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Modernized for both style and function the Rocket Appartamento TCA is a smart heat exchanger espresso machine that delivers several key updates while preserving the essential DNA that defines a Rocket Espresso machine. TCA stands for “Temperature Control Adjustment” and refers to the new system of regulation that uses a variable pressurestat controller to adjust pressure and temperature inside the boiler. From the outside the TCA’s housing is an evolution of the iconic look with more streamlined panels that wrap around the machine, a Rocket logo pennant on the back and an angular E61 brew group.
The inclusion of variable pressure delivers the ability to toggle between one of four preset temperature settings (Low, Medium, High and Very High). Changing the temperature helps to extract coffees of different origins and roast levels and will also affect steaming pressure (between 0.9, 1, 1.1, and 1.2 bar) if you use the machine to froth milk multiple times a day.
To switch between the four different temperature modes, start by lifting the brew lever while the machine is off, then flipping the power switch while the lever is raised. You're now in programming mode. Each time you raise and lower the brew lever while in programming mode, the red LED indicator light will flash a number of times to indicate the current temperature setting:
1 flash: ~196F (low temperature)
2 flashes: ~200F (medium temperature)
3 flashes: ~203F (high temperature)
4 flashes:~ 208F (very high temperature)
While in programming mode, you can also turn on eco mode to power down to a low energy standby after 30 minutes.
As a heat exchanger espresso machine the Appartamento TCA is capable of brewing and steaming at the same time. Compared to the original Appartamento, the TCA’s brew temperature flexibility make it a better choice to satisfy a wider range of coffee preferences. The TCA also features an updated, coated copper boiler, which has a better resistance to tarnishing.
From the exterior Rocket has maintained the circular cutout panels that defined the original Appartamento while introducing several changes to streamline the design. The curved back panel now matches the contour of the feet while the new portafilter is monogrammed with the signature Rocket “R” on the chromed tip. The steam and hot water knobs have increased in size to show off more metal while E61 group features a new angular design unseen on other espresso machines. In a final touch the cup tray has been reimagined to do away with previous plastic cup railing and the back of the machine displays the word “Rocket” in a stripe down the center.
If you’re looking for an undeniably cool espresso machine that delivers barista quality espresso and frothed milk, the Appartamento TCA is an excellent choice. For those who enjoy coffee but aren’t looking to make a full time hobby out of it, this machine threads the needle well, offering just enough control for consistently good shots, but not enough to distract from the charm of the machine.
The namesake of the machine, the temperature control adjustment uses a multi-setting pressurestat and four preset temperatures that can be selected to best suit your preferences for espresso brewing and milk frothing. The LED light communicates the selected temperature when programming the machine.
Rocket is never one to be outdone when it comes to aesthetics. The Appartamento TCA proudly displays their signature “R” and “Rocket” logo in various places throughout the machine. Its updated housing and new portafilter are a welcome addition to the ensemble but only serve to enhance the iconic look.
At the heart of the Appartamento is a 1.8 liter copper boiler, equipped with a 1200 watt heating element. The steel design shows improved resistance to corrosion for longer life. Passive heat from the boiler also heats the removable cup warmer on the top of the Appartamento.
Keeping with Rocket’s commitment to producing espresso machines unmarred by excessive displays and digital interfaces, the Appartamento TCA uses the LED light to communicate with the barista via color with different colors indicating different operating modes such as programming, brew temperature, and more.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| SKU | RETCACOP |
| App Connectivity | No |
| Boiler Configuration | Heat Exchanger |
| Number of Boilers | 1 |
| Boiler Features | Brew & Steam Simultaneously |
| Brew Boiler Auto-Fill | Yes |
| Brew Boiler Heater Location | Internal |
| Brew Boiler Insulation | No |
| Brew Boiler Material | Copper |
| Brew Boiler Orientation | Vertical |
| Three-Way Valve | Manual |
| Back Flush Capable | Yes |
| Brew Group Material | Chrome Plated Brass |
| Brew Group Size (mm) | 58 mm |
| Brew Group Type | E61 (Custom) |
| Brew Boiler Wattage | 1350 |
| Recommended Application | Home / Residential |
| NSF Certified | No |
| Display Type | Indicator Lights |
| Controls and Additional Features | Power Light,Pressure Gauge(s) |
| Pressure Gauges | Steam Boiler |
| Type of Controls | Lever |
| Cup Warmer Material | Stainless Steel |
| Cup Warmer | Passively Heated |
| Drain Line Adaptable (Plumbable) | No |
| Drip Tray Cover Material | Stainless Steel |
| Drip Tray Material | Stainless Steel |
| Removable Drip Tray | Yes |
| Portafilter Baskets Included | Double,Single |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Housing Color | Copper |
| Housing Material | Stainless Steel |
| Recommended Descaler Type | Durgol Swiss Espresso Descaler |
| Depth (Inches) | 17.63 |
| Height (Inches) | 14.1 |
| Weight (Lbs) | 48.5 |
| Width (Inches) | 10.63 |
| Bottomless Portafilter Available | Yes |
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Filter Diameter (mm) | 58 mm |
| Portafilter Handle Material | Plastic |
| Portafilter Material | Chrome Plated Brass |
| Number of Portafilters Included | 2 |
| Ground, E.S.E., Pod and Capsule Compatibility | Ground Coffee |
| Portafilter Type | Commercial Style |
| Portafilter Weight (lbs) | 2 lbs |
| Portafilter Diameter | 58 mm |
| Adjustable Brew Pressure | Yes |
| Pump Type | Vibration |
| Warranty Service Provider Email | support@wholelattelove.com |
| Warranty Service Provider | Whole Latte Love |
| Warranty Service Provider Phone Number | 888-411-5282 |
| Manufacturers Warranty Period | 3-Year Parts and Labor Warranty |
| Amps | 10 A |
| Volt | 110V-120V (US) |
| Watts | 1350 Watt |
| Power Cord Length (inches) | 60 in |
| Power Cord Storage | No |
| Steam Boiler Auto-Fill | Yes |
| Steam Boiler Heater Location | Internal |
| Steam Boiler Insulation | No |
| Steam Boiler Orientation | Vertical |
| Steam Boiler Volume (Oz) | 60 fl-oz |
| Steam Boiler Vacuum Relief Valve | Yes |
| Steam Boiler Wattage | 1300 Watt |
| Steam Wand Features | No-Burn,Swappable Steam Tips |
| Steam Tip Hole Count | 2 |
| Steam Wand Material | Stainless Steel |
| Steam Wand Movement Type | Fully Articulated |
| Steam Wand | Commercial |
| Water Reservoir Access Location | Top |
| Water Reservoir Capacity | 84.53 fl-oz |
| Water Reservoir Features | Removable |
| Water Reservoir Material | Plastic |
| Water Filter Included | No |
| Water Source | Built-In Reservoir |
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