Frequently Asked Questions
Return Policy
We want you to be happy with your purchase! We offer returns only under the following conditions:
Damaged during shipping: If your product arrives damaged due to shipping, please contact us within 3 days of delivery with photos of the damaged item and packaging. We'll arrange for a replacement or a full refund.
Unopened bags: We accept returns of products in their original, unopened bags within 14 days of delivery. The item must be unused and in the same condition that you received it. Once we receive and inspect the returned item, we'll issue a refund for the product price.
Please Note:
We do not accept returns for opened products unless they were damaged during shipping.
Customers are responsible for return shipping costs unless the item arrived damaged.
Refunds will be processed to the original method of payment within 2 business days after we receive the returned item.
If you have any questions about our return policy, please don't hesitate to contact us at sales@shortcircuit.coffee.
FAQ
How long does fresh roasted coffee stay fresh, and how should I store it?
While technically roasted coffee beans can last for months, their peak flavor and aroma are typically enjoyed within 2-4 weeks of the roast date. After roasting, coffee beans release carbon dioxide (a process called "degassing") which helps protect them from oxygen. Once this process slows, the beans begin to oxidize and stale.
What kind of container should i use to store my coffee?
To keep your coffee fresh, store whole beans in an airtight, opaque container (like a ceramic canister with a rubber seal or a vacuum-sealed container designed for coffee) in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Avoid storing coffee in the refrigerator, as it can absorb odors and moisture. For extended storage options, you can freeze whole beans in small, airtight portions preferably vacuum sealed, but thaw them only once to avoid condensation.
What's the best way to grind my coffee beans for optimal flavor?
For the best flavor, grind your coffee beans immediately before brewing. Grinding coffee increases its surface area, exposing it to oxygen and causing it to stale rapidly (within minutes!). A burr grinder is highly recommended over a blade grinder. Burr grinders create a more consistent and even grind size, which is crucial for uniform extraction and a balanced flavor. Blade grinders, on the other hand, chop the beans unevenly, leading to inconsistent extraction and a less desirable taste. The ideal grind size will depend on your brewing method (e.g., coarser for French press, finer for espresso).
How does grind size affect the taste of my brewed coffee, and how do I adjust it?
Grind size significantly impacts the extraction rate of coffee, and thus its flavor.
Too fine a grind: Can lead to over-extraction, resulting in a bitter, astringent, or harsh taste. Water struggles to pass through, increasing contact time.
Too coarse a grind: Can lead to under-extraction, resulting in a weak, sour, or watery taste. Water passes through too quickly, not picking up enough flavor compounds.
Depending on your desired brewing method will depend on your grind size.
French Press/Cold Brew: Requires a coarse grind (like sea salt) for longer immersion times.
Drip Coffee Makers: Generally use a medium grind (like sand).
Pour Over: Often uses a medium-fine grind (finer than drip, coarser than espresso).
Espresso: Requires a very fine grind (like flour) to allow for quick, pressurized extraction.
What's the ideal water temperature for brewing coffee?
The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) recommends a water temperature between 195-205°F (90-96°C) for brewing coffee. Water that is too hot can "burn" the coffee, leading to a bitter and over-extracted taste. Water that is too cool will result in under-extraction, producing a weak, sour, or flat-tasting brew. Using a kettle with temperature control or a thermometer can help you hit the sweet spot.