The SodaStream Crystal Sparkling Water Maker is a home appliance designed to transform ordinary tap water into sparkling water. This device allows users to create carbonated beverages at home, offering a convenient and customizable way to enjoy sparkling drinks.
Function Description
The primary function of the SodaStream Crystal is to carbonate water using a CO2 cylinder. The device features a carbonating head, a carbonating tube, and a carbonating button, all working together to infuse water with carbon dioxide. Users fill a specially designed glass carafe with cold drinking water, insert it into the machine, and then press the carbonating button to initiate the carbonation process. The device is designed to be used with a SodaStream CO2 Screw System Cylinder, which provides the necessary carbon dioxide. It is crucial to note that the machine is exclusively for carbonating water; other liquids or flavored water should not be carbonated, as this can lead to contamination, clogging of internal parts, excessive pressure, bottle failure, and serious injury. After carbonation, users can add their preferred SodaStream Sparkling Drink Mix flavors to create a variety of sparkling beverages.
Usage Features
The SodaStream Crystal is designed for ease of use, incorporating several features to ensure a smooth and safe carbonation experience.
Getting Started:
- Placement: The device should be placed on a flat, sturdy surface in an upright position.
- Unlocking the Flask: To begin, the carbonating flask lever is turned to the right to unlock it, which automatically raises the carbonating head.
- Inserting the Glass Carafe: The carbonating flask opens, allowing the user to gently pull it forward and insert the SodaStream Glass Carafe filled with cold drinking water up to the fill line. It is critical to ensure the Glass Carafe is properly connected.
- Locking the Flask: After inserting the carafe, the carbonating flask is returned to the upright position, the carbonating head is pushed down and held, and the carbonating flask lever is turned left until it clicks into the locked position.
CO2 Cylinder Installation:
- Accessing the Cylinder Compartment: The back cover of the Sparkling Water Maker is gently pulled away to reveal the CO2 cylinder compartment.
- Inserting the Cylinder: The seal and cap are removed from the SodaStream CO2 Cylinder. The Sparkling Water Maker is tilted forward, and the CO2 Cylinder is inserted into the back of the machine.
- Securing the Cylinder: The CO2 Cylinder is gently raised and tightened by turning it to the right until it is firmly held in place. It is important to hand-tighten only and avoid using tools, as this can damage the machine or cylinder, potentially leading to an uncontrolled flow of CO2 gas and bottle burst.
- Reinstalling the Cover: Once the cylinder is secure, the back cover is reinstalled.
Carbonation Process:
- Pressing the Carbonating Button: To carbonate the water, the carbonating button is pressed down firmly for approximately one second, then released and repeated.
- Adjusting Fizz Level: The number of presses determines the level of carbonation:
- 3 presses for standard fizz.
- 4 presses for strong fizz.
- More presses for extra strong fizz.
- Releasing Pressure and Removing Carafe: After achieving the desired carbonation level, users should wait 3 seconds. Then, the carbonating flask lever is turned to the right to the unlocked position. As the lever is turned, excess gas will be safely released from the Glass Carafe, and the carbonating head will begin to rise.
- Enjoying the Drink: The SodaStream carbonating flask is tilted forward, and the Glass Carafe is removed from the Sparkling Water Maker. Small pieces of ice may appear in the water if it was very cold. The sparkling water is then ready to be poured and enjoyed.
Flavoring:
For those who prefer flavored sparkling beverages, SodaStream Sparkling Drink Mixes can be added after carbonation. The open Glass Carafe should be held at an angle, and the desired flavor slowly and carefully poured down the inside wall of the carafe. The carafe is then closed with a fizz-preserving cap, tightened, and gently shaken to mix.
Safety Precautions:
Several warnings are provided to ensure safe operation:
- Never insert or replace the CO2 cylinder while the Glass Carafe is installed.
- Never insert or replace the CO2 cylinder while a Carbonating Bottle is installed.
- Do not use a unit with a broken carbonating tube.
- Do not carbonate anything other than water.
- Do not add flavor before carbonation.
- Do not move the Sparkling Water Maker or remove the Glass Carafe during carbonation.
- Do not carbonate an empty Glass Carafe.
- Only use the Sparkling Water Maker in its upright position, on a flat, stable surface.
- Do not place the Sparkling Water Maker on a hot surface or near flames, and avoid direct sunlight.
- Do not insert the CO2 Cylinder into the Sparkling Water Maker when a carbonating bottle is installed.
- Do not use a damaged CO2 Cylinder.
- Do not tamper with the CO2 Cylinder.
- Do not expose the CO2 Cylinder to heat above 120°F / 50°C.
- Do not remove a CO2 Cylinder from the Sparkling Water Maker when it is being operated or while it is discharging CO2.
- In case of a CO2 leak, ventilate the area and seek medical attention if feeling unwell.
- Do not use a glass carafe if it is cracked, chipped, or damaged.
- Only use original SodaStream glass carafes suitable for the Crystal model.
- Do not subject the glass carafe to extreme temperature fluctuations (e.g., hot water in a cold carafe).
- Do not place the glass carafe in the freezer or in extreme cold below 34°F / 1°C.
- Do not fill the glass carafe above the fill line.
Maintenance Features
Maintaining the SodaStream Crystal Sparkling Water Maker and its components is straightforward, focusing on cleanliness and proper handling to ensure longevity and hygiene.
Sparkling Water Maker Care:
- Cleaning: To clean the Sparkling Water Maker, users should never use abrasive cleaners or sharp tools, as these can damage the surface. Instead, a mild liquid dish soap and a soft, damp cloth should be used for gentle cleaning when needed.
- Spill Management: Any spills should be wiped immediately to keep the base of the machine dry.
- Immersion: The Sparkling Water Maker should never be placed in water or washed in a dishwasher. Doing so will seriously damage the device.
Glass Carafe Care:
- Dishwasher Safe: The SodaStream Glass Carafe is designed to be cleaned in a dishwasher, offering convenient and thorough cleaning.
- Inspection: Users should regularly inspect the glass carafe for any cracks, chips, or damage. If any damage is found, the carafe should be disposed of immediately and replaced with a new one to prevent potential injury during carbonation.
- Temperature Control: To prevent damage and ensure safety, the glass carafe should not be subjected to extreme temperature fluctuations, such as pouring hot water into a cold carafe. It should also not be placed in the freezer or exposed to temperatures below 34°F / 1°C.
CO2 Cylinder Care:
- Inspection: Before each use, the CO2 Cylinder and its valve should be inspected for any dents, punctures, or other damage. A damaged cylinder should not be used, and a SodaStream-authorized service representative should be contacted.
- Storage: CO2 Cylinders should be protected from direct sunlight and stored in a well-ventilated area. They should not be exposed to heat above 120°F / 50°C.
General Maintenance:
- Authorized Service: Any servicing or repair of the Sparkling Water Maker should only be performed by a SodaStream-authorized service representative. Unauthorized repairs can void the warranty and potentially lead to safety issues.
- Disposal: Expired or damaged Glass Carafes should be recycled in accordance with local recycling laws. The packaging materials for SodaStream products are also recyclable.
By following these usage and maintenance guidelines, users can ensure the safe and effective operation of their SodaStream Crystal Sparkling Water Maker, enjoying fresh sparkling water for an extended period.