Need help with repair decision

[jmorin]

Bought the Mini Vivaldi II form Chris' Coffee in 2010 for $2042. We had to send it back a couple years later - replaced the pump, some valves, etc. Then had more leaks and fixed lines and temperature sensor.

Now we need over $500 in parts (plus labor) to repair steam boiler, coffee boiler elements and solenoid valves.

My question, is it worth it? If the repair costs around $700, that's probably the value of the machine, right? Then how long will it last without costing more $$$?

Thanks for any experienced users who could add some thought to this dilemma.

Jim

[MDL]

First, all of my experience is with a Vivaldi II, not the mini.
Sounds to me like you got a lemon, or at least a machine with problems. Unless the mini is dramatically less reliable than the regular machine I would not have expected a series of major repairs over this time period.

Only you can decide what to do. $700 is much less than buying a new machine. On the other hand you may wish to wash your hands of this machine that has been problematic for you and move on to something else?

[jmorin]

Thanks for your note. The service guy said the expected lifetime is 2-15 years, which means nothing, really. So you see why it's a tough decision to throw another $700 at the machine, even though as you point out, it's a lot less than a new one.

[chas]

Most of the failures you've seen can be caused by hard water. Whether you buy a new machine or get the S1 fixed if you don't address your water problem, it'll just happen again. Have you tested your water hardness?

[jmorin]

Yes I know we have hard water. So I have faithfully changed the filter. Isn't that supposed to fix the hard water issue?

[jmorin]

Thanks for everyone's help.

FYI - decided to refurbish the machine by Chris' Coffee and will be selling it soon.

Bought a new Alex Duetto 3! And new Fiorenzato grinder. So far having a lot of fun with the new equipment but still re-learning how to steam milk.

[jmorin]

Oh, I should add, also bought a new Mavea softener and filtration system.