‘Coffee machines’ sit perhaps just below ‘pets’ on the list of things in our household we wish would exist forever. They’re loyal, reliable, and consistent… until they’re not.Â
In this article, we’ll explore the factors that affect the lifespan of coffee machines, such as the type of machine, usage frequency, maintenance habits, and the quality of the machine itself. We’ll teach you to learn how to spot signs of damage, and understand when it might be time to replace your coffee machine. We’ll also provide tips on maintaining your coffee machine to get the most out of it, helping you enjoy the perfect brew for as long as possible.
But, if you’re looking for a quick answer? Coffee machines generally last between 4 and 10 years.
However, there’s much more to it than that. Read on for expert advice on how to care for your coffee machine and ensure it lives on for as long as possible.
Table of Contents:
- Understanding How Long Do Coffee Machines Last?
- Signs Your Coffee Machine Might Need Replacing
- What Affects The Lifespan Of Coffee Machines?
- How To Maintain Your Coffee Machine For Longer
Understanding How Long Do Coffee Machines Last?
It’s hard to answer the question ‘How long do coffee machines last?’ because often the lifespan you’ll see on the side of a box isn’t a defined answer. Let’s take a closer look at how long different kinds of coffee machines generally last.
Traditional Espresso Machines
Typically, traditional espresso machines and their associated accessories need replacing sooner, due to more, and more complicated mechanical parts that can break down. They also run on a higher pressure system and tend to be found in more high-demand areas such as workplaces and cafes. Expect 5 – 7 years of delicious coffee from your trusty espresso machine.
Capsule Coffee Machines
Capsule coffee machines are great for their ease of use, customisable options and minimal clean up requirements. However, this comes at a small cost, as they can be expected to last for around 4 – 6 years. The mechanics of the pods, which are pierced within the machine, can wear it down faster, and their on-demand nature means they’re often a go-to, even if other coffee machine types are available at work or home.
Filter & Drip Systems
Due to their simplicity, filter and drip systems tend to have the longest lifespans of the different types of coffee machines, able to continue producing great-tasting coffee for up to a decade. With fewer parts to wear down, break or come apart, bulk brew models are sturdy choices for long-term solutions, especially in venues with ongoing high demand, such as hospitals or schools.
Automatic Coffee Machines
Of course, the lifespan of an automatic coffee machine will depend on how recent the model you’re working with is. As technology advances, it’s likely that a newer version of an automatic coffee machine could last a couple of years longer than its previous makes. The average lifespan can be between 5 and 10 years.
Signs Your Coffee Machine Might Need Replacing
All good things must come to an end. And just like the devastating day when one of your favourite colleagues announces that they’re leaving the job, so too will your coffee machine eventually decide one day to hang up its keys and quit.Â
Rather than being caught by surprise (and left desperately uncaffeinated), look for the signs that your coffee machine needs replacing, so you can stay one step ahead and perhaps even start your hunt for a new machine.
Temperature Fluctuations
If your coffee machine is failing to heat water correctly, your coffee keeps coming out lukewarm, or the temperature button is stuck flashing to indicate it’s not hot enough, this could be the sign of an internal problem. The thermostat, pressure system or another of the many complex parts may have broken down or stopped being as efficient.
Water Leaks
Water leaks, spills and overflows are common coffee machine problems, and they don’t always signify that disaster is near. Try to pinpoint where the water is coming out from, and whether it’s a quick fix (such as if you’ve overfilled the water tank). If not, you may need to enlist the help of a technician to repair a part or identify a larger issue. However, if you keep suffering from water leaks and you’ve had your machine for a while, it may end up being more financially viable to invest in a replacement.
Different Personal Preferences
If you’ve developed a greater interest in coffee roasting, you might want to swap out your automatic model for a robust barista-quality espresso machine. Or perhaps your capsule pod machine isn’t able to produce a high enough volume of coffee, and you need to switch to a bulk-brewing filter system. Don’t start hating your machine if it’s not doing what you need it to any more. It’s ok to replace it before it’s broken, but say thank you graciously and donate it to a friend or charity before you introduce the new one into your home or workplace.
What Else Affects The Lifespan Of Coffee Machines?
Let’s take a quick look at a couple of affecting factors that play a role in reducing (or extending) how long a coffee machine lasts.
Usage Frequency
Curiously, coffee machines that are used frequently tend to last longer than those that are regularly stored away, to an extent. For example, brewing a cup at home every day rather than once a week will keep your coffee machine parts in better working order. However, you can expect an office coffee machine that makes upwards of 50 brews each day to give out sooner.
Water Quality
Tap water isn’t ever pure H20, and the build-up of minerals, sediment and limescale can clog up the machine’s pipes and damage the plastic over time, especially if it’s hard water. Using filtered water in your coffee machine’s water tank is a nifty trick to prevent this and extend the machine’s lifespan. Plus, since brewed coffee is up to 99% water, you’ll also enjoy a fuller flavour from your coffee, undisturbed by any impurities from the tap.
How To Maintain Your Coffee Machine For Longer
So, how else can you keep your coffee machine ‘full of beans’? Here are a few tips on maintaining your coffee machine for even longer.
Regular Maintenance
Regular checks and preventative maintenance is essential to keeping your coffee machine up and running and addressing any small or potential issues promptly. Follow deep cleaning guides once a month, whether at home or work to scrub away the build-up of any bacteria and keep your coffee machine clean. In workplaces, run an internal cleaning cycle through espresso and automatic machines at the end of each day, and seek professional technical service if you identify any concerns.
Safe Storage
Keep your coffee machine off when not in use, and unplugged whenever you can, like at the end of the day or if you’re leaving home or the office for the weekend. This will minimise the risk of electrical issues and surges. Also important in safe storage is keeping your machine away from taps and other water sources or spill zones, especially if your coffee machine is in a kitchen or food preparation area.
Coffee Machine Quality
Not all coffee machines are made equal, and the simple fact is that well-manufactured machines from leading brands and experienced coffee producers will likely last longer than the cheapest models, regardless of how much care you put into maintaining them. However, price does not always equate to quality. Be wary of jumping into branded models, as you may be paying for the label rather than the longevity of the machine.Â
How Long Do Coffee Machines Last? In Conclusion
In this blog post, we’ve detailed the typical lifespans for each kind of coffee machine, identified the signs to look for that hint your device might need replacing, and how you can help keep your coffee machine in good working order for as long as possible. Follow the tips above, and your machine can last well beyond its typical lifespan.Â
If you’re looking for a reliable, high-quality model that will keep you and your coffee-loving colleagues satisfied for years to come, get in touch with our customer service team today.
