10 Startups That'll Change The Professional Espresso Machine Industry For The Better
What to Look For in a Professional Espresso Machine
You'll need a machine that can control the pre-infusion, which is essential for developing aroma and flavor. PID temperature control is also an attribute that coffee experts are looking for in a professional espresso machine.
If you plan to hire baristas who have no experience, you will need a machine that is easy to learn. This is particularly important when you're planning to operate a drive-thru cafe.
Simple to Use
This professional espresso machine, as you might have guessed from its name, is designed to be easy to use and maintain. It comes with an integrated grinder which automatically grinds coffee beans into the portafilter. It also has a an electronic temperature control for optimal extraction, as well as an automatic steam wand to create microfoam. It also comes with test strips that help you measure water hardness, and an AquaClean filtration system to reduce the scale.
It is a great choice for home baristas because it provides a balance between the manual and automated operation. You can pull a shot of espresso like a professional (although there is a slight learning curve). The built-in grinder allows you to experiment with the size of your coffee grind and fine-tune the process while the steam wand manual makes it simple to create frothy milk for cappuccinos and lattes. The machine also has an easy-to-clean dishwasher-safe milk hopper that makes cleaning up after each use simple and convenient.
Although this model is designed for use at home however, it has some advanced features which set it apart from espresso machines used by professionals. It has dual boilers, that allow the brewing process and the steam function to be heated separately. This allows each function to be maintained at the exact temperature you want. McCarthy explains that this ensures the espresso is extracted at the correct pressure (which varies from 4 bars at beginning, and 14-16 bars after it is completed) while minimizing the risk 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 means more consistent shots and a quicker recovery time between each cup of espresso.
It is also recommended to look for a machine that can be opened to perform regular maintenance and repairs, because espresso enthusiasts often get fascinated by the inner workings of their equipment. This is particularly important for a professional espresso machine that is used regularly because frequent use could lead to wear and tear on parts. For instance the espresso machine we tested could be opened to change the drip tray and brew basket to ensure quick and easy cleaning.
Cleaning is easy
A professional espresso machine has a lot of chambers and passageways inside which is why it is essential to keep them clean. Coffee oils, coffee grounds used and water minerals can accumulate over time, impacting the quality of the final cup of espresso and the overall performance of the machine. Regular cleaning can eliminate these toxins and guarantee a constant flow of water and extraction pressure.
Utilizing Coffeee -designed group head cleaning brush with bristles that can reach into crevices, you can help get rid of stubborn residue. Regular cleaning solutions can also help dissolve and break down coffee particles, oils, and other contaminants. Some espresso machines also require regular backflushing. This involves blocking the portafilter using a blind filter, and forcing water through the system in order to clean the shower screen, group head, and valves. Utilizing the correct tools and following the manufacturer's instructions for backflushing can improve the overall cleanliness of espresso machines and maintenance.
A reusable tool to clean the group head will make maintenance routine easier for espresso users. These brushes are reusable and come in different sizes and shapes. They are designed to clean various parts of the machine like gaskets, valves, and ports. They are typically made of stainless steel, and come with an holder that is small enough to be easily filled or refillable when needed. Some tools even feature an integrated reservoir for storing the cleaning solution when not in use.
Descaling solutions enhance the performance of espresso machines as well as their user-friendliness, especially when they are utilized in high-volume settings. These liquid descalers eliminate calcium and limescale, which block water flow and decrease the taste of espresso. The user can soak the parts or backflush the system with 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, take into account the features that are most important to you and your company. For instance, if want to be able to alter the temperature of your water and brew volume for specific beverages, you may prefer an espresso maker that is manual with more flexible settings. If you are a casual espresso drinker who wants to enjoy a great cup of coffee at home in a comfortable way, a semiautomatic espresso machine or fully automatic espresso maker could be the best option.
Easy Maintenance
The kind of espresso machine you own will determine how easy it is to maintain. Certain machines require more manual labor and others are more demanding. You can tell this by looking at the degree of automation. Espresso and Cappuccino machine types are classified into three categories: semiautomatic fully automated and superautomatic. Semi-automatic machines give the barista some control, but not much control. A fully automatic machine is more hands-free, but requires the operator to grind, tamp and pull the shot. A super-automatic machine is fully automated, preparing espresso and espresso-based drinks with a single button press.
If you are considering purchasing a semiautomatic or fully automated professional espresso machine you must consider the number of customers that your company is likely to serve during peak hours. This will help you determine the size of commercial espresso machine to buy. If you intend to serve 120 drinks daily from 8 to 10 AM, then you will require a semi-automatic machine that can handle the amount of orders.
You'll need to decide the frequency at which you should descale your machine. Some manufacturers recommend descaling every month at least using a combination of vinegar and warm water. If you don't descale regularly your machine, it could experience problems like clogging and a different flavor.
A lot of the most advanced espresso machines available feature a dual boiler, with one boiler for brewing and another to steam. The steam wand can be heated separately from the group head which allows you to continue steaming milk while your shots are brewing. This is particularly useful for busy cafes who have to serve a variety of kinds of coffee and cappuccino.
Other features you can discover on a more sophisticated espresso machine include hot water dispensers as well as an automatic rinse cycle and user preferences that can be programmed for the type and amount of cappuccino or coffee you typically make. These features will save you time and money in high-volume settings where consistency is essential. There is also the possibility that the machine has an integrated or attached coffee grinder and a nozzle for dispense hot or frosty steamed milk.
Repairs are easy
When it is commercial espresso machines, durability and ease of repair are key factors. Commercial espresso machines are made to withstand the rigors of heavy use and are constructed of robust materials. They are also more likely to come with warranties and other protections against damage. Home espresso machines however are usually constructed with less expensive materials and could be more susceptible to breaking down.
In addition, many commercial espresso machines must be UL listed and carry an NSF seal to ensure that they meet health department and building standards. These requirements ensure that the equipment is safe for employees as well as customers. This is particularly true for espresso machines which produce a significant amount of drinks. It is also important to select a machine that uses stainless steel or other FDA-approved materials because they won't release chemicals into the coffee.
There are different types of professional coffee machines such as semi-automatic and fully automated. Each has its own advantages but they all make delicious coffee.
A manual espresso machine requires the barista to make the pressure using their own hand and arm, which can be a challenge to master. These machines are also less frequent, which means they can be more difficult to find parts for if something goes wrong.
Semi-automatic espresso makers are a great alternative for those looking to keep control of their machines, while ensuring consistency. The barista has to grind and tamp the beans however, the pump regulates the temperature and pressure of the water to avoid over-extraction.
Fully-automatic espresso machines are like semi-automatic ones, but they are also able to deliver hot and steam at the touch of the button. This can save energy and time, as well as increase production capacity.
Whatever kind of espresso machine you choose it is crucial to teach your staff how to properly use it. This will enhance the quality of your coffee and increase its efficiency. It may take some time for new staff to understand how 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.