Retention in coffee grinders is a common issue that can affect the taste and quality of your coffee. In this blog, we'll explore what retention is, why it matters, and how you can reduce it.
What is retention?
Retention refers to the amount of coffee grinds that are left inside the grinder after use. When you grind coffee beans, some of the coffee particulates can get stuck in the grinder, especially in the burrs, chute, and hopper. Over time, these grinds can build up and cause the grinder to become less efficient. The retention can also affect the consistency and flavor of your coffee.
Why does retention matter?
Retention matters because it affects the quality of your coffee. When coffee grinds are retained in the grinder, they can become stale and affect the flavor and aroma of your coffee. Additionally, retained coffee grinds can mix with fresh grinds, leading to inconsistent taste and quality. Over time, retention can also cause the grinder to become less efficient, which can result in uneven particle size and extraction. It can even lead your machine to clog and break internal parts resulting in the need for a technician to service it!
How can you reduce retention?
Reducing retention in your coffee grinder is essential to maintaining the quality and consistency of your coffee. Here are some tips to help you reduce retention:
Clean your grinder regularly: Regular cleaning of your grinder can help to reduce retention. Every day, or after periods of heavy use, brush out any remaining coffee grinds from the burrs, chute, and hopper.
Use the right grind setting: Choosing the right grind setting for your coffee beans can help to reduce retention. A finer grind setting can lead to more retention, while a coarser grind setting can reduce it.
Correctly position your discharge chute: Many grinders have an adjustable chute, to you can make sure coffee is falling out correctly, and not piling up into the grinder.
Tap the chute: Tapping the chute of your grinder after grinding can help to dislodge any retained coffee grinds and prevent them from mixing with fresh grinds. Many grinders will have a knocker specifically to shake any retention loose.
Use fresh coffee beans: Using fresh coffee beans can help to reduce retention by reducing the amount of oil and residue in the beans that can stick to the burrs and chute.
Conclusion
Retention in coffee grinders is a common issue that can affect the quality and consistency of your coffee. Regular cleaning, using the right grind setting, dosing funnel, tapping the chute, and using fresh coffee beans can all help to reduce retention and ensure a delicious cup of coffee every time. By taking these simple steps, you can enjoy the full flavor and aroma of your coffee and maintain the efficiency of your grinder.