Assess your space for a new commercial coffee machine

Embarking on the journey to acquire a new commercial coffee machine is undeniably thrilling, conjuring visions of a bustling café, a happy barista team, and the aromatic symphony of freshly brewed coffee.

However, before you let excitement take the lead, it’s crucial to ensure that your site is ready to accommodate this caffeinated addition.

In this article, we will walk you through the key considerations to evaluate the readiness of your space for a new commercial coffee machine.

Above The Counter: Have you got enough space?

The first checkpoint in your site-readiness checklist involves measuring up the above-the-counter space. Here’s what you need to look at:

Sufficient Counter Space
Evaluate the depth, width, and height (if shelving is present) of your counter space. Ensure there’s ample room for the new machine, accounting for an additional 150mm on either side for the technician’s access during installation.

Space for Dispenser and Grinder
Confirm adequate space for the dispenser, measuring 528mm in depth and 548mm in height. Allocate an extra 150mm on each side for the technician. Additionally, allocate 220mm of width for the grinder.

Drilling for Pipes
If needed, prepare for drilling a 70mm (3-inch) diameter hole directly beneath or behind the dispenser’s position to facilitate the passage of pipes.

Delivery Considerations
Assess any potential delivery restrictions or specific requirements to ensure a smooth arrival of your new coffee machine.

Under Counter: Ensuring Fluid Connectivity

Moving beneath the counter, consider the following factors for fluid connectivity:

Mains-Fed Drinking Water Supply
Confirm a mains-fed drinking water supply using 15mm copper pipe with a washing machine type connection at the end.

Proximity of Water Supply
Verify that the water supply is within 1 meter of the designated dispenser location for convenient connectivity.

Water Supply Flow Testing
Conduct a flow test to ensure the water supply meets the necessary requirements for optimal performance.

Chlorination of New Pipework
If new pipework is introduced, ensure it has been chlorinated to maintain cleanliness and sanitation.

Accessible Stopcock for Dispenser
Confirm the presence of a hand-operable and easily accessible stopcock in the water supply to the dispenser.

Proximity of Drainage
Ensure drainage is within 1 meter of the machine to facilitate efficient wastewater disposal.

Minimum Water Pressure
Check that water pressure meets the minimum requirement of 1 bar for optimal machine functionality.

Space for Brita 600 Water Filter
If applicable, allocate under-counter space meeting dimensions of 250mm (width), 360mm (depth), and 520mm (height) for the Brita 600 water filter.

Electrics: Powering Up the Experience

Finally, delve into the electrical considerations to power up your coffee machine:

Proximity of Electrical Supply
Confirm that the electrical supply is within 1 meter of the designated dispenser location for seamless connectivity.

Accessible Electrical Isolator
Verify the presence of a hand-operable isolator that is easily accessible to control the power supply.

Three-Phase Electrical Supply
If applicable, ensure compatibility with a 3-phase electrical supply of 16 amps per phase. Confirm the coffee machine’s power draw aligns with your setup.

Single-Phase Electrical Supply
Alternatively, for a 32 amp single-phase electrical supply, ensure compatibility with the coffee machine’s power draw.

Socket Requirements for Grinder
Allocate a 13 amp socket per grinder, accommodating a maximum draw of 320 Watts for dedicated power.

Shared Plugs or Leads
Evaluate whether shared plugs or leads will be used, addressing potential complications.

By methodically assessing and addressing these considerations, you not only pave the way for a seamlessly integrated commercial coffee machine but also ensure the efficiency, safety, and longevity of your coffee-serving venture. Happy brewing!