What to Look For in a Commercial Espresso Machine
There are a variety of things to consider when purchasing a commercial espresso machine. The volume of your cafe, the intended service use and barista knowledge will determine which espresso machine is ideal for your business.
A double boiler system allows you to steam while brewing. It also decreases 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. A home espresso machine will not work in a professional setting.
A commercial coffee machine of good quality will be able to serve up to 100 cups of coffee every hour during peak hours. This can be an enormous help in busy workplaces, since it prevents workers from waiting to get their coffee.
A coffee machine can also aid workers in bonding. Teams of people usually make a habit of sharing coffee with one another, which can promote collaboration and teamwork in the workplace. A dedicated coffee area can help new employees feel more at ease in their workplace and break down barriers between them, senior staff members, and other workers.
Commercial espresso machines are available in various sizes to accommodate different requirements. Some models are completely automatic while others are able to pre-program espresso shots so that the operator does not have to guess the correct size of the shot. This is particularly crucial for businesses with inexperienced baristas, as incorrect shots can drastically affect the flavor and intensity of espresso. It is also best to buy commercial espresso machines made of ethically sourced materials that benefit the communities where coffee beans are cultivated. This will ensure a high quality product and reduce the negative impact on the environment.
Safety
Espresso machines can cost as much money as a small car. They are designed to make hundreds of shots and drinks in the course of a single day. The high volume of operations result in unique health and safety hazards for staff members, so it's crucial to think about the potential dangers that come with an espresso machine in a commercial setting.
It's important to keep in mind that a commercial espresso machine is likely to be operating with warm water, which could aid in the development of bacteria. A machine that isn't maintained properly and isn't cleaned or descaled regularly can begin to accumulate spent espresso. This can turn rancid and could potentially cause sickness if consumed by customers. A commercial espresso machine that has a a steam wand that is not sealed can allow bacteria to flourish in the milk that is frothing.
Consider coffee machine espresso of beverage you'll be serving and how many cups an hour your space can handle when choosing a commercial coffee maker. You'll want to choose a machine with automation features that make it easier to serve your customers your favorite coffee beverage. You should look for a guarantee that 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 the home models. This is because professional espresso machines are built with heavier frames and larger boilers to support the multiple group heads required for typical cafe production. These machines operate at higher temperatures and are generally located inside (such as in a cafe or restaurant) where the electronics could overheat.
The boiler of a commercial espresso machine is heated and holds pressurized water that is supplied by an electric pump. This water is used to brew and steam espresso. The boiler consists of multiple copper tubes that are heated by electric elements. If the brew sensor detects that the water level has reached the desired level, the solenoid valve opens and the boiler is filled with new water. The heating element is then turned off.
There are four types of espresso machines. They are distinguished by the way they can steam or brew by using TX (brewing-only), TX (twin-boilers) HX (double automated), and DA (double automated). TB and TX machines ensure stable brewing temperatures, whereas DA can provide rapid steaming using a single boiler. HX machines are being used in many cafes since they offer the best in both brew and steam temperature.
Maintenance
Like cars that require regular tune-ups commercial espresso machines need regular maintenance to function smoothly and efficiently. If you take care of your machine you will get more flavorful coffee and will last longer.
It's an everyday ritual to clean your espresso machine, however you must be aware of those parts that require a deeper clean. There's likely to be residue of coffee grounds and milk products inside the machine that could disintegrate various components over time. Regular cleaning can prevent this from happening and helps keep your espresso machine running its best.
The majority of commercial espresso machines require descaling every three months. This procedure involves a few additional steps compared to normal cleaning. It is recommended to review your manual to ensure you follow the directions. The solution used to decal the water tank dissolves the scale. You'll need a tank to finish this task. In some units you may also require a container underneath the coffee spouts. Follow the instructions on your particular model.
A water filter change is a further maintenance procedure. It's easy to forget, but it is important not to build up mineral deposits. Check for calcification, which can be difficult to eliminate from the spray head.