What to Look For in a Commercial Espresso Machine
There are a variety of factors to consider when purchasing an espresso machine for commercial use. The type of espresso machine that is suitable for your cafe will be determined by the quantity, the intended use, and the barista's skill.
A double boiler system gives the capability to brew and steam simultaneously. It also reduces the time between pulls. Proportional-integral-derivative (PID) temperature control manages on/off cycles for optimal boiler temperatures.
Productivity
A commercial espresso machine can handle a larger quantity of coffee than a home machine. Expecting a domestic espresso machine to work in a professional environment would be the recipe for disaster.
A commercial machine of the highest quality can serve up to 100 cups of coffee per hour during peak times. This can be a great help in busy offices, as it prevents employees from waiting around to get their coffee.
Having a coffee machine at work can allow workers to connect with one another. Teams of employees often are able to take turns ordering coffee for one another, which could promote collaboration and teamwork in the workplace. A dedicated space for coffee can also aid new employees in feeling at peace in the workplace, removing any barriers between them and the senior employees.
Commercial espresso machines are available in various sizes to suit a variety of needs. Certain models are completely automated, while others can prepare espresso shots beforehand so that operators don't have to guess the correct size of the shot. This is particularly important for companies with untrained baristas, since inaccurate shots can greatly impact the flavor and intensity of espresso brewed. It is also best to buy commercial espresso machines made from ethically sourced materials that help the communities in which coffee beans are harvested. This will ensure a top quality product and reduce the negative impact on the environment.
Safety
Espresso machines can cost as much as a small car. They are designed to make hundreds of shots and drinks in one day. Commercial espresso machines can present particular health and safety risks to staff due to their high volume.
It's important to keep in mind that a commercial espresso machine is likely to function with warm water, which could aid in the development of bacteria. A poorly maintained machine that isn't regularly cleaned or descaled can start to build up spent espresso, which may become rancid and cause sickness if consumed by customers. A commercial espresso machine with a steam wands that are not sealed may allow bacteria to flourish in the milk that is frothing.
When you are choosing a commercial espresso machine it's important to consider the kind of drinks you'll serve and the number of cups per hour your space can handle. You'll want to choose a machine with automation features that make it easier to serve your customers your favorite coffee beverage. Look for a warranty which includes both parts and labor. This will ensure that any technical issues are resolved quickly.
Energy Efficiency
Commercial espresso machines require significantly more power than home models. Professional espresso machines are more heavy and feature larger capacity boilers in order to support several group heads for normal cafe production. These machines operate at a higher temperature and are generally located in indoor areas (such as in a coffee shop or restaurant) where the electronic components may overheat.
espresso coffee machine of a commercial espresso machine heats and stores pressurized water that is supplied by an electric pump. The water is used to make steam and brew espresso. The boiler is made up of several copper tubes heated by electric elements. If the brew sensor detects that the water level has reached the target level the solenoid valve will open and fills the boiler with new water. The heating element is then shut off.
There are four variations of espresso machines that are distinguished by how they are able to steam and brew the water: TB (brewing only), TX (twin boilers) HX, TB, and DA (double automatic). TB and TX machines offer stable brew temperatures, while DA offers rapid steaming using the use of a single boiler. Many cafes are converting to HX machines since they have been shown to offer the best of both worlds in terms steam temperature and brew temperature.
Maintenance
Just like cars need routine tune-ups commercial espresso machines need maintenance to ensure that they function smoothly and efficiently. If you ensure that you keep your machine in good condition, it will give you better tasting coffee and last longer.
It's an everyday ritual to clean your espresso machine, however you should also be aware of the parts that require a deeper clean. There's bound to be leftovers from the coffee grounds and milk products inside the machine which could degrade various components over time. Regular cleaning will keep your espresso machine in tip-top condition.
Most commercial espresso machines need descaling every three months. This process requires some extra steps than regular cleaning, and you'll need to go through your manual to ensure that you're following the instructions. The solution used to clean the tank dissolves the scale. You'll require a container to complete this task. In certain units you may also require a container underneath the coffee spouts. Follow the directions specific to your model.
A water filter change is a further maintenance procedure. This is something that could easily be overlooked however it's essential to keep in mind so there isn't a build-up of mineral deposits. You'll also want to check for calcification in the spray head, which can be difficult to get rid of.