What to Look For in a Commercial Espresso Machine
When you are looking to purchase a commercial coffee machine, there are a variety of aspects to take into consideration. The volume of your cafe's operations, use for service, and barista's experience will determine which type of espresso machine is best for your business.
A double boiler system gives the ability to brew as well as steam simultaneously. espressomachines speeds up the recovery time between pulls. Proportional-integral-derivative (PID) temperature control manages on/off cycles for optimal boiler temperatures.
Productivity
A commercial espresso machine is able to handle a higher volume of coffee than a home machine. A home espresso machine would not be effective in a professional setting.
A high quality commercial machine can serve up to 100 cups of coffee per hour during peak hours. This can be a lifesaver for busy workplaces, keeping employees from having to stand around while waiting to get their coffee.
A coffee machine in the workplace can help workers to bond with one another. Teams of employees often have coffee in a rotating manner for one another, which could facilitate collaboration and teamwork within the workplace. Having a designated space to enjoy coffee can aid new employees in feeling at ease 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 requirements. Some models are entirely automated and others have the ability to pre-program espresso shots so that operators do not need to guess the proper size of each shot. This is especially important for businesses with untrained baristas since incorrect shots can greatly impact the flavor and intensity of espresso brewed. It is also best to purchase commercial espresso machines made from ethically sourced materials that help the communities in which coffee beans are cultivated. This will ensure that the coffee is of top quality and minimizes the negative impact to the environment.
Safety
Espresso machines can cost as much money as a mini-car. The machines are designed to produce hundreds of drinks and shots in a single day. The high volume of operations result in unique health and safety hazards for staff, so it's important to take into account the potential dangers that come with the commercial espresso machine.
It is important to keep in mind that commercial espresso machines are likely to run on warm water, which can aid in the growth of bacteria. Inefficiently maintained machines that are not cleaned and descaled regularly will accumulate spent espresso. This can cause it to go rancid, and possibly cause illness if consumed by customers. A commercial espresso machine with steam wands that are not sealed could allow bacteria to flourish in the milk foaming process.
Consider the type of beverage you'll be serving and how many cups an hour your space can accommodate when choosing a commercial coffee maker. It is important to select a machine with automation features that will make it easier to serve your customers their preferred coffee beverage. Look for a warranty which includes both labor and parts. This will ensure that any technical issues are resolved quickly.
Energy Efficiency
Commercial espresso machines require substantially more power than home models. This is due to the fact that professional espresso machines are built with heavier frames and larger boilers to accommodate the many group heads required for normal cafe production. These machines operate at higher temperatures and are usually placed in indoor areas (such as in a cafe or restaurant) where the electronic components may overheat.
The boiler of an espresso machine for commercial use heats and holds water that has been pressurized with an electric pump. This water is then used to brew and steaming espresso. The boiler is made up of a number of copper tubes that are heated by electric elements. If the brew sensor detects that the water level has reached its target level the solenoid valve will open and the boiler is filled with fresh water. The heating element is then turned off.
There are four types of espresso machines. They are differentiated by their ability to brew or steam by using the TB (brewing-only), TX (twin-boilers) HX (double automated) and DA (double automated). TB and TX machines ensure stable brewing temperatures, while DA can provide rapid steaming using the use of a single boiler. HX machines are used by many cafes since they are the best in steam and brew temperature.
Maintenance
Commercial espresso machines require regular maintenance just like cars. They must be maintained to function efficiently and smoothly. If you take care of your machine, you will enjoy a more flavorful coffee and will last longer.
Cleaning your espresso machine is a daily ritual, but it's essential to clean certain parts on a greater scale. There are traces of coffee grounds and other milk products that could cause the machine to fail over time. Regular cleaning helps prevent this from happening and helps keep your espresso machine working at its best.
Most commercial espresso machines need descaling every three months. This process requires additional steps than regular cleaning, so it's best to review 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. In order to complete this process you'll need a container underneath the steam wand and, in some units, under the coffee spouts. Follow the directions for your particular model.
Another step in maintenance is changing the water filters. It's easy to overlook, but it is important not to accumulate mineral deposits. Also, you should look for calcification within the spray head, which can be difficult to remove.