Popcorn Machine

After the machine is plugged in, turn on the power switch (located in the base). Turn on the top 3 switches: WARMER, STIRRER, and KETTLE. Wait about 3-4 minutes for it to preheat, and then dump in the oil and popcorn into the kettle. (Open the kettle lid by pushing the lever handle down, then close it after dumping in oil & popcorn.) While corn is popping, keep front plexiglass doors slightly open to prevent fogging. Keep the stainless steel “hopper” door propped open at the bottom to help catch all the popping corn.  Corn will start popping and overflowing out of the kettle. As soon as the popping stops, dump the remaining popped corn, and turn the KETTLE & STIRRER switches OFF.  Repeat steps 2-5 for additional batches of popcorn. Once all batches are finished, turn off STIRRER and KETTLE switches, and leave WARMER switch on to keep popcorn warm. Wipe excess oil from exterior and interior of kettle as often as possible to prevent burned oil stains.

Turn off all switches and unplug the machine. Allow it to cool completely. Wipe the glass doors, exterior, and metal surfaces with a clean damp cloth. Dry thoroughly. Empty and clean the crumb/catch tray — remove it, wash with soap and water, and dry completely before replacing. Wipe the kettle interior and exterior with a damp cloth while still slightly warm (not hot) for easier oil removal.

Kernels aren't popping: Make sure you preheated the kettle for the full 3–4 minutes before adding oil & kernels. If it isn't hot enough, popping will be slow or won't start. Also confirm the WARMER and STIRRER switches are both on. Check that you're not using stale or old kernels; freshness matters significantly. Popcorn is burning or scorching: Always turn on the STIRRER switch as soon as you add the oil & kernels; without stirring, kernels sit on the hot surface and burn. Also make sure you turn off the KETTLE & STIRRER switches promptly when popping stops. Do not leave the machine unattended, as it will not shut off automatically. Never pop without oil. Lots of unpopped kernels left over: The most common cause is kernels that are too old or have dried out. Try a fresh bag of popcorn kernels.