FAQs
You asked, we have an answer! Find our most common questions below.
Frequently Asked Questions
General FAQs (All Models)
What makes popcorn pop?
Popcorn pops because each kernel has a hard outer shell that traps a small amount of water inside. When the kernel is heated, the water turns to steam and pressure builds until the shell bursts. The soft starch inside expands and cools instantly, creating the fluffy, crunchy snack. Learn more at PopScience!
How long does it take to pop a batch?
Typical cycle: ~4 minutes for the first batch (cold kettle), and ~3 minutes for subsequent batches. Dump when pops slow to ~4 seconds apart.
What is the best way to store popcorn kernels?
To keep popcorn kernels fresh and popping perfectly, store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from heat and sunlight to preserve ideal moisture (around 13% – 14%). This is critical for maximizing pop rate, expansion, and minimizing waste. Avoid storing them in the fridge or freezer, as moisture can affect popping
Which types of oil are best for popping?
Many oils work great for popping popcorn, each bringing a slightly different flavor and texture. Popular choices include: Coconut – (The classic popcorn oil, known for its rich flavor and minimal residue in the kettle), Corn, Peanut (Tasty, but watch for allergies),Sunflower & High Oleic Sunflower, Canola, , Soybean and Blended oils.
Coconut oil has been a favorite for years because it’s stable, flavorful, and creates that signature movie-theater taste. Other oils are often chosen for their lighter flavors or healthier profiles. A 3:1 ratio of corn to oil is preferred for best results.
How do I identify and order replacement parts?
Find your machine’s model and serial number located on the attached name plate.
Call our Technical Service Department at (847) 616-6900 or email us at Tech.service@cretors.com for further assistance. Some parts may be available on our website. Visit www.cretors.com to order common replacement parts. They can be found under the Parts and Accessories tab.
How do I find my machine's manuals and diagrams?
Find your machine’s model and serial number located on the engraved name plate secured to the machine. Visit www.cretors.com and open the “Services and Support” tab where you will find the Technical Support portal. A library of our different machine families can be found in the Manuals, Diagrams and Spec Sheet section located on the Tech Support page. You can search for your machine by selecting the Machine Family drop down menu, or enter the serial number of your machine in the serial number search box. Select your machine and find the related documents section to download files.
What are C. Cretors & Company machines made of, and what are the benefits?
Cretors popcorn machines are built to last using high-quality, food-safe materials including stainless steel and aluminum extrusions that will not rust or warp for machines and bases and tempered safety glass and acrylic for windows and doors. These materials make your machine reliable, safe, and durable, ideal for both commercial and home use.
Which equipment is best suited for large-venue or high-traffic use?
Large kettle popcorn machines with 32 oz., 48 oz., and 60 oz. kettles are ideal for high-traffic areas. They can be installed in popping cabinets or placed on tables, and when paired with larger warmers and display cabinets, they provide plenty of freshly popped corn to handle even the busiest rush. Browse our Large Poppers here.
What profit margins can I expect from concession sales?
Concession sales, particularly popcorn, are known for delivering some of the strongest profit margins in the food industry. On average, operators can expect food costs to be between 10–20% of the retail price, which leaves a healthy margin even after factoring in labor, packaging, and overhead expenses. Margins can vary depending on product mix, portion size, and location, but popcorn consistently stands out as a top performer. Many operators also find that pairing popcorn with beverages and other snacks increases overall profitability, making concessions not only a reliable revenue stream but also a key driver of impulse sales.
Which promotional strategies are most effective for concession stands?
The most effective promotional strategies highlight freshness and speed. Customers are more likely to buy when they see and smell popcorn being made, displayed in warmers, and ready to grab. Bright visuals, clear signage, and quick transactions encourage impulse purchases. Bundling popcorn with drinks or offering special flavors can also boost sales and customer satisfaction.
What training and support resources do you offer?
Cretors provides a wide range of training and support resources to ensure you get the most from your equipment. We supply detailed manuals, diagrams, and specification sheets for every machine. In addition, our Cretors Service School offers hands-on instruction for operators and technicians, and our authorized service network is available nationwide to provide expert support when needed. We also provide a video library that houses many videos that cover how to’s, product production and general maintenance.
