Investing in commercial coffee machines can be a game-changer for your business, whether it’s a bustling café, a high-end restaurant, or a cosy office. But with so many options on the market, choosing the right one can feel like a daunting task. This guide aims to simplify that process by walking you through the essential factors to consider when buying a commercial coffee machine.
Types of Commercial Coffee Machines
Understanding the different types of commercial coffee machines available is the first step towards making a well-informed decision. Here are the most common models you’ll encounter:
- Espresso Machines: These are perhaps the most popular and come in manual, semi-automatic, and automatic variants. Perfect for cafes where espresso-based drinks are a staple.
- Bean-to-Cup Machines: Ideal for environments where convenience is key, these machines grind coffee beans, brew the coffee, and often include milk frothing functions.
- Filter Coffee Machines: Suitable for serving large quantities of coffee quickly, making them a great option for offices or events.
- Capsule Coffee Machines: These use pre-packaged coffee pods and are user-friendly, making them ideal for less experienced staff.
Factors to Consider
Now that you know the types, let’s delve into the specifics to consider:
- Volume: How many cups of coffee do you expect to serve daily? This will determine the capacity and type of machine you need. For high-volume settings, an espresso machine might be more suitable, while a capsule machine could suffice for smaller volumes.
- Staff Skill Level: If your staff are seasoned baristas, a manual or semi-automatic espresso machine can offer more control and customisation. For less experienced users, automatic or bean-to-cup machines simplify the process.
- Space: Ensure you have ample space for your chosen machine. Some models can be quite large and require additional space for accessories like grinders and milk frothers.
- Maintenance: Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure longevity and performance. Consider machines that are easy to clean and service.
- Budget: Prices vary widely based on the type, brand, and features. Determine your budget in advance and try to stick to it while ensuring the machine meets your needs.
Features to Look For
Today’s commercial coffee machines come equipped with various features aimed at improving usability and coffee quality. Here are some to look out for:
- Grinder: An inbuilt grinder can enhance flavour but may add to the machine’s cost.
- Milk Frother: Essential for making lattes, cappuccinos, and other milk-based drinks.
- Programmable Settings: Allows for customisation of brew strength, temperature, and volume.
- Water Filtration: Helps in maintaining the coffee’s taste and the machine’s longevity.
- Dual Boilers: Enables simultaneous brewing and steaming, ideal for high-demand settings.
