{"id":3187,"date":"2026-10-16T10:00:35","date_gmt":"2026-10-16T10:00:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/blog\/?p=3187"},"modified":"2026-10-16T21:04:09","modified_gmt":"2026-10-16T21:04:09","slug":"how-to-use-a-popcorn-machine","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/blog\/how-to-use-a-popcorn-machine\/","title":{"rendered":"How To Use a Popcorn Machine | Tips and Serving Size Chart"},"content":{"rendered":"<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><iframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/TA8iAlgtbYQ?si=jhI2myNAn8b0QEIW\" width=\"560\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A popcorn machine is one of the easiest ways to make any party feel like a night at the movies. It&#8217;s also easy to get wrong: too much oil, not enough heat, or a kettle full of burnt kernels five minutes before guests arrive.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This guide walks you through using a popcorn machine step by step, how much oil and popcorn to use for your kettle size, and how much to make for your crowd. Use the calculator below to get exact amounts for your machine and your event.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"#link1\">How to Use a Popcorn Machine<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#link2\">Popcorn Machine Serving Size Calculator<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#link3\">Popcorn Machine Serving Sizes<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#link4\">Using a Rented Popcorn Machine<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#link5\">How to Clean a Popcorn Machine<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#link6\">Popcorn Machine Troubleshooting Tips<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#link7\">FAQ&#8217;s<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#link8\">Where to Rent a Popcorn Machine<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"link1\">How to Use a Popcorn Machine (Quick &amp; Detailed Step-by-Step)<\/h2>\n<ol>\n<li data-section-id=\"1psnmfp\" data-start=\"1272\" data-end=\"1320\">Preheat the popcorn machine for 3\u20135 minutes<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"m3qaif\" data-start=\"1321\" data-end=\"1347\">Add oil to the kettle<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"1lp610w\" data-start=\"1348\" data-end=\"1376\">Pour in popcorn kernels<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"124xexk\" data-start=\"1377\" data-end=\"1418\">Close the lid and turn on the kettle<\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"wnhwhy\" data-start=\"1419\" data-end=\"1457\">Let the popcorn pop and wait for the popping to slow down <strong>(2-3 seconds between pops)<\/strong><\/li>\n<li data-section-id=\"12qpkp6\" data-start=\"1458\" data-end=\"1489\">Empty the kettle and serve<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Enjoy your freshly made popcorn! For details on each step, keep reading. Planning to have a volunteer or employee run the popcorn machine? Fill out the form below to get our free one-pager, complete with simple instructions and popcorn-machine serving sizes!<\/p>\n<h3><b>Step 1: Preheat the Kettle<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Plug the machine into its own outlet and flip on the kettle heat switch. Let it heat for 3 to 5 minutes. Want to test it? Drop in 3 or 4 kernels with a little oil. When they pop, you&#8217;re ready.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Step 2: Add Oil<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pour the oil straight into the kettle. Coconut oil gives you that classic movie theater flavor, and canola oil works well too. Skip butter and olive oil in the kettle, since both burn at popping temperatures. Not sure how much? Use the calculator above or the chart below.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Step 3: Add Kernels and Salt, Then Close the Lid<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Add your kernels and a pinch of fine popcorn salt (like Flavacol) right on top of the oil, then close the kettle lid. Adding salt to the kettle coats every piece evenly.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Step 4: Let It Pop<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Popping starts in a minute or two. The stirrer keeps kernels moving so they don&#8217;t scorch, and the lid pushes popcorn out as the kettle fills. Keep the cabinet doors closed to keep the popcorn inside.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Step 5: Dump the Kettle<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When pops slow to 2 or 3 seconds apart, use the handle to tip the kettle and empty it. Don&#8217;t wait for every last kernel. Waiting is how popcorn burns.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Step 6: Keep It Warm and Serve<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Turn on the warmer switch to keep popcorn crisp, then scoop into bags or boxes. Start your next batch right away. A hot kettle is ready to go again in seconds.<\/span><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"118\" data-end=\"258\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/catering-equipment-rentals\/concessions-rentals?show_items=true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-primary\">Shop Concession Rentals Now<\/button><\/a><\/p>\n<h2><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-8008 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/charlie-harris-Bx6Riwmnt7A-unsplash-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"movie popcorn\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/charlie-harris-Bx6Riwmnt7A-unsplash-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/charlie-harris-Bx6Riwmnt7A-unsplash-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/charlie-harris-Bx6Riwmnt7A-unsplash-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/charlie-harris-Bx6Riwmnt7A-unsplash-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/charlie-harris-Bx6Riwmnt7A-unsplash.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/h2>\n<h2 id=\"link2\"><b>Popcorn Machine Calculator<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Not sure how much oil to add or how much popcorn you need? Pick a mode below.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>I have a machine:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Choose your kettle size to get oil, kernels, and salt per batch, plus how much each batch makes.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>I&#8217;m planning an event:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Enter your guest count and event length to see how much popcorn to make, how many batches to plan for, and which machine size fits your crowd.<\/span><\/p>\n\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"section\" data-elementor-id=\"15590\" class=\"elementor elementor-15590\" data-elementor-settings=\"{&quot;ha_cmc_init_switcher&quot;:&quot;no&quot;}\" data-elementor-post-type=\"elementor_library\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-694724dc e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"694724dc\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-settings=\"{&quot;_ha_eqh_enable&quot;:false}\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-2fe9eb5d elementor-widget elementor-widget-html\" data-id=\"2fe9eb5d\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"html.