What to Look For in a Commercial Espresso Machine
When purchasing a commercial coffee machine, there are several things to take into consideration. The kind of espresso machine that is appropriate for your cafe will depend on the amount and the purpose for which it is used, and the barista's skill.
A double boiler system provides 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 greater amount of coffee than a home machine. If you expect a home espresso maker to perform in a professional space would be an invitation to disaster.
A high quality commercial machine can serve up to 100 cups per hour at peak times. This can be a great help in busy workplaces, since it keeps workers from waiting to get their coffee.
A coffee maker can aid in bonding between workers. Teams of employees often take turns getting coffee for each other, which can promote collaboration and teamwork in the workplace. Having a dedicated space for coffee can also help new workers to feel at peace in the workplace, removing any barriers between them and the senior employees.
Commercial espresso machines are available in a variety of sizes to suit a variety of needs. Some models are completely automatic while others are able to prepare espresso shots beforehand so that the operator does not have to guess the right size of each shot. This is particularly crucial for companies with untrained baristas since incorrect shots can alter the intensity and taste of brewed espresso. Additionally, it's best to purchase ethically-sourced and manufactured commercial espresso machines that support the communities in which coffee is cultivated. This will ensure that the coffee is of top quality and will minimize the negative impact to the environment.
Safety
Espresso machines are large heavy pieces of equipment that can cost as much as a brand-new compact car. They're also designed to churn out a multitude of drinks and shots over the course of one day. This high volume operation can create unique risk to health and safety for staff members, so it's crucial to think about the risks that could be associated with a commercial espresso machine.
Keep in mind that commercial espresso machines are more likely to use warm water. This can trigger the growth of bacteria. Poorly maintained machines that are not descaled and cleaned regularly may accumulate spent espresso. This could cause it to turn rancid and could cause illness when consumed by customers. A commercial espresso machine that has a a steam wand that is not sealed could let bacteria grow in the milk frothing process.
Consider the type of beverage you'll serve and the number of cups an hour your space can handle when choosing the right commercial coffee machine. You should look for an espresso machine that has automation features that will make it simpler to serve your customers their preferred coffee beverage. Make sure you get a warranty that includes both parts and labor. This will ensure that any technical problems are resolved quickly.
Energy Efficiency
Commercial espresso machines require significantly more power than the home models. Professional espresso machines are more heavy and have larger boilers that can support multiple group heads for regular cafe production. These machines also operate at a higher temperature in the ambient and are usually located in indoor locations (such as a coffee shop or restaurant) where the electronics may overheat quickly resulting in the machine failing.
The boiler of a commercial espresso machine is heated and holds pressurized water supplied by an electric pump. The water is used to make steam and brew espresso. The boiler is comprised of several copper tubes that are heated by electric elements. When the brew level sensor detects that the water has reached its desired level the solenoid espresso machine with milk frother valve opens to allow the boiler to be filled with water that is fresh and the heating element is shut off.
There are four types of espresso machines that are distinguished by their ability to brew and steam the water: the TB (brewing only), TX (twin boilers) HX, TB, and DA (double automatic). TB and TX machines provide stable brewing temperatures, while DA allows rapid steaming from one boiler. HX machines are being used by many cafes since they are the best in both steam and brew temperature.
Maintenance
Just like cars need routine tune-ups commercial espresso machines require maintenance to ensure that they function smoothly and efficiently. If you ensure that you keep your machine in top condition, it will give you better tasting coffee and last longer.
Cleaning your espresso machine is a regular ritual, but it's vital to clean your machine on a deeper level. There's bound to be leftovers from milk and coffee grounds products inside the machine that could break down various components over time. Regular cleaning helps to prevent this and keeps your espresso machine functioning at to its maximum.
Most commercial espresso machines require descaling every three months. This process requires more steps over regular cleaning, so be sure to go through your manual to ensure that you're following the instructions. Descaling is the process of using a solution that dissolves scale in the water tank. You'll require a container to finish this task. In some units, you may also need a container underneath the coffee spouts. Follow the instructions for your specific model.
Another step in maintenance is changing the water filters. It's easy to forget however it's important to avoid accumulating mineral deposits. Be sure to look for calcification, which can be difficult to eliminate from the spray head.