8 Common Coffee and Espresso Machine Problems and How to Fix Them

Coffee and espresso machines are the heart of any café, restaurant, or bakery. They run all day. They take a lot of pressure. They handle hot water, steam, and constant use. It is normal for them to develop issues over time. 

The good news is that many of these issues are simple and easy to fix. In this blog, we will examine common problems with coffee and espresso machines and the best ways to resolve them. We will also share a few tips to prevent future problems and keep your equipment running like new. Let’s dive in. 

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1. Product Not Heating or Taking Too Long to Heat 

When the titular product does not heat properly, you cannot brew a good cup of coffee. The crema becomes weak. The flavour becomes dull. This problem usually happens because of: 

• A faulty thermostat 

• A failed heating element 

• Too much scale build-up 

• A damaged thermal fuse 

How to Fix It? 

• Check the power first: Ensure that the product is switched on. Check if the switch is on. Make sure the socket is working. 

• Descale the machine: Scale build-up from hard water is a significant reason for slow heating. Use a descaling solution. Run the cleaning cycle. Rinse well. 

• Inspect the thermostat: If it is faulty, the appliance will not reach the correct temperature. You may need a technician to replace it. 

• Check the heating element: Heating elements can burn out. If this happens, the machine will not heat. This part needs skilled replacement. 

• Call a technician for wiring or fuse issues: If everything looks fine, but the product still does not heat, the fuse or internal wiring may be damaged. 

2. Beverage Tastes Weak or Sour 

When your drink tastes sour or weak, it is a clear sign that something is wrong with the brewing process of your coffee and espresso machine for sale. 

Common Causes 

• Wrong grind size 

• Low beverage temperature 

• Dirty group head 

• Blocked filter basket 

• Worn-out coffee beans 

How to Fix It? 

• Check the grind: Espresso needs a fine grind. Too coarse and the beverage becomes weak. Adjust the grinder. 

• Clean the group head: Coffee oils build up fast. A dirty group head affects flavour. Scrub it daily. Backflush with cleaning powder. 

• Use fresh beans: Old beans lose flavour. Store them in airtight containers. 

• Check the water temperature. 

Ideal brewing temperature is 90°C to 96°C. If the product sourced from the top coffee and espresso machine suppliers and manufacturers does not stay within this range, it needs servicing. 

Replace or clean the filter basket: A blocked filter basket stops proper extraction. Clean or replace it. 

3. Espresso Machine Leaking Liquid 

Leaks are widespread. But most leaks are easy to fix. 

Possible Causes 

• Worn-out gasket 

• Cracked liquid tank 

• Loose pipes 

• Blocked steam wand 

• Faulty valves 

How to Fix It 

• Check the gasket: Group head gaskets wear out with use. If the appliance leaks during extraction, replace the gasket. 

• Inspect the water tank: Remove the tank. Check for cracks or damage. Replace if needed. 

• Check pipe connections: Loose or damaged pipes can cause leaks inside the equipment. Tighten or replace them. 

• Clean the steam wand: Milk residue can block it. This issue can cause pressure build-up and leaks. Purge and clean it after every use. 

• Service the valve: A faulty solenoid valve may need repair or replacement. 

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4. Steam Wand Not Producing Steam 

If you cannot froth the milk properly, the drink loses quality. Customers notice. This issue usually occurs due to blockages or internal pressure issues in coffee and espresso machines in Australia. 

How to Fix It? 

• Clean the steam wand tip: Milk dries fast and clogs the holes. Use a pin to clean the tip. Soak it in hot water. 

• Purge after every use: Always release steam for 2–3 seconds after you finish steaming milk. 

• Check the steam boiler: Low pressure means the boiler is not heating correctly. This issue may require a technician. 

• Remove any scale deposits: Descaling also helps improve steam production. Scale blocks steam flow. 

5. Product Making Loud or Strange Noises 

Some noise is normal. But loud banging, buzzing, or grinding noises are signs of trouble. 

Common Causes 

• Blocked pump 

• Scale build-up 

• Faulty motor 

• Air in the system 

• Dirty grinder 

How to Fix It? 

• Clean and descale the machine: Many noise issues come from blockages. 

• Check the water line: Air trapped in the pump causes vibration. Push liquid through to release the air. 

• Inspect the grinder: Foreign objects, such as stones in beans, can damage it. Clean it well. 

• Check pump pressure: If the pump is failing, call a technician. For further insights, visit the leading coffee and espresso machine dealers and distributors in your area. 

6. Pump Not Working 

The pump releases water through the coffee grounds. If it fails, the product cannot brew. 

How to Fix It? 

• Check for airlocks: Air can get trapped if the machine runs dry. Run the water cycle to remove the air. 

• Clean the pump: Debris or scale can block it. Cleaning helps. 

• Replace the pump if needed: If the pump makes no sound or a weak sound, it may be dead. It needs replacement. 

7. Espresso Machine Not Dispensing Water 

When no water comes out, it could be due to mechanical or electrical issues. 

How to Fix It? 

• Check the water tank: Is it filled? Is it seated correctly? Many pieces of equipment stop working if the tank is not locked. 

• Inspect the line for blockages: Scale or dirt blocks water flow. Descale the product some time after you buy coffee and espresso machines online. 

• Check the solenoid valve: a stuck valve prevents water from moving. Cleaning or replacing the valve solves the problem. 

• Test the pump: A weak or faulty pump will not push water. 

8. Coffee Machine Overflowing 

Overflow occurs when the appliance produces excess liquid during brewing. 

Reasons 

• Faulty water sensor 

• Clogged filter 

• Sticky brew valve 

• Too much powder in the basket 

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How to Fix It? 

• Clean the filter: A clogged filter prevents the liquid from passing through, causing overflow. 

• Check the brew valve: If it does not open and close properly, it must be cleaned. 

• Adjust the coffee amount: Overfilling the basket reduces water flow. 

• Service the beverage sensor: It may be giving incorrect readings. It may need replacing. 

Conclusion 

Coffee and espresso machines work hard every day. They face heat, pressure, steam, and regular use. So, problems are typical. But with proper care, most issues can be easily fixed. Even better, many of them can be prevented. 

Regular cleaning, descaling, proper maintenance, and timely servicing help keep your machine reliable and consistent. These steps ensure great coffee, happy customers, and smooth business operations. 

Suppose you notice anything unusual—strange sounds, weak extraction, leaks, slow heating—act quickly. Minor issues can escalate into significant repairs when ignored. Keep your equipment clean. Keep it serviced. And enjoy perfect coffee every day.