How can I track and manage my order status?
Contact General Customer Service, email us at customerservice@cretors.com or call us at 847-616-6900 for order status and updates.
What should I do if my equipment arrives damaged or parts are missing?
Contact General Customer Service, email us at customerservice@cretors.com or call us at 847-616-6900. If you purchased through one of our distributors, contact your distributor immediately. Be sure to provide your order number and serial number details if applicable. Please contact General Customer Service to obtain an RMA (Return Merchandise Authorization) for any returns.
How do I adjust the kettle temperature and oil settings for popping vs Kettle corn and make Kettle corn?
Set the thermostat to 410°F (210°C) for the 60 oz. popper and set the oil timer to dispense 15 oz. per batch. Switch on the kettle heat and apply three squirts of lecithin compound. First, add 48 oz. of popcorn, then 15 oz. of oil, followed by a scoop of sugar, and close the lid. Shortly before the popping noise stops, pour the popcorn from the kettle using a cooking spoon. Lightly sprinkle two spoonfuls of salt over the popcorn, fold it in, and gently separate any clumps. Repeat this process for each additional batch, folding new batches into the previous ones. Once all batches are popped, allow the popcorn to cool, then stir it thoroughly so that any unpopped kernels can fall through the screen.
Why should I load the popper with corn first and oil second?
Loading the corn into the kettle before the oil is an important safety measure. Adding oil first can cause fire if it contacts hot surfaces directly. By adding the corn first, the kernels absorb and distribute heat evenly, and the oil can then be added safely on top. This also helps ensure more even popping and reduces the risk of scorching the oil or corn.
Are all your poppers and equipment UL listed?
Yes, Cretors equipment is UL (Underwriters Laboratories) tested and certified. All our poppers and equipment comply with UL safety standards. In fact, Cretors holds one of the oldest UL number listings in UL history. Additionally, Cretors offers poppers with UL-approved ANSUL fire suppression systems, providing enhanced safety features.
What is Cretors recommended cleaning procedure for its poppers?
- Check to be sure the correct oil and salt measurements are being used.
- Check the oil output in machines that have an automatic oil pump.
- Clean the inside and outside of the popper kettle to remove carbon and grease buildup. Be sure to include the agitator assembly.
- Clean the popper cabinet by wiping it down, and be sure to include the waste clean out drawer.
- Replace and or clean the popper filters if applicable.
Refer to the popper’s operation manual for complete user instructions.
What Size Popper Do I Need?
This is a common question that is asked to help determine what size machine is needed.
Decide which size suits your needs. Popcorn machines are organized by kettle size: the amount of popcorn they pop during one three-minute popping cycle. For example, a 6 oz. popcorn machine will pop six ounces of popcorn in three minutes. One ounce of popcorn will yield one small individual serving. Our popcorn machines can have up to 20 popping cycles per hour if run non-stop. Therefore, a popcorn machine can pop up to 120 one-ounce servings per hour. (6 ounces x 20 cycles = 120 one-ounce servings per hour).
Ounces x cycles = # of one-ounce servings per hour
Use this easy formula to calculate the number of serving sizes for other kettles.
6 oz kettle = 120 one-ounce servings per hour
8 oz kettle = 160 one-ounce servings per hour
12 oz kettle = 240 one-ounce servings per hour
16 oz kettle = 380 one-ounce servings per hour
20 oz kettle = 400 one-ounce servings per hour
32 oz kettle = 640 one-ounce servings per hour
48 oz kettle = 960 one-ounce servings per hour
60 oz kettle = 1,200 one-ounce servings per hour
How Do I Pop Popcorn in Small Poppers?
Turn on the Kettle Heat, Agitator, and Lights switches. Open the doors, lift the kettle lid, and add popcorn portion paks (or premeasured popcorn and oil) Always add popcorn first, then oil second. Close the lid and doors. Press the red One-Pop button if applicable. Empty the kettle when popping slows in about 3 minutes, and repeat for additional batches. While cooking, use the scoop to mix and sift the popcorn without crushing kernels. Keep doors closed and the heat lamp on to maintain freshness. When finished, turn off Kettle Heat and Agitator—your popcorn is ready to serve.
