A grinder that runs (you hear it) but produces little or no ground coffee, or makes a labored, straining noise, is almost always physically blocked rather than electrically faulty.
01Instant coffee accidentally used
Instant or pre-ground coffee accidentally poured into the bean hopper (instead of the separate pre-ground compartment, if your model has one) dissolves and cakes onto the burrs, jamming them almost immediately. This requires full disassembly and cleaning of the grinder — never attempt to run it further once you suspect this, as it can damage the burrs.
02Oily bean residue buildup
Dark roast or oily beans leave residue on the burrs over time, gradually reducing grind efficiency until the grinder struggles or jams. Empty the hopper completely and run the grinder briefly with a grinder-cleaning tablet (a food-safe rice-based cleaning product designed for this) to absorb oils.
03Foreign object in the hopper
A small stone or foreign debris occasionally present in bagged beans can jam the burrs immediately and audibly (a grinding/clicking sound distinct from normal operation). This requires opening the grinder assembly to remove per your model's manual — stop immediately if you hear this sound to avoid burr damage.
04Bean bridging in the hopper
Beans can occasionally arch and jam above the grinder outlet without falling through, especially in a nearly empty hopper. Gently shake or stir the hopper to release them before assuming a mechanical fault.
| Symptom | Most likely cause |
|---|---|
| Caked, paste-like residue visible | Instant coffee used by mistake |
| Gradual decline over months | Oily bean residue |
| Sudden loud grinding/clicking noise | Foreign object |
| Nearly empty hopper, no grounds dispensed | Bean bridging |