The grind size of your coffee beans is an important part of determining the quality of your coffee. It influences the texture and aroma of your brew and affects the flavour due to the pressure applied by the water as it is forced through the coffee grounds.
Understanding this dynamic can help ensure your coffee machine operates at peak performance while preventing espresso machine repairs.
Grind Size and Water Pressure: What’s the Connection?
The final size of your coffee bean grind is an important part of the brewing process. A finer grind makes more surface area for the water to interact with, resulting in a higher extraction rate. This increased extraction rate gives a richer, more intense flavour. However, it also means that the water will encounter more resistance as it passes through the grounds, requiring a greater amount of pressure.
The water pressure can become excessively high when the grind is too fine. This can cause several issues, such as clogging the filter basket, causing an uneven distribution of water throughout the grounds and putting excessive pressure on the pipes in your machine. Over time, this increased pressure may lead to wear and tear on your coffee machine, reducing its lifespan and potentially causing mechanical failure.
Can a Fine Grind Size Cause Damage to Your Coffee Machine?
In short, yes—a grind that is too fine can damage your coffee machine. When the grind is excessively fine, the coffee grounds can become compacted in the portafilter or brewing chamber. This compaction can lead to a phenomenon known as “channelling,” where water is forced through tiny pathways in the compressed grounds. This results in an uneven extraction and can increase the pressure on your machine’s internal components.
According to a study published on Science Direct, grind size is one of the top factors influencing water pressure during brewing. If the pressure becomes too high, it can strain the pump and other parts of your machine, especially in high-performance espresso machines. Over time, this can lead to malfunctions, such as pump failure or gasket wear, costing you time and money in espresso repairs.
Finding the Right Grind Size for Your Coffee Machine
The ideal grind size for your coffee machine will vary depending on the type of brew you’re aiming for.
- For espresso machines, a medium to fine grind is generally recommended, as it provides the right balance between extraction and water pressure.
- If you’re using a filter coffee machine, a coarser grind is more suitable, as it allows the water to flow through the grounds at a slower pace, reducing pressure and the risk of clogging.
To determine the best grind size, try experimenting with your machine by adjusting the grind setting on your grinder and monitoring the extraction time and flavour of your coffee. A good starting point is a grind that resembles table salt for espresso and kosher salt for filter coffee.
Preventing Damage and Ensuring a Smooth Brew
To keep your coffee machine in optimal condition, regular espresso repair and maintenance is essential as well as cleaning. Clean the grinder and filter basket frequently to prevent a build-up of coffee oils and residual grounds. If you notice your machine struggling to maintain a consistent flow or extraction time, it may be a sign that your grind size is too fine and the internal pressure is too high.
Think you may have damaged your espresso machine? Book a service at Bravo Repair Centre today for expert espresso repair and guidance on grind size settings!