We know some people like to have soda in their beverage holders, but have you ever thought of having your very own fountain for drinks?
If you are in the market for a new soda fountain dispenser, you should understand a few of the most common features found in these units. Just a little bit of research will go a long way toward allowing you to make an informed purchasing decision, minimizing the chances that you have to return a product or otherwise waste time with an unsatisfactory dispenser. My aim with this article is to give a summary of just these features.
First of all, make sure that your desired dispenser is compatible with the brand of your preferred syrup. Most people choose a dispenser that uses “bag in box” refills as these are the easiest to install and by far the easiest to use in general (easy like attaching our cup holder to an armrest). While other refill types aren’t terribly complex, syrup refills are the last thing you want to think about when you’re in the middle of hosting a party or in the middle of a lunch rush in a crowded restaurant.
Next on the list is multi flavor compatibility. Most soda dispensers will come with a gun that includes a number of buttons, hopefully adjustable to independent mix settings. For instance, one button will be dedicated to performing the same function as a water cooler dispenser (except with soda water), while the others will dispense various kinds of syrup mixes. Generally speaking, the syrup should be mixed at a 5 to 1 ratio with the water, but make sure to read your instruction manual carefully for the last word on this.
Last, you will need to consider whether you want the dispenser to be under the counter or free standing on the countertop. Both models have their advantages, and this decision will ultimately come down to what kind of environment you are servicing. If you run a restaurant where patrons can get their own soda refills, I highly recommend the countertop variety. On the other hand, if you are shopping for a home wetbar, you should probably go with the under counter type. This will allow you to hide away any ugly equipment under the bar while keeping only the soda gun up to, ready to dispense liquids to your house guests at the touch of a button.
While there are plenty of other considerations to take into account while shopping for one of these devices, the information above will get your in the right frame of mind for asking necessary questions when it’s time to buy. After that you’re ready for your fresh and tasty beverage in your drink holder.