people and technicians.

SLAYER STEAM EP USER MANUAL V1.1 | SEPTEMBER 11, 2018 5
RESOURCES
For quick installation, see the QUICK START GUIDE that was included
with your machine upon delivery located in the clear packing envelope
taped on the lid of your crate. For everything else, contact your authorized
Slayer reseller or the appropriate party listed below.
NOTE FROM OUR CUSTOMER SUCCESS DIRECTOR,
SARAH DOOLEY:
IMPORTANT! TO OPEN YOUR CRATE please take thirty short seconds of
your life to watch our uncrating video in the link below or follow the steps
in the one page illustration attached to the machine. Grab your drill, as
you are eight screws away from unlocking this beauty. RESIST the desire
to take a crowbar to the top of the crate and give us a little more credit
friends, we’d never make it that hard to open the box.
SALES
[e-mail]
[phone] EXT. 2
TECHNICAL SUPPORT & PARTS
[e-mail]
[phone] EXT. 3
MARKETING
[e-mail]
[phone] EXT. 6
ORDERS SUPPORT & COMMUNICATIONS
[e-mail]
[phone] EXT. 2
TRAINING & EDUCATION
[e-mail]
[phone] EXT. 5006
SHIPPING
[e-mail]
[phone] EXT. 4
STOP

SLAYER STEAM EP USER MANUAL V1.1 | SEPTEMBER 11, 2018 6
WARRANTY INFORMATION
Slayer provides a 15-month (fifteen month) warranty on all equipment and
parts, beginning at the date of shipment from the Seattle headquarters. All
equipment and parts are warranted to be free from defect in material or
workmanship. Unless otherwise specified in writing, this warranty covers
materials only (e.g. equipment, parts) and excludes labor, shipping, and
any other costs.
This warranty does not cover accidental damage to equipment, abuse of
equipment, or improper use of equipment. “Improper use” includes, but is
not limited to, the operation of a machine with inadequately treated water
and/or the operation of a machine with inadequate water supply. Any
and all damage resulting from inadequate water treatment is expressly
excluded from the coverage of this warranty. Read “Water Treatment
Requirements” on page #8 for information about water-related issues.
Damage resulting from improper installation of equipment is expressly
excluded from this warranty.
Warranty coverage does not include parts that are subject to normal wear
and tear, as determined by Slayer. These include, but are not limited to,
shower screens, portafilter gaskets, expansion or anti-suction valves, and
Preventative Maintenance parts. Warranty coverage excludes glass or
plastic parts.
This warranty will immediately expire if you or a third party performs
faulty maintenance, excessive use, or neglect of necessary service. This
will include any instances in which, following the occurrence of a defect,
you fail to immediately take all suitable measures to limit damage to the
equipment and/or fail to provide Slayer with an opportunity to remedy the
defect.
Slayer’s sole responsibility and liability under the warranty set forth herein
is limited to, in Slayer’s sole discretion, repair or replacement of defective
parts. Unless otherwise specified in writing, this excludes labor, shipping,
and any other costs.
To the fullest extent permitted by applicable Washington State (USA)
laws, Slayer’s warranty set forth herein is limited to the original purchaser
of the equipment. Slayer does not, directly or indirectly, oer any warranty
to any other person, unless otherwise agreed in writing.
Except as expressly provided herein, all goods are provided to you as
they are. Slayer disclaims all representations and warranties, whether
expressed or implied, including warranties of title, non-infringement,
merchantability, and fitness for a particular purpose.
Warranty claims must be authorized by a Slayer Support representative
prior to repair or remedial action.

