1. What Popcorn Machine Should I Choose?

This is based primarily on the number of servings you need, as explained in Question 2 below. You should also consider price and value, build quality, available features and warranty information.

2. What Size Popcorn Machine Do I Need?

Popcorn machines are grouped by the size, in ounces, of the kettle. The best way to determine the size of machine you need is to estimate how many 1-ounce servings you expect to go through during a two-hour movie.

A single 1-ounce serving is approximately a bag 3-1/2 inches wide by 2 inches deep and 8 inches tall. This is roughly equivalent to a small popcorn at your local movie theater.

For a home theater, keep in mind that you may only have about 30 minutes before the movie to make the popcorn and keep it fresh. You probably also don't want to stop the movie to reload the machine.

To be conservative, use two 1-ounce servings per person. For example, if you have 10 people, you may need about 20 ounces of popcorn. With a 4-ounce machine, you would need to reload approximately five times, with each batch taking roughly 3 to 4 minutes. A 4-ounce machine can handle the job, but an 8-ounce machine can do it faster and with fewer reloads.

If you usually serve a smaller crowd of 2 to 6 people, a 4-ounce machine is a good choice. If you entertain larger crowds regularly, consider a 6-ounce or 8-ounce machine.

We sell popcorn equipment from brands including Paragon International, Benchmark USA and Cretors.

3. What Makes Popcorn Pop?

A popcorn kernel is made up of approximately 12% moisture. As the kernel heats, that moisture turns into steam and expands. Once enough pressure builds inside the kernel, the hull bursts and the kernel pops. That's when the magic happens.

4. What Type of Oil Should I Use to Cook Popcorn?

The type of oil you use affects the taste of the popcorn. Coconut oil is one of the most common choices and has long been used in movie theaters because of its flavor.

Other oils commonly used for popcorn include canola, sunflower, peanut and soybean oil. The best choice depends on the flavor profile and cooking characteristics you prefer.

5. What's the Best Way to Keep My Popcorn Machine Clean?

The cabinet surfaces can be cleaned with a suitable glass or surface cleaner. The kettle should never be submerged in any type of liquid because it contains electrical components that can be damaged if they get wet.

Kettles are designed to be wiped out with a clean cloth after each use. If burned-on oil and residue build up over time, you can use a kettle cleaning kit to help restore the kettle.

6. What's the Best Ratio of Oil to Corn for Popcorn Machines?

It's important to use the right amount of oil and corn for your kettle size, especially when you're using bulk popcorn instead of prepackaged portion packs. The proper quantity depends on the size of the kettle.

Bulk Corn and Oil Measurements