How to Replace a Popcorn Kettle

Popcorn kettles make delicious popcorn.

The popcorn kettle is the metal part of any popcorn machine which pops the corn and is located inside the commercial popper or placed on the stove directly to make old fashioned popcorn. When the kettle breaks or has any problems, replacing it is often a necessity.

Things You'll Need

• Screwdriver

Instructions

1. Look at the popcorn maker or kettle warranty if it has one. This will determine if the company will fix or replace the kettle without charge or hassle. If the warranty is still good, call the customer service number and explain the problem. They will usually either send someone to fix it or have the popcorn kettle sent in for a replacement. If the warranty is expired or the kettle did not have one, replacement is sometimes more complex, depending on the popper.

2. Look on the popcorn kettle company's website. Specific company websites will usually have replacement parts available, including the kettle. Look under the products section for any replacement pieces and then look for the kettle.

3. Call the customer service number for any popcorn kettles that are part of your popcorn machine. Even if the warranty is expired, the customer service representative should have information about replacement parts or information about dealers in the area that sell replacement kettles.

4. Look at online auctioning websites. Online auctioning websites are a good resource for finding even the most obscure items, including popcorn kettles. Put in the brand name of the kettle or maker along with the "popcorn kettle" when searching.

5. Go to the store and buy a new kettle. In the case of on the stove popcorn kettles, the kettle is not a part of the machine -- is the machine. It uses a manual crank to move the seeds and prevent burning while making the popcorn. To replace this type of kettle, simply buy a new one.

6. Remove the old kettle from the popcorn maker. The exact method will vary by machine, but there are usually screws on the inside at the sides of the machine holding the kettle in place. Unscrew these and hold your hand under the kettle. Take out any electrical cords connected directly to the kettle. Usually, the wires are connected to the far side and should unplug. Lower the kettle and take it out of the door.

7. Put the new kettle into the machine. Connect the wire or wires as necessary and screw the new kettle into place using the same screws as the old kettle. Turn it on and check that the machine works. If it does not, turn off the machine and reconnect the wires. The most likely problem is incorrectly placed wires.

Tips & Warnings

• Methods of removing and putting in a new kettle vary by machine. Refer to the user manual if the machine is complicated, wiring is confusing or the wiring does not unplug. Some machines might require a professional to deal with the wiring.

References

• Standard Concession Supply: How to Operate a Commercial Popcorn Machine