When considering a commercial coffee machine, one question you might have is whether it’ll need plumbing into your mains water supply. In this guide, we’ll help you to understand whether plumbing is necessary, the benefits of a plumbed-in coffee machine, and how they compare to alternatives that won’t require a water connection.
The Short Answer: It Depends on the Coffee Machine Type
Not all commercial coffee machines require plumbing. Some are mains-fed and need a direct water supply, while others have built-in tanks that you fill manually. The right option for your business will depend on how much coffee you serve.
Mains-Fed (Plumbed-In) Coffee Machines
Mains-fed (or plumbed-in) coffee machines connect directly to your mains water supply, providing a constant flow of water without needing to refill a tank. These are typical for office coffee machines, as they’re ideal for high-traffic areas, where there is a continual demand for coffee.
With a plumbed-in machine, there’s no risk of running out of water just when you need it, providing a seamless, professional experience for customers, clients, and employees.
If convenience is a priority, you might also want to consider a powdered milk coffee machine. It delivers cafe-worthy coffee without the need for fresh milk, making your plumbed-in coffee machine even more low-maintenance.
Keep in mind that mains-fed coffee machines will require professional installation though, as well as access to a mains water connection.
Tank-Fed (Manual Fill) Coffee Machines
Manual fill coffee machines come with a built-in tank that you’ll need to fill with water by hand. These are generally small coffee machines, which are better suited to low traffic areas where the demand for coffee is lower and less refills are required. They can also be a good option for spots where plumbing access or space is limited.
Tank-fed coffee machines are simple to set-up with no installation needed. You’ll need to keep a close eye on water levels though and top up regularly, which can be inconvenient for busy workplaces.
What Does “Plumbed-In” Actually Mean?
‘Plumbed-In’ refers to a coffee machine that has a direct connection to your main water supply. This means there’s an uninterrupted supply of water, eliminating the need for manual refills.
For businesses that deliver a high-volume of coffee, this is crucial to keep things running smoothly and efficiently.
Installation Requirements: Space, Power & Water Access
Before installing a plumbed-in machine, you’ll need to make sure your space meets a few basic requirements:
- Space – enough countertop space to accommodate the size of the machine
- Power Supply – a nearby electrical socket to power the coffee machine
- Water Access – proximity to a mains water supply that the machine can be plumbed into
Do Plumbed Coffee Machines Perform Better? Pros and Cons
Plumbed machines are generally considered the best option for high-volume commercial settings, although this may depend on your business’ set up and needs. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of choosing a plumbed coffee machine to help you make an informed decision.
Pros of Plumbed-In Coffee Machines
- Continuous water supply – no refills or interruptions, so things keep running smoothly
- Consistently good coffee – a steady source of water ensures a good cup of coffee every time
- Professional appearance – a sleek and modern look that elevates your space
- Convenient – minimal upkeep makes them perfect for high-use and self-serve areas
- Maintenance included – our commercial coffee machine rental plans include sanitisation and regular maintenance to ensure the highest standards of hygiene
Cons of Plumbed-In Coffee Machines
- Installation required – needs a water connection and professional setup to meet health and safety standards
- Higher upfront costs – due to high performance and convenience, the initial investment may be higher than a tank-fed machine
- Less portable – difficult to move once attached to the mains water supply
Overall, plumbed machines offer superior convenience, although they may not be practical for temporary setups or businesses lacking a water connection.
Which Businesses Benefit Most from Plumbed Coffee Machines?
If your business regularly serves coffee to a high volume of people, a plumbed-in coffee machine is the clear winner. They’re particularly well-suited to:
Offices & Co-Working Spaces
In large offices and shared co-working spaces, plumbed-in machines eliminate the hassle of refilling water tanks throughout the day. This keeps productivity high and is also a nice touch for visiting clients.
Hospitality & Cafes
In cafes, restaurants, and hotels, consistency and speed is key. A plumbed-in machine helps staff to deliver coffee at pace without missing a beat.
High-Volume Environments
Busy environments like hospitals, universities, apartment buildings, and showrooms all serve hundreds of people on a daily basis. A plumbed-in machine ensures there’s always coffee available, even if there’s no staff member on hand to monitor water levels and replace them.
Cost Implications & Maintenance Needs
Plumbed-in coffee machines typically have a higher upfront cost, due to their installation requirements and advanced features. However, in high-use settings, they can be more economical over time, by increasing efficiency and reducing water waste.
They’ll also require regular servicing to ensure optimal performance and hygiene standards, which comes included as standard in all of our rental plans.
Tank-fed machines are usually cheaper to buy and easier to set up but they do come with more hands-on maintenance, particularly when it comes to cleaning and refilling.
Choosing the Right Coffee Machine for Your Workspace
The best machine for your workspace will depend on the frequency of use, staff size and available water access.
- Small offices and temporary work spaces – will be best suited to a tank-fed small coffee machine. They’re portable, easy to install and perfect for low-traffic areas that won’t require constant refilling of the tank.
- Medium to large offices – a plumbed-in model offers convenience and efficiency, keeping staff happy and clients impressed with minimal maintenance
- Hospitality venues and high-traffic areas – hospitals, universities, and apartment buildings will benefit most from plumbed-in machines that can properly handle the high demand
Can You Convert a Tank-Fed Coffee Machine to Plumbed?
Some tank-fed coffee machines come with optional plumbing kits, allowing them to be converted into a mains-fed model. However, this isn’t always the case.
If you’re considering a future upgrade, it may be more cost-effective to opt for a plumbed model from the get-go.
Related Reading: What is a Commercial Coffee Machine & How Do They Work?
Want to learn more about commercial coffee machines and how they compare to your standard home model? Check out our helpful blog to find out what a commercial coffee machine is and which one could be right for your space.
Contact Us for Expert Coffee
Still unsure which coffee machine is right for you? Need some help comparing models and finding the best fit?
Our team of experts are on hand to help. We’ll guide you through your options, recommend the best solution for you, and provide a free, no-obligation quote.
Contact us today to get started.