Espresso machines are intricate devices, and as advancements are made, their complexity only grows to enhance the quality of your brew.

One pivotal component is the boiler. Traditional espresso machines, as well as some contemporary ones, utilise a single boiler to stabilise water temperature before it flows into the group head.

Since the ’60s and ’70s, innovations like heat exchangers and dual or multi-boiler systems emerged. These developments enabled varying water temperatures suitable for steam wands or multiple group heads.

Recent enhancements to boilers include:

  • PID Control: This system persistently gauges and adjusts the boiler temperature, ensuring optimal warmth for your coffee.
  • Smart Boiler Technology: Devised by LaCimbali, this technology modulates water usage. Instead of waiting for substantial refills, it consistently adds water, minimizing temperature drops during busy hours and upholding thermal stability.

While dual or multi-boilers may seem superior, single boilers retain their merits. Each has its own advantages and limitations.

Single Boiler Overview

Many household and commercial machines opt for a single boiler, which manages both brewing and milk steaming.

Pros:

  • Simplistic design, making maintenance straightforward.
  • With PID control, brew temperature can be tweaked independently of steam pressure.
  • Typically, more budget-friendly yet capable of handling high demand.

Cons:

  • More susceptible to temperature inconsistencies, especially during simultaneous brewing and steaming.
  • Limited flexibility in setting brew temperature separate from steam pressure.
  • Generally, these have smaller boilers, limiting their capacity.
If your commercial coffee machine contains a boiler and is over 14 months old, HSE mandates a crucial safety check.

HSE Pressure Systems Safety Regulations 2000 act applies to all traditional espresso coffee machines and certain bean-to-cup brands like WMF & Franke. Many bean to cup coffee machines are excluded, however if your machine has a separate steam boiler, this will include your machine. If in doubt, always ask!

Neglecting this can have consequences. Not only could your insurance be at risk, but you might face a temporary business shutdown if inspected by health and safety officials. While we’re on the topic, it’s wise to PAT test your coffee machine alongside your other electronics.

If you require more clarity, or unsure of whether your commercial coffee machine falls into this category, call our customer care advisors without delay for personal advise on: 0800 085 0065

Twin & Multi Boiler Insights

Twin boilers typically have two water sources: one focuses on steam and hot water, while the other serves all group heads. Multi-boilers function similarly but with an additional boiler for each group head.

Pros:

  • Enables independent adjustments of brew temperatures and steam pressures.
  • Ensures a consistent brewing temperature with minimal effort.
  • Offers advanced electronic features, such as pre-infusion and temperature profiling.
  • Certain models contain electronic components that reduce the chance of malfunctions.

Cons:

  • Intricate designs mean fewer specialists might service them in specific areas.
  • Pricier than their single boiler counterparts.

While multi-boilers generally ensure consistent brews and efficient milk steaming, there are scenarios where a single boiler is more appropriate, especially concerning installation locations and budget constraints. In coffee brewing, simpler might sometimes be superior. For the best fit, it’s wise to consult with Logic Vending when selecting the right machine for your business setting. get in touch with our team of experts on: Tel: 0800 085 0065 | Email: [email protected]