SLAYER STEAM EP USER MANUAL V1.1 | SEPTEMBER 11, 2018 7
SAFETY ADVISORY
This guide includes important instructions about safe espresso machine
installation, operation, and maintenance. Read this manual completely
before installing and operating your Slayer espresso machine. Incorrect
installation and operation may result in damage to the equipment,
personal injury, or even death. Disregarding the instructions contained
herein indemnifies Slayer from all resulting damages and may void the
machine’s warranty.
Shipping is coordinated by the customer and performed by a third party.
Slayer is not responsible for damage incurred during transport. Upon
receiving your machine, carefully inspect all packaging, equipment,
and accessories for visible damage. Photograph any visible damage to
the crate or espresso machine and immediately contact your shipping
company representative within seven days of receipt. Comply with
shipping company regulations. Do not connect your machine to power,
water, or drainage until all issues have been resolved or your Slayer
representative or reseller instructs you to do so. Failure to resolve issues
before using equipment may result in further damage or injury.
Installation should be performed by qualified personnel only and must
comply with all regulations and requirements of the authorities in your
area. If guidance is needed to safely install your machine, contact your
Slayer representative or reseller.
It is critical that an appropriately-rated and grounded electrical plug is
used to supply your machine with power. This is essential for the safe
operation and use of the equipment. Contact your Slayer representative
or reseller with questions about this requirement. If you are unsure about
the safety of the electrical configuration, do not attempt to install your
machine.
Your Slayer espresso machine should only be used for the functions it
was designed to perform. Using your machine outside of its defined
functionality – as it is described in the “Using Slayer” section on page
#17 of this guide – may be a safety hazard, resulting in property damage,
physical injury, or even death, and will immediately void the warranty.
Slayer espresso machines are electrical appliances that should be used in
a safe manner appropriate to devices of their kind:
• Do not connect your Slayer espresso machine to electrical power
through an extension cord. The machine must be directly connected
to an appropriately - rated and grounded power source.
• Do not position the power cord in walkways or other high-trac areas.
• Slayer espresso machines are designed to be used indoors. When
using your machine outdoors, take precautionary measures to protect
it from moisture, humidity, and other natural elements.
• Before performing service on your machine, disconnect the
power source.

SLAYER STEAM EP USER MANUAL V1.1 | SEPTEMBER 11, 2018 8
WATER TREATMENT REQUIREMENTS
Improper water treatment is the most frequent cause of espresso machine
damage. Water is complex and varies significantly between regions, so
take great care to test the water quality at your location and adjust as
necessary. Employ professional help to evaluate your water and administer
treatments.
When evaluating water quality, the two most important factors to
consider are calcium carbonate and chloride:
Calcium Carbonate: a dissolved mineral that determines the “hardness”
or “softness” of water. The desirable range of hardness is 4-5 grains.
Over time, calcium carbonate accumulates as a hard substance, called
“scale”, and will inhibit the flow of water. Machines subjected to “harder”
water (greater than 5 grains) will accumulate scale faster and require
maintenance earlier.
Chloride: chlorine combined with an electron from a negatively charged
ion. There are many types of chlorides, including calcium chloride,
magnesium chloride, sodium chloride, etc. Chlorides produce salts that
impart a strong taste, which alters the flavor of the espresso. Chlorides
also encourage pitting corrosion, which causes damage to the machine.
Your water filtration company will create a treatment plan based on
your water needs. Choose a filtration company that has solutions for
addressing issues related to both calcium carbonate and chloride.
Common treatment options include Carbon Filtration, Ion Exchange, and
Reverse Osmosis:
Carbon Filtration: a process by which water passes through the granular
activated carbon, which attracts and retains many chemicals in the water
that have an unpleasant color, taste or odor. Carbon filtration is necessary
for all machines. For water with 4-5 grains of hardness, carbon filtration is
likely the only necessary water treatment.
Ion Exchange: a process by which water passes through an ion exchange
system, where undesirable mineral components are retained and more
desirable substances such as sodium are released. An ion exchange
system should be used in combination with a carbon filtration system and
is especially beneficial for water in the range of 6-9 grains of hardness.
This system is relatively inexpensive and eective in removing inorganic
substances. It does not, however, remove organic substances, such as
bacteria.
Reverse Osmosis with a Blend-Back Valve (or Remineralized RO): a
process by which water is forced through a semipermeable membrane
with selective pore sizes at high pressure, then blended with the
appropriate amount of desired minerals. Reverse osmosis may be a good
solution for water in the range of 6-9 grains of hardness and is mandatory
for water above 9 grains. When blending minerals with the filtered water,
target a TDS (total dissolved solids) value of of 75-125 ppm. Experiment
with various TDS levels to determine what produces your preferred taste.
All Slayer espresso machines need to be connected to a carbon water
filter to remove chlorine, sediments, odor, and undesirable tastes. This
requirement is in addition to any other necessary water filtration systems.
Filtration requirements may vary seasonally. Water should be tested
during each season to determine the best filtration plan. Once a filtration
method has been selected, take note of the filter’s peak capabilities.
Replacement of filtration is based on volume and varying levels of
hardness. Contact the filtration provider or vendor to inquire about the
life expectancy of the filters, then schedule replacement and installation
accordingly.
IMPORTANT: Every time a new water filter is installed, thoroughly
rinse the filter before attaching it to your machine or pump. Run water
from the supply line through the filter and down a drain for at least 2
minutes, fully washing the filter and the residue or loose fibers in the
filter cartridge. Skipping this step will cause damage to your machine.
Damage to or failure of your machine due to inadequately treated water
is not covered under warranty.

