Popcorn Machine Frequently Asked Questions

HTmarket.com has a broad selection of Popcorn Machines, in a huge variety of styles, sizes, and capabilities. If you're new to purchasing or using a popcorn machine, you might have some questions. Hopefully, this list of the most frequently asked questions will be something you find useful! If you have any further questions, please feel free to call our knowledgeable and experienced staff at 1-888-764-9273.

HTmarket.com Popcorn Machines and Supplies

1: What popcorn machine should I choose?

This is based on servings needed as answered in question #2 below. You should also consider price/value, build quality, 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 will need is to figure out how many one-ounce servings you will go through during a two-hour movie. A single 1-ounce serving is a bag approximately 3 -1/2" wide by 2" deep and 8" tall (This serving size is roughly equivalent to a small popcorn at your local movie theater). If you have a home theater, consider this: you may only have 30 minutes to pop the popcorn or less before the movie to keep the popcorn fresh, and you don't want to reload the machine during the movie. To be conservative, you should use two 1-ounce servings per person. For example, if you have 10 people you will need 20 ounces of popcorn, so with a 4-ounce machine you will need to reload 5 times at a approximately 3 to 4 minutes a time. The 4-ounce machine could handle the job, but the 8-ounce machine would do it quicker and with less hassle, requiring perhaps 2 reloads. If you usually have a smaller crowd (2-6 people), the 4-ounce machine would be great. However, if you entertain larger crowds on a regular basis, you should consider the 6- or 8-ounce machines. We sell the best brand popcorn equipment from Paragon International, Benchmark USA, and Cretors.

Helpful Links
1. 4oz Popcorn Machines
2. 6oz, 8oz, 12oz, & 16oz Popcorn Machines
3. Commercial Popcorn Machines

3: What makes popcorn pop?

A popcorn kernel is actually comprised of approximately 12% moisture. As you heat up the kernel, the moisture turns into steam and expands. Once the kernel reaches 475 degrees Fahrenheit, the expanding steam forces the hull to explode (or pop). That's when the magic happens!

4: What type of oil should I use to cook popcorn?

The type of oil that you use will affect the taste of the popcorn. The most common type that is used is coconut oil. It's normally regarded as the best tasting and has long been a staple at movie theaters. However, the health-conscious often prefer canola oil, due to its lower fat and cholesterol content. Other types that are often used are sunflower, peanut and soy.

Helpful Links
1. Popcorn Machines and Popcorn Supplies

5: What's the best way to keep my popcorn machine clean?

These surfaces can be cleaned using standard window cleaner. You'll want to note that you should never submerge a kettle in any type of liquid. The kettle has electrical components inside of it that can short out if wet. Kettles are designed to be wiped out with a clean cloth after each use. Should you have a kettle that gets burned-on oil stains, you can order the kettle cleaning kit, which will allow you to clean it to near-new conditions.

Helpful Links
1. Antique Popcorn Machine
2. Contemporary Popcorn Machine
3. Popcorn Supplies

6: What's the best ratio of oil to corn for popcorn machines?

It's important to know the best ratio of oil to corn kernels when running your popcorn machine, especially if you are using the bulk popcorn instead of the prepackaged corn and seasoning. So how much corn or oil do you use? Well, it all depends on the size of your popcorn machine's kettle!

Bulk Corn/Oil Measurements for Popcorn Machines

Helpful Links
1. Bulk Popcorn

Also be sure to check out our handy Popcorn Machine Guide for more information on popcorn machines!