Cleaning & Maintenance FAQs
What is the recommended method for cleaning the kettle after making Kettle Corn?
After making kettle corn, allow the kettle to cool. Add water and Cretors kettle cleaner, then heat for approximately five minutes. Let the kettle cool again, and while wearing protective gloves, pour out the water and clean the inside with a sponge or sponge cloth. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and washing-up liquid, then rinse at least twice with clear water to remove all cleaning residue. Finally, dry the kettle completely. Do not submerge the kettle in water.
How should I safely clean the mixer agitator and kettle in the small poppers?
Wait for popper to cool to room temperature before cleaning. Raise kettle lid and with kettle in dump position, wipe inside and outside of kettle with a damp cloth. Lift weight to remove stirrer blade, weight and kettle lid and wash in the sink with hot soapy water. Once dry, re-assemble kettle lid, weight and stirrer blade in kettle. Once a week, clean the kettle using the Cretors Inside Kettle Cleaner. This will prevent the accumulation of black carbon on the bottom of the kettle. The kettle cover and agitator assembly should be removed weekly for thorough cleaning.
How should I safely clean the kettle in the large poppers?
Wait for popper to cool to room temperature before cleaning. The kettle has a stainless steel or polished nickel finish and is very easy to clean if oil is not allowed to burn on it. The best practice is to take a cotton towel or absorbent rag and wipe the kettle while it is warm (after the final popping). Once the oil is allowed to cool, it can become more difficult to remove. We recommend only coconut oil be used for your Cretors popper; it will not stick and burn as easily as other oils. Once a week, clean the kettle using the Cretors Inside Kettle Cleaner, “CKC” (p/n 2156). This will prevent the accumulation of black carbon on the bottom of the kettle. In high volume locations nightly use of “CKC” is recommended. The kettle cover and agitator assembly should be removed weekly for thorough cleaning.
How do I disassemble, clean, and reassemble the agitator assembly in the large poppers?
Remove cross pin, lift off agitator blade, clean, reassemble by aligning to drive shaft and inserting the pin.
Support & Technical FAQs
How can I find manuals, parts diagrams, and wiring diagrams?
Find your machine’s model and serial number located on the engraved name plate secured to the machine. Visit www.cretors.com and open the “Services and Support” tab where you will find the Technical Support portal. A library of our different machine families can be found in the Manuals, Diagrams and Spec Sheet section located on the Tech Support page. You can search for your machine by selecting the Machine Family drop down menu, or enter the serial number of your machine in the serial number search box. Select your machine and find the related documents section to download files.
What warranty coverage is provided—and how do I register my machine?
New equipment includes a 2-year limited factory warranty. Return the registration card upon installation to activate coverage. Contact Technical Assistance at Tech.Service@cretors.com, or call us at 847-616-6900 for further information. Learn more here.
What safety precautions are required before operating the machine?
Before operating the machine, always read the manual thoroughly and ensure all operators are properly trained. Make sure all switches are turned off while setting up the machine, and follow all safety warnings and guidelines provided. Taking these precautions helps prevent accidents and ensures safe, efficient operation.
What power supply specs are required for safe operation?
Cretors machines must be connected to the proper power supply to ensure safe and efficient operation. Each model has specific voltage, amperage, and phase requirements, which are listed in the operator manual and on the machine’s specification plate. Always confirm that your power supply matches these specifications before use, and avoid using extension cords or adapters that could cause overheating or electrical hazards.
What electrical requirements are there for Goldrush models?
The Cretors Goldrush popcorn machine operates on 120V AC, 60 Hz, single-phase power and draws approximately 9.5 amps (about 1,150 watts) with a NEMA 5-15 plug. For safe and efficient operation, it should be connected to a dedicated 20-amp circuit with proper grounding. Always ensure all switches are off during setup and that the plug is fully inserted into the receptacle before turning the machine on.
What should I do if I need additional manuals or tech support?
For technical support, email Tech.Service@cretors.com or call 847-616-6900. If your machine was purchased through a local distributor, you may also contact them directly. When reaching out, please have your machine model and serial number on hand, along with a brief description of the issue and the RMA number, if applicable.