SLAYER STEAM EP USER MANUAL V1.1 | SEPTEMBER 11, 2018 9
RECOMMENDED TOOLS & ACCESSORIES
BEVERAGE PREPARATION
• Espresso grinder
• Scale (must measure in 0.1-gram increments)
• Tamper (must have a 58-58.4 millimeter base diameter)
• Shot glasses
• Steaming pitcher
• Soft towels
EQUIPMENT CARE & MAINTENANCE
• Allen keys (Metric and SAE)
• Crescent wrench
• Flat-head screwdriver
• Group head brush
• Needle-nose pliers
• #2 Phillips-head screwdriver
• Pick or awl
• Pliers
• 9/16 inch socket wrench
• Adjustable wrench
• Slayer Espresso Machine Cleaner
• Steam wand cleaner
• Non-abrasive surface cleaner
• Slayer Lubricant
• Teflon tape

SLAYER STEAM EP USER MANUAL V1.1 | SEPTEMBER 11, 2018 10
INSTALLATION
Only qualified service personnel should install Slayer espresso machines.
For a list of certified Slayer technicians near you please contact our
support department. Incorrect installation may result in injury and/or
damage to the equipment. Please read the “Safety Advisory” on page #7
before beginning installation.
Install your Slayer espresso machine with the following ordered steps:
Step 1: Prepare Site 11
Step 2: Unpack Equipment 12
Step 3: Connect Plumbing 13
Step 4: Connect Power 14
Step 5: Fill Tanks 15
Step 6: Turn On Elements 16

SLAYER STEAM EP USER MANUAL V1.1 | SEPTEMBER 11, 2018 11
STEP 1: PREPARE SITE
Your installation site will require access to power, water, and drainage.
Building regulations vary by region, so confirm local requirements before
connecting your machine.
Using quality, treated water is essential to achieving the best possible
results when preparing coee and may also extend the life of your
machine. Read “Water Treatment Requirements” on page #8 for
information about avoiding and addressing water-related issues.
Your Slayer Steam machine needs to be installed on a structure that is
capable of supporting its weight, including the weight of the water, once
filled:
SLAYER STEAM WITH ALL TANKS FILLED
2-group 100 kilograms (220 pounds)
3-group 140 kilograms (305 pounds)
Use the following diagrams to locate and drill holes in the counter for the
power cords and plumbing lines. Note that electrical plugs vary in size and
a larger hole may be required to accommodate the main power cord.
Optional: prepare two (2) or more identical block risers, each with a
maximum height of 15 centimeters (6 inches) and capable of supporting
140 kilograms (305 pounds). The risers should be designed to elevate
the machine approximately 15 centimeters (6 inches) above the counter
without touching the drain tray or wing legs. Position the risers on the
prepared counter, according to the following diagrams.
35 in / 89 cm
Drip tray edge
3.25 in /
8.5 cm
Ø3 in / 7.5 cm
28 in / 71 cm
13.75 in / 35 cm
44.5 in / 113 cm
Drip tray edge
3.25 in /
8.5 cm
Ø 3 in / 7.5 cm
28 in / 71 cm
13.75 in / 35 cm
2-GROUP
3-GROUP
BLOCK RISER POSITION

