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FAQ

The Z1 Drivetrain

The Z1 features a set speed. Since conception, we wanted the Z1 to be a powerful, yet small coffee grinder and this was one of the key design drivers behind the shape of the device. After testing multiple motor types, suppliers and drive methods in various configurations, we arrived at a single solution that delivers plenty of power and torque to grind some of the most challenging roasts a home barista may encounter.

Initial Z1 designs boasted a variety of variable speed direct drive brushless motors starting at 48V all the way up to 310V. While brushless motors offer interesting features, they add complexity and require firmware to run properly and deliver good low end torque leaving such a solution a bit temperamental.

The current Z1 runs a large brushed DC motor, delivering exceptional and efficient power, which reduces much of the engineering complexity creating a more stable platform and a better user experience. The Z1 uses a long lasting all metal gearbox to reduce the speed of the brushed DC motor to 900RPM.

Power

The Z1 runs on grid power. The Z1 Launch Edition runs on 110V and features a US Type B Plug. Starting with the March 31, 2023 release, the Z1 will include international versions. Customers will be able to select between 100-120V and 220-240V and the corresponding plug for your region.

Newest Updates

Thanks to valuable feedback from Z1 Launch Edition users, the Zerno design team has taken these learnings and incorporated many of them into the next Z1, launching on March 31, 2023.

  • Zerno / SSP 64mm Blind Burrs: Provides 8.91% more grind area. (The Z1 will continue to support standard 64mm burrs.)
  • Variable Feed, Swappable Prebreaker: Currently grinders ship with the medium feed prebreaker auger. Additional prebreakers will be available in the future.
  • Power Cord: Color matched and user-replaceable.
  • Motor: Easier access and serviceability.
  • Ion Generator: Lessens static for a cleaner grind.
  • Chute: Design tweaks aimed at reducing static and retention.
  • Now Available: Magnetic Dosing Cup
  • Available for Preorder: Magnetic Portafilter Stand / Holder
  • Now Available: Additional Wood Accents

Are you working on any more updates or new models?

We are not planning any significant new developments for the remainder of the year. We are currently focused on getting the Z1 out to our customers and maintaining the highest standards.

Does the Z1 require a power brick?

The Z1 does not require a power brick to operate. The coffee grinder plugs directly into a wall outlet.

How are the burrs aligned?

The Zerno design team follows tight engineering tolerances and good engineering design practices for the Z1, which guarantees all parts involved in the grind are well aligned. The precision main shaft of the Z1 is supported by a dual ball bearing system directly mounted on the grinder housing ensuring alignment precision.

Prebreaker Driven Design

The Z1 uses a prebreaker to crack the beans before they enter the burrs. This system ensures beans enter the burrs at a constant rate and maintain a lower speed.

The Z1 prebreaker design works in tandem with the custom-shaped grind chamber, ensuring the beans are cracked and reducing retention. Read more about our prebreaker driven design here.

Are the burrs user replaceable?

The Z1 is designed to be customizable and the burrs are no exception. Z1 burrs can be easily swapped by an end user. You can switch between blind and standard 64mm burrs in the Z1 with ease. Ready more about our burr options here.

Retention

Every coffee grinder exhibits retention. The Zerno design team has taken extraordinary care developing the Z1 to be as low retention as possible. Current Z1 measurements: Exchange* – 0.1g. / Retention** – 0.5-2g. 

*The amount of coffee in the grind chamber that gets exchanged on each grind.

**The amount of coffee that gets retained in the coffee grinder over many shots

Chute

The Z1 chute is magnetically attached to the main body, which allows for easy clean up or customization and also serves as a dual purpose knocker. 

The chute is in a convenient location with clear visibility, designed to allow the user to see exactly what they are doing.

Due to popular demand, all grinders will ship with color matching chutes! If you ordered a Soft White Zerno Z1, you will receive a color matched white chute.

Power Cord

Each Zerno Z1 includes a user-replaceable, IEC320 C5 color-matched power cord (when available) and is offered in multiple plug types to accommodate international customers. We will provide a power cord that matches the shipping country when possible. Standard cords are typically 6′ long.

Is the Z1 available internationally?

Beginning March 31, 2023, the Z1 will be available internationally. 100-120V and 220-240V versions will be available with the following plug options:

  • Type B (US)
  • Type F (EU)
  • Type G (UK)
  • Type I (ANZ)

Dosing Cup

All Z1 grinders include a precision machined stainless steel dosing cup that magnetically attaches directly below the chute. The dosing cup is supported by soft felt pads and purposely weighted to improve usability and prevent accidental tipping.

