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Commercial Coffee Machine Troubleshooting

Commercial Coffee Machine Troubleshooting: Common Issues and Solutions

Commercial coffee machines are the backbone of many spaces. Busy commercial offices, bustling cafes, WeWork spaces and communal areas such as hotels or medical offices all benefit from the reliable feed of coffee. For this reason, a high-performance, reliable commercial coffee machine is essential to the smooth running of an establishment. To ensure you are always serving the best coffee it’s important to troubleshoot any issues with your commercial coffee machine.

Commercial Coffee Machine Troubleshooting

Everyone has experienced the frustration of a faulty coffee machine, but with the right knowledge, you can easily fix many of the common problems. In fact, troubleshooting common issues with your coffee machine can be surprisingly simple, such as: 

Check the machine’s power supply 

There’s nothing more frustrating than a faulty coffee machine in the morning. The last thing you want is to stand in front of your espresso machine, eagerly waiting for your morning cup of coffee and finding the machine unable to turn on. For this reason, it is essential to check the power supply first. Make sure the machine is correctly plugged into the wall with the power switch on. Then inspect the cord and plug for any visible damage. By taking these steps you can ensure that your machine is in good working order.

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Inspect the water reservoir 

If you’re experiencing some issues,  it is essential to examine the water reservoir for any possible blockages or leaks. Blockages or leaks can prevent the flow of water to the machine, causing it to malfunction or not work altogether. Whether you are using a domestic or commercial coffee machine, this issue can occur and cause significant problems to the daily running of your business, or your morning routine. For this reason, it is always advisable to carry out regular maintenance and checks to ensure the optimal function of your coffee machine.

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Inconsistent Temperature

Temperature inconsistencies can lead to under-extracted or over-extracted coffee, resulting in a lacklustre flavour. If you find that your coffee machine is not maintaining a consistent temperature, your first port of call will be to check the machine's thermostat settings. Ensure the thermostats are calibrated correctly and try again. If the problem persists, it may indicate a malfunctioning thermostat or heating element, in which case you’ll need to contact a professional technician to diagnose and resolve the issue.

Coffee Beans

Use correctly ground and fresh beans for consistent extraction 

The key to a perfect cup of coffee is using correctly ground and fresh coffee beans. No matter how great your coffee maker is, if you’re using stale beans, the flavour is going to leave a lot to be desired. It’s important to grind your beans just before brewing to ensure maximum freshness and taste. This will also provide a consistent extraction, ensuring consistent flavour.

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Machine leaking 

A leaking or dripping coffee machine can be incredibly frustrating. Not only does it waste water but it can also create mess and possibly lead to electrical issues. If you find your machine leaking or dripping, inspect all the machine’s connections, hoses and seals for any signs of damage or wear and tear. Tighten or replace any faulty components when needed and check the brewing group or portafilter for the correct seal. 

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Clean out any clogged filters in the machine 

Nobody wants to order a coffee and be greeted with weak, lukewarm coffee. One cause of an underwhelming brew is a clogged filter in your coffee machine. Filters are essential to a consistent and delicious cup of coffee, which is why regularly checking and cleaning out the filters can ensure that your machine is producing optimal results every time. 

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Steam wand issues 

Steam wands are essential to creating that delicious creamy and velvety milk for cappuccinos and lattes. If your steam wand is not producing sufficient steam or has poor pressure, it may be clogged with milk residue. To prevent this, clean the wand thoroughly using a damp cloth after every use and with a special cleaning solution when you notice it is clogged. If the issue persists, it could indicate a blockage in the steam valve or a malfunctioning steam boiler which will require the attention of a professional. 

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Adjust grind size for optimal extraction 

One of the most crucial factors in achieving the perfect extraction is the grind size of coffee beans. To get the best results, you need to adjust the grind size of your beans for different bean types. For darker roasts, you’ll want a coarser grind to avoid over-extracting the beans and lighter roasts require a finer grind to ensure the flavour is fully extracted. If you want to create a signature coffee, experimenting with different settings can take a little trial and error, but with enough practice and attention to detail, you’ll be a coffee machine aficionado in no time.

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Commercial coffee machines 

For a spectacular commercial machine that you can rely on daily, a Cafe Du Monde machine is the way forward. For a bustling coffee shop, a commercial espresso machine is a reliable workhorse making your life easier and your customers consistently happy. At Cafe Du Monde, we have a huge selection of coffee machines, from traditional espresso machines, drip filter machines and bean-to-cup machines, you’ll find the perfect personal or commercial machine for your needs. 

The La Spaziale S5 EK Compact for example is a fantastic machine built to withstand the rigours of a coffee shop, but with the compact size to allow for smaller spaces. The Astoria Pratic Avant is another great commercial coffee choice, with four dosage buttons and a striking retro design. 

Alternatively, if your machine is still in working order, but you’re looking to up your coffee bean game, at Cafe Du Monde, we supply fantastic quality beans. As well as delicious hot chocolate powders and a huge assortment of flavoured teas. Browse our range today and find the perfect coffee machine or coffee product for you.

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