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t<!doctype html>\n<html lang=\"en\">\n<head>\n<meta charset=\"utf-8\">\n<meta name=\"viewport\" content=\"width=device-width, initial-scale=1\">\n<title>Popcorn Machine Calculator<\/title>\n<!--\n  Reventals Popcorn Machine Calculator (unstyled build for creative)\n  - Everything is scoped under .pc-calc so it can drop into a WordPress Custom HTML block.\n  - Styles below are bare-bones layout only. Creative can replace them entirely.\n  - All assumptions live in the CONFIG block in the script. Change numbers there, not in the logic.\n-->\n<style>\n  .pc-calc { max-width: 640px; font-family: system-ui, sans-serif; line-height: 1.5; border: 1px solid #ccc; padding: 20px; }\n  .pc-calc fieldset { border: 0; padding: 0; margin: 0 0 16px; }\n  .pc-calc legend, .pc-calc label { font-weight: 600; display: block; margin-bottom: 6px; }\n  .pc-calc .pc-tabs { display: flex; gap: 8px; margin-bottom: 16px; }\n  \/* Explicit colors for every state so theme button styles (e.g. white button text) can't hide the labels *\/\n  .pc-calc button.pc-tab,\n  .pc-calc button.pc-tab:hover,\n  .pc-calc button.pc-tab:focus { flex: 1; padding: 10px; cursor: pointer; border: 1px solid #00B1B8; background: #fff; color: #3D454C; font: inherit; text-transform: none; box-shadow: none; opacity: 1; }\n  .pc-calc button.pc-tab[aria-selected=\"true\"],\n  .pc-calc button.pc-tab[aria-selected=\"true\"]:hover,\n  .pc-calc button.pc-tab[aria-selected=\"true\"]:focus { background: #00B1B8; color: #fff; border-color: #00B1B8; }\n  .pc-calc button.pc-tab[aria-selected=\"false\"]:hover { background: #E6F7F8; }\n  .pc-calc button.pc-tab:focus-visible { outline: 2px solid #3D454C; outline-offset: 2px; }\n  .pc-calc .pc-field { margin-bottom: 14px; }\n  .pc-calc input, .pc-calc select { padding: 8px; font-size: 16px; width: 100%; box-sizing: border-box; }\n  .pc-calc .pc-toggle { display: flex; gap: 16px; flex-wrap: wrap; }\n  .pc-calc .pc-toggle label { font-weight: 400; display: flex; gap: 6px; align-items: center; }\n  .pc-calc .pc-toggle input { width: auto; }\n  .pc-calc .pc-results { background: #f4f4f4; padding: 16px; margin-top: 8px; }\n  .pc-calc .pc-results dl { display: grid; grid-template-columns: 1fr auto; gap: 6px 16px; margin: 0; }\n  .pc-calc .pc-results dt { font-weight: 400; }\n  .pc-calc .pc-results dd { margin: 0; font-weight: 700; text-align: right; }\n  .pc-calc .pc-headline { font-size: 1.15em; font-weight: 700; margin: 0 0 12px; }\n  .pc-calc .pc-note { font-size: 0.9em; margin-top: 12px; }\n  .pc-calc button.pc-copy,\n  .pc-calc button.pc-copy:hover,\n  .pc-calc button.pc-copy:focus { display: inline-block; margin-top: 12px; padding: 10px 18px; background: #00B1B8; color: #fff; border: 0; border-radius: 999px; font: inherit; cursor: pointer; text-transform: none; opacity: 1; }\n  .pc-calc button.pc-copy:focus-visible { outline: 2px solid #3D454C; outline-offset: 2px; }\n  .pc-calc .pc-copy-status { display: inline-block; margin-left: 10px; font-size: 0.9em; }\n  .pc-calc .pc-assumptions { font-size: 0.8em; color: #555; margin-top: 16px; }\n  .pc-calc [hidden] { display: none !important; }\n<\/style>\n<\/head>\n<body>\n\n<div class=\"pc-calc\" id=\"pc-calc\">\n  <h3 class=\"pc-title\">Popcorn Machine Calculator<\/h3>\n\n  <div class=\"pc-tabs\" role=\"tablist\" aria-label=\"Calculator mode\">\n    <button type=\"button\" class=\"pc-tab\" role=\"tab\" id=\"pc-tab-machine\" aria-controls=\"pc-panel-machine\" aria-selected=\"true\">I have a machine<\/button>\n    <button type=\"button\" class=\"pc-tab\" role=\"tab\" id=\"pc-tab-event\" aria-controls=\"pc-panel-event\" aria-selected=\"false\">I'm planning an event<\/button>\n  <\/div>\n\n  <!-- MODE 1: I have a machine -->\n  <div class=\"pc-panel\" id=\"pc-panel-machine\" role=\"tabpanel\" aria-labelledby=\"pc-tab-machine\">\n    <div class=\"pc-field\">\n      <label for=\"pc-kettle\">Kettle size<\/label>\n      <select id=\"pc-kettle\"><\/select>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"pc-field\">\n      <label for=\"pc-batches\">Number of batches<\/label>\n      <input id=\"pc-batches\" type=\"number\" min=\"1\" max=\"200\" step=\"1\" value=\"1\" inputmode=\"numeric\">\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"pc-results\" aria-live=\"polite\">\n      <p class=\"pc-headline\" id=\"pc-m-headline\"><\/p>\n      <dl>\n        <dt>Kernels<\/dt><dd id=\"pc-m-kernels\"><\/dd>\n        <dt>Oil<\/dt><dd id=\"pc-m-oil\"><\/dd>\n        <dt>Popcorn salt<\/dt><dd id=\"pc-m-salt\"><\/dd>\n        <dt>Popcorn made<\/dt><dd id=\"pc-m-popped\"><\/dd>\n        <dt>Servings<\/dt><dd id=\"pc-m-servings\"><\/dd>\n        <dt>Max output per hour<\/dt><dd id=\"pc-m-hour\"><\/dd>\n      <\/dl>\n      <p class=\"pc-note\" id=\"pc-m-note\"><\/p>\n      <button type=\"button\" class=\"pc-copy\" data-panel=\"machine\">Copy these amounts<\/button>\n      <span class=\"pc-copy-status\" role=\"status\"><\/span>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n  <!-- MODE 2: I'm planning an event -->\n  <div class=\"pc-panel\" id=\"pc-panel-event\" role=\"tabpanel\" aria-labelledby=\"pc-tab-event\" hidden>\n    <div class=\"pc-field\">\n      <label for=\"pc-guests\">Number of guests<\/label>\n      <input id=\"pc-guests\" type=\"number\" min=\"1\" max=\"10000\" step=\"1\" value=\"100\" inputmode=\"numeric\">\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"pc-field\">\n      <label for=\"pc-hours\">Event length (hours)<\/label>\n      <input id=\"pc-hours\" type=\"number\" min=\"0.5\" max=\"24\" step=\"0.5\" value=\"3\" inputmode=\"decimal\">\n    <\/div>\n    <fieldset class=\"pc-field\">\n      <legend>Is popcorn the main snack?<\/legend>\n      <div class=\"pc-toggle\">\n        <label><input type=\"radio\" name=\"pc-role\" value=\"main\" checked> Yes, it's the main snack<\/label>\n        <label><input type=\"radio\" name=\"pc-role\" value=\"side\"> No, there's other food<\/label>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/fieldset>\n    <div class=\"pc-results\" aria-live=\"polite\">\n      <p class=\"pc-headline\" id=\"pc-e-headline\"><\/p>\n      <dl>\n        <dt>Servings to plan for<\/dt><dd id=\"pc-e-servings\"><\/dd>\n        <dt>Kernels<\/dt><dd id=\"pc-e-kernels\"><\/dd>\n        <dt>Oil<\/dt><dd id=\"pc-e-oil\"><\/dd>\n        <dt>Popcorn salt<\/dt><dd id=\"pc-e-salt\"><\/dd>\n        <dt>Batches<\/dt><dd id=\"pc-e-batches\"><\/dd>\n        <dt>Bags or boxes<\/dt><dd id=\"pc-e-bags\"><\/dd>\n      <\/dl>\n      <p class=\"pc-note\" id=\"pc-e-note\"><\/p>\n      <button type=\"button\" class=\"pc-copy\" data-panel=\"event\">Copy my popcorn plan<\/button>\n      <span class=\"pc-copy-status\" role=\"status\"><\/span>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n  <p class=\"pc-assumptions\">Based on 1 oz of kernels per serving (about 3.5 cups popped), oil at about one third of the kernel volume, and manufacturer output estimates. Results are estimates. Your machine may vary.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n<script>\n(function () {\n  \/* ============ CONFIG: edit numbers here ============ *\/\n  var CONFIG = {\n    \/\/ Per-batch amounts by kettle size (matches the serving size chart on the post).\n    \/\/ kernelsCups, oilText, saltText are display values; perHour = one-ounce servings per hour (Paragon buying guide).