What size popper do I need?
Each popcorn machine has a rating called quarts/hour. This tells the maximum amount of popcorn that it will produce if you were to continually pop corn for a full hour. You should determine the maximum amount of popcorn that you will need in any hour and use this table (keep in mind that Benchmark USA poppers hold approximately 45 quarts of popped corn):

Less than 85 quarts = 4 ounce popper
      (makes about 5 quarts per cycle)
86-126 quarts = 6 ounce popper
      (makes about 7.5 quarts per cycle)
127-170 quarts = 8 ounce popper
      (makes about 10 quarts per cycle)

What is the warranty on Benchmark USA poppers?
All Benchmark USA poppers carry an industry leading three year parts warranty. You can view all of the details in our “technical Information” section.

What makes theater popcorn taste so much better than microwave popcorn?
The taste and flavor of popcorn is determined by the type of oil and seasoning salt that is used in the cooking process. Most theaters use a specially formulated cooking oil that is partially absorbed by the popcorn as it pops. This is what gives the popcorn its flavor. Most microwaveable popcorn is oil-less and comes out dry and flavor-less. Benchmark USA offers a specially blended Popcorn Oil (part# 40012) that is very low in fat and cholesterol while offering that “Great Theater Popcorn” taste.

Where can I buy a Benchmark USA popper?
You can contact one of our customer service professionals to find the dealer nearest you.

By Phone: 515-232-5500
By Fax: 515-232-5505
By Email: Click Here

Why does popcorn “Pop”?
Quality popcorn has a moisture content of 13-14% inside the hull. When the popcorn is heated the moisture turns to steam and expands. Eventually the pressure from the expanding steam causes the hull to explode. Storing popcorn in a sealed container at room temperature or less will keep the moisture content consistent and the popcorn fresh. Avoid storing popcorn in extremely warm and dry conditions which will cause the moisture content in the popcorn to reduce. A loss of as little as 3% moisture can cause the kernel to become un-poppable (an old maid).

Does a popcorn machine require much maintenance?
The only maintenance required on a Benchmark USA popcorn machine is to keep it clean. Routine cleaning only requires that the excess oil is wiped off the kettle after you finish popping (a damp cloth will do the trick). You will want to do a thorough cleaning occasionally by removing the stainless steel trays (clean in a sink or dishwasher) and cleaning the glass panels with a standard glass cleaner. Any carbon build-up on the kettle that results from the failure to remove the excess oil can be cleaned with Benchmarks USA’s “Kettle Cleaning Kit” (part# 43001).