Storage Guide
Long-Term Storage
Store machines and grinders safely for months or years. Step-by-step preparation guide.
Store machines and grinders safely for months or years. Step-by-step preparation guide.
Moving, deploying, or rotating gear requires proper storage. Improper storage can cause corrosion, mold growth, and component damage. Proper preparation ensures your equipment works perfectly when you retrieve it.
This guide covers storage for 1-12+ months. The longer the storage, the more careful you need to be.
✓ Storage Priorities:
Follow these steps before storing your equipment.
Step 1: Deep Descale (Critical)
Run 2-3 full descaling cycles. Remove all mineral deposits. Minerals will corrode internals during storage. Use citric acid or commercial descaler.
Step 2: Flush Thoroughly
Run fresh water through the machine for 20+ minutes. Remove all descaler residue. Run 10 test shots and discard.
Step 3: Dry the Machine
Run the machine for 10 minutes without water to evaporate internal moisture. This prevents mold growth.
Step 4: Empty Water Tank
Remove water tank completely. Dry it thoroughly. Store separately. Stagnant water grows mold.
Step 5: Clean Group Head
Remove and clean portafilter, basket, and shower screen. Dry completely. Store separately.
Step 6: Protect from Dust
Cover machine with cloth or plastic. Dust accumulation can cause problems. Leave some air circulation to prevent moisture buildup.
Step 7: Document Condition
Take photos of machine condition. Note any issues. This helps when retrieving.
Step 1: Empty Completely
Remove all beans from hopper. Grind out remaining grounds. Stale grounds and oils will go rancid during storage.
Step 2: Deep Clean
Use grinder cleaning tablets (Cafiza). Run through grinder multiple times. Purge with beans. Remove all oil residue.
Step 3: Dry Thoroughly
Brush burr chamber aggressively. Wipe with dry cloth. Let sit for 1 hour to ensure complete dryness.
Step 4: Protect Burrs
For long storage (6+ months), apply thin layer of food-grade grease to burrs. This prevents rust. Wipe away excess.
Step 5: Store in Sealed Container
Place grinder in airtight container with desiccant packs. This prevents moisture and mold growth.
Temperature
Store in cool, stable environment (50-75°F). Avoid extreme heat or cold. Temperature fluctuations cause condensation.
Humidity
Keep humidity below 50%. Use desiccant packs in storage area. High humidity causes corrosion and mold.
Location
Store in dry place away from water sources. Basements are risky (moisture). Attics are risky (temperature swings). Climate-controlled closet is ideal.
Protection
Use cloth covers to prevent dust. Avoid plastic bags (trap moisture). Leave some air circulation.
Step 1: Inspect for Damage
Check for visible corrosion, mold, or physical damage. Compare to photos taken before storage. Note any changes.
Step 2: Clean Exterior
Wipe down machine with dry cloth. Remove dust and any surface debris. Don't use water yet.
Step 3: Reassemble Components
Reinstall water tank, portafilter, basket, and shower screen. Make sure everything is clean and dry before installing.
Step 4: Run Descaling Cycle
Even if machine was descaled before storage, run one descaling cycle. This removes any corrosion that may have formed.
Step 5: Flush Thoroughly
Run fresh water through machine for 15+ minutes. Run 10 test shots and discard. Remove any residue from storage.
Step 6: Test Performance
Pull test shots and evaluate. Check water flow, extraction time, and taste. Should perform normally. If issues, may need professional service.
1-3 Months
Standard preparation sufficient. Risk of damage is low. Reactivation is straightforward.
3-6 Months
Follow all preparation steps carefully. Use desiccant packs. Check on equipment monthly if possible.
6-12 Months
Extra care required. Apply protective grease to burrs and moving parts. Use multiple desiccant packs. Check quarterly.
12+ Months
Very high risk of damage. Consider professional storage service. Plan for professional reactivation after retrieval.
Proper storage preparation ensures your equipment works perfectly when you retrieve it. Take time to prepare correctly.
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