What to Look For in a Commercial Espresso Machine
When you purchase a commercial espresso machine, there are several things to take into consideration. The type of espresso machine that is appropriate for your cafe will be determined by the quantity and the purpose for which it is used, and barista's abilities.
A double boiler system gives the capability of brewing and steam simultaneously. 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 is able to handle a higher volume of coffee than a home machine. If you expect a home espresso maker to work in a professional setting could be the recipe for disaster.
A commercial machine of the highest quality will be able to serve up to 100 cups of coffee per hour during peak hours. This can be a great help in busy workplaces, since it keeps employees from having to wait around to get their coffee.
The presence of a coffee maker at work can help workers to bond with one another. In many cases, teams of workers make a habit of getting coffee, which can promote collaboration and teamwork in the workplace. The presence of a space specifically for coffee can help new workers to feel at peace in the workplace, and break down any barriers between them and senior staff members.
Commercial espresso machines come in various sizes to cater for different needs. Certain models are completely automated, while others allow you to program espresso shots in advance so that the operator does not have to guess the proper shot size. This is particularly crucial for businesses with inexperienced baristas, as incorrect shots can significantly affect the intensity and flavor of espresso that is brewed. It is also advisable to purchase commercial espresso machines that are made of ethically sourced materials that help the communities where coffee beans are grown. This will ensure that the product is of high quality and reduce the negative impact on the environment.
Safety
Espresso machines are big heavy pieces of equipment that can cost as much as a new compact car. They are designed to make hundreds of shots and drinks in the course of a single day. Commercial espresso machines can present unique health and safety risks for employees due to their high production.
It's important to bear in mind that a commercial espresso machine is likely to function with warm water, which could aid in the growth of bacteria. Poorly maintained machines that are not descaled and cleaned regularly may accumulate spent espresso. This could cause it to go rancid, and possibly espresso machines home cause illness when consumed by customers. A commercial espresso machine that has a steam wand without a seal that is effective could allow for bacterial growth in the milk frothing process, as it may not be able temperatures high enough to kill all bacteria.
Think about the kind of beverage you will be serving and how many cups per hour of your space can hold when choosing a commercial coffee machine. You should look for an espresso machine that has automation features that will make it simpler to serve your customers your favorite coffee drink. Make sure you get a warranty that includes both parts and labor. This will guarantee that any technical issues are resolved quickly.
Energy Efficiency
Commercial espresso machines require significantly more power than home models. This is because professional espresso machines are built with heavier frames and large capacity boilers that can handle the numerous group heads required for typical cafe production. They also operate at a more elevated temperature and are usually located in indoor locations (such as cafes or restaurants) where the electronics could quickly overheat, resulting in machine failure.
The boiler of an espresso machine designed for commercial use is heated and holds water that is pressurized by an electric pump. This water is used to make steam and brew espresso. The boiler is comprised of several copper tubes that are heated by electric elements. When the brew sensor determines that the water level is at the desired level, the solenoid valve opens and fills the boiler with fresh water. The heating element is then turned off.
There are four different types of espresso machines. They are differentiated by the way they make steam or brew in the form of the TB (brewing-only), TX (twin-boilers) HX (double automated) and DA (double automated). TB and TX machines provide stable brewing temperatures while DA can provide rapid steaming using a single boiler. HX machines are in use by many cafes because they provide the highest quality in steam and brew temperature.
Maintenance
Commercial espresso machines need regular maintenance, just like cars. They must be maintained to operate efficiently and smoothly. If you make the effort to keep your machine in good condition, it will give you a more delicious coffee and last longer.
Cleaning your espresso machine is an everyday ritual, but it's important to clean certain components on a more fundamental level. There's likely to be residue from milk and coffee grounds products in the machine which could cause the breakdown of various components over time. Regular cleaning can help prevent this from happening and helps keep your espresso machine functioning at its best.
Most commercial espresso machines require descaling every three months. This procedure involves a few additional steps as opposed to normal cleaning. You'll want review your manual to ensure you follow the directions. Descaling involves a solution that dissolves the scale in the water tank. You'll need a container in order to finish this task. In certain units you may also require an additional container under the coffee spouts. Follow the guidelines for your model.
Another step in maintenance is changing the water filters. This can be easily forgotten but is essential to keep in mind so there isn't a build-up of mineral deposits. Examine for calcification. It is difficult to get rid of from the spray head.