Filtered water offers many benefits to the average person, but we can see that there are huge benefits to be had when it comes to coffee. When making coffee, you want to look for clean, filtered water that has some but not too much mineral content. We recommend using water hardness test strips, which will allow you to check your water level at the office. Water activates the beans with a combination of heat and filtration, leading to bold flavors and taste.
High levels of water hardness can lead to buildup within your coffee machine. It’s advised to check your water quality every three to four months, as it changes seasonally due to temperature changes as well.
When drinking water leaves a treatment plant, it often includes chemicals ranging from chlorine to fluoride. As it moves through pipes and pours through your faucet, it will pick up any number of sediments present in the pipes as it travels to your faucet. Between dust, rust, and sediment and the chemicals that water treatment plants use to filter water through the pipes, the water isn’t as fresh and clean as a spring from a mountain. This unfiltered water can lead to malfunctions or breaks with your coffee machine due to lime build-up.
The US National Coffee association recommends using filtered or bottled water. Some ways to cut down on costs, and waste is by installing a water filter system which attaches to your sink. These range in cost from 50$ USD to several thousands depending on the complexity of the device. Another option is to invest in a water filter pitcher, which often requires changing the filter every 3-4 months as well.
Making a good cup of joe’ can require a little finesse. Besides focusing on quality water to extract the bean’s essence, you want a good roast and bean quality. Coffee beans come in pre-ground packages and straight beans. It’s always best to go for whole bean coffee, when you can!
When it comes to brewing your coffee, you want it between 195- and 205-degrees Fahrenheit. If the water is too hot, it will scald the beans and cause a bitter-tasting roast. If it’s too cold, the beans won’t percolate, and no aromatic flavor will be released. Be sure not to over boil and let the water sit for a few moments to settle after it has reached boiling point. This doesn’t affect cold brew coffee or French press coffee, which are brewed under different systems.
It is best to let the coffee cool to a moderate temperature of or below 140 degrees Fahrenheit before drinking.