The goal is an even coffee bed
Puck preparation should reduce weak paths where water can flow faster than through the rest of the bed. Consistency matters more than theatrical force.
A simple routine
- Use a basket and dose that fit each other.
- Break up obvious clumps and distribute coffee evenly.
- Keep the portafilter level.
- Tamp level and firmly enough to compress the bed.
- Brush loose grounds from the basket rim before locking in.
Common problems
| Problem | Check first |
|---|---|
| Wet or soupy puck | Dose, basket headspace and machine design |
| Shower-screen imprint before brewing | Possible overfill |
| Coffee around gasket | Basket rim cleanliness and gasket condition |
| Side channeling | Distribution and level tamp |
More tamping force is not a cure for an unsuitable grind. Once the bed is compressed, grind adjustment controls flow more effectively.
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