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Getting a bean-to-cup machine is a pretty significant investment. Whether it’s in your kitchen, at home, or in a busy office. You’ll want to know if it’ll last more than a few years, especially if you’re paying hundreds (or thousands) of pounds for it.
So, how long does it really last? And how can you make sure it doesn’t give up early?
In this post, we’ll cover it all: how long it usually lasts, what makes it last longer (or not as long), how to take care of it, and the signs it’s about to call it quits.
In general, a bean-to-cup machine can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years, and even longer if looked after properly. But the number will vary depending on what machine you get, how often you use it, and how well you take care of it.
Here’s a ballpark figure to work with:
Basic home machines – tend to last about 5 to 7 years.
Premium home machines – can last 7 to 10 years (or longer), if you look after it.
Commercial machines in low-use settings – Generally 7 to 10 years.
Commercial machines in high-use settings – can last 10+ years, if they’re serviced regularly.
You’ll often see machines go beyond these numbers, especially if parts like the grinder or pump are replaced along the way. It’s all about maintenance.
There are a few different things that affect how long your machine sticks around. Some are obvious, others less so:
1. How often you use it
A machine that makes 2 coffees a day will last longer than one that makes 30. That’s why domestic machines often last longer than those in a busy office environment.
2. The brand and build
Not all machines are created equal. Higher-end models are often more durable, use higher-quality materials, and have better support. Cheaper machines might still make good coffee, but they won’t last as long.
3. How well you maintain it
Not cleaning it when it says to or skipping descaling cycles? Big mistake. Limescale buildup can wreak havoc on your machine’s internal parts. Most machines have built-in cleaning programs, so use them.
4. The water you use
If you live in a hard water area and don’t use filtered or softened water, limescale buildup will come quicker than you think. That’s bad news for your boiler and internal piping. Filtered water can add years to its life.
5. The environment
Where you store it also matters. A clean kitchen is best. A dusty office, hot kitchen or humid cupboard? Not so much.
Even the best machines don’t last forever. Here are a few signs it might be on its last legs:
Sometimes it’s just a worn out part that needs replacing. Other times, especially with older machines, it’s a sign that something more serious is going on.
You don’t need to be a technician to make your coffee machine happy. A little routine maintenance goes a long way. Here’s what you can do:
Clean it regularly – follow the cleaning cycles, empty the drip tray and grounds container, and wipe it down.
Descale it often – how often depends on your water, but don’t skip it.
Use filtered or softened water – it’ll help prevent scale and protect the internal workings.
Keep it somewhere clean and dry – avoid humid areas or places where it’ll get dusty.
Replace parts when needed – burrs, pumps and gaskets don’t last forever, but they’re often easy to replace.
And if you’re using it commercially, it’s a good idea to book a professional service once a year to keep things ticking over.
So, your machine is acting up? You’ve got a choice: repair it or replace it. Here’s a rough guide:
Less than 5 years old? Repair it, especially if it’s a good machine.
5 to 8 years old? It depends on what’s gone wrong. If it’s a small part, fix it. If it’s the boiler or circuit board, maybe not.
8+ years old? If it’s having regular problems, you’re probably better off upgrading.
Some machines are easier and cheaper to repair than others, especially if spare parts are easy to come by. And if you’re covered by a warranty, lucky you. Use it!
Bean-to-cup machines can be a great investment, as long as you treat them right. Clean it, descale it, use decent water, and it should serve you for years. Many people get a decade or more out of their machines.
And if you’re shopping for one? Look for one that has:
At the end of the day, a coffee machine is like anything else: the more love you give it, the more it gives back. In this case, in the form of fresh coffee every day.