How to set up a Liquid Coffee System: A Step-by Step Guide

How to Set Up a Liquid Coffee System: A Step-by-Step Guide

Simplify Your Coffee Service Without Sacrificing Quality

Whether you're running a hotel breakfast bar, convenience store, church kitchen, or Airbnb program, one thing’s for sure—coffee matters. And when you're serving dozens (or hundreds) of cups a day, traditional brewing just doesn’t cut it.

That’s where a liquid coffee system comes in.

At CW-USA, we help businesses like yours switch to commercial coffee concentrate systems that save time, reduce waste, and keep customers satisfied. Here’s how to set one up from scratch in just a few simple steps.

Step 1: Choose the Right Equipment

Your setup starts with selecting the right machine. The most common options include:

  • Newco LCD-2 or Bunn LCA-2 Series – Reliable, programmable dispensers with dual BIB capacity
  • Single-Head Units – Best for smaller locations or limited countertop space

👉 Not sure what’s right for your location? Give us a call—we’ll help match you with a system based on your traffic, space, and menu.

Step 2: Order Your Liquid Coffee Concentrate

Once your brewer is selected, you’ll need bag-in-box (BIB) concentrate. At CW-USA, we offer:

  • 100% Arabica blends
  • Medium, dark, or decaf roast options
  • Shelf-stable packaging (no refrigeration required in use)
  • High yield: Up to 280 cups per Half-gallon BIB

💡 Tip: Always store unopened boxes in a cool, dry space. Once loaded into the machine, the product is good for up to 14 days.

Step 3: Install the Machine

Installing your liquid coffee system is easier than you might think. Most units plug into a standard 120V outlet and require:

  • A water line hookup (usually 1/4" or 3/8")
  • A clear countertop or station with 18"–24" of space
  • Optional: Drain line connection (for overflow trays)

Follow the manufacturer’s guide.

Step 4: Load the Bag-in-Box Concentrate

Here’s where the magic happens:

  1. Open the machine cabinet
  2. Slide the bag-in-box into the compartment
  3. Connect the tube to the bag’s fitting
  4. Ensure the nozzle is secured and seated properly
  5. Close the door and check the display panel

Once connected, your machine automatically dilutes the concentrate with hot water to the ideal strength. That means every cup is consistent, regardless of who’s behind the counter.

Step 5: Calibrate Your Brew Settings (Optional)

Most machines are preset from the factory, but you can fine-tune based on customer preferences:

  • Adjust cup sizes: 6oz, 8oz, 10oz, 12oz
  • Set brew strength levels (light, regular, bold)
  • Enable energy-saving modes for overnight downtime

Step 6: Maintain and Refill as Needed

Ongoing care is minimal, but important:

  • Wipe down external surfaces daily
  • Rinse the dispense nozzle weekly
  • Replace the concentrate box every 7–14 days, depending on volume
  • Run a rinse cycle monthly (most machines prompt you automatically)

Need cleaning supplies or backup parts? We’ve got those too.

Bonus: Train Your Staff or Tenants

A 5-minute walk-through is usually all it takes to teach your team.

  • How to select drink sizes
  • How to refill cups or carafes
  • How to identify when the box is low

Get Started with CW-USA Today

We’ve helped hundreds of businesses upgrade their coffee service with simple, affordable liquid systems. When you work with CW-USA, you get:

  • ✔️ Equipment guidance
  • ✔️ Premium concentrate, always in stock
  • ✔️ Setup and usage support
  • ✔️ Friendly service, every step of the way