SLAYER STEAM EP USER MANUAL V1.1 | SEPTEMBER 11, 2018 12
STEP 2: UNPACK EQUIPMENT
Your Slayer Steam EP machine will arrive in a lidded wooden crate, bolted
to a pallet at the base. On the outside of the crate, a Steam EP Quick Start
Guide showcases the crate opening procedure with simple illustrations.
Once the crate is opened, resting atop the machine you will find the
accessory box. Unpack with the following steps. At least three (3) able-
bodied people will be needed to lift your machine from the pallet.
DO NOT USE A CROWBAR TO SEPARATE THE CRATE BOX LID FROM
THE BODY. We have made it much easier to open by removing eight wood
screws from the bottom corners. Please reference the Quick Start Guide.
INCLUDED PARTS
• Four (4) rubber feet
REQUIRED TOOLS & SUPPLIES
• #2 Phillips-head screwdriver
• Knife or box cutter
• 9/16-inch socket wrench
• Optional: two (2) or more identical block risers with a maximum
height of 15 centimeters (6 inches), capable of supporting 305 pounds
(140 kilograms)
PROCEDURE
1. Use a Phillips-head screwdriver OR a drill to loosen and remove the
eight (8) screws found along the lower edge of the crate, two (2) at
each corner, then lift the crate from the pallet.
2. Remove the plastic sheet from the machine and identify all crate
contents:
• Slayer Steam espresso machine
• Attached power cords (2), plumbing lines (2), and drain hoses (2)
• External rotary pump
• Accessories box
3. Set aside the accessories box.
4. Locate the two (2) bolts and two (2) nuts that secure the pump to the
pallet, then use a wrench to loosen and remove the nuts; set aside the
pump.
5. Use a knife or box cutter to remove the banding from the machine
body. To protect the machine during installation, keep all other
packing material in place.
6. Locate the four (4) bolts that are threaded into the two (2) wing legs,
then use a 14mm (9/16-inch) socket wrench to loosen and remove all
bolts.
7. Locate the four (4) rubber feet inside of the accessories box and
install them on the wing legs. These feet prevent machine slippage
and countertop scratches Later, adjust the feet individually to level the
machine
PROTIP: Place the rubber feet on the Steam prior to lifting to your
counter top for final placement.
8. Employ the assistance of at least three people to lift the machine up
and away from the crate base, minding the attached cords, lines, and
hose.
Lift only from the chassis (identified in the image below); do not
handle the drain tray, cup rail, or any part of the wing legs. To
protect yourself during this step, wear thick gloves or drape a
small towel over each wrist and forearm.
9. Suspend the machine with the wing channels located directly above
the prepared counter holes. If using risers, lower the machine onto
the risers. The risers should support the chassis without touching the
drain tray.
10. Remove the packing material from the attached cords, lines, and
hoses, then run them through the wing channels and counter holes.
11. Lower the machine into the prepared position and remove all packing
material.
12. Lift to remove the four (4) cup tray panels; set aside.

SLAYER STEAM EP USER MANUAL V1.1 | SEPTEMBER 11, 2018 13
STEP 3: CONNECT PLUMBING
Your Slayer Steam EP machine will arrive with two (2) plumbing lines
and two (2) drain hoses attached. One (1) additional plumbing line will
arrive inside of the accessories box. A water treatment system is required,
but not included. Read “Water Treatment Requirements” on page #8 for
information about avoiding and addressing water-related issues.
INCLUDED PARTS
• Two (2) drain hoses with an inside diameter of 5/8 inch (16
millimeters)
• One (1) 30 inch 3/8 inch by 3/8 inch BSP braided hose (in North
America, includes 3/8-inch adapter for compression fitting)
• Two (2) 60 inch 3/8 inch by 3/8 inch BSP braided hoses, color-coded
• External rotary pump
REQUIRED TOOLS & SUPPLIES
• Water treatment system (see page #8 for recommendations)
• Adjustable wrench
PROCEDURE
1. Install your water treatment system according to the instructions
provided by the manufacturer, then turn o the main water supply.
Before use, all treatment systems should be flushed with water for
at least two (2) minutes.
2. Ensure that the machine is in position, with all cords, lines, and hoses
running through the wing channels and counter holes (per previous
steps).
3. Run the two (2) drain hoses to an open gravity drain, ensuring that
the lines always slope downwards to ensure constant draining of grey
water.
4. Locate the 30 inch by 3/8 inch braided hose inside of the accessories
box and use it to connect the water treatment system to the external
rotary pump, tightening with a wrench.
5. Locate the two (2) color-coded braided hoses, attached to the
machine, and the color-coded connections on the pump.
6. Connect each hose to its color-matched connection on the pump,
tightening with a wrench.
Do not turn on the main water supply.
Water
filter
Water
line in
Drain
hoses
3/8-inch water line
connects to water system
with shuto valve

