What to Look For in a Commercial Espresso Machine
When buying a commercial coffee machine, there are a variety of aspects to take into consideration. The kind of espresso machine that is suitable for your cafe will depend on the amount, the intended use, and barista skills.
A double boiler system provides the ability to brew as well as 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 is designed to handle a much more volume of coffee than an espresso machine at home. The idea of allowing a home espresso machine to perform in a professional environment would be an unintentional recipe for disaster.
A commercial machine of the highest quality can serve up to 100 cups per hour at peak times. This can be a lifesaver for busy workplaces, keeping employees from having to wait for hours to get their coffee.
Coffee machines can aid in bonding between workers. Teams of workers often take turns getting coffee for one another, which can facilitate collaboration and teamwork within the workplace. The presence of a space specifically for coffee is also a great way to assist new employees to feel at peace in the workplace, and break down any barriers between them and the senior employees.
Commercial espresso machines are available in a variety of sizes to meet a variety of requirements. Some models are fully automatic and some can be programmed with pre-programmed espresso shot sizes so that operators do not have to guess the right size. This is especially crucial for companies with untrained baristas as incorrect shots can affect the intensity and taste of espresso. Additionally, it is ideal to purchase ethically sourced and manufactured commercial espresso machines that benefit the communities where coffee is cultivated. This will ensure that the product is of top quality and minimizes the negative impact on the environment.
Safety
Espresso machines are big machines that weigh a lot that can cost more than a brand new compact car. They are designed to make hundreds of drinks and shots in the course of a single day. Commercial espresso machines could pose particular health and safety risks to staff due to their high production.
It's important to keep it in mind that commercial espresso machines are likely to run on warm water, which can aid in the growth of bacteria. Unmaintained machines that are not descaled and cleaned regularly can build up spent espresso. This could cause it to go rancid and may cause illness when consumed by customers. A commercial espresso machine that has steam wands without a seal that is effective could allow for bacterial growth in the milk frothing system, as it might not be able temperatures high enough to kill all bacteria.
Consider the type of beverage you'll serve and how many cups an hour your space can handle when choosing a commercial-grade coffee machine. You'll want to look for an espresso machine that has automation features that will make it simpler to serve your customers your favorite coffee beverage. Find a warranty that includes both labor and parts. This will guarantee that any technical issues are resolved quickly.
Energy Efficiency
Commercial espresso machines require considerably more power than the home models. Professional espresso machines weigh more and have larger boilers to accommodate several group heads to support regular cafe production. These machines operate at a higher temperature and are usually placed in indoor areas (such as in a coffee shop or restaurant) where the electronic components could overheat.
The boiler of an espresso machine designed for commercial use heats and holds water which has been pressurized using an electric pump. The 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. When the brew sensor detects that the water level is at the desired level the solenoid valve will open and fills the boiler with new water. The heating element is then turned off.
There are four variations of espresso machines, distinguished by their ability to brew and steam in the form of The TB (brewing only), TX (twin boilers), HX, and DA (double automatic). TB and TX machines ensure stable brew temperatures, while DA provides rapid steaming from one boiler. Many cafes are switching to HX machines since they have been shown to offer the best of both worlds, in terms of steam temperature and brew temperature.
Maintenance
Commercial espresso machines need regular maintenance similar to cars. They require maintenance to operate efficiently and smoothly. If you maintain your machine and you are able to enjoy a better-tasting coffee and it will last longer.
Cleaning your espresso machine is a regular ritual, but it's essential to clean your machine on a more fundamental level. There's going to be residue from milk and coffee grounds products inside the machine that could 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 every 3 months. This procedure requires a few more steps when compared to normal cleaning. You'll need to read your manual so that you follow all the steps. Descaling requires a solution that dissolves scale in the water tank. You'll need a container in order to complete this task. In certain units, you may also need a container beneath the coffee spouts. Then, follow the instructions for your particular model.
Another maintenance step includes changing the water filters. It's easy to overlook but it's vital not to accumulate mineral deposits. Examine for calcification. It can be difficult to eliminate from the espresso coffee machine spray head.