What to Look For in a Commercial Espresso Machine

When purchasing a commercial coffee machine, there are a variety of factors to take into account. The type of espresso machine right for your cafe will depend on the quantity and purpose of use and barista's skills.

Double boiler systems offer the capability to brew and steam simultaneously. This cuts down on the time to recuperate between pulls. Proportional-integral-derivative (PID) temperature control manages on/off cycles for optimal boiler temperatures.

Productivity

A commercial espresso machine is designed to handle a much higher volume of coffee brewing than a home espresso machine. The idea of allowing a home espresso machine to function in a professional setting could be a recipe for disaster.

A commercial coffee machine of good quality can serve up to 100 cups of coffee per hour at peak times. This can be an enormous help in busy offices, as it prevents employees from waiting around to get their coffee.

A coffee machine can also aid workers in bonding. In many cases, teams of workers make a habit of getting coffee each other, and this can encourage collaboration and teamwork in the workplace. A dedicated coffee gift set area can make new employees feel more at ease in their workplace and help break down barriers between them, the senior staff members, and other workers.

Commercial espresso machines are available in a variety of sizes to cater for different needs. Some models are completely automatic and others have the ability to pre-program espresso shots, so that operators do not have to guess the right size of each shot. This is particularly crucial for businesses that have untrained baristas, since inaccurate shots can drastically affect the strength and flavor of espresso that is brewed. It is also advisable to purchase commercial espresso machines that are made of ethically-sourced materials that support the communities in which coffee beans are cultivated. This will ensure that the product is of high quality and minimize the negative impact on the environment.

Safety

Espresso machines are massive, heavy pieces of equipment that can cost the same as a brand new compact car. They're also built to pump out a multitude of shots and drinks throughout the course of a day. Commercial espresso machines pose particular health and safety risks to employees due to their large volume.

Be aware that commercial espresso machines are more likely to make use of warm water. This could encourage the growth of bacteria. Machines that are poorly maintained and not descaled and cleaned regularly can build up spent espresso. This can cause it to turn rancid, and possibly cause illness if consumed by customers. A commercial espresso machine with a steam wands that are not sealed may allow bacteria to grow in the milk frothing process.

When choosing an espresso machine for commercial use, it's important to consider the kind of drinks you'll serve and the amount of cups per hour your space will be able to handle. You'll also want an espresso machine that has automated features, which make it faster and easier to serve your patrons their favorite coffee drinks. Additionally, look for a warranty that covers parts and labor to ensure that any technical issues can be addressed quickly and effectively.

Energy Efficiency

Commercial espresso machines require considerably more power than home models. This is because professional espresso machines are built with heavier frames and large capacity boilers to support the multiple group heads required for normal cafe production. These machines operate at a higher temperature and are generally located in indoor areas (such as in a cafe or restaurant) where the electronics could overheat.

The boiler of commercial espresso machines heats and holds pressurized water that is supplied by an electric pump. This water is used to brew and steam espresso. The boiler is comprised of multiple copper tubes heated by electric elements. When the brew sensor detects that the water level is at the desired level the solenoid valve will open and the boiler is filled with new water. The heating element is then turned off.

There are four types of espresso machines. They differ by the way they make steam or brew: TX (brewing-only), TX (twin-boilers), HX (double automatic), and DA (double automated). TB and TX machines provide stable brew temperatures, while DA provides rapid steaming with a single boiler. Many cafes are converting to HX machines since they have been shown to provide the best of both worlds, in terms of steam temperature and brew temperature.

Maintenance

Commercial espresso machines require regular maintenance, just like cars. They require maintenance in order to run smoothly and efficiently. If you make the effort to keep your machine in top condition, it will provide you a better tasting espresso and last longer.

Cleaning your espresso machine is an everyday ritual, coffee drinks but it's vital to clean certain parts on a greater scale. There will be a residue of coffee grounds and milk products in the machine, which can break down various components over time. Regular cleaning will keep your espresso machine in tip-top condition.

The majority of espresso machines in commercial use require descaling at least every 3 months. This is a process that requires a few more steps over regular cleaning, so it's best to go through your manual to ensure that you're adhering to the directions. Descaling involves a solution that dissolves the scale in the water tank. To do this you'll need to place a container under the steam wand or, in some models, beneath the coffee spouts. Follow the instructions for the model you have chosen.

A water filter change is another maintenance process. It's easy to overlook however it's important not to get mineral deposits. Examine for calcification. It can be difficult to remove, in the spray head.