SLAYER STEAM EP USER MANUAL V1.1 | SEPTEMBER 11, 2018 14
STEP 4: CONNECT POWER
Your Slayer Steam machine will ship with the power configuration
requested at the time of purchase. In most cases, this will include a plug
end on the power cord. If your machine does not include a plug, do not
attempt to wire it yourself. Only an electrician or approved technician
should wire the power cord into an appropriately-rated plug end.
INCLUDED PARTS
• External rotary pump and motor
PROCEDURE
1. Ensure that both steam actuators are in the “o” position and the
drain hoses and water lines are connected (per previous steps).
2. Insert the main power plug into an appropriately-rated and grounded
receptacle
3. Locate the quick connect plug, found on one of the electrical cords
that extends from your machine, and insert it into the matching plug
unit on the pump motor.
Do not move the steam actuators to the “on” position. Do not turn
on the main water supply.
NOTE: UL machines ship capped with a plug end, CE machines DO NOT.
Purge
O
A

SLAYER STEAM EP USER MANUAL V1.1 | SEPTEMBER 11, 2018 15
STEP 5: FILL TANKS
PROCEDURE
1. Ensure that both steam actuators are in the “O” position, the drain
hoses and water lines are connected, and the cup tray panels have
been removed.
2. Turn on the main water supply.
3. Check the inside of the machine for leaks or collected water.
4. Turn on the power to your machine by pressing the power switch; the
steam tank will begin to fill.
Filling will take 1-2 minutes and is complete when the pump motor
ceases to work and a “click” is heard.
5. Wait until the steam tank has filled completely, then fill the group
heads by pressing the brew activation button “on” until water begins
to flow.
Factory settings for the volumetrics are set (reference Factory
Settings on page #20). A double press (within two seconds) on
brew button 1 is factory preset for Manual extraction.
6. Press the button again to stop the flow of water through the group.
Do not move the steam actuators to the “on” position. Do not
engage the white heating element breaker.
BREAKER ROCKER

SLAYER STEAM EP USER MANUAL V1.1 | SEPTEMBER 11, 2018 16
STEP 6: TURN ON ELEMENTS
PROCEDURE
1. Ensure that all brew activation buttons are “OFF” (not lit or blinking),
the cup tray panels have been removed, and the tanks have filled
completely (per previous steps)
2. Turn on the heating elements by moving the heating element breaker
left, to the “on” position.
Do not move the steam actuators to the “on” position as the
machine will automatically cycle the valves during initial heat up.
3. Wait until the machine has heated fully and the pressure reads 1+
bars on the Barista Dashboard, then move one of the steam actuators
down, to the “On” position. If steam is produced, proceed to the next
step. If no steam is produced, turn the main power On and O; wait
several minutes before repeating this step.
4. Check the inside of the machine for leaks or collected water.
The anti-suction valve on the steam tank may sputter and
release small drops of water when first building pressure. During
your inspection, check for large pools or steady streams of
water.
5. Install the four (4) cup tray panels.

SLAYER STEAM EP USER MANUAL V1.1 | SEPTEMBER 11, 2018 17
Using Slayer Steam
Your new machine features sophisticated technologies that are designed
to improve numerous aspects of coee beverage production. These
innovations will promote eciency, accuracy, and comfort on every bar
where Slayer Steam EP is found. Whether this is your first espresso machine
or the latest in a long career, our instructions should serve as a helpful
baseline for getting the most out of Steam EP.
We can’t wait to see what you do with it.
CONTENTS
Espresso Basics 18
Slayer Steam EP Factory Settings 21
The Barista Dashboard™ 22
Prepare Espresso 28
Steam Milk 29
Adjust Brew Pump Pressure 30
Adjust Hot Water Temperature 30
Use Hot Water Tap 31
Advanced Menu: Password Protected Option 32
Adjust Shot Volumes 37
Adjust Brew Tank Temperature 38
Adjust Steam Tank Pressure 38
Adjust Hot Water Dose 39
Other Menu Options 40

