The Coffee Kits

Chemex 101: Troubleshooting Common Brewing Problems and Solutions

The Chemex is a classic pour-over coffee brewer that produces a clean and flavorful cup of coffee. However, even the most experienced Chemex brewers can run into some common brewing problems. In this article, we will explore some of these issues and provide solutions to help you achieve a perfect cup of coffee every time.

Problem: Bitter Coffee

If your coffee tastes bitter, it could be due to over-extraction. Over-extraction occurs when the water is in contact with the coffee grounds for too long, resulting in a bitter taste. To solve this problem, try using a coarser grind size or reducing the brewing time. Another solution is to use cooler water, as high water temperature can also contribute to over-extraction.

Problem: Weak Coffee

If your coffee tastes weak, it could be due to under-extraction. Under-extraction occurs when the water is not in contact with the coffee grounds for long enough, resulting in a weak taste. To solve this problem, try using a finer grind size or increasing the brewing time. Another solution is to use hotter water, as low water temperature can also contribute to under-extraction.

Problem: Uneven Extraction

If your coffee tastes uneven or has some sour notes, it could be due to uneven extraction. Uneven extraction occurs when the water does not flow evenly through the coffee grounds, resulting in some areas being over-extracted and others being under-extracted. To solve this problem, try using a more even pouring technique, such as pouring in concentric circles or using a gooseneck kettle to control the flow of water.

Problem: Sediment in Your Coffee

If you notice sediment in your coffee, it could be due to using too fine of a grind size or not properly rinsing the filter. To solve this problem, try using a coarser grind size or rinsing the filter with hot water before brewing. Another solution is to use a paper filter instead of a metal filter, as paper filters will trap the sediment.

Problem: Slow Drip Time

If your Chemex is taking a long time to drip, it could be due to using too fine of a grind size or packing the coffee grounds too tightly in the filter. To solve this problem, try using a coarser grind size or loosening the coffee grounds in the filter. Another solution is to use a lighter roast coffee, as darker roasts tend to produce finer coffee grounds that can slow down the drip time.

Conclusion

The Chemex is a versatile and rewarding coffee brewer, but like any brewing method, it can have its challenges. By identifying and solving common brewing problems, you can achieve a perfect cup of coffee every time. Remember to experiment with different grind sizes, brewing times, and water temperatures to find the perfect brew for your taste preferences.