How to Build a Professional Espresso Machine

This is a great choice for cafes and coffee shops that want to attract customers who are enthusiastic about barista and espresso skills. It's the official machine used for World Barista Championships and it really does show.

It also has a reservoir for water so that the barista just has to refill it during their shift. The machine also comes with cool-touch steam wands and hot water taps for tea.

Water

A commercial espresso machine has to be able to make large quantities of espresso-based drinks effectively. That's why they are generally constructed from stainless steel which is more robust and resistant to scratches and break. Espresso machines are also easier to maintain and keep clean.

A good quality machine should include an additional shut-off valve that is connected to the water pipe in order to prevent limescale build-up. This will ensure any repairs are limited to affected components of the machine and won't impact the rest your operation.

When selecting your water be sure to test it thoroughly and treat it in a way to ensure the best coffee espresso machine results. Remineralize water that has been distilled by adding some minerals. This can diminish its erosion properties and improve its taste, however it may also damage machines. Remineralized wate makes the boiler sensor think the machine is full and it isn't. This can lead to excessive heat and damage to the machine.

Grinder

The grinder is an essential element of a successful espresso machine. It is used to take a raw, unground bean and transforms it into a finely ground coffee that can be properly put into the filter basket for an excellent extraction.

Commercial-grade professional machines include grinders that are programmed to accommodate different sizes of drinks. This guarantees consistency in results each time. Super-automatic machines go a step further and automatize the entire process from brewing to grinding and dispensing. These machines are frequently praised in Lab tests for their ease to use.

Semi-automatic and manual machines require more effort from the barista but often the results are worth the effort. This model was awarded a Good Housekeeping Coffee Award in 2022 for its clever dosing mechanism that measures and distributes the right amount of coffee each time. It also has a low-pressure pre-infusion system for balanced extraction and a milk frothing wand that did well in our tests for producing thick, rich steamed milk.

Temperature

Temperature is an important aspect in espresso. If the water isn't in its optimal temperature, it can slow the extraction process and result in an unpleasant cup of coffee.

Fortunately, high-quality espresso machines come with tools that enable you to ensure that your water is at the right temperature. A PID monitors and regulates temperature of the water. The other way is by using a double boiler. This lets you use a single boiler to tea and steam while the second one heats water to brewing temperatures.

Carles states that these types of systems can make a difference for large businesses and baristas at home alike. They can aid novices dial in the perfect espresso Coffee machine uk shot since they can keep an exact temperature while avoiding numerous variables that could affect the flavor profile. It is also easier for baristas who have more experience to make their espressos just the way they would like.

Pressure

The amount of pressure an espresso machine employs is another factor that influences the quality of the coffee it produces. Many espresso drinkers notice that their beverages taste different based on the amount of pressure that is used, even though all other variables remain the same.

The majority of commercial machines utilize 9 bars of pressure to brew espresso. These machines are also likely to be pump-driven, not steam-driven. Although higher-pressure machines are available, they often require a more complicated group head design that can manage the higher pressure levels.

While you may see some espresso machines that advertise 15 or even 18 bars of pressure, nine bars is generally regarded as the most reliable standard for producing consistently great brews. These machines that are higher pressure tend to be less expensive and designed for home use.

To put 9 bars of pressure into perspective, it's four times the amount of pressure that is exerted by the air inside your car tire. The greater the pressure an espresso maker that is professional can apply, then the better it will be at capturing the flavor of your favorite coffee beans. It's worth investing in high-quality machines that produce the most effective results.

Barista Skills

A barista should be able to accept orders from customers quickly and accurately. This is especially crucial in busy times in the coffee shop. Effective customer service skills are also important for building relationships with customers as well as increasing sales for the coffee shop. This can include acknowledging regular customers, working to resolve problems efficiently, and remaining positive and helpful in difficult situations.

Baristas often need to be capable of multitasking, as they are required to take orders and operate a cash register and communicate orders with coworkers, and answer telephone calls all at once. This ability allows orders to be moving quickly to the customer and gives them an enjoyable experience in the coffee shop.

It is important for a barista to know the various styles of drinks that can be made by an espresso machine. This can be gained through reading about the various types of coffee, trying them out in person and watching videos on the internet. Many baristas consider it beneficial to attend classes on the subject, which are offered by a variety of organizations.