SLAYER STEAM EP USER MANUAL V1.1 | SEPTEMBER 11, 2018 18
ESPRESSO BASICS
Coee “beans” are the seeds from berry-like fruits that grow on shrubs in
equatorial regions. After picking and processing, the beans are roasted,
ground, and dissolved in water to yield a coee beverage.
Brewing espresso is a unique method of coee extraction in which water is
added to ground coee under intense pressure. As a result, the beverage,
when compared to filter coee (e.g. pour-over, immersion), contains a
higher concentration of dissolved coee, feels heavier in the mouth, and
asserts stronger flavor.
The espresso machine is the preferred equipment for preparing espresso.
Therein, coee is secured, water is heated, pressure is applied, filtration
occurs, and the beverage is dispensed. The entire process takes less than
one (1) minute.
Many variables aect espresso extraction and therefore require the
attention of the barista. Consider the following generalizations and
guidelines when preparing espresso.
COFFEE ORIGIN
Coee plants are cultivated around the world in equatorial regions that
have varying climates and growing conditions. Every location – country,
locale, farm, and lot – produces coee with distinct characteristics that
contribute to discernible dierences in beverage flavor. Slayer Steam is
well-suited for preparing coee from any single origin, as well as blends of
coees from varying origins.
PLANT VARIETY
Like other fruits (e.g. apples, oranges), coee beans may come from
one of many varieties of the same plant. Common varieties include
Typica, Bourbon, Heirloom, and Caturra, among others. Every variety
produces coee with distinct characteristics that contribute to discernible
dierences in beverage flavor.
PROCESSING METHOD
There are many unique processes by which coee seeds may be separated
from the fruit containing them. Every process produces coee with distinct
characteristics that contribute to discernible dierences in beverage flavor.
Note these examples:
• “Washed” process: increased acidity, enhanced flavor clarity,
clean body
• “Natural” process: fruit-forward flavor, full body
• “Pulped natural”, “semi-washed”, and “honey” processes: borrowed
characteristics from washed and natural processes
GREEN COFFEE FRESHNESS
After it has been picked and processed, green (i.e. un-roasted) coee has
a considerable shelf life. However, the potential quality of coee beverages
deteriorates with the age of the green coee. For best results, buy roasted
coee from a trustworthy supplier that guarantees the freshness of its
green coee.
ROAST PROFILE
Roasting makes the dense, green coee bean porous and soluble and is
the first step in preparing coee for extraction. Coee may be roasted
to varying degrees by a variety of technologies, each producing coee
with distinct characteristics that contribute to discernible dierences in
beverage flavor.
Generally, the flavor of espresso prepared from light-roasted coee
will more closely resemble the characteristics of its origin, variety, and
processing method (e.g. “bright”, “fruity”, etc.). Conversely, the flavor of
espresso prepared from dark-roasted coee will more closely resemble
the characteristics of caramel, dark chocolate and nutty flavors. In some
instances the dark roasting process will take a coee too far into the roast
yielding over developed flavors. (e.g. “smoky”).
ROASTED COFFEE FRESHNESS
After roasting, coee beans are increasingly vulnerable to deterioration.
Preserve freshness by storing in a sealed container in a cool, dark area.
Ideally, use a container that allows the outward flow of gas, which coee
releases as it ages, but prevents the inward flow of oxygen. Espresso is
Generally most flavorful when prepared with coee that has “rested” for
at least two (2) days after roasting but has not exceeded three (3) weeks.
These guidelines are especially important for dark- roasted coee, which
deteriorates faster than light-roasted coee.
GROUND PARTICLE SIZE
Preparing espresso requires finely-ground coee and a professional
grinder. When setting up your grinder, target a setting that achieves the
recommended beverage yield with the recommended dose weight in
the recommended brew time. Continue reading for recommendations

