What to Look For in a Commercial Espresso Machine
When buying a commercial coffee machine, there are many factors to consider. The volume of your cafe's operations, service usage, and barista's expertise will determine which espresso machine is best for your business.
Double boiler systems allow you to steam while brewing. It also decreases 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 higher volume of coffee than an home machine. A home espresso machine would not work in a professional environment.
A commercial machine of top quality can provide up to 100 coffee cups per hour during peak hours. This can be a lifesaver in busy workplaces, since it will stop employees from having to wait around to get their coffee.
A coffee machine can also aid in bonding between workers. Often, teams of employees have a turn getting coffee, which can promote collaboration and teamwork in the workplace. Having a dedicated space for coffee can also aid new employees in feeling at ease in the workplace, and break down any barriers between them and senior employees.
Commercial espresso machines come in various sizes to meet a variety of needs. Some models are entirely automated while others can prepare espresso shots beforehand so that operators do not need to guess the proper shot size. This is especially crucial for businesses with inexperienced baristas since incorrect shots can significantly affect the flavor and intensity of espresso. Additionally, it is best to purchase ethically-sourced and manufactured commercial espresso machines that help the communities in which coffee is grown. This will ensure a high quality product and reduce the negative impact on the environment.
Safety
Espresso machines can cost as much as a compact car. They're also designed to churn out hundreds of shots and drinks in a day. These high volume operations can create unique safety and health risks for employees, which is why it's crucial to think about the potential dangers that come with an espresso machine in a commercial setting.
Be aware that commercial espresso machines tend to make use of warm water. This can encourage the growth of bacteria. A machine that is not maintained properly and isn't cleaned or descaled regularly can begin to accumulate spent espresso, which may become rancid and cause illnesses if consumed by customers. A commercial espresso machine with the steam wand that isn't sealed with an effective seal can also allow for bacterial growth in the milk frothing system as it might not be able reach temperatures sufficient to kill all bacteria.
When selecting best home espresso machine to consider the kind of drinks you'll serve and the number of cups per hour your space can hold. You'll also want an espresso machine with automated features, which makes it easier and faster to serve your customers your favorite coffee drinks. Additionally, look for a warranty that covers parts and labor to ensure that any technical issues can be resolved quickly and efficiently.
Energy Efficiency
Commercial espresso machines require substantially more power than home models. Professional espresso machines are more heavy and have larger boilers to support several group heads to support regular cafe production. These machines also operate at a more elevated temperature and are typically located in indoor locations (such as the cafe or restaurant) where the electronics could overheat quickly, resulting in the machine breaking down.
The boiler of an espresso machine for commercial use heats and stores water that is pressurized by an electric pump. This water is then used to brew and steaming espresso. The boiler is comprised of several copper tubes that are heated by electric elements. When the brew sensor detects that the water level has reached the target level the solenoid valve is opened and fills the boiler with new water. The heating element is then shut off.
There are four types of espresso machines, differentiated by their ability to steam and brew: TBS (brewing only), TX (twin boilers), HX, and DA (double automatic). TB and TX machines ensure stable brew temperatures, while DA offers rapid steaming from a single boiler. HX machines are used by many cafes since they are the best in both brew and steam temperature.
Maintenance
Commercial espresso machines require regular maintenance similar to cars. They need to be maintained to function efficiently and smoothly. If you take care of your machine and you are able to enjoy a better-tasting coffee and it will last longer.
It's a regular practice to clean your espresso machine, however you must pay attention to those parts that require an extra clean. There's going to be residue from milk and coffee grounds products in the machine which could disintegrate various components over time. Regular cleaning can prevent this and keeps your espresso machine running the best it can.
The majority of espresso machines in commercial use require descaling every 3 months. This procedure requires a few more steps as opposed to normal cleaning. You'll want review your manual so that you follow the directions. Descaling involves using a solution to dissolves scale from the water tank. To accomplish this you'll need to place a container underneath the steam wand and, in certain models, under the coffee spouts. Follow the instructions for your particular model.
A water filter change is an additional maintenance procedure. It's easy to overlook but it's vital not to build up mineral deposits. Check for calcification, which is difficult to get rid of in the spray head.