Ed/Sandbox

This is my sandbox.

Machine Not Powering On

1. First plug the machine into another outlet. Make sure the machine is the only device on the outlet, and that the outlet works with other appliances.
2. Try backing out the grind to a coarse setting. If the burrs are too close together they will not be able to move.
3. Try using the machine on a different outlet, and make sure the machine is the only appliance plugged into that outlet.
4. If the machine is being used on a GFI outlet, try moving it to a non-GFI outlet for testing. GFI outlets will sometimes trip because of current fluctuation, especially with high power appliances such as an espresso machine. Click here for more detailed information on GFI function. The article mentions that GFI's are setup to detect small fluctuations in current, in order to prevent electrocution. The GFI is not able to determine the cause of these fluctuations. Common causes are:

   The outlet has been exposed to moisture, dust, or debris, which is causing the outlet not to ground properly. This will result in a current fluctuation and the GFI will trip. If the GFI outlet is located on the outside wall of a house moisture caused by high humidity, rain, or other weather can also contribute to these fluctuations.

   • The GFI is old, damaged, or broken. GFIs contain mechanical parts which can wear out over time or break from misuse.
   • The appliance being plugged into the outlet is fluctuating in current. Some appliances have motors, pumps, sensors, etc. that cause current fluctuations as a part of their normal operation. Espresso machines have both pumps and heating elements which can be on for extended periods of time. It is normal for these parts to have slight current fluctuations during operation. Most GFIs are set to trip after a 4-6 mA fluctuation, which some espresso machines will exceed during operation. This is not because of a ground fault, but because of normal current fluctuations the machine produces.
   • In some cases the GFI will need to be replaced. The GFI may be installed incorrectly causing it to trip, or there may be a ground fault elsewhere on the circuit. Have an electrician examine the GFI and the circuit it is connected to.
   • If the correct outlet type is being used and the machine is still not powering, try testing another appliance on the same outlet.
   • If the machine still is not working then there may be a loose wire internally.
5. The safety fuse may have tripped inside the machine.
   • Remove side panels of the machine to access the inside of the unit. The side panels are secured by 4 allen screws on both sides of the unit.
   • Once the side panel is removed inspect the inside of the machine. Check the power leads coming from the power cord, the power switch, and for any other loose or disconnected wires.
6. Once the machine is powering back on, reassemble the grinder and make sure the grind is set to the coarsest setting. Add beans back in and test the machine.
7. If the beans grind correctly on this setting slowly move the grind setting to the desired position. Only adjust the grind size while the grinder is running or you risk jamming the grinder or blowing out the fuse again.