Keys To The Shop : Equipping Coffee Shop Leaders 568: The Keys to Espresso Machine Care w/ Jon Ferguson, Author of the new book "Coffee Under Pressure"
Oct 28, 2025
Jon Ferguson, a coffee technician and author with nearly 20 years in the specialty coffee scene, dives deep into espresso machine care. He emphasizes the importance of preventative maintenance, likening it to car upkeep. Water quality and proper filtration systems are crucial for optimal performance. Jon warns against DIY repairs and stresses the need for small spare parts on hand. He shares insights on training staff, managing access levels, and fostering good relationships with service technicians for smoother operations.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Develop A Tech Relationship Early
- If you just open a coffee shop, proactively meet and build a relationship with a local service technician before any emergency arises.
- Communicate often so they know your equipment and location, which speeds and improves support.
Book Bridges Knowledge Gaps
- Jon wrote Coffee Under Pressure to translate service tech knowledge into an approachable, practical manual for café owners and techs.
- The book fills a gap between dense owner's manuals and on-the-job experience to aid preventative care.
Prioritize Water Quality
- Treat water as your top priority because it comprises ~95% of espresso and can damage machines or alter flavor.
- Call the manufacturer, a service tech, or a water specialist to set up proper filtration before installation.
