What a workhorse! Today, I put the Gene Cafe through its paces again ... 35 consecutive roasts (18 1/2 pounds) without a break and no cooling until it was done.



In the six months that I have had this roaster, it has roasted 364 batches totaling 191 3/4 pounds. The only thing I have replaced / repaired is the little piece of rubber on the chaff wipe and I do recommend you have a spare on hand. Over time the rubber becomes brittle and it can break into two pieces.

I do periodically take the chaff collector apart and soak it / clean it. Also, I do periodically clean the drum for visibility, which is easier to do with the center (metal) piece removed. Also, it is vitally important to make sure you clean the screen under the roaster as it is the only intake for the air for the roaster. If you grab the roaster by both ends and flip it over, at the top right you will see slots. Beneath those slots is a very fine mesh screen that filters the air going in to the fan.

The coffees (all from Sweet Maria's) roasted today are:

1. Guatemala Fraijanes - Finca Agua Tibia (versatile roasting coffee)
2. Mexico Organic Nayarit Terruno (great mild coffee)
3. Java Government Estate Djampit (deep, silky and chocolatey)
4. Brazil Fazenda Boa Sorte Natural Bourbon (deep, dark, bittersweet chocolate)
5. Colombia Tolima Planadas - El Jordan (anticipating ... )
6. El Salvador PN Las Ranas WP Decaf (fantastic chocolate!)
7. Mexico Organic Oaxaca WP Decaf (outstanding, flavorful coffee ... fooled people again! )