Owning and operating a bustling café or food service establishment comes with its fair share of challenges. Among the most crucial pieces of equipment in this type of business setting is the commercial coffee machine. A steady flow of delicious coffee keeps your customers satisfied, and a well-functioning coffee machine is the heart of your beverage service.
How to Repair a Commercial Coffee Machine: Troubleshooting Guide
However, just like any other mechanical equipment, commercial coffee machines can encounter issues from time to time. It is better to address these issues right away rather than wait for the machines to completely break down. In this article by SC Beverage, your local beverage equipment supplier, we’ll walk you through how to repair a commercial coffee machine with this troubleshooting guide.
Learn the Basics of Your Machine
Before delving into troubleshooting, it’s essential to have a firm grasp of how your commercial coffee machine works. This knowledge will help you more quickly identify issues and invest in better repairs to avoid issues in the future.
Refer to the manufacturer’s manual – if your machine included one – and familiarize yourself with the components, functions, and maintenance requirements of your machine. You may even want to consult with your professional commercial machine supplier to see if there are local repair experts who can walk you through the basics of your coffee maker if you aren’t sure what the source of the damage is.
Diagnose Common Coffee Machine Issues
When it comes to physical equipment, a lot can go wrong. Take note of these common issues and invest in the proper fix as soon as you can:
A Lack of Flowing Water:
If your coffee machine is not dispensing water or coffee as expected, there could be a water flow issue. Check the water reservoir, hoses, and filters for any blockages or leaks. Clean or replace any clogged filters and ensure proper water connectivity before restarting the machine.
Hot or Cold Temperatures:
Inconsistent temperature levels can lead to uneven coffee dispensing, making the beverage taste bad or turn up too cold in the customer’s cup. An easy way to test this is to put a thermometer inside the machine where the water heats up. If the temperature is too high or too low, the heating element or thermostat may need replacement.
Weak Coffee:
If your coffee tastes weak or watery, it might be due to having the wrong amount of water pressure. Adjust your hose according to the manufacturer’s recommendations and your desired coffee strength, and get in touch with repair experts if the problem still continues.
Machine Not Turning On:
If the machine doesn’t power up, check the power source and check to see if the machine is properly plugged in. If it still won’t turn on, examine the power switch, circuit breaker, or power cord for any damage.
Sometimes, you may not be able to identify and troubleshoot coffee machine issues on your own. In that case, getting in touch with one of our beverage experts is recommended so you can properly diagnose the issues within your commercial machine.
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance
Routine cleaning and maintenance are integral to preventing coffee machine issues. Just as a well-maintained engine keeps the whole car running smoothly, a clean coffee machine brews better coffee. For any major restaurant or beverage company, daily cleaning is an absolute necessity. Clean removable parts such as the portafilter, drip tray, and steam wand after each use to prevent residue buildup. Regularly empty and clean the tray so you do not have old liquid overflowing, which also avoids constant phone calls to your local repair service.
Perform a deeper cleaning once a week by backflushing the group head and cleaning the shower screen. Use a group head brush and a cleaning solution designed for coffee machines. Replace water filters and descale the machine’s internal components at least once a month to prevent mineral buildup. You can always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for proper descaling procedures.
Update Your Commercial Coffee Machines with SC Beverage
A well-maintained commercial coffee machine ensures that your coffee service runs smoothly, keeping your customers satisfied and your business thriving. By understanding the basics, diagnosing issues, and practicing regular cleaning and maintenance, you can ensure the longevity and reliable performance of your commercial coffee machine. Browse our selection of brand-new commercial coffee equipment when you visit us online or get in touch with us ASAP.
