Your grinder matters as much as your machine. These are the grinder faults we fix most often, on brands like Mazzer, Eureka, Baratza, Breville, Mahlkönig and Rancilio.
1. Motor hums but won’t grind
Why it happens: something is jammed between the burrs, often a small stone or other foreign object in the beans. On some grinders, a failed motor capacitor does the same thing.
The fix: switch it off and unplug it straight away. Running a jammed grinder can burn out the motor. We clear the jam and check the burrs for damage.
2. Shots running fast even on a fine setting
Why it happens: the burrs are worn by age, or damaged by foreign objects in the beans.
The fix: new burrs and a recalibration so the grind is right for espresso.
3. Inconsistent grind
Why it happens: old coffee packed into the burr chamber, worn burrs, or burrs that aren’t aligned.
The fix: strip and clean the grinder, check the burrs and realign them.
4. Static and clumping
Why it happens: very dry beans, a dirty chute or a grinder that needs cleaning.
The fix: clean the chute and burr chamber. The beans you use make a difference too.
5. Wrong dose on on-demand grinders
Why it happens: a faulty timer board, worn switches or a clogged chute changing the output.
The fix: clean the grinder, test the electronics and replace faulty switches or boards.
How often should a grinder be serviced?
Once a year for home grinders, and more often for cafe grinders depending on volume. If you like, you could also try our coffee beans with your grinder, as they have less static, and we offer a free grinder service every 10 kg.
Grinder playing up? Book a free grinder assessment or call 0424-140-133.