What to Look For in a Commercial Espresso Machine
There are a variety of things to consider when purchasing commercial espresso machines. The kind of espresso machine that is suitable for your cafe will depend on the amount and purpose of use and barista's abilities.
Double boiler systems allow you to steam while brewing. This decreases the time it takes to recover 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 amount of coffee than a home machine. A domestic espresso machine to function in a professional setting could be an invitation to disaster.
A high quality commercial machine will be able to serve up to 100 cups of coffee per hour during peak times. This can be a lifesaver in busy workplaces, since it keeps workers from waiting to get their coffee.
Coffee machines can aid workers in bonding. Oftentimes teams of people will take turns getting the coffee for each other and this can encourage teamwork and collaboration in the workplace. A dedicated space for coffee can also assist new employees to feel at peace in the workplace, and break down any barriers between them and senior employees.
Commercial espresso machines come in various sizes to meet different needs. Some models are entirely automated and others are able to prepare espresso shots beforehand so that operators don't have to guess the proper shot size. This is particularly crucial for businesses with inexperienced baristas, as incorrect shots can greatly affect the strength and flavor of espresso that is brewed. It is also advisable to buy commercial espresso machines that are made of ethically sourced products that benefit the communities in which coffee beans are grown. This will ensure that the product is of high quality and minimize the negative impact to the environment.
Safety
Espresso machines are massive, heavy pieces of equipment that can cost as much as a new compact car. They are designed to create hundreds of drinks and shots in one day. Commercial espresso machines pose particular health and safety risks to staff due to their large volume.
It is important to keep in mind that a commercial espresso machine is likely to operate with warm water, which could aid in the growth of bacteria. Unmaintained machines that are not descaled and cleaned regularly may accumulate spent espresso. This can cause it to turn rancid and may cause illness when consumed by customers. A commercial espresso machine that has a steam wand without an effective seal may allow machines espresso machines for the growth of bacterial in the milk frothing mechanism, because it might not be able to reach temperatures high enough to eliminate all bacteria.
When choosing an espresso machine for commercial use, it is important to think about the kind of drinks you'll be serving as well as how many cups your space can handle. You should look for machines with automated features which will allow you to serve your customers your favorite coffee beverage. Look for a warranty which includes both parts and labor. This will guarantee that any technical issues can be resolved quickly.
Energy Efficiency
Commercial espresso machines require significantly more power than home models. This is because professional espresso machines have larger frames and large capacity boilers to accommodate the many group heads required for standard cafe production. They also operate at a greater temperature at ambient temperatures and are often located in an indoor setting (such as cafes or restaurants) where the electronics may overheat quickly, resulting in the machine failing.
The boiler of a commercial espresso machine heats and holds pressurized water supplied by an electric pump. This water is then used for brewing and steaming espresso. The boiler is made up of several copper tubes that are heated by electric elements. When the brew level sensor is able to detect that the water has reached its goal level, a solenoid valve opens to allow the boiler to be filled with fresh water, and the heating element is turned off.
There are four variants of espresso machines that are distinguished by their ability to brew and steam with steam: the TB (brewing only), TX (twin boilers) HX, DA (double automatic). TB and TX machines provide stable brew temperatures, whereas DA allows for rapid steaming using one boiler. Many cafes are converting to HX machines, since they have been shown to offer the best of both worlds in terms steam and brew temperatures.
Maintenance
Like cars require routine tune-ups commercial espresso machines require maintenance to continue working smoothly and efficiently. If you take care of your machine it will provide you with a more flavorful coffee and will last longer.
Cleaning your espresso machine is a routine ritual, but it's essential to clean your machine on a more fundamental level. There will be residues from coffee grounds and other milk products that could cause the machine to break down over time. Regular cleaning will keep your espresso machine in tip-top condition.
Most commercial espresso machines require descaling every three months. This process requires a few more steps than normal cleaning, so you'll want to go through your manual to ensure you're following the directions. Descaling involves a solution that dissolves scale from the water tank. To complete this task, you'll need to put an unfilled container under the steam wand or, in some models, beneath the coffee spouts. Follow the instructions for the model you have chosen.
Another maintenance step includes changing the water filters. This is a step that can easily be forgotten but is important to keep in mind so you don't build up of mineral deposits. Examine for calcification. It is difficult to get rid of from the spray head.