CB CB Equipment Maintenance and Sanitation

Question 1

How often should a portafilter basket be backflushed with a cleaning tablet on a commercial espresso machine?

Accepted Answer

At the end of each shift or daily

Answer

Once a week

Answer

Once a month

Answer

Only when visibly dirty

Question 2

What is the correct procedure for cleaning a steam wand after each use?

Accepted Answer

Purge steam briefly, then wipe with a damp cloth

Answer

Wipe with a dry cloth only

Answer

Soak in cold water for 10 minutes

Answer

Run cold water through the steam tip

Question 3

What chemical is most commonly used for espresso machine group head backflushing?

Accepted Answer

Espresso machine cleaner tablets (e.g., Cafiza/Puly Caff)

Answer

Bleach solution

Answer

Dish soap

Answer

White vinegar

Question 4

How frequently should the grinder burrs be inspected or replaced in a high-volume café?

Accepted Answer

Every 500–1,000 lbs (225–450 kg) of coffee ground

Answer

Every 10 years

Answer

Every week regardless of volume

Answer

Only when grind time increases by 1 second

Question 5

Which part of the espresso machine must be descaled regularly in areas with hard water?

Accepted Answer

The boiler and internal water passages

Answer

The portafilter handle

Answer

The drip tray

Answer

The group head gasket

Question 6

What is the recommended method for cleaning the group head gasket and screen?

Accepted Answer

Brush with a group head brush during daily cleaning and soak periodically in cleaning solution

Answer

Replace weekly without cleaning

Answer

Rinse with cold water only

Answer

Clean with steel wool to remove deposits