Applications: Espresso machines use pressurized water spray to extract brewed coffee from individual portions of coffee grounds. Types of coffee drinks that can be produced include espresso, latte, caf mocha, cappuccino, macchiato, and Americano.
Types: Manual espresso machines are preferred by espresso purists who have the time to enjoy the preparation process. Some skill is required to operate these machines. These machines are best suited to residential and foodservice businesses with lower production requirements.
Semi-Automatic espresso machines' increased capacity suits home, office, coffee house, restaurant and catered events. These machines are simple to use, while providing more control over the finished product by adjusting steam temperature and brewing pressure.
Automatic espresso machines can be programmed to brew a variety of coffee drinks with one touch of a button. These machines are popular in busy cafes, restaurants, offices and hurried weekday mornings at home.
Features To Consider: Digital screens offer multiple functions, including temperature selection, cup size selection for each brewing cycle, monitor numbers of cups brewed per day, programmable automatic shut off, signals when the machine needs to be cleaned then begins to automatically rinse and de-scale. Some digital screens are multilingual, giving operators the ability to program the commands in English, Italian, Spanish, French, German, Japanese, Portuguese, or Dutch.
Capacity: Automatic espresso makers with double heads can produce up to 120 cups per hour. Models with three double dispensers will have a larger capacity. While automatic machines can be programmed to your production needs, on average a single shot of espresso can be brewed in 15 seconds, and a double shot in 20 seconds. Heat up time for the steam function is 45 seconds; the average heat time for an 8oz cappuccino is 1 minute and a 12oz latte is 1.5 minutes.
Energy Source: Home / office espresso machines require 110 or 120 volts single-phase electricity. Some larger, commercial automatic machines require 220 or 240 volts.
Maintenance: The inside of the machine must be periodically cleaned. Scale buildup from naturally occurring minerals in your water can build up on sensitive components like the inside of the boiler. Descaling the machine every two months is important, even if you have a water filter system, and especially if you use well water. The drip tray and water tank need regular cleaning with dish soap and warm water. Components such drip tray and water tank can be hand washed with regular soap and water.
Industry Certifications: Only machines with a NSF Sanitation Certification can be used in the foodservice industry.
Manufacturers: Reliable manufacturers to look for when selecting a residential and commercial espresso machines include Saeco, Bosch, Cecilware, Solis, Rancilio and Pasquini.
John Stack is the CEO of ACityDiscount, an online store of restaurant equipment, appliances & supplies. He first joined this family-owned company in 1977. His knowledge of the various types of commercial cooking equipment, commercial refrigeration, bar equipment & supplies, catering & dining equipment, restaurant hospitality furniture and concession equipment is extensive.
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