Fridge under espresso machine - installation problems?

macchiatome

Hi Guys,
I'm setting up a small espresso bar (30m2) and trying to be as smart as I can with space. Looking at getting the attached fridge which will double as front counter, it will have a viewing panel on one side unlike the picture. I would like to place a 2 group GB5 on top of this and this has been cleared for weight.

My issue is the plumbing which should usually be underneath the machine which cannot be. I have a return/ L-shape open bench that can return off the fridge and planning for plumbing/ water filter to go there.

Should I avoid doing this all together and come up with another idea or is it workable?

Dry_bean.

Details are pretty sketchy Macchi, Most things are achievable (at a price) why not get an electrician and a plumber in to check out what your trying to achieve. Are you trying to keep the fridge top clear to use as a serving surface, if so I'm sure a false top could be fabricated to disguise the plumbing etc.

macchiatome

Yes a fabricated top is being made for the top of the fridge so possible to have that elevated, good idea!

Dry_bean.

That was pretty much the first idea that came to mind, just make sure the top is well braced/solid, nothing worse than attempting to work/serve on a springy surface. Keep us posted as to progress.

mycuppa

It's probably not an ideal solution, however, quite a few people do implementations such as this for the very same reasons - space. When you don't really have a choice, then it just has to be ! One benefit is the quick access to milk..........but.........there are a few issues you will need to carefully manage. Typically, many places have a small fridge underneath or to the side. The #1 issue you need to be constantly managing is espresso machine drain hoses - they need to be as short and as vertical as possible. You would be surprised how quickly they clog and it's always in the middle of a busy serving period - which can be embarrassing as your customers tend to spot the problem before you do and typically by the time you see it, it's too late. Elevating the machine means it can start to reduce the ergonomics for height-challenged operators - but other than that there may be no other really issues with elevating equipment other than the unsightly electrical, water and drainage connections. Of course, you will need to ensure the design takes into consideration the correct operating conditions require for the fridges, e.g. surrounding area airflow, heat exchange and dissipation factors, etc.

Dry_bean.

on 1422074416:

It's probably not an ideal solution, however, quite a few people do implementations such as this for the very same reasons - space. When you don't really have a choice, then it just has to be ! One benefit is the quick access to milk..........but.........there are a few issues you will need to carefully manage. Typically, many places have a small fridge underneath or to the side. The #1 issue you need to be constantly managing is espresso machine drain hoses - they need to be as short and as vertical as possible. You would be surprised how quickly they clog and it's always in the middle of a busy serving period - which can be embarrassing as your customers tend to spot the problem before you do and typically by the time you see it, it's too late. Elevating the machine means it can start to reduce the ergonomics for height-challenged operators - but other than that there may be no other really issues with elevating equipment other than the unsightly electrical, water and drainage connections. Of course, you will need to ensure the design takes into consideration the correct operating conditions require for the fridges, e.g. surrounding area airflow, heat exchange and dissipation factors, etc.

All good points Mycuppa, obviously insight obtained from being in the industry.