What to Look For in a Commercial Espresso Machine
There are a number of aspects to consider when buying a commercial espresso machine. The type of espresso machine suitable for your cafe will depend on the quantity of use, the purpose, and barista's abilities.
Double boiler systems allow you to steam while brewing. This cuts down on the time to recuperate between pulls. Proportional-integral-derivative (PID) temperature control manages on/off cycles for optimal boiler temperatures.
Productivity
A commercial espresso machine can handle a higher volume of coffee than a home machine. A domestic espresso machine would not work in a professional environment.
A commercial machine of the highest quality can serve up to 100 cups of coffee per hour during peak times. This can be a lifesaver in busy workplaces, since it stops employees from waiting around to get their coffee.
A coffee machine can also help workers connect. In many cases, teams of workers make a habit of getting coffee for each other, and this can foster collaboration and teamwork in the workplace. A coffee bar can make new employees feel more at ease at work and break down the barriers between them, the senior employees and other workers.
Commercial espresso machines are available in various sizes to meet a variety of needs. Some models are fully automated and others are able to pre-program espresso shot sizes so that the operators do not have to guess at the correct size. This is particularly important for businesses that have untrained baristas as incorrect shots can affect the intensity and taste of brewed espresso. Additionally, it's best to purchase ethically-sourced and commercial espresso machines which support the communities in which coffee is grown. This will ensure that the product 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 new compact car. They're also designed to pump out hundreds of shots and drinks throughout the course of the day. These high volume operations can cause unique safety and health risks for staff, so it's important to consider the potential risks that come with the commercial espresso machine.
It's important to keep it in mind that commercial espresso machines are likely to run on warm water, which can contribute to the development of bacteria. A poorly maintained machine that isn't descaled or cleaned regularly can start to build up spent espresso. This can become rancid and cause illness if consumed by customers. A commercial espresso machine with steam wands that don't have an effective seal can also permit bacterial growth in the milk frothing process, since it might not be able to attain temperatures sufficient to eliminate all bacteria.
When you are choosing a commercial espresso machine it's important to consider the type of beverages you'll serve and the amount of cups per hour your space can hold. 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 drink. Also, look for a warranty that covers parts and labor, so that any technical issues are resolved quickly and efficiently.
Energy Efficiency
The power requirements for commercial espresso machines are significantly more powerful than those used in home settings. Professional espresso machines weigh more and come with larger boilers that can support multiple group heads in standard cafe production. These machines operate at a higher ambient temperature, and are usually located in indoor areas (such as in a coffee shop or restaurant) where the electronic components could overheat.
The boiler of a commercial espresso machine heats and holds pressurized water supplied by an electric pump. This water is then used to brew and steaming espresso. The boiler is comprised of multiple copper tubes heated by electric elements. When the brew sensor detects that the water level has reached its target level, the solenoid valve opens and fills the boiler with new water. The heating element is then turned off.
There are four distinct types of espresso machines. They are distinguished in their capacity to be brewed or steamed by using TX (brewing-only), TX (twin-boilers), HX (double automatic), and DA (double automated). TB and TX machines provide stable brewing temperatures, while DA allows rapid steaming from a single boiler. Many cafes are converting to HX machines since they have been shown to provide the best of both worlds, in terms of steam and brew temperatures.
Maintenance
Commercial espresso machines need regular maintenance, just like cars. They require regular maintenance to operate efficiently and smoothly. If you take the time to keep your machine in top condition, it will provide you better tasting coffee and last longer.
It's a daily ritual to clean your espresso machine, but you should also pay attention to those parts that require a deeper clean. There's bound to be leftovers of coffee grounds and milk products inside the machine which could cause the breakdown of various components over time. espresso machine small helps to prevent this from happening and helps keep your espresso machine functioning at to its maximum.
Most commercial espresso machines need descaling every three months. This is a process that requires some extra steps than normal cleaning, so it's best to read the manual to ensure you're following all the directions. The solution used to descal the tank in the water tank dissolves scale. You'll require a container to finish this task. In some units you might also require an additional container under the coffee spouts. Follow the instructions for your particular model.
Another aspect of maintenance is changing the water filters. It's easy to overlook however it's important not to build up mineral deposits. You'll also want to check for calcification in the spray head, which is difficult to eliminate.