A coffee vending machine malfunction can be stressful and can arise due to poor maintenance and non-frequent cleaning. To keep it running well and avoid costly repairs, one must perform regular maintenance. This article shares a few tips and tricks to help maintain your machine in top condition, so that fresh delicious coffee is available all the time for your office staff during business hours.
Coffee vending machine manufacturers recommend the maintenance of the machine. You can maintain the machine by cleaning and emptying it regularly. The exact maintenance process depends on the type of coffee vending machine you have.
Here are valuable tips and tricks to clean the vending machine:
Run Automatic Cleaning Cycles Regularly
Most modern coffee vending machines have a self-cleaning function. Coffee vending machine manufacturers design it to clean out the tubes and remove coffee grounds, and milk remains from the device. You can set the cleaning frequency based on how regularly you use the machine. High use of coffee vending machines can lead to the accumulation of residue. The machine will benefit from regular cleaning cycles ensuring great-tasting beverages every time.
Use a Good Water Filter
Fitting a water filter on your commercial coffee vending machine is recommended. When making coffee, 98% is water, and the type of water you use affects the coffee quality. Coffee that tastes bitter is due to using overly soft water. Excessive hard water produces a bland cup of coffee without any aroma. Some companies supply their machines with water filtration systems to optimise tap water regardless of the mineral composition.
Do Visual Inspections Regularly
Inspection is crucial to ensure the machine works well and lasts longer. It is a preventative measure and an effective way of reducing machine downtime. If you use syrups with the machine to make a vanilla latte, check for any syrup residue build-up and clean if needed. If the machine uses a sachet, ensure your pack bin is appropriately fitted to catch all used sachets.
Check Water and Product Supply Regularly
Having a commercial coffee vending machine not function during the mornings can be frustrating to you and your customers. After such an experience, the customers won’t come back to buy and will look for the next coffee shop. This will make you lose your loyal customer and will affect the profitability and return on investment.
Failure to check the water and support supply will cause two major issues:
- The products dispensed will be appropriately mixed and will clog the tubes
- Give the coffee a bad taste
Keep the Machine in a Cool, Dry Place
Machines can be affected by high temperatures and humidity. They can destroy the internal components which influence the quality of your coffee. Ensure you keep the coffee machine from direct sunlight and source of heat. It will ensure your vending machine stays in good condition for a long time.
Use Quality Coffee Beans
It is essential to use high-quality coffee to improve the taste of your coffee. Low-quality or stale beans will affect the taste and damage the machine grinder. The grinder is vital in making coffee, so invest in high-quality beans from a reputable supplier to avoid breakage.
How Often Do You Run Machines Cleaning?
Daily Cleaning
Coffee vending machine manufacturers recommend you flush the machine and the brewer once daily. In the market, there are machines that you can rinse using clean hot water at the push of a button. If the machine is touchscreen-enabled, use a replaceable towel to clean and wipe. Cleaning the machine’s surface will help stop the spread of viruses and bacteria.
Weekly Cleaning
The weekly cleaning is crucial and is recommended by tea and coffee vending machine manufacturers clean the brewer units. To make it easy, use the operative manual for safety information and instruction when maintaining the machine. This way, you won’t tamper with the machine’s components. Maintaining your tea and coffee vending machines is essential for your business. It ensures that you offer good-tasting coffee and hygiene. Always ensure to run automatic cleaning cycles, do visual inspections, use high-quality coffee and keep the machine in a cool, dry place. Additionally, check water and product supply regularly and use quality coffee beans.