SLAYER STEAM EP USER MANUAL V1.1 | SEPTEMBER 11, 2018 19
regarding these brewing parameters. Adjust grind as necessary, noting
these rules:
Finer grind setting (smaller particles):
• Longer extraction time
• Enhanced body
• Reduced clarity
Recommended when espresso tastes sour, feels thin, extracts
quickly, or has no crema.
Coarser grind setting (larger particles):
• Shorter extraction time
• Reduced body
• Enhanced clarity
Recommended when espresso tastes bitter, feels muddy, or
extracts slowly.
DOSE WEIGHT
Dose weight refers to the amount of ground coee used for a serving of
espresso. When considered alongside the beverage yield, dose weight is
part of the brew ratio, which correlates with the perceived strength of the
espresso and influences the extraction process. Slayer recommends using
a scale to measure 18-21 grams of ground coee per espresso serving.
Begin with 18 grams, then adjust dose weight as necessary, noting these
rules:
Larger coee dose (more weight):
• Increased flavor intensity
• Longer extraction time
Recommended when espresso tastes sour, feels thin, extracts
quickly, or has no crema.
Smaller coee dose (less weight):
• Decreased flavor intensity
• Shorter extraction time
Recommended when espresso tastes bitter, feels muddy, or
extracts slowly.
For larger doses, please contact Slayer regarding details on larger
baskets for you how like to brew.
BED DEPTH
Distribution and tamping ground coee is essential to forming a puck
through which water will evenly flow. Use logic when dosing and
distributing to create an even pre- tamp bed. Instead of tamping to a
specific pressure (e.g., 30 pounds), Slayer recommends tamping to a
specific depth in order to achieve the adequate headspace between the
coee puck and the shower screen. To ensure consistent results, target
a tamp depth that levels the top of the tamper piston with the top of the
portafilter basket (approximately 1 centimeter).
WATER TEMPERATURE
At the factory, the brew tank temperature is set to 93° C (200° F). Coee
is best brewed with water heated to 92-95° C (195-205° F).
If you do not know which temperature to set your machine at begin with
the factory setting, then adjust the temperature as necessary, noting these
rules:
Higher temperature:
• Increased extraction rate
• Enhanced acidity
Recommended when espresso tastes sour.
Lower temperature:
• Decreased extraction rate
• Reduced acidity
Recommended when espresso tastes bitter.
To adjust the brew temperature, see instructions under Using Slayer >
Adjust Brew Temperature on page #38.
WATER PRESSURE
At the factory, the brew pump pressure is set to 9 bar. Generally, espresso
is best brewed with water pressurized to 6-10 bar. More dense coees
(such as those grown at a higher elevation, processed with the “washed”
method, and/or roasted light) may endure higher pressure, while less
dense coees (such as those grown at a lower elevation, processed with
the “natural” method, and/or roasted medium- to-dark) prefer lower
pressure.
To adjust the brew pump pressure, see instructions under “Using Slayer
> Adjust Brew Pump Pressure” on page #37.

SLAYER STEAM EP USER MANUAL V1.1 | SEPTEMBER 11, 2018 20
BEVERAGE YIELD
Beverage yield refers to the weight or volume of a serving of espresso.
When considered alongside the dose weight, beverage yield is part
of the recipe often referred to as the brew ratio, which correlates with
the perceived strength of the espresso (sweetness, acidity, body) and
influences the extraction process. No one knows your coee better
than your roaster and in some cases you are still the best maestro for
conducting great cup experiences. As a baseline Slayer recommends using
a scale or graduated shot glasses to measure 25-40 grams or 1.0-1.5 fluid
ounces of espresso per serving. Begin with 35 grams or 1.25 fluid ounces,
then adjust beverage yield as necessary, noting these rules:
Larger yield (more weight or volume):
• Decreased flavor intensity
• Longer extraction time
Recommended when espresso lacks clarity.
Smaller yield (less weight or volume):
• Increased flavor intensity
• Longer extraction time
Recommended when espresso lacks body.
BREW TIME
Brew time refers to the total duration of extraction. Begin with 25 seconds,
then adjust brew time as necessary, noting these rules:
Longer brew time:
• Higher extraction yield
Recommended when espresso tastes sour.
Shorter brew time:
• Lower extraction yield
Recommended when espresso tastes bitter.