\n    kettles: [\n      { oz: 4,  kernels: \"1\/2 cup\",     oil: \"3 tbsp\",          salt: \"1 tsp\",          perHour: 90 },\n      { oz: 6,  kernels: \"3\/4 cup\",     oil: \"1\/4 cup\",         salt: \"1 1\/2 tsp\",      perHour: 110 },\n      { oz: 8,  kernels: \"1 cup\",       oil: \"1\/3 cup\",         salt: \"2 tsp\",          perHour: 145 },\n      { oz: 12, kernels: \"1 1\/2 cups\",  oil: \"1\/2 cup\",         salt: \"1 tbsp\",         perHour: 220 },\n      { oz: 14, kernels: \"1 3\/4 cups\",  oil: \"1\/2 cup + 1 tbsp\", salt: \"1 tbsp + 1\/2 tsp\", perHour: 240 },\n      { oz: 16, kernels: \"2 cups\",      oil: \"2\/3 cup\",         salt: \"1 tbsp + 1 tsp\", perHour: 295 }\n    ],\n    defaultKettleOz: 8,\n    cupsPoppedPerOz: 3.5,      \/\/ 1 oz kernels pops into about 3.5 cups\n    tbspKernelsPerOz: 2,       \/\/ 1 oz kernels is about 2 tbsp\n    oilRatio: 1 \/ 3,           \/\/ oil volume = kernel volume x this\n    tspSaltPerOz: 0.25,        \/\/ 1 tsp salt per 4 oz kernels\n    servingsPerGuest: { main: 1, side: 0.5 }, \/\/ oz of kernels per guest\n    rushFactor: 1.5,           \/\/ guests don't arrive evenly; size the machine for 1.5x the average rate\n    extraBagsPct: 0.1,         \/\/ 10% extra bags\n    bigKettleOutletOz: 16,     \/\/ kettles this size and up often need a 30-amp outlet\n    cartFromOz: 12,            \/\/ recommend a popcorn cart at this kettle size and up\n    maxBatchesPerMachine: 16   \/\/ keep the recommendation practical: nobody wants to pop 25 batches on a 4 oz machine\n  };\n  \/* =================================================== *\/\n\n  var $ = function (id) { return document.getElementById(id); };\n\n  \/\/ ---------- formatting helpers ----------\n  function niceFraction(x) {\n    var whole = Math.floor(x), rem = x - whole;\n    var fracs = [[0, \"\"], [0.25, \"1\/4\"], [1 \/ 3, \"1\/3\"], [0.5, \"1\/2\"], [2 \/ 3, \"2\/3\"], [0.75, \"3\/4\"], [1, \"\"]];\n    var best = fracs[0], d = 9;\n    fracs.forEach(function (f) { var dd = Math.abs(rem - f[0]); if (dd < d) { d = dd; best = f; } });\n    if (best[0] === 1) { whole += 1; best = fracs[0]; }\n    if (whole === 0 && !best[1]) return \"0\";\n    return (whole ? whole : \"\") + (whole && best[1] ? \" \" : \"\") + best[1];\n  }\n  function fmtVolumeFromTbsp(tbsp) {\n    if (tbsp < 4) { var t = Math.round(tbsp * 2) \/ 2; return (t % 1 ? niceFraction(t) : t) + \" tbsp\"; }\n    var cups = tbsp \/ 16;\n    if (cups > 64) { var gal = Math.ceil(cups \/ 16 * 4) \/ 4; return niceFraction(gal) + \" gallon\" + (gal > 1 ? \"s\" : \"\"); }\n    var s = niceFraction(cups);\n    return s + (cups <= 1 ? \" cup\" : \" cups\");\n  }\n  function fmtSaltFromTsp(tsp) {\n    if (tsp < 3) return niceFraction(tsp) + \" tsp\";\n    if (tsp < 48) { var tb = Math.round(tsp \/ 3 * 2) \/ 2; return niceFraction(tb) + \" tbsp\"; }\n    return niceFraction(tsp \/ 48) + \" cups\";\n  }\n  function fmtKernels(oz) {\n    var vol = fmtVolumeFromTbsp(oz * CONFIG.tbspKernelsPerOz);\n    if (oz >= 32) {\n      var lb = Math.ceil(oz \/ 16 * 2) \/ 2;\n      return niceFraction(lb) + \" lb\" + (oz * CONFIG.tbspKernelsPerOz \/ 16 <= 32 ? \" (about \" + vol + \")\" : \"\");\n    }\n    return vol;\n  }\n  function fmtNum(n) { return Math.round(n).toLocaleString(\"en-US\"); }\n  function clamp(v, lo, hi, fallback) { v = parseFloat(v); if (isNaN(v)) return fallback; return Math.min(hi, Math.max(lo, v)); }\n  function article(n) { return String(n).charAt(0) === \"8\" ? \"an\" : \"a\"; }\n  function kettleByOz(oz) { return CONFIG.kettles.filter(function (k) { return k.oz === oz; })[0]; }\n\n  \/\/ ---------- tabs ----------\n  var tabs = [$(\"pc-tab-machine\"), $(\"pc-tab-event\")];\n  tabs.forEach(function (tab) {\n    tab.addEventListener(\"click\", function () {\n      tabs.forEach(function (t) {\n        var on = t === tab;\n        t.setAttribute(\"aria-selected\", on ? \"true\" : \"false\");\n        $(t.getAttribute(\"aria-controls\")).hidden = !on;\n      });\n    });\n  });\n\n  \/\/ ---------- mode 1: I have a machine ----------\n  var kettleSel = $(\"pc-kettle\");\n  CONFIG.kettles.forEach(function (k) {\n    var o = document.createElement(\"option\");\n    o.value = k.oz; o.textContent = k.oz + \" oz kettle\";\n    if (k.oz === CONFIG.defaultKettleOz) o.selected = true;\n    kettleSel.appendChild(o);\n  });\n\n  function calcMachine() {\n    var k = kettleByOz(parseInt(kettleSel.value, 10));\n    var n = Math.round(clamp($(\"pc-batches\").value, 1, 200, 1));\n    var oz = k.oz * n;\n    $(\"pc-m-headline\").textContent = n === 1\n      ? \"For one batch in \" + article(k.oz) + \" \" + k.oz + \" oz machine:\"\n      : \"For \" + n + \" batches in \" + article(k.oz) + \" \" + k.oz + \" oz machine:\";\n    if (n === 1) {\n      $(\"pc-m-kernels\").textContent = k.kernels;\n      $(\"pc-m-oil\").textContent = k.oil;\n      $(\"pc-m-salt\").textContent = k.salt;\n    } else {\n      $(\"pc-m-kernels\").textContent = fmtKernels(oz);\n      $(\"pc-m-oil\").textContent = fmtVolumeFromTbsp(oz * CONFIG.tbspKernelsPerOz * CONFIG.oilRatio);\n      $(\"pc-m-salt\").textContent = fmtSaltFromTsp(oz * CONFIG.tspSaltPerOz);\n    }\n    $(\"pc-m-popped\").textContent = \"About \" + fmtVolumeFromTbsp(oz * CONFIG.cupsPoppedPerOz * 16);\n    $(\"pc-m-servings\").textContent = fmtNum(oz);\n    $(\"pc-m-hour\").textContent = \"About \" + k.perHour + \" servings\";\n    $(\"pc-m-note\").textContent = \"Add the oil to a preheated kettle, then the kernels and salt. Dump the kettle when pops slow to 2 or 3 seconds apart.\"\n      + (k.oz >= CONFIG.bigKettleOutletOz ? \" Heads up: \" + k.oz + \" oz machines often need a 30-amp outlet.\" : \"\");\n  }\n\n  \/\/ ---------- mode 2: I'm planning an event ----------\n  function calcEvent() {\n    var guests = Math.round(clamp($(\"pc-guests\").value, 1, 10000, 100));\n    var hours = clamp($(\"pc-hours\").value, 0.5, 24, 3);\n    var role = document.querySelector('input[name=\"pc-role\"]:checked').value;\n    var servings = Math.ceil(guests * CONFIG.servingsPerGuest[role]); \/\/ = oz of kernels\n\n    \/\/ Size the machine for the busiest stretch, not the average.\n    var neededPerHour = servings \/ hours * CONFIG.rushFactor;\n    var biggest = CONFIG.kettles[CONFIG.kettles.length - 1];\n    var pick = CONFIG.kettles.filter(function (k) {\n      return k.perHour >= neededPerHour && Math.ceil(servings \/ k.oz) <= CONFIG.maxBatchesPerMachine;\n    })[0];\n    var machines = 1;\n    if (!pick) {\n      pick = biggest;\n      machines = Math.max(Math.ceil(neededPerHour \/ biggest.perHour), Math.ceil(servings \/ biggest.oz \/ CONFIG.maxBatchesPerMachine));\n    }\n\n    var batches = Math.ceil(servings \/ pick.oz);\n    var bags = Math.ceil(servings * (1 + CONFIG.extraBagsPct));\n    var isCart = pick.oz >= CONFIG.cartFromOz;\n\n    $(\"pc-e-headline\").textContent = machines > 1\n      ? \"We recommend \" + machines + \" popcorn carts with \" + pick.oz + \" oz kettles.\"\n      : \"We recommend \" + article(pick.oz) + \" \" + pick.oz + \" oz \" + (isCart ? \"popcorn cart.\" : \"tabletop popcorn machine.\");\n    $(\"pc-e-servings\").textContent = fmtNum(servings);\n    $(\"pc-e-kernels\").textContent = fmtKernels(servings);\n    $(\"pc-e-oil\").textContent = fmtVolumeFromTbsp(servings * CONFIG.tbspKernelsPerOz * CONFIG.oilRatio);\n    $(\"pc-e-salt\").textContent = fmtSaltFromTsp(servings * CONFIG.tspSaltPerOz);\n    $(\"pc-e-batches\").textContent = fmtNum(batches) + (machines > 1 ? \" total\" : \"\") + \" (\" + pick.oz + \" oz each)\";\n    $(\"pc-e-bags\").textContent = fmtNum(bags);\n\n    var note = role === \"main\"\n      ? \"Planning 1 serving (about 3.5 cups) per guest, since popcorn is the main snack.