Paragon PROFESSIONAL 4 Series

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Summary

Safety Precautions

Operational Safety Guidelines

Covers public contact, trained personnel, kettle heat, electrical safety, water immersion, and unplugging procedures.

Servicing and Modification Safety

Addresses wearing safety glasses during servicing and prohibits unauthorized equipment alterations.

Operating Instructions

Popping Procedure

Step-by-step guide for operating the popcorn machine, including switch operation, ingredient addition, and batch completion.

Kettle Removal and Installation

4 oz Kettle Assembly and Wiring

This document is an owner's manual for Paragon's 4 oz Professional Popcorn Machines, emphasizing "manufactured fun" and providing comprehensive information for operation and maintenance. The manual outlines safety precautions, an introduction to the product's features, electrical requirements, unpacking instructions, frequently asked questions, operating instructions, kettle care, kettle removal, and detailed assembly and wiring diagrams.

Function Description

The Paragon Professional Popcorn Machine is designed for commercial use, specifically for food service locations, to produce popcorn efficiently and reliably. It is capable of yielding approximately 92 ounces of popcorn per hour. The machine utilizes a hard-coat anodized aluminum kettle for optimal heat transfer and easy cleaning, ensuring consistent and high-quality popcorn production. A built-in warming deck (not included on the 1911 Original Popper) maintains the popcorn's temperature and freshness, while a presentation lamp enhances the visual appeal to encourage impulse buying. The machine also features an "old maid drawer" (not included on the 1911 Original Popper) to collect unpopped kernels, simplifying cleanup.

Usage Features

The popcorn machine is designed for ease of use and efficiency.

High-Output Kettle: Equipped with a hard-coat anodized aluminum kettle, it ensures powerful performance and is easy to clean. The side-hinged design of the kettle simplifies operation and cleaning.
Sturdy Construction: The cabinet is built to withstand heavy commercial use, maintaining an attractive appearance over time.
Sanitary Food Zone: Features a stainless steel food zone and tempered glass panels, providing a sanitary environment for food preparation and display.
Warming Deck: A 50-watt warming deck (except for the 1911 Original Popper) keeps popcorn hot and fresh through even heating.
Old Maid Drawer: An integrated drawer (except for the 1911 Original Popper) sifts and collects unpopped kernels for easy disposal.
Presentation Lamp: A built-in lamp creates an appealing display, designed to increase impulse purchases.
Operation Steps:
1. Turn on the two switches: "POPPERLIGHT" and "KETTLE/MOTOR" for 1911 models, or "POWER" and "KETTLE" for Theater, Contempo, and Professional Series models.
2. Allow the kettle to warm up for approximately 5 minutes.
3. Add oil (1/6-1/4 cup) and 4 oz of raw popcorn with seasoning salt to the kettle for bulk supplies, or dump the entire contents of a portion pack. Close the lid to prevent stray kernels.
4. Keep the front operator doors slightly ajar to prevent fogging and the hopper door in the "out" position to catch stray popcorn.
5. Allow corn to pop until popping ceases (typically 3-4 seconds between pops).
6. Pour the popped corn from the kettle by rotating the handle clockwise 1/3 turn and pulling downward.
7. Repeat for additional batches.
8. Turn the "KETTLE" switch to OFF when finished; the "POWER" or "LIGHT" switch can remain ON for display and warmth.
Electrical Requirements: The machine requires a properly-grounded 120-volt supply with a 15-amp circuit (230VAC for export models). It is recommended to plug the machine directly into a dedicated outlet, avoiding extension cords. The plug is a three-prong grounded type.

Maintenance Features

Paragon emphasizes the importance of proper maintenance for longevity and performance.

Kettle Cleaning: The hard-coat anodized aluminum kettle is designed for easy cleaning. It should be wiped with a soft towel or cloth to remove excess oil after each use.
Cleaning Solution: A vinegar and water solution is recommended for cleaning the tempered glass panels, stainless steel cleanout trays, aluminum corner posts, and anodized kettles. Ammonia-based cleaners are not recommended.
Avoid Submersion: The kettle should never be submerged in any liquid due to its electrical components, which could short out.
Kettle Cleaning Kit: For heavily carbonized kettles, Paragon offers a Kettle Cleaning Kit (part #1075) to restore it to near-new condition.
Kettle Removal for Cleaning/Service:
1. Ensure the unit is unplugged from the power supply.
2. Unplug the kettle pigtail from the socket in the machine's chassis.
3. Remove the clip from the hinge pin.
4. Pull the hinge pin out of the kettle hanger to free the kettle.
5. To reinstall, reverse these steps.
Safety Glasses: Always wear safety glasses when servicing the equipment.
Grounding: The machine must be properly grounded to prevent electrical shock.
No Immersion: Do NOT immerse the kettle, warmer, or any other part of the equipment in water.
Unplug Before Cleaning: Always unplug the equipment before cleaning or servicing to prevent electric shock.
Damage Inspection: Upon receipt, carefully inspect the product for any damage or missing parts and contact Paragon immediately if issues are found.