Soda fountain equipment can be found at pretty much any location that serves food, yet despite their ubiquity, most people don’t know all that much about them. The truth is that soda fountains are pretty complex machines. Luckily, the parts you need to clean and regularly maintain are all highly accessible and easy to reassemble. Below we answer some of the most frequently asked questions about soda fountains.
Frequently Asked Questions about Soda Fountains
To make it even easier, we’ve put together a brief guide featuring the most commonly asked questions about soda fountain equipment. With any luck, we’ll answer a majority of your questions. If we do miss something, you can always contact the manufacturer for further information.
How Much Space Do I Need for a Soda Fountain?
You will want to confirm the dimensions with the manufacturer because there is some variation. However, the majority of eight valve soda fountains are about 32 inches high x 26 inches wide x 28 inches deep.
The backroom equipment is another story. Each five-gallon syrup box is approximately 11”x15”x8” and your standard carbonator is about 12”x12”x12”. Most restaurants organize this equipment and the spare syrup boxes using heavy-duty shelving units. Zip ties can always be used to secure the hoses in between cleaning for better organization.
Do You Need a Water Line?
As complicated as it may sound, a water line is essential. The syrups have to be diluted with water to create the bubbling drinks that we enjoy. In fact, the soda you’re getting out of your fountain is about five parts water and 1 part syrup. That’s why you’re able to get such a great deal on syrups and keep your profit margins high.
When you’re choosing your water line, make sure it’s at least 3/8” in interior diameter. That will allow the carbonator to get enough water through to do its job efficiently. If a water line is too small, then you’re going to have a lot of noise, and your sodas will come out rather flat. No one wants that.
Do You Need a Cooling System for Your Soda Fountain Equipment?
You absolutely need to keep your fountain system cold. The temperature helps the drink retain carbonation as it meets with the open air, increases customer satisfaction, and generally improves the process as a whole. Now there are a couple of different cooling system options, so you’ll want to discuss local conditions and frequency of use with your manufacturer to determine the best fit for you.
How Long Will a CO2 Tank Last?
If the system is well-maintained and has no leaks, then a 20 lb tank will last about the same amount of time as it takes to go through three 5 gallon boxes of syrup. With light use, that could be as much as six months, but most restaurants will go through it much more frequently.
Fortunately, it’s easy enough to get the tank refilled. Industrial gas suppliers, locations that offer welding services, and some restaurant supply stores offer refilling services. That being said, you should always keep a spare tank in a safe place just in case you forget to refill your tank in time.
How Often Does the Equipment Have to Be Cleaned?
The valves, outside surfaces, and ice trap should be cleaned daily. If you have an attached ice dispenser, then that should be emptied and cleaned once a week. You should always allow these parts to dry overnight to prevent mold and mildew. Last but not least, the lines themselves should be cleaned at least once a month.
We hope this was helpful. If you have any additional questions, contact a manufacturer of soda dispensers in Los Angeles to ensure that your soda fountain equipment is always in working order.
