Paragon 1911-4 OZ POPPER

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Overview

Function Description
Important Technical Specifications
Usage Features
Maintenance Features

This document is an owner's manual for professional popcorn machines manufactured by Paragon. It covers the 1911-4 OZ Popper, Theater Pop 4, and Contempo Pop 4 models.

Function Description:

The Paragon popcorn machines are designed for professional use, providing a reliable and efficient way to produce popcorn. They feature a high-output, hard-coat anodized aluminum kettle for powerful performance and easy cleaning. The sturdy cabinet construction is designed for heavy commercial use and maintains an attractive appearance. Stainless steel food zones and tempered glass panels ensure sanitary food environments and easy cleaning. A built-in warming deck with 50-watt elements keeps popcorn hot and fresh, thanks to even heating through the base. The machines include a removable old maid drawer to catch unpopped kernels, which can be easily sifted through for later disposal. A presentation lamp creates an attractive display setting for increased impulse buying.

Important Technical Specifications:

Power Requirements:
- 120 volt supply with a 15 amp circuit for domestic models.
- 230VAC for export models.
Current Draw:
- 1911-4 OZ Original Popper: 9.2 amps.
- Theater Pop 4 and Contempo Pop 4: 10 amps.
Kettle Size: 4 oz.
Popcorn Yield: The 4 oz. poppers yield 92 ounces of popcorn per hour.
Warming Deck: 50-watt elements for even heating.
Kettle Material: Hard-coat anodized aluminum.

Usage Features:

Operation:
1. Turn on the appropriate switches (LIGHT and KETTLE/MOTOR for 1911 Original; POWER and KETTLE for Theater Pop and Contempo Pop).
2. Allow the kettle to warm for approximately 5 minutes.
3. Add one measure of oil (1/6-1/4 cup) to the kettle, followed immediately by one measure of raw popcorn (4 oz.) and seasoning salt. Close the lid to prevent stray kernels.
4. During popping, keep the front operator doors slightly ajar to prevent fogging. The hopper door should be in the "out" position to aid in catching stray popcorn.
5. Once popping ceases (usually when 3-4 seconds lapse between pops), rotate the kettle handle clockwise 1/3 turn and pull downward to pour out the popped corn.
6. Repeat steps 1-5 for additional batches.
7. Turn the KETTLE switch to OFF when finished. The POWER or LIGHT switch can remain ON to display and heat popcorn.
Safety Precautions:
- Always wear safety glasses when servicing the equipment.
- The kettle reaches extreme heat during operation; avoid touching it to prevent injury.
- Ensure the machine is properly grounded to prevent electrical shock.
- DO NOT immerse the kettle, warmer, or any other part of the equipment in water.
- Always unplug the equipment before cleaning or servicing.
- Never use a three (3) prong to two (2) prong adapter.
- Extension cords may create a safety hazard and reduce performance; plug directly into a dedicated outlet.
Popcorn Quality:
- The machines are designed to produce popcorn with approximately 12% moisture inside, which is ideal for expansion.
- The kettle temperature is designed to achieve optimal popping, with kernels typically popping in 3-1/2 minutes.
- The type of oil used can affect the taste of the popcorn. Coconut oil is recommended for the best taste and has a long staple at movie theaters.
- The "expansion ratio" (volume of popped corn to unpopped kernels) is important for popcorn quality. An expansion ratio between 40 and 44 is considered ideal. If the expansion is less than 40, the popcorn can be a little chewy. If the expansion ratio is over 44, the popcorn becomes very brittle and tends to break apart into small pieces.

Maintenance Features:

Unpacking: Carefully inspect the product upon arrival for any damage or missing parts. Contact Paragon immediately if issues are found.
Kettle Care:
- Wipe excess oil from the exterior and interior of the kettle with a soft towel or cloth as often as possible.
- Avoid excessive or careless use of popping oil, as it may result in kettle damage.
- Always turn the KETTLE switch to OFF when popping is complete.
- For heavily carbonized kettles, Paragon recommends using the Kettle Cleaning Kit (part #1075).
- NEVER USE WATER ON ANY PART OF THE KETTLE!
Kettle Removal:
1. UNPLUG the power cord.
2. Unplug the kettle pigtail from the socket in the chassis.
3. Pull the clip off the hinge pin.
4. Pull the hinge pin out of the kettle hanger to free the kettle.
- To install, reverse these steps.
Kettle Wiring Diagram: Provided for troubleshooting and maintenance.
Quick Change Stirrer Assembly: Instructions for assembling and removing the stirrer are provided, suggesting ease of maintenance.
General Cleaning: Any alterations made to the equipment by anyone other than certified Paragon personnel will void the warranty and may create unsafe working conditions. NEVER make alterations to the equipment.