Flair Brew Scale

The Flair Brew Scale is designed to fit the drip tray area of all Flair espresso makers and can also be used independently for dosing and general brewing tasks. Before first use, charge the scale fully using the included USB-C cable. The scale has a hard power switch — use it to turn the scale fully off when not in use to preserve battery life.

Powering On and Taring

Flip the power switch to turn the scale on. The hidden LCD display will illuminate and show the current weight reading. Place your cup or portafilter on the scale and allow the reading to settle, then press the tare button to zero the display. The scale is now ready to weigh.

Charging

Charge the Flair Brew Scale using the included USB-C cable. The scale does not need to be powered off to charge. Charge before the battery is fully depleted to maintain battery health. The scale will automatically shut off after 5 minutes of inactivity to conserve power — this is normal behavior and does not indicate a fault.

Choosing a Brewing Mode

The Flair Brew Scale has three brewing modes, each designed for a different extraction approach. Cycle through them by pressing the mode button until the desired mode is active. The current mode is indicated on the LCD display.

Pre-Infusion Mode

Use this mode when your recipe includes a pre-infusion hold or bloom stage. The timer starts automatically at the first drip and runs continuously through the entire extraction — including any hold time at low pressure. When you lift the cup at the end of the shot, a 3-2-1 countdown begins and the scale automatically resets for the next brew, making back-to-back shots efficient. If the shot ends in under 30 seconds when the cup is lifted, the timer will continue running — note your time and weight before removing the cup.

Auto Mode

Use this mode for straight-to-pressure brewing without a pre-infusion step. The timer starts automatically with the first drip and stops on its own once it detects that flow has paused for 2 seconds — signaling that the shot is complete. This mode is well-suited to extractions where you ramp directly to full pressure without holding at a lower pressure first.

Manual Mode

Use this mode when you want full control over the timer. Start, pause, and resume the timer yourself using the button. You can also tare and re-tare the scale at any point during the brew. Manual mode is useful for filter coffee, pour over, and any brewing method where automated timer triggers don't fit the workflow.

Dosing Your Coffee

Before brewing, use the scale to weigh your dose. Place your portafilter, dosing cup, or filter basket on the scale, tare to zero, then grind directly onto the scale to hit your target weight. For espresso with a Flair, a typical starting dose is 15–17g — refer to your specific Flair model's instructions for guidance. Consistent input weight is the foundation of repeatable extraction.

Tracking Brew Ratio

For espresso, a common starting brew ratio is 1:2 — meaning 18g of ground coffee yields approximately 36g of liquid espresso in the cup. Place your cup on the scale, tare to zero, then brew directly into the cup to monitor output weight in real time. Adjusting your ratio is one of the most effective ways to dial in flavor: a lower ratio (less liquid) produces a more concentrated, intense shot; a higher ratio (more liquid) produces a longer, brighter extraction.

Water Resistance

The Flair Brew Scale is water-resistant and built to handle the spills and splashes that happen during normal brewing. Do not submerge the scale in water or rinse it under running water. If liquid gets on the scale during brewing, wipe it away promptly with a soft, dry cloth.

Cleaning the Surface

Wipe the scale platform and body with a soft, slightly damp cloth to remove coffee grounds, oils, or residue. Do not use abrasive cleaners, steel wool, or harsh chemicals on any part of the scale. Dry thoroughly after wiping.

Storage

Turn the scale off using the hard power switch when not in use — do not rely solely on the auto-off function for long-term storage. Store in a dry location away from heat and moisture. Avoid placing heavy objects on top of the scale.

Scale Will Not Power On

Check that the hard power switch is in the on position. If the battery is fully depleted, the scale may not respond — connect the USB-C charging cable and allow it to charge for several minutes before attempting to power on again.

Timer Not Starting Automatically

In Pre-Infusion and Auto modes, the timer starts on the first detected drip. If the timer is not starting, confirm you are in the correct mode — in Manual mode, the timer must be started by hand. Also check that the scale is properly zeroed with your cup in place before brewing begins.

Scale Shutting Off During a Shot

The 5-minute auto-off will not activate during an active brew cycle. If the scale is shutting off unexpectedly, check the battery level before your next session and charge as needed. Make sure the hard power switch has not been bumped during use.

Inconsistent or Jumping Weight Readings

Ensure the scale is on a flat, stable surface. Vibration from the Flair lever during extraction can cause minor fluctuations in the reading — this is normal and does not affect the final weight displayed once the shot is complete. Do not move or touch the scale during an active reading.

Display Difficult to Read

The Flair Brew Scale uses a hidden LCD display that is designed to be read from above. Adjust your viewing angle if the display appears dim. Clean the display surface with a dry cloth to remove any oily residue that may be obscuring the readout.

Still Need Help?

Contact Flair Espresso's customer service team at flairespresso.com/contact.