\"\n      : \"Planning half a serving per guest, since there's other food. Not everyone will grab a bag when there's a full spread.\";\n    if (pick.oz >= CONFIG.bigKettleOutletOz) note += \" Larger machines often need a 30-amp outlet, so confirm power with your vendor.\";\n    $(\"pc-e-note\").textContent = note;\n\n  }\n\n  \/\/ ---------- copy to clipboard ----------\n  function panelText(panelId) {\n    var panel = $(panelId);\n    var lines = [];\n    if (panelId === \"pc-panel-event\") {\n      var main = document.querySelector('input[name=\"pc-role\"]:checked').value === \"main\";\n      lines.push(\"Popcorn plan for \" + $(\"pc-guests\").value + \" guests over \" + $(\"pc-hours\").value + \" hours (\"\n        + (main ? \"popcorn is the main snack\" : \"other food is served\") + \")\");\n    }\n    lines.push(panel.querySelector(\".pc-headline\").textContent);\n    var dts = panel.querySelectorAll(\"dt\"), dds = panel.querySelectorAll(\"dd\");\n    for (var i = 0; i < dts.length; i++) lines.push(\"- \" + dts[i].textContent + \": \" + dds[i].textContent);\n    var note = panel.querySelector(\".pc-note\").textContent;\n    if (note) lines.push(\"\", note);\n    lines.push(\"\", \"From the Reventals popcorn machine calculator: https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/blog\/how-to-use-a-popcorn-machine\/\");\n    return lines.join(\"\\n\");\n  }\n  function fallbackCopy(text) {\n    var ta = document.createElement(\"textarea\");\n    ta.value = text; ta.setAttribute(\"readonly\", \"\");\n    ta.style.position = \"fixed\"; ta.style.top = \"-1000px\";\n    document.body.appendChild(ta); ta.select();\n    var ok = false; try { ok = document.execCommand(\"copy\"); } catch (e) {}\n    document.body.removeChild(ta);\n    return ok;\n  }\n  document.querySelectorAll(\"#pc-calc .pc-copy\").forEach(function (btn) {\n    btn.addEventListener(\"click\", function () {\n      var text = panelText(btn.getAttribute(\"data-panel\") === \"machine\" ? \"pc-panel-machine\" : \"pc-panel-event\");\n      var status = btn.nextElementSibling;\n      var done = function (ok) {\n        status.textContent = ok ? \"Copied! Paste it into your notes or shopping list.\" : \"Couldn't copy. Select the results and copy them manually.\";\n        clearTimeout(btn._t); btn._t = setTimeout(function () { status.textContent = \"\"; }, 4000);\n      };\n      if (navigator.clipboard && window.isSecureContext) {\n        navigator.clipboard.writeText(text).then(function () { done(true); }, function () { done(fallbackCopy(text)); });\n      } else { done(fallbackCopy(text)); }\n    });\n  });\n\n  \/\/ ---------- wire up ----------\n  [\"pc-kettle\", \"pc-batches\"].forEach(function (id) { $(id).addEventListener(\"input\", calcMachine); $(id).addEventListener(\"change\", calcMachine); });\n  [\"pc-guests\", \"pc-hours\"].forEach(function (id) { $(id).addEventListener(\"input\", calcEvent); });\n  document.querySelectorAll('input[name=\"pc-role\"]').forEach(function (r) { r.addEventListener(\"change\", calcEvent); });\n  calcMachine();\n  calcEvent();\n})();\n<\/script>\n<\/body>\n<\/html>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n<p>Calculator Assumptions:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One serving is 1 oz of kernels, which pops into about 3.5 cups. That&#8217;s the standard concession serving<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Oil is about one third of the kernel volume. Popcorn salt is about 1 teaspoon per 4 oz of kernels<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hourly output uses manufacturer servings-per-hour figures<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Each batch takes about 3 minutes once the kettle is hot.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 id=\"Link2\">Popcorn Machine Serving Sizes<\/h2>\n<p>How much popcorn will a popcorn machine make? How much oil do I use in a popcorn machine? Here&#8217;s what you need to know!<\/p>\n<p>For each person, you need about 2 tablespoons (1 oz) of kernels.\u00a0 That will make about 3.5 cups of popcorn.<\/p>\n\n    <h3 class=\"wpdt-c\"\n        id=\"wdt-table-title-17\">Popcorn Machine Serving Sizes<\/h3>\n<div class=\"wpdt-c row wpDataTableContainerSimpleTable wpDataTables wpDataTablesWrapper\n\"\n    >\n        <table id=\"wpdtSimpleTable-17\"\n           style=\"border-collapse:collapse;\n                   border-spacing:0px;\"\n           class=\"wpdtSimpleTable wpDataTable\"\n           data-column=\"7\"\n           data-rows=\"7\"\n           data-wpID=\"17\"\n           data-responsive=\"0\"\n           data-has-header=\"0\">\n\n                    <tbody>        <tr class=\"wpdt-cell-row \" >\n                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell wpdt-tc-000000 wpdt-bold\"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"A1\"\n                    data-col-index=\"0\"\n                    data-row-index=\"0\"\n                    style=\" width:11.3895216401%;                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Kettle size                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell wpdt-tc-000000 wpdt-bold\"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"B1\"\n                    data-col-index=\"1\"\n                    data-row-index=\"0\"\n                    style=\" width:14.5785876993%;                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Kernels                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell wpdt-tc-000000 wpdt-bold\"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"C1\"\n                    data-col-index=\"2\"\n                    data-row-index=\"0\"\n                    style=\" width:16.8564920273%;                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Oil                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell wpdt-tc-000000 wpdt-bold\"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"D1\"\n                    data-col-index=\"3\"\n                    data-row-index=\"0\"\n                    style=\" width:23.006833713%;                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Popcorn salt                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell wpdt-bold\"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"E1\"\n                    data-col-index=\"4\"\n                    data-row-index=\"0\"\n                    style=\" width:11.3895216401%;                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Popcorn per batch                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell wpdt-bold\"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"F1\"\n                    data-col-index=\"5\"\n                    data-row-index=\"0\"\n                    style=\" width:11.3895216401%;                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Servings per batch                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell wpdt-bold\"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"G1\"\n                    data-col-index=\"6\"\n                    data-row-index=\"0\"\n                    style=\" width:11.3895216401%;                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        Servings per hour*                    <\/td>\n                                        <\/tr>\n                            <tr class=\"wpdt-cell-row \" >\n                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"A2\"\n                    data-col-index=\"0\"\n                    data-row-index=\"1\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        4 oz                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"B2\"\n                    data-col-index=\"1\"\n                    data-row-index=\"1\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        1\/2 cup                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"C2\"\n                    data-col-index=\"2\"\n                    data-row-index=\"1\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        3 tbsp                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"D2\"\n                    data-col-index=\"3\"\n                    data-row-index=\"1\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        1 tsp                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"E2\"\n                    data-col-index=\"4\"\n                    data-row-index=\"1\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        14 cups                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"F2\"\n                    data-col-index=\"5\"\n                    data-row-index=\"1\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        4                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"G2\"\n                    data-col-index=\"6\"\n                    data-row-index=\"1\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        About 90                    <\/td>\n                                        <\/tr>\n                            <tr class=\"wpdt-cell-row \" >\n                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"A3\"\n                    data-col-index=\"0\"\n                    data-row-index=\"2\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        6 oz                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"B3\"\n                    data-col-index=\"1\"\n                    data-row-index=\"2\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        3\/4 cup                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"C3\"\n                    data-col-index=\"2\"\n                    data-row-index=\"2\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        1\/4 cup                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"D3\"\n                    data-col-index=\"3\"\n                    data-row-index=\"2\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        1 1\/2 tsp                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"E3\"\n                    data-col-index=\"4\"\n                    data-row-index=\"2\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        21 cups                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"F3\"\n                    data-col-index=\"5\"\n                    data-row-index=\"2\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        6                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"G3\"\n                    data-col-index=\"6\"\n                    data-row-index=\"2\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        About 110                    <\/td>\n                                        <\/tr>\n                            <tr class=\"wpdt-cell-row \" >\n                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"A4\"\n                    data-col-index=\"0\"\n                    data-row-index=\"3\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        8 oz                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"B4\"\n                    data-col-index=\"1\"\n                    data-row-index=\"3\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        1 cup                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"C4\"\n                    data-col-index=\"2\"\n                    data-row-index=\"3\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        1\/3 cup                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"D4\"\n                    data-col-index=\"3\"\n                    data-row-index=\"3\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        2 tsp                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"E4\"\n                    data-col-index=\"4\"\n                    data-row-index=\"3\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        28 cups                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"F4\"\n                    data-col-index=\"5\"\n                    data-row-index=\"3\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        8                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"G4\"\n                    data-col-index=\"6\"\n                    data-row-index=\"3\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        About 145                    <\/td>\n                                        <\/tr>\n                            <tr class=\"wpdt-cell-row \" >\n                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"A5\"\n                    data-col-index=\"0\"\n                    data-row-index=\"4\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        12 oz                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"B5\"\n                    data-col-index=\"1\"\n                    data-row-index=\"4\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        1 1\/2 cups                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"C5\"\n                    data-col-index=\"2\"\n                    data-row-index=\"4\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        1\/2 cup                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"D5\"\n                    data-col-index=\"3\"\n                    data-row-index=\"4\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        1 tbsp                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"E5\"\n                    data-col-index=\"4\"\n                    data-row-index=\"4\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        42 cups                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"F5\"\n                    data-col-index=\"5\"\n                    data-row-index=\"4\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        12                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"G5\"\n                    data-col-index=\"6\"\n                    data-row-index=\"4\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        About 220                    <\/td>\n                                        <\/tr>\n                            <tr class=\"wpdt-cell-row \" >\n                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"A6\"\n                    data-col-index=\"0\"\n                    data-row-index=\"5\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        14 oz                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"B6\"\n                    data-col-index=\"1\"\n                    data-row-index=\"5\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        1 3\/4 cups                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"C6\"\n                    data-col-index=\"2\"\n                    data-row-index=\"5\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        1\/2 cup + 1 