How long do commercial coffee machines last?
Lily Hedley | January 26, 2026
When you invest in a commercial coffee machine, you want to know it will stand the test of time. The truth is that there isn’t a single answer. Every workplace is different, and how long your machine lasts depends on how often it’s used, how well it’s cared for and whether it receives regular servicing. With the right daily cleaning routine and a proper service schedule, a good commercial coffee machine can last up to 10 years. Some last even longer when they’re really well maintained.
What affects the lifespan of a commercial coffee machine?
One of the biggest factors that affects how long a machine lasts is usage. Every machine has an intended capacity. This is the number of drinks it can comfortably produce each day without being overworked. It is important that offices choose a machine that can keep up with the number of people using it and how many coffees they drink each day.
For example, if an office of one hundred people chooses a machine designed for around fifty coffees a day, it will quickly feel the strain. The internal parts work harder than they were designed to. This leads to faster wear on grinders, valves and boilers. A higher capacity machine is built for higher demand, so it is less likely to be stressed in a busy environment.
Daily cleaning also plays a big part in lifespan. Coffee oils build up inside the machine and can cause blockages if they are not removed regularly. This often leads to avoidable faults. Limescale is another problem, especially in hard water areas. Water filters protect the internal parts, although they need to be replaced on time for the machine to stay in good health.
Regular servicing keeps everything running smoothly. A service allows a technician to spot small issues early and put them right before they turn into expensive repairs.
Even with good care, the simple truth is that the more a machine is used, the faster it will age. Heavy use shortens the lifespan unless the machine is designed to handle that level of demand.
How regular servicing extends machine life
Routine servicing is one of the simplest ways to keep your machine running for longer. Technicians can spot early signs of wear, adjust settings and make sure everything is working efficiently.
Proactive maintenance is all about preventing problems before they happen. This includes routine servicing, planned filter changes and regular internal checks. By keeping on top of these tasks, you reduce the risk of unexpected breakdowns and help the machine run smoothly for longer.
Reactive maintenance is what happens when something goes wrong and a fix is needed. Though often unavoidable, relying on reactive maintenance alone can shorten the lifespan of the machine. This is because faults are only fixed after damage has already occurred. A balanced approach is important. Proactive maintenance protects the machine and slows wear, while reactive support ensures any issues are dealt with quickly when they do arise.
At FreshGround we offer two service packages. Complete Care covers everything, including callouts, parts and labour. Essential Care covers routine servicing and filter changes. Both options are designed to keep your machine reliable and consistent for as long as possible.
Spotting signs your machine may need attention
Even with good daily care, all machines benefit from regular check ups. If you spot changes in how your machine behaves, it can be a sign that something needs attention. Slower drink times, changes to taste, unusual noises or more frequent error messages are all things worth looking into. These signs often appear before a fault develops, so getting them checked early helps avoid bigger issues later.
A machine that is struggling to keep up with demand will also show signs of wear. If drinks begin to take longer during busy times, or the machine pauses more often, it may be working harder than it should. Early support helps protect the internal parts and keeps the machine running smoothly.
How long a well maintained machine can last
We have seen commercial coffee machines that continue performing well for more than 10 years. Lifespan always varies because every workplace is different, but good habits make a real difference. Daily cleaning keeps the internal parts healthy. Fresh filters protect against limescale. Regular servicing picks up wear before it becomes a problem. When these things are done consistently, a machine has the best chance of lasting for many years.
Some machines will naturally last longer than others, especially when they are matched to the right capacity and are not pushed beyond what they were designed to do. High usage will always increase wear, although a well specified machine that is cleaned every day and serviced on time is far more likely to provide reliable performance over the long term.
How FreshGround helps you get the most from your machine
We keep things simple. Our team sets up your machine, gives you training and talks you through a straightforward cleaning routine. We schedule your filter changes and remind you when they are due. If you choose Complete Care, every callout, part and repair is included which makes it easier to keep your machine in excellent condition.
Our aim is always to support you so your machine lasts as long as possible and delivers great coffee every day.
Need advice choosing the right machine?
If you are not sure which machine is right for your team or you want guidance on maintenance, we are here to help. Speak to our team for friendly advice and support.