Most commercial machines break down when they are neglected, i.e. lack of water filtration, cleaning, and misuse. Group o-rings, screens, steam arm rebuild kits (gasket, spring, spring ball seat, maybe another o-ring), and steam valve rebuild kits (o-rings and seat) will always need replacing. Most service plans call for it every 4 to 6 months.
Almost every part in an espresso machine has a life expectancy and will need replacing. Usually after the 4th or 5th year a major overhaul is recommended. Replace everything above as well as all the gaskets and o-rings. That usually requires rebuilding the water inlet manifold, backflow valve, and the expansion valve. I’m not going over every thing else but there is still a lot more that needs replacing or rebuilding.
So really if all the maintenance is done correctly and on a timely manner your machine should run for several rebuilds.
Service should be 2nd on your mind after deciding what type of machine you want. You should check to see if they are factory trained, how long have they been in business, and if they have any references. Do they carry parts on hand for your machine or they order them as needed? If you espresso machine breaks, do they guarantee a 24-hour response time?
You may want to check to see if they have some type of water filtration protection plan. If so they might maintain your filtration for you.
If I have a loaner I will install if for them, but it's not cheap, nor should it be. It is not the responsibility of the service center to have a loaner. I often try to get storeowners to buy a used machine and have it rebuilt for such an occasion or if they upgraded to a new machine have the old one rebuilt for a spare.
