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Coffee Grinder Not Working? 4 Fixes (2026)
Coffee grinder jammed, not grinding, or making weak coffee? Four common causes and fixes.
Grinder problems are almost always blockages, stale beans gumming the burrs, or settings issues. These four fixes resolve the vast majority of cases.
Grinder runs but no grounds come out
Beans are likely bridged above the burrs or oily residue has clogged the chute. Turn it off, empty the hopper, and brush out the burr chamber. Very oily dark roasts clog more; switching to a medium roast often prevents recurrence.
Grind suddenly too coarse or inconsistent
The burrs have likely shifted or worn. Check that the hopper is fully locked in, as an unseated hopper changes the grind setting. If the grinder is old, the burrs may need replacement, which Baratza sells directly for the Encore.
Excessive static and mess
Static worsens in dry winter air. Try the Ross droplet technique: a tiny spritz of water on the beans before grinding. Grinding into a dosing cup rather than directly into the portafilter also contains the mess.
Motor strains or shuts off
The thermal cutoff likely tripped from grinding too long continuously. Let it cool for 30 minutes. Grind in short bursts for large batches, and never run the grinder empty, which strains the motor.
Questions, answered
Why does my grinder smell like burning?
Usually the motor overheating from continuous use or a jam forcing it to strain. Stop, cool down, clear any blockage, and grind in shorter bursts.
Can I grind spices in my coffee grinder?
Not recommended: spice oils permeate burrs and taint coffee flavor permanently. Use a separate cheap grinder for spices.