For coffee lovers, there’s nothing quite like a freshly brewed cup to start the day. But did you know that the quality of the components used in your coffee machine can significantly impact the taste and consistency of your coffee? One way to be sure you’re getting a quality cup of coffee is through water system certification.
The certification of products and materials that are in contact with drinking, water as well as water filtration products certification are processes that determine whether materials and components used in coffee machines meet specific standards for treating drinking water in a safe and qualitative manner. Third-party certification bodies, like UL Solutions, test and certify coffee machine’s water filters and treatment systems that reduce impurities and contaminants present in the water.
Water systems certification can also be vital in maintaining the longevity of your coffee machine. Impurities and contaminants in the water can cause buildup in the machine’s internal components, leading to clogs and other issues that can affect performance and lifespan. By using certified parts, manufacturers can help prevent these problems from occurring, saving you time and money in the long run.
How water system certification for coffee machines is conducted
Water system certification for coffee machines is completed by independent organizations specializing in water systems testing and certification. These organizations test several components of the coffee machine against recognized standards to verify whether they meet specific requirements for performance and health effects.
Standards and requirements vary depending on the coffee machine’s use, as specific regulations apply to commercial coffee machines used in restaurants, bars and coffee shops. The most commonly used standards for drinking water system certification in coffee machines concern water treatment and filtration components — setting requirements for material safety, structural integrity and reduction of specific contaminants like lead in drinking water. These standards are widely recognized in the coffee industry and are the basis for third-party certification to consumers who are increasingly aware of performance issues impacting noncertified products.
The certification of filters for coffee machines is vital for both consumers and manufacturers. Consumers should look for certified filters when purchasing a coffee machine or replacement filters to make sure they are getting a product that meets industry standards for performance and health effects.
Manufacturers can benefit from undergoing testing to recognized standards like NSF/ANSI 42 for drinking water treatment units (the filter is certified to reduce aesthetic impurities, such as chlorine, taste and odor) or NSF/ANSI 372 for low lead content. Components that meet the standards and that are certified achieve the UL mark, a competitive edge by demonstrating their commitment to performance and health effects. Once a product has been certified by UL Solutions, it will be listed on the company’s website as a product with UL mark — making it easier for buyers to make safe choices.