tbsp                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"D6\"\n                    data-col-index=\"3\"\n                    data-row-index=\"5\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        1 tbsp + 1\/2 tsp                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"E6\"\n                    data-col-index=\"4\"\n                    data-row-index=\"5\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        49 cups                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"F6\"\n                    data-col-index=\"5\"\n                    data-row-index=\"5\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        14                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"G6\"\n                    data-col-index=\"6\"\n                    data-row-index=\"5\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        About 240                    <\/td>\n                                        <\/tr>\n                            <tr class=\"wpdt-cell-row \" >\n                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"A7\"\n                    data-col-index=\"0\"\n                    data-row-index=\"6\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        16 oz                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"B7\"\n                    data-col-index=\"1\"\n                    data-row-index=\"6\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        2 cups                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"C7\"\n                    data-col-index=\"2\"\n                    data-row-index=\"6\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        2\/3 cup                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"D7\"\n                    data-col-index=\"3\"\n                    data-row-index=\"6\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        1 tbsp + 1 tsp                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"E7\"\n                    data-col-index=\"4\"\n                    data-row-index=\"6\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        56 cups                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"F7\"\n                    data-col-index=\"5\"\n                    data-row-index=\"6\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        16                    <\/td>\n                                                <td class=\"wpdt-cell \"\n                                            data-cell-id=\"G7\"\n                    data-col-index=\"6\"\n                    data-row-index=\"6\"\n                    style=\"                    padding:10px;\n                    \"\n                    >\n                                        About 295                    <\/td>\n                                        <\/tr>\n                    <\/table>\n<\/div><style id='wpdt-custom-style-17'>\n.wpdt-tc-000000 { color: #000000 !important;}\n<\/style>\n<style>\n                    \n                \/* odd rows background color *\/\n    .wpdt-c.wpDataTablesWrapper table.wpdtSimpleTable tr.odd td,\n    .wpdt-c .wpDataTablesWrapper table.wpDataTable tr.odd td {\n        background-color: #F0F2F2 !important;\n    }\n                                        \n                <\/style>\n\n<h2 id=\"link3\"><b>Using a Rented Popcorn Machine<\/b><\/h2>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\">There are two types of machines that you can rent:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"text-align: left;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/reventals.com\/archetypes\/993\/item?utm_source=Reventals%20Blog&amp;utm_campaign=How%20to%20Use%20a%20Popcorn%20Machine\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Tabletop<\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"text-align: left;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/reventals.com\/archetypes\/997\/item?utm_source=Reventals%20Blog&amp;utm_campaign=How%20to%20Use%20a%20Popcorn%20Machine\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Cart<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The two machines work the same, they just look different. The<span style=\"box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\">\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/reventals.com\/archetypes\/997\/item?utm_source=Reventals%20Blog&amp;utm_campaign=How%20to%20Use%20a%20Popcorn%20Machine\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Cart<\/a> has a vintage look<\/span>, making it great for themed parties. The <a href=\"https:\/\/reventals.com\/archetypes\/993\/item?utm_source=Reventals%20Blog&amp;utm_campaign=How%20to%20Use%20a%20Popcorn%20Machine\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">tabletop<\/a> is for those times when you have limited space.<\/p>\n<h3><b>What Size Popcorn Machine Should I Rent?<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For most parties, a <\/span><b>tabletop 6- or 8-oz machine<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is plenty. An 8 oz machine pops about 145 servings an hour, so it can keep up with 100+ guests over a typical party. Planning a school carnival, festival, or big corporate event? A <\/span><b>popcorn cart<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> with a 12 to 16 oz kettle keeps lines moving and looks great on display. Run your numbers in the calculator above to find your fit.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>What do the Switches on Popcorn Machines do?<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Most popcorn machines have three switches:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Kettle heat:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Heats the kettle and, on most machines, runs the stirrer. This is the one you need for popping.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Warmer:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Heats the deck under the popcorn to keep it crisp. Leave it on while you serve.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Light:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Lights up the cabinet. Purely for show (but it&#8217;s a good show).<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some machines combine kettle heat and stirrer into one switch, or add a separate motor switch. Check the label on your machine or ask your rental vendor.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Power and Placement for Popcorn Machines<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Most 4- to 14-oz machines plug into a standard household outlet. Larger 16 oz and up machines often need a 30-amp outlet, so confirm with your vendor before you book. Either way, give the machine its own circuit if you can. Sharing an outlet with a coffee maker or slow cooker can trip a breaker mid-party.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Set up on a flat, sturdy surface with a few inches of airflow around the cabinet, away from walls, curtains, and decorations.