Plumbing, water filtration, counter space and power requirements – the practical questions that often catch businesses off guard. Here’s everything to plan for before your machine arrives.
Every commercial coffee machine needs a water supply. There are two ways to provide it: connect the machine directly to your mains water supply (plumbed-in), or fill a built-in water tank manually as needed. This is one of the first practical decisions to make – and it’s largely determined by your team size and the location of your kitchen or breakout area.
The machine connects directly to your mains water supply via a standard 15mm pipe connection. Water flow is continuous – no refilling, no interruptions.
The machine has a built-in reservoir that is filled manually, typically holding 4-5 litres. Suitable for low-volume use where a plumbed connection isn’t practical.
The Threshold
As a rule of thumb: up to 15-20 people, a water tank machine is manageable. Beyond 20 people, refilling becomes a daily chore and the risk of running dry during the morning rush is real. At 20+ staff, we strongly recommend a plumbed-in connection – the additional installation cost pays for itself quickly in convenience and reliability.
Limescale is the single most common cause of commercial coffee machine damage in Ireland – and it is entirely manageable. Irish water, particularly across the east and midlands, is among the hardest in Europe. Hard water contains high levels of dissolved calcium and magnesium that deposit inside the machine’s boiler, pipes and brew group over time.
What limescale actually does
Water hardness across Ireland
Water hardness consistently above 250 ppm. Inline water filter is essential. Without one, descaling intervals will be very short.
Moderate hardness. A water filter is strongly recommended to extend service intervals and protect the machine.
Generally softer water but can vary locally. A filter remains advisable – and may be required to meet warranty conditions.
Vero’s Position on Water Filtration
We fit an inline water filter on every plumbed-in machine we install. It is not optional in most of Ireland – it is the difference between a machine that lasts years and one that requires expensive servicing every few months. Filter cartridge replacement is included in all Vero maintenance and rental contracts.
| Machine Type | Typical Footprint | Height Clearance Needed | Power Supply | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Compact bean-to-cup (Capsule LB2317, Machine Bestir BM40) | ~30cm wide, ~45cm deep | 40–50cm above machine | Standard 13A socket | Bean hopper fills from top — check overhead cabinets |
| Mid-range bean-to-cup (Franke A400 Bestir BM50) | ~35cm wide, ~50cm deep | 50cm above machine | Standard 13A socket | Requires plumbing for best results at 20+ users |
| Commercial bean-to-cup (Franke A400 / A600 Bestir BM50 / BM80) | ~40cm wide, ~55cm deep | 55cm above machine | 13A or 16A depending on model | Plumbed-in required. Drain point needed. |
| High-capacity bean-to-cup (Franke A800) | ~44cm wide, ~58cm deep | 60cm above machine | 16A dedicated supply | Plumbed-in and drain required. Water filter essential. |
| Traditional espresso (Carimali Bubble Elektra Evok) | ~75cm wide, ~55cm deep | 40cm above (top-fill) | 16A or 32A (2-group) | Grinder required separately. Plumbed-in strongly recommended. |
Overhead Clearance – The Most Common Surprise
Bean-to-cup machines are refilled with beans from the top. The most frequent installation problem we encounter is insufficient overhead clearance – typically where the machine is positioned under upper kitchen cabinets. Check that there is at least 50cm of clear space above the machine before installation day.
When you take a machine through Vero – whether rental, lease or purchase with installation – our team takes care of the full setup. Here is what is included as standard:
We deliver and position the machine in your chosen location, confirming clearances and siting before fitting.
Our team connects the machine to your mains water supply and drainage point. For installations requiring new pipework, we work alongside your building’s plumber.
An inline water filter is fitted as standard on all plumbed-in machines. We test water hardness on-site and select the correct filter cartridge for your area.
We load the beans, set grind size and dose, prime the milk system and run test drinks to confirm the machine is producing correctly before we leave.
We walk your team through daily operation and cleaning routines, and leave a quick-reference cleaning guide on-site. No question too small.
Not necessarily – smaller machines can run from a built-in water tank. However, for offices of 20 or more people, a plumbed-in connection (mains fed) is strongly recommended. Tank machines require daily or twice-daily manual refilling at this volume, and risk running dry during busy periods. Plumbing is a one-time installation cost that eliminates this problem permanently.
Yes – for almost all of Ireland, a water filter is essential. Irish water, particularly across Dublin, Kildare, Meath and most of Leinster, is very hard. Hard water deposits limescale inside the machine’s boiler and pipes, reducing performance, shortening lifespan and in severe cases voiding the warranty. Vero fits an inline water filter on every plumbed-in installation as standard, and includes filter cartridge replacement in all maintenance contracts.
Most commercial bean-to-cup machines occupy a footprint of approximately 35-45cm wide by 45-60cm deep. The critical measurement many businesses overlook is overhead clearance – bean-to-cup machines are refilled from the top, and at least 50cm of clear space above the machine is required. Check this before deciding on a location, particularly in kitchens with upper cabinets.
Compact and mid-range bean-to-cup machines run from a standard 13A socket – no special electrical work required. High-capacity machines (Franke A800 and larger) and multi-group espresso machines typically require a 16A or 32A supply on a dedicated circuit. Vero will confirm electrical requirements before installation and advise if any additional work is needed.
Yes. Vero manages the complete installation: delivery, plumbing connection, water filter fitting, machine commissioning, and staff training. For sites requiring new pipework or dedicated electrical supply, we coordinate with your building’s contractor. There are no hidden installation charges – everything is confirmed upfront before we book the installation date.
Yes, in most cases. Plumbed-in machines require a cold water supply and a drainage point – both can be installed by a plumber in almost any location. We carry out a site assessment before installation to confirm feasibility and identify any access requirements. Water tank machines can be placed almost anywhere a standard power socket is available.