Keeping coffee urns and bulk brewers spotless and in optimal condition has a significant impact on the overall quality and freshness of the coffee. The type of unit and water quality will determine the amount of maintenance a coffee brewer will require. Coffee brewers typically last from 7 to 12 years but can last as long as 25 years, depending on how the operators care for the units.
Below, Christopher B. Warren, director of operations for Joe Warren & Sons Co. Inc., Norwood, Mass., provides helpful tips to ensure coffee equipment remains clean, safe and useful.
Cleaning Tips
- Use a clean, damp cloth with a nonabrasive, mild cleaner to clean the exterior.
- Use a mild cleaner with warm water — a brush or clean cloth will work — to clean the interior.
- To descale the interior, lightly wash with plain white vinegar and soak the stem and spring. Then, rinse thoroughly with warm water. This will remove any scale buildup.
- Clean and soak the filter basket, pots and other removable parts as you would any dish.
Maintenance Tips
- One way to help eliminate deposit and scale buildup is to feed the brewer with filtered water.
- Inspect the brewer for any signs of water spots; this may indicate there is a leak in the tank.
- Treat and clean the spray heads regularly by
using a special tool or by running them through
a dishwasher. - Inspect the power cords and coffee urns regularly for visual signs of cracks, leaks or damage. If present, contact your local service agent to further examine.
