The motor struggles or stops while grinding
Turn the grinder OFF immediately and unplug it. Do not keep grinding. The grind setting is most likely too fine for the beans, which puts too much strain on the motor. Turn the dial coarser and try again.
A loud bang, then it stops or sounds very different
A small rock or stone mixed in with the beans has most likely lodged between the burrs.
- Unplug the grinder and toggle the switch 2 to 3 times to discharge any electricity.
- Empty the funnel.
- Open the grinder (see Opening, Cleaning, and Closing Your Z1).
- Look for a bean-sized or smaller object in the burr chamber.
- Remove it with something non-metallic, like a toothpick or brush handle. Do not use metal tools that could scratch the burrs.
- Clean the chamber and burrs and check them for chips, cracks, or unevenness.
- Close the grinder and rezero (see Setting the Zero Point on Your Z1).
Minor damage: a very small chip on a burr edge might not affect grind quality, but keep an eye on it. Significant damage: large chips or cracks mean the burrs should be replaced, since damaged burrs grind inconsistently and can cause further damage.
If the grinder will not turn on afterward, see Troubleshooting: Z1 Will Not Turn On (Replacing the Fuse).
Prevent it
Look over your beans before grinding, especially from smaller roasters or origins known for debris. Pour beans slowly. Buy from roasters with strong quality control.