How To Clean Your Popcorn Maker

By Author: Dave Swegle
Total Articles: 4762
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Popcorn is great! Today's popcorn makers are sturdy, safe and designed to get that kernel popping in no time at all. The typical popcorn kernel contains approximately 12% moisture. Once the kernel reaches 475% Fahrenheit, the kernel's expansion system has no further to go and the kernel explodes into your favorite edible form. Most of today's new state-of-the-art popcorn makers are so refined that they can deliver popped kernels in less than four minutes.

The ideal expansion ratio of the un-popped kernel to the popped kernel is about 44%. If the expansion ratio is less than that, the kernel tends to be too chewy for the popcorn connoisseur's savvy palate. Conversely, an expansion ratio above 44% makes the popped kernel a bit too brittle. Believe it or not, popcorn officiados can tell the difference in an instant.

The effectiveness of your popcorn maker to consistently deliver great popcorn is directly related to the quality and composition of the cooker and the proper administration of the machine's maintenance and cleaning.

The two key elements in any popcorn maker are its ability to handle heat transfer ...
... from machine to food product and the ease of cleaning. Since aluminum has come to be used, the thoroughness of the heat transfer process has improved immeasurably. Aluminum encourages the transfer of the heat from the heating element directly to the food product and yields the best, most efficient performance.

When aluminum is anodized, the surface becomes smooth. The cleaning of this surface is relatively simple but should not be taken for granted. The cleanliness of the cooker is crucial to consistent performance and to sustaining good expansion ratios.

Here are a few thoughts about cleaning that very important piece of equipment.

- Always allow the machine to completely cool down before beginning any cleaning.

- Commit to cleaning your popcorn maker after each use. Do not cut corners and allow build up. Never store unless completely cleaned. Make certain all kernels are removed from the machine before cleaning begins.

- Use the right products. Plated and anodized cookers are designed to be cleaned with a clean cloth after every use. Your cooker has electrical elements so never submerge the cooker to clean. If the popcorn maker's interior burns with oil stains, use special stain removal kits to correct the condition.

- Standard household cleaners and especially glass cleaners are very effective for cleaning the machines walls. Always use a clean-white cloth.

- Steel trays and aluminum corner posts are best cleansed using soap and warm water.

- Before placing the cooker in storage take an extra minute to thoroughly wipe down the inside and outside.

Each manufacturer may have slightly different cleaning recommendations so be sure to read their accompanying materials. Today's heavily carbonized kettles might require the use of special stainless-steel cleaners.

If something seems awry with your cooker, here are a few simple troubleshooting techniques.

- Check all the electrical connections. Look for loose wires or bent connectors. Improper cleaning or handling procedures can cause loosening of the connections.

- Check the machine's on-off switch.

- Check the unit's light switch.

- Check the unit's power supply.

- Check the motor. If the motor is malfunctioning, contact the manufacturer to verify the warranty and arrange for replacement. Hey may well ask if your have maintained and cleaned the machine in accordance with their recommendations.

You and your family will derive great pleasure and build memorable occasions around your popcorn maker. Make sure you complete and return all warranty forms that arrive with your cooker. Read you owner's manual and follow the maintenance procedures. Your reward will be years of dependable service and enjoyable popcorn.
About Author:
Manufacturefun.com offers a wide range of possibilities for businesses, schools or concessionaires. Visit them online for more information on their popcorn popper, snow cone machines or cotton candy machines.