Power Failure Troubleshooting for Coffee Shop Operations

Power Failure Troubleshooting for Coffee Shop Operations

This guide provides a comprehensive 10-step procedure for troubleshooting power failures in Little Coffee Bean Co locations, ensuring minimal disruption to operations and customer service.

Step 1: Confirm the Scope of the Power Loss

Action: Determine if the power loss affects the entire shop or specific equipment.

  • Check if all lights are out or just certain areas
  • Verify if refrigeration units, coffee machines, and POS systems are affected
  • Note the time of the power loss for incident documentation

Step 2: Check if the Outage is Local or Widespread

Action: Determine the extent of the power outage.

  • Look outside to see if neighboring businesses have power
  • Check street lights and traffic signals
  • Contact nearby businesses if possible

Step 3: Verify Main Power Supply

Action: Check the main electrical panel and circuit breakers.

  • Locate the main electrical panel (typically in back-of-house area)
  • Check if any circuit breakers have tripped (switched to OFF position)
  • If tripped, reset by switching OFF completely, then back to ON
  • Do not repeatedly reset a breaker that keeps tripping – this indicates a serious electrical issue

Step 4: Inspect Individual Equipment

Action: Check power connections for critical equipment.

Frachino Coffee Machine:

  • Verify power cable is securely plugged in
  • Check machine’s power switch
  • Look for any error messages on display

Grinder:

  • Confirm power connection
  • Check for any visible damage to power cord

Odoo POS System:

  • Verify tablet/terminal is charged or connected to power
  • Check router/internet connection
  • Confirm card reader has power

Step 5: Check Power Strips and Extension Cords

Action: Inspect all power strips and extension cords.

  • Ensure power strips are switched ON
  • Check for tripped surge protectors (reset button may need pressing)
  • Look for any visible damage or burn marks

Step 6: Verify Backup Power Systems

Action: If your location has backup power, check its status.

  • Verify generator is operational (if applicable)
  • Check UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) systems
  • Ensure backup systems are properly connected

Step 7: Contact Utility Provider (if widespread outage)

Action: If the outage affects the area, contact your electricity provider.

  • Report the outage to your local utility company
  • Ask for estimated restoration time
  • Get a reference number for the outage report

Step 8: Implement Manual Operations

Action: If Odoo POS is down, switch to manual transaction processing.

  • Use manual credit card imprinter (if available) or note card details for later processing
  • Accept cash only if card processing is unavailable
  • Record all transactions manually for later entry into Odoo
  • Inform customers of limited payment options

Step 9: Equipment Restart Procedure (after power restoration)

Action: Follow proper restart sequence once power is restored.

Restart Order:

  1. Wait 2-3 minutes after power restoration before restarting equipment
  2. Frachino Coffee Machine: Turn on and allow to warm up (15-20 minutes)
  3. Grinder: Power on and test
  4. Refrigeration units: Verify they’re running and cooling
  5. Odoo POS System: Restart router first, then POS terminal
  6. Test all equipment before resuming full service

Step 10: Document the Incident

Action: Record all details of the power failure.

Documentation should include:

  • Date and time of power loss
  • Duration of outage
  • Cause (if known)
  • Equipment affected
  • Actions taken
  • Time power was restored
  • Any equipment damage or issues
  • Estimated revenue loss (if applicable)

Emergency Contacts

Keep these numbers readily accessible:

  • Local Electricity Provider: [Insert local utility number]
  • Little Coffee Bean Co Management: [Insert management contact]
  • Equipment Maintenance: [Insert maintenance contact]
  • Emergency Electrician: [Insert emergency electrician contact]

Prevention & Maintenance

Regular checks to prevent power-related issues:

  • Schedule annual electrical system inspections
  • Test circuit breakers quarterly
  • Inspect power cords and plugs monthly for damage
  • Keep electrical panel area clear and accessible
  • Maintain backup power systems according to manufacturer guidelines
  • Train all staff on basic troubleshooting procedures

This troubleshooting guide is part of Little Coffee Bean Co’s operational documentation. For questions or updates, contact management.