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>What to Have on Hand for a Popcorn Machine<\/b><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Kernels, or pre-measured popcorn kits for your kettle size<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Coconut or canola oil<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fine popcorn salt (regular table salt doesn&#8217;t stick as well)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Popcorn bags or boxes and a scoop<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Paper towels and a small trash bin nearby<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Optional: butter-flavored topping and seasonings for a toppings bar<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some vendors include starter supplies with a rental, so ask when you book.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"link4\">How to Clean a Popcorn Machine<\/h2>\n<p>When the party is over and it&#8217;s time to return your popcorn machine rental, you might wonder how to clean it. No worries, it&#8217;s not that hard! Here are step-by-step instructions:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Turn the machine off and unplug it<\/strong>: <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Turn everything off, unplug the machine, and let the kettle cool completely, about 30 to 60 minutes<\/span><\/li>\n<li><strong>Remove the kettle<\/strong>: Most popcorn machines have a removable kettle. Carefully remove it to clean separately. <em>If your kettle is not removable, skip to step 5.<\/em><\/li>\n<li><strong>Clean the kettle<\/strong>: For removable kettles, mix warm water with mild dish soap. Use a soft cloth or sponge to wipe the inside, and avoid abrasive cleaners or pads, which can scratch the surface. For tough stains, use a kettle-cleaning solution designed for popcorn machines. Follow the cleaner&#8217;s instructions for the best results.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Wipe down the machine<\/strong>: Use a damp cloth to wipe down the exterior and interior surfaces. Clean the glass or plastic windows well, as they can get very greasy.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Dry thoroughly<\/strong>: After cleaning, dry all parts thoroughly with a dry towel or cloth to prevent any water spots or buildup.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Once everything is clean and dry, reassemble any parts you removed, and you&#8217;re ready to return it to the rental company!<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-8007 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/bastien-nvs-l7n8RON8EUI-unsplash-1024x840.jpg\" alt=\"popcorn machine\" width=\"1024\" height=\"840\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/bastien-nvs-l7n8RON8EUI-unsplash-1024x840.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/bastien-nvs-l7n8RON8EUI-unsplash-300x246.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/bastien-nvs-l7n8RON8EUI-unsplash-768x630.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/bastien-nvs-l7n8RON8EUI-unsplash-1536x1260.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/bastien-nvs-l7n8RON8EUI-unsplash-2048x1680.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"link5\"><b>Popcorn Machine Troubleshooting<\/b><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Lots of unpopped kernels?<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> The kettle probably wasn&#8217;t hot enough. Preheat for the full 3 to 5 minutes before adding oil and kernels. Old or stale kernels can also be the problem, so use a fresh bag.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Popcorn tastes burnt?<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> You likely waited too long to dump the kettle. Empty it as soon as pops slow to 2 or 3 seconds apart. Too little oil can scorch kernels too, so check your amounts in the chart.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Popcorn is chewy or soggy?<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Steam needs somewhere to go. Make sure the vents aren&#8217;t blocked, turn on the warmer, and don&#8217;t store popcorn in sealed containers while it&#8217;s still warm.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Kettle isn&#8217;t heating?<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Check that the kettle heat switch (not just the light) is on and that the plug is snug. Then check whether the breaker tripped. If it still won&#8217;t heat, call your rental vendor rather than taking anything apart.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Machine is smoking?<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Some smoke on the first batch is normal as leftover oil burns off. Constant smoke usually means too little oil, the wrong oil, or an empty kettle left on. Turn off the kettle heat and let it cool before trying again.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Popcorn is bland?<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Add fine popcorn salt to the kettle with the kernels, not on top afterward. It coats every piece evenly.<\/span><\/li>\n<li id=\"Link4\">Where to Rent a Popcorn Machine<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-8010 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/meg-boulden-A0FgI6AFjng-unsplash-1024x678.jpg\" alt=\"popcorn machine\" width=\"1024\" height=\"678\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/meg-boulden-A0FgI6AFjng-unsplash-1024x678.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/meg-boulden-A0FgI6AFjng-unsplash-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/meg-boulden-A0FgI6AFjng-unsplash-768x509.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/meg-boulden-A0FgI6AFjng-unsplash-1536x1017.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/meg-boulden-A0FgI6AFjng-unsplash-2048x1356.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Looking for the perfect popcorn machine for your next event? Use <a href=\"https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Reventals<\/a> to easily find high-quality popcorn machines from reputable vendors in your area.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"link6\">FAQ&#8217;s<\/h2>\n<h3>Q: How much does it cost to rent a popcorn machine?<\/h3>\n<p>A: To rent a popcorn machine, the price can range from $65-$90 per day. This cost generally includes everything you need to start popping: the machine, kernels, oil, and sometimes seasoning options. For larger events or if you want to offer a variety of flavors, considering a higher-end model might be worth the extra cost.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.reventals.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><button class=\"btn-primary\">Shop Now<\/button><\/a><\/p>\n<h3>Q: What type of oil do I use in a popcorn machine?<\/h3>\n<p>A: Coconut oil is often the top choice for making popcorn because it not only tastes great but also burns cleanly. You can also consider using sunflower, peanut, or soy oil for popping popcorn.<\/p>\n<h3>Q: Is plain or flavored popcorn better?<\/h3>\n<p>A: Keeping your popcorn plain is the healthiest option. You can always add the usual butter and salt to add flavor. If you like to change things up a bit, check out <a href=\"http:\/\/www.worthcooking.net\/5-fun-ways-to-flavor-popcorn\/\">these recipes<\/a> for savory popcorn seasonings. And if you&#8217;re like me and have a sweet tooth, you might like <a href=\"https:\/\/laurenslatest.com\/healthy-caramel-corn\/\">this recipe<\/a> better.<\/p>\n<h3>Q: What do I serve my popcorn in?<\/h3>\n<p>A: Most rental companies sell popcorn cups or bags for very little cost. But if you have a special theme in mind, you can easily DIY your own cups! For DIY popcorn cups, all you need is brown paper lunch bags and stickers, or cute paper and washi tape. Check out our <a href=\"https:\/\/pin.it\/zdq6hbbsdpyipv\">Pinterest board<\/a> for ideas here.