Your grinder is just as important as your coffee machine. Freshly ground beans are the key to great coffee, but an unclean or poorly maintained grinder can ruin even the best beans. Over time, old grounds and oils can build up, causing inconsistent grind sizes, bitter flavours, and even mechanical damage.
Here’s how to keep your grinder in peak condition.
1. Daily Grinder Care – Freshness Starts Here
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Purge before use: run the grinder for 2–3 seconds to clear stale grounds.
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Brush the chute to remove loose coffee particles.
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Wipe down the exterior to keep things clean and professional.
2. Weekly Cleaning – A Deeper Refresh
Coffee oils can turn rancid, so weekly cleaning is a must.
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Empty the hopper and wash it in warm, soapy water (dry thoroughly before refilling).
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Vacuum or brush inside the grinding chamber to remove old grounds.
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Inspect burrs for visible wear or dullness.
3. Monthly / Quarterly Grinder Checks
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Burr replacement: most commercial burrs need replacing every 6–12 months, depending on usage.
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Grind calibration: check that your grind settings haven’t drifted over time.
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Tighten screws and bolts to prevent vibrations from affecting performance.
4. Troubleshooting – When Your Grinder Isn’t Right
| Problem | Likely Cause | Quick Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Inconsistent grind size | Dull burrs / loose settings | Replace burrs / recalibrate |
| Coffee tastes weak or flat | Grind too coarse / stale grounds | Adjust grind / purge |
| Grinder stalls or makes noise | Jammed burrs / foreign object | Switch off, unplug, clear obstruction |
Closing Tip:
Your grinder is where flavour begins. A few minutes of cleaning can mean the difference between a rich, aromatic espresso and a bitter, uneven shot. Treat it well, and it will reward you with years of perfect coffee.