 

Did the Power Switch change?


After we tried many different switches, we kept on coming back to the original switch as it had the best feel and durability. We are going to be working with the original switch, as many Z1 users have grown to love it as well

 

Shipping, Returns, and Warranty

How are shipping costs calculated?

Shipping fees are based on the delivery country and calculated during checkout. 

 

What countries do you ship to?

Arrangements are being finalized to ship to as many countries as possible. Please refer to the order page for the current list of countries.

We are continually expanding our international delivery area, please note if your country isn’t listed, you can still order a grinder during presale events by emailing us at info@zerno.co and we will get back to you in 1-2 business days with shipping fees to finalize your purchase.

 

How long are shipping times?

Currently, all shipments are from the USA and will be shipped when manufacturing is complete.

 

  • Domestic shipments are typically in transit from 2-7 days with UPS Ground Service.
  • International shipments are typically in transit for 4-21 days with UPS, DHL, or Fedex.

 

Please note delivery times are estimates and may vary depending on the courier.

 

Will I receive a tracking code for my order?

Once your order has shipped, you will receive an email with tracking information.

 

What is your return policy?

To initiate a return, submit a return request within 7 days of receipt of the item. Item must be returned to Zerno in all original packaging and in an unused condition. Requests should be made by email at info@zerno.co.

Return shipping will be the responsibility of the customer and we recommend using an insured and trackable service.

Zerno will refund the value of the goods returned minus the value of any shipping fees paid.

Import Duties & Taxes

Import duties and taxes (including VAT) may apply for international shipments and are not included in the price. Fees vary by country, and Zerno encourages you to be aware of these potential costs before placing an order as they are the responsibility of the customer.

We may offer to prepay import taxes and duties for certain countries on a case by case basis. Information will be shared in our production updates.

Cancellation Policy

If you need to cancel your order, please email us at info@zerno.co. Orders may be canceled prior to dispatch and may be subject to a 3% fee. If your order has been dispatched, please refer to our return policy.

Zerno can only process refunds back to the original payment method used in a charge. Zerno can’t send a refund to a different destination, such as another card or bank account. Refunds to expired or canceled cards are handled by the customer’s card issuer and, in most cases, credited to the customer’s replacement card. If no replacement exists, the card issuer usually delivers the refund to the customer using an alternate method (for example, check or bank account deposit).

Transfer policy

Pre-orders are non-transferrable.

Warranty

At Zerno, we take pride in our commitment to quality products and customer satisfaction. Zerno grinders are designed to outlive trends and serve optimally for generations. We stand behind their durability and longevity.  

Our warranty policy guarantees that your Z1 grinder will be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of 1 year from receiving it. In the unlikely event that your machine requires repair, we’ve made this process as easy as possible. 

Zerno products are purposefully built to make maintenance and repairs easy to complete on your own. Our dedicated customer service team is always available to help troubleshoot any issues you may encounter. If your machine requires more extensive repairs, simply reach out to us at info@zerno.co and we’ll take care of everything. 

 

Customer Service

We want every customer to be completely happy with their experience, and we’ll do everything in our power to make things right. For all customer service inquiries, please email us at info@zerno.co

 

Order Information

When is your next presale?

We will announce the next presale to our email subscribers and post on social media. We are primarily small batch production with the goal of more frequent drops throughout the year. We are looking to announce the next presale date within 1-2 months and expect to have at least a few more drops this year.

Hint: if you would like early access, please sign up for our newsletters to learn how you can secure your grinder!

 

How do I sign up for your newsletter?

Scroll to the bottom of this page and enter your email. We announce all the important details to our email subscribers and often grant them early access to our presale. Please consider subscribing to ensure you don’t miss out on any updates or exclusive offers.

 

How do I place an order?

Stay tuned for our next presale. Presales are available on our website. Once the presale opens, you’ll be able to checkout until all units are sold out.

If you encounter any issues while checking out, please feel free to reach out to us at info@zerno.co and we will be happy to work with you to finalize your purchase.

 

About Zerno

Where is Zerno manufactured?

Zerno is a member of the mHub hardtech innovation center in Chicago, IL. We are thankful for their manufacturing expertise and guidance. 

Zerno Z1 units are proudly assembled in the US at the mHub facilities.

Are you open to collaboration?

We are open to collaborations once the presale completes and units become available. Please email us at info@zerno.co and share why you believe you would be a good fit for our brand.