Signs that your espresso maker is clogged
As a coffee lover, there’s nothing worse than trying to make your perfect cup of espresso, only to have it come out poorly. One of the most common reasons for this is a clogged espresso maker. But how do you know if your machine is clogged? Here are some signs to look out for:
Dribbling shots
If your espresso maker is struggling to produce a steady flow of coffee, and instead is only dribbling out, then it’s likely that there’s a clog. This is often caused by a buildup of coffee grounds or mineral deposits that have accumulated over time. You may notice a lot of steam coming out of the machine, but very little coffee.
If coffee comes out too slow or not at all
Another warning sign of a clogged espresso machine is when coffee takes too long to come out or not coming out at all. This might happen because of the pressure exerted on the coffee puck during the brewing process can cause a blockage in the machine if there’s not enough room for the water to flow through.
Bitter coffee taste
If your coffee has a bitter taste, it could be because the water is not flowing correctly through the coffee puck. A slow or clogged machine makes water come into prolonged into contact with the coffee grounds, and this extended exposure produces a burnt taste. The longer the water is in contact with the coffee grounds, the more bitter your coffee will taste.
Leaking water
When your espresso machine is clogged, you may also notice water leaking from areas where it shouldn’t be. This could be from a damaged O-ring or a gasket failure, but it can also be a sign of a clog. Check for leaks during the brewing process, and if you notice any, turn off the machine and inspect it thoroughly.
If you’ve noticed any of the above symptoms in your espresso maker, then it is likely that it’s clogged. The good news is that it’s usually easy to fix by cleaning the machine thoroughly. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when cleaning your espresso machine, and you’ll be back to enjoying your perfect cup of espresso in no time.
