What to Look For in a Professional Espresso Machine
You'll want a machine that can be controlled the pre-infusion process, which is crucial for developing aroma and flavor. Many coffee experts also look for PID temperature control in the best machines.
If you're planning on hiring baristas who have no experience, you'll need a machine that is easy to operate and easy to instruct new staff members on. This is particularly important if you're looking to run a drive-thru coffee shop.
Simple to Use
This professional espresso machine as you could have guessed from its name, is designed to be simple to operate and maintain. It has an integrated grinder that automatically grinds fresh coffee beans directly into the portafilter, a digital temperature control to guarantee optimal extraction as well as an automatic steam wand for creating microfoam, ideal for creating coffee art. It also comes with a test strip that helps you measure the water's hardness as well as an AquaClean filtration system to reduce the scale.
It is a great choice for baristas at home because it provides a balance between manual and automatic operation. You can take shots of coffee as a professional (although there is a little learning curve). The built-in coffee grinder lets you to experiment with the size of the grind to tweak your process. Additionally electric espresso maker can be used to create frothy lattes and cappuccino milk. The machine has an easy-to-clean dishwasher-safe milk hopper, which makes cleaning up after use easy and convenient.
While this model is intended for home use but it comes with some sophisticated features that set it apart from espresso machines used by professionals. For instance, it has dual boilers that permit steam and brewing functions to be heated separately, so each function is kept at exactly the desired temperature. McCarthy says that this will ensure the espresso is extracted at the correct pressure (which is varying from 4 bars at the beginning to 14-16 bars when completed) while minimizing the chance of over-extraction.
In addition, the machine has a "proportional-integral-derivative" or PID control that monitors and stabilizes the boiler or thermoblock temperature more accurately than a simple electromechanical thermostatic switch. This leads to more consistent shots and a faster recovery time between each cup of espresso.
You should also look for an espresso machine that can be opened for regular maintenance or repairs. Espresso enthusiasts are usually interested in the inner workings and mechanics of their equipment. This is particularly important when it comes to a machine that will be frequently used, as the constant usage can cause parts to wear out. The espresso machine we tested for example, can be opened up to replace the brew group container and drip tray for quick and convenient cleaning.
Cleaning is a breeze
A professional espresso machine has many internal passages and chambers, making it important to keep them clean. Coffee oils, used coffee grounds and water minerals can accumulate over time, affecting the quality of the final espresso cup and overall performance of the machine. Regular cleaning can stop these contaminants from accumulating and ensure consistent flow of water and optimum extraction pressure and good flavor.
A specially designed cleaning brush with bristles that are designed to penetrate crevices will assist get rid of stubborn residue. Regular cleaning products can aid in dissolving and breaking down coffee oils, particles and other contaminants. Certain espresso machines require regular backflushing. This involves blocking the portafilter by using a blind filter and pushing water through the system to clean the shower screen and group head valves. Backflushing is more efficient if you use the right tools and follow the manufacturer's instructions.
For regular espresso drinkers, a reusable group head cleaning tool can make regular maintenance much easier. These reusable brushes are available in various sizes and shapes. They are designed to clean various parts of the machine, including ports, valves and gaskets. They are usually made of stainless steel and include an holder that is small for the cleaning solution that is easy to fill or refill whenever needed. Some tools come with an in-built reservoir to store the cleaning solution when it is not being used.
Descaling solutions enhance the performance of espresso machines as well as their ease of use particularly when they are utilized in high-volume settings. These liquid descalers eliminate calcium and limescale that hinder water flow and diminish the flavor of espresso. Users can either soak parts or backflush the system using these products which are more effective than citric acid cleaners at getting rid of mineral buildup.
When you are deciding on the most suitable espresso machine, think about the features that are most important for you and your business. For instance, if wish to alter the temperature of your water and brew size for certain beverages, you might prefer a manual espresso maker with more adjustable settings. If you're an avid espresso-drinker and want to enjoy a great cup of coffee at home in a convenient way, a semi-automatic espresso machine or fully automated espresso maker may be the best choice.
Easy Maintenance
The ease of maintaining your espresso machine is dependent on the model. Certain machines require more manual work while others are less demanding. You can tell by taking a look at the level of automation. Espresso/cappuccino machine types are divided into three categories: semiautomatic, fully automated and superautomatic. Semi-automatic machines give the barista a bit of control but not much control. A fully automated machine is less hands-on but still requires the operator to grind, tamp and pull the shot. A super-automatic machine is completely automated, making espresso and espresso-based drinks from a single button press.
If you're considering purchasing semi-automatic or a fully automated professional espresso machine, be sure to take into account the number of customers your company anticipates serving during peak times. This will help you determine the size of an commercial espresso machine to purchase. If you intend to serve 120 drinks from 8-10 AM, then you will require a semi-automatic espresso system that can handle the volume of orders.
You'll also need to consider how often you need to remove the scale from your coffee maker. Some manufacturers recommend descale the coffee maker at least once a week using warm water and vinegar. If you don't regularly descale your machine, it could experience issues such as clogging or a change in flavor.
Many of the more advanced espresso machines available come with a dual boiler system, with one boiler to brew and another for steaming. The steam wand is heated separately from the group head and allows you to continue steaming milk while your shots are brewing. This is especially useful for cafes that are busy and need to serve many different types of cappuccino and coffee.
Other features you may see in more sophisticated espresso machines are a hot-water dispenser as well as an automatic rinsing process and programmable user preferences for the kind of coffee and cappuccino you use the most often. These can save time and money, especially in high-volume settings where consistency is crucial. There is also the possibility that the machine has a built-in or attached coffee grinder, and a nozzle to dispense hot or frothed steaming milk.
Ease of Repair
Maintenance-free and durability are crucial when it comes to commercial espresso machines. Commercial espresso machines are made to withstand the rigors of heavy use and are made of sturdy materials. These machines are more likely to come with warranties and other safeguards against damage. Espresso machines at home are typically constructed from cheaper materials and may break down more quickly.
Many commercial espresso machines need to be UL-listed and have a NSF seal to comply with health and building department standards. These requirements ensure that the equipment is safe for both employees and customers. This is particularly relevant for espresso machines that produce a lot of drinks. It is also essential to choose a machine that utilizes stainless steel or other FDA-approved materials, since these won't leach chemicals into the coffee.
There are various types of professional coffee machines including semi-automatic and fully automated. Each type of machine has its distinct advantages and disadvantages, but all are designed to make delicious coffee.
A manual espresso machine requires the barista to create the pressure using their own hand and arm, which can be difficult to master. These machines are less common and can be difficult to find replacement parts for in the event of malfunction.
Semi-automatic espresso makers are a great alternative for those looking to control their machines, while ensuring the same quality. The barista has to grind and tamp the beans, but the pump controls water pressure and temperature to prevent over-extraction.
Fully-automatic espresso machines are similar to semi-automatic machines, but they are also able to deliver hot and steam at the push of the button. This can help save energy and time, as well as increase production capacity.
It is essential that your staff members know how to operate the espresso machine, irrespective of the type you select. This will enhance your coffee's quality and efficiency. It could take some time for new staff to understand how to grind, tamp and extract shots correctly however, the investment will pay off over time, as you can offer your customers an consistently high-quality cup of espresso.