1911 Original Popcorn Machine Parts Diagrams
Theater Pop Popcorn Machine Parts Diagrams
Contempo Pop Popcorn Machine Parts Diagrams
Popcorn Warmer Assembly Diagram
Popcorn Popper Cart Assembly Diagram
Popcorn Stirrer Removal
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I pop Popcorn in a real Popcorn Machine?
What kind of seasonings can be added to the kettle prior to popping?
Is it easy to burn Popcorn in a real popcorn machine?
How do I remove the kettle lid for cleaning?
How Long does it take for the kettle to heat up from room temperature?
What Size Popcorn Machine Do I Need?
Why are hard-coat anodized aluminum kettles considered the best?
What makes popcorn pop?
How long does it take to cook a batch of popcorn?
What type of oil should I use to cook popcorn?
What's the best way to keep my popcorn machine clean?
What is "expansion ratio" on popcorn and what is the optimum level?
Can I get replacement parts for my Paragon Popcorn Machine from AV Outlet?
How do I pop Popcorn in a real Popcorn Machine?
1) Turn on both switches Lamp/Warming Deck and Kettle switches
2) Allow the kettle to heat for 3-5 minutes.
3) Open the Lid of the Kettle
4) Add oil to the kettle - measured
5) Add Seasonings - measured
6) Add corn - measured
7) Close the Lid of the Kettle
8) Keep front door slightly open to prevent fogging
9) Allow popcorn to pop until app. 3-4 seconds lapses between pops.
10) Rotate the handle of the kettle and tilt the kettle down to empty
11) Turn the Kettle switch OFF. You may leave the Lamp/Warming deck power on if you want.
Back to Top
How Long does it take for the kettle to heat up from room temperature?
Paragons kettles only take app. 3 - 5 minutes to heat up to popping temperature.
Back to Top
What kind of seasonings can be added to the kettle prior to popping?
We recommend only using Popcorn seasoning specifically designed for adding to the kettle. These types of seasonings contain anti-caking additives that prevent clumping of seasonings and allow for even distribution through the popping process.
Back to Top
Is it easy to burn Popcorn in a real popcorn machine?
No, popping popcorn in a machine is quite different than in a pan on the stove or in a microwave. When you pop popcorn in a machine the temperature is controlled much more precisely and automatically comes out of the kettle as it pops and expands. Only a small amount of popcorn will remain in the kettle when popping is done. The remaining popcorn can burn if left inside a heated kettle but it will not burn as fast as it would using a microwave or stove.
Back to Top
How do I remove the kettle lid for cleaning?
To remove the lid and stirrer you must unscrew the stirrer by twisting it counter clockwise. Popcorn Stirrer Removal DWG
Back to Top
What Size Popcorn Machine Do I Need?
The best way to determine the actual size machine you will need is to figure out how many one-ounce servings you will go through in your busiest hour. A one-ounce serving is a bag approximately 3 -1/2 " wide by 2" deep and 8" tall (if you use a different serving size, convert it to one ounce servings). Divide the number of one-ounce servings per hour by 16 and you will have the size machine you will need to meet your busiest demand. Example: In the busiest hour you use 125 one-ounce servings. 125 divided by 16 equals 7.81, so you should order an eight-ounce machine. Another point of reference for volume is that the std. microwave popcorn bags are generally 3 to 3.5oz. servings. Keep in mind that when you buy microwave popcorn that the package size (ie: 3.5 oz) is a weight measure that includes the package, popcorn, oil and seasonings. When you pop 4oz of popcorn in a real popcorn popping machine you will have significantly more popcorn than the typical microwave popcorn serving.
Back to Top
Why are hard-coat anodized aluminum kettles considered the best?
When you are cooking popcorn there are two key elements, heat transfer and ease of cleaning. Aluminum provides the best heat transfer of any approved cooking material which means that the heat from the elements transfer completely to the food resulting in much better performance. When you anodize aluminum you are changing the molecular surface of the aluminum and filling in the pores of the material. This makes a very smooth and slippery surface which can be cleaned very easily and is extremely durable.
Back to Top
What makes popcorn pop?
A popcorn kernel actually has approximately 12% moisture inside of it. 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).
Back to Top
How long does it take to cook a batch of popcorn?
All Paragon poppers are design to cook a kettle of kernels in approximately 3-1/2 minutes. The cycle time is based on having the kettle heated to cooking temperature before loading the kettle.
Back to Top
What type of oil should I use to cook popcorn?
The type of oil that you use will effect the taste of the popcorn. The most common type that is used is coconut oil. It normally is regarded as the best tasting and has long been a staple at movie theaters. However, many health conscious people prefer canola oil due to its lower fat and cholesterol content. Other types that are often used are sunflower, peanut and soy.
Back to Top
What's the best way to keep my popcorn machine clean?
All Paragon poppers utilize tempered glass panels, stainless steel cleanout trays, aluminum corner posts and either plated or anodized kettles. These surfaces can be cleaned using standard window cleaner. You will want to note that you should never submerge a kettle in any type of liquid because it has electrical components inside of it that can short out. Paragon 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 Paragon's kettle cleaning kit (part# 1075) which will allow you to clean it to near new conditions.
Back to Top
What is "expansion ratio" on popcorn and what is the optimum level?
Expansion ratio refers to the increase in volume that occurs as popcorn pops. It is determined by measuring the volume of popcorn prior to and after popping. An expansion ratio between 40 and 44 is usually considered ideal. If the expansion is less than 40 the popped corn can be a little chewy and if the expansion ratio is over 44 the popcorn becomes very brittle and tends to break apart into small pieces.
Back to Top
Can I get replacement parts for my Paragon Popcorn Machine from AV Outlet?
Yes, AV Outlet can supply parts for any Paragon Popcorn Machine even if we did not sell you the unit. For warranty issues the customer must contact Paragon directly.
Back to Top
Popcorn Stirrer Removal - Back to Top
Popcorn Stirrer Removal DWG
Popcorn Popper Cart Assembly Diagram - Back to Top
Popcorn Popper Cart Assembly DWG