A commercial popcorn machine is an essential piece of equipment in movie theatres, carnivals, and concession stands. To keep it running efficiently and maintain the quality of your popcorn, regular cleaning is crucial. Gold Medal's Heat 'n Kleen is a specialized cleaner designed for popcorn machines, making the cleaning process easier and more effective. In this blog, we'll guide you through the steps to clean your commercial popcorn machine using Heat 'n Kleen.
Materials You'll Need:
- Heat 'n Kleen cleaner
- Warm water
- Cleaning brush or sponge
- Rubber gloves
- Safety goggles
- Towels or paper towels
- Soft cloth
- Popcorn machine manual (for reference)
Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Safety First:
Before you begin, put on your rubber gloves and safety goggles to protect yourself from any splashes or chemicals. Safety should always be your top priority.
2. Turn Off and Unplug the Machine:
Ensure the popcorn machine is completely powered down and unplugged from the electrical outlet. This step is crucial to prevent any accidents during the cleaning process.
3. Remove Trays and Kettles:
If your machine has removable trays or kettles, take them out carefully. Refer to your popcorn machine's manual for instructions on how to do this safely. Place the trays and kettles aside for cleaning later.
4. Dilute Heat 'n Kleen:
Follow the manufacturer's instructions on the Heat 'n Kleen label for dilution. Typically, you'll mix Heat 'n Kleen with warm water. Ensure that you use the correct concentration as specified in the instructions.
5. Apply the Solution:
Using a brush or sponge, apply the diluted Heat 'n Kleen solution to all surfaces inside the popcorn machine. Pay special attention to areas with built-up grease and oil. Allow the solution to sit for a few minutes, but don't let it dry.
6. Scrub and Wipe:
Gently scrub the surfaces with the brush or sponge to remove dirt and grime. For stubborn stains or residues, you may need to scrub a little harder. Always be careful not to damage any components.
7. Rinse Thoroughly:
After scrubbing, thoroughly rinse all parts of the machine with clean, warm water. Ensure that no traces of the cleaning solution remain. You can use a clean sponge or cloth to help with the rinsing.
8. Dry and Reassemble:
Use towels or paper towels to dry all the components, including trays and kettles. Ensure everything is completely dry before reassembling the machine.
9. Plug In and Test:
Once you've reassembled the popcorn machine, plug it back in and turn it on. Allow it to run for a few minutes to ensure that everything is working correctly and that there are no residual cleaning solution odours.
10. Regular Maintenance:
To keep your commercial popcorn machine in top condition, perform routine cleaning and maintenance. This will extend the life of your machine and ensure that your popcorn always tastes great.
Conclusion:
Cleaning your commercial popcorn machine with Heat 'n Kleen is a straightforward process when you follow the steps outlined in this guide. Regular maintenance and cleaning not only ensure the longevity of your machine but also guarantee the best-tasting popcorn for your customers. Always prioritize safety when working with cleaning chemicals, and refer to your machine's manual for specific maintenance instructions. With proper care, your popcorn machine will continue to serve delicious popcorn for years to come.
Here's a quick video on how to clean your popper and kettle.