<\/p>\n<p>Looking for popcorn party ideas? Check out our blog <a href=\"https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/blog\/index.php\/2017\/07\/18\/ticket-awesome-outdoor-movie-night\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Ticket to a Fantastic Outdoor Movie Party<\/a><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-8009 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/corina-rainer-P2wLo_PzHjU-unsplash-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"popcorn at the movies\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/corina-rainer-P2wLo_PzHjU-unsplash-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/corina-rainer-P2wLo_PzHjU-unsplash-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/corina-rainer-P2wLo_PzHjU-unsplash-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/corina-rainer-P2wLo_PzHjU-unsplash-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/10\/corina-rainer-P2wLo_PzHjU-unsplash.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2 id=\"link7\">Where to Rent a Popcorn Machine<\/h2>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Now you know how to run a popcorn machine like a pro. The only thing left is getting one. If you buy a machine you\u2019ll use a few times a year, you&#8217;ll have to store a bulky cabinet the rest of the time. Renting is the easier move.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">On Reventals, you can find a popcorn machine or cart for your date and book it online in minutes. No calling around, no waiting on quotes.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\">Use the calculator above to find the right machine size for your crowd, then grab the quick-start card so whoever\u2019s on popcorn duty knows exactly what to do.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/catering-equipment-rentals\/concessions-rentals?show_items=true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><strong>Find Popcorn Machines Near You!<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n<p><script type=\"application\/ld+json\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"FAQPage\",\"mainEntity\":[{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"How to use a popcorn machine?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"1. Heat the kettle for 7-9 minutes. 2. Pour the oil into the kettle. 3. Test a few kernels. 4. When ready, put the rest of kernels in and shut the lid. 5. When the popping ends, dump the kettle and enjoy!\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"How much oil do you use in a popcorn machine?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Typical popcorn machine rentals (8 oz. size) use 1\/3 cup of oil for 1 cup of kernels.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"What kind of oil do you use in a popcorn machine?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Coconut oil is the most preferred oil because of its flavor and it burns clean. Some people prefer canola because its lower in fat and cholesterol. You can also use sunflower, peanut and soy oil. Do not use vegetable oil because it can catch on fire.\"}},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"name\":\"How does a popcorn machine work?\",\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"1. Heat the kettle for 7-9 minutes. 2. Pour the oil into the kettle. 3. Test a few kernels. 4. When ready, put the rest of kernels in and shut the lid. 5. When the popping ends, dump the kettle and enjoy!\"}}]}<\/script><!--FAQPage Code Generated by https:\/\/saijogeorge.com\/json-ld-schema-generator\/faq\/--><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>A popcorn machine is one of the easiest ways to make any party feel like a night at the movies. It&#8217;s also easy to get wrong: too much oil, not enough heat, or a kettle full of burnt kernels five minutes before guests arrive. This guide walks you through using a popcorn machine step by [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":3199,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"content-type":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[28],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-3187","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-party-rentals"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v23.0 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>How To Use a Popcorn Machine | Tips and Serving Size Chart - Reventals Event Rentals<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Learn how to use a popcorn machine, popcorn serving sizes, how to clean a popcorn machine, where to rent a popcorn machine, and more!\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/blog\/how-to-use-a-popcorn-machine\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"How To Use a Popcorn Machine | Tips and Serving Size Chart - Reventals Event Rentals\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Learn how to use a popcorn machine, popcorn serving sizes, how to clean a popcorn machine, where to rent a popcorn machine, and more!\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/blog\/how-to-use-a-popcorn-machine\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Reventals Event Rentals\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/reventals\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-10-16T10:00:35+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-10-16T21:04:09+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/AdobeStock_78121720.jpeg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1500\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"1148\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Candace Leak\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@IamCandaceLeak\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@reventals\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Candace Leak\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"10 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/blog\/how-to-use-a-popcorn-machine\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/blog\/how-to-use-a-popcorn-machine\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Candace Leak\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/32ade8ce731f21e106fc84752cb004d3\"},\"headline\":\"How To Use a Popcorn Machine | Tips and Serving Size Chart\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-10-16T10:00:35+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-10-16T21:04:09+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/blog\/how-to-use-a-popcorn-machine\/\"},\"wordCount\":1864,\"commentCount\":0,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/blog\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/blog\/how-to-use-a-popcorn-machine\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/AdobeStock_78121720.jpeg\",\"articleSection\":[\"Party Rentals\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"CommentAction\",\"name\":\"Comment\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/blog\/how-to-use-a-popcorn-machine\/#respond\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/blog\/how-to-use-a-popcorn-machine\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.reventals.com\/blog\/how-to-use-a-popcorn-machine\/\",\"name\":\"How To Use a Popcorn Machine | Tips and Serving Size Chart - 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