If you want to make soda at home and not have to spend extra money on it every time you get the craving, then you’ll need a soda machine. But what type of soda machine should you get, and what factors should you consider? Read on to find out more about these devices.
What is a Soda Machine?
A soda machine is a device that, as the name suggests, creates soda or other carbonated drinks. Most soda machines are used to create sparkling water or drinks, though some also use these devices to make their own alcoholic cocktails, as is the case with soda siphons.
Why is it Important to Have a Soda Machine?
It saves you money on sparkling water.
Sparkling water may have become more affordable in recent years, but it’s still more expensive than regular water and probably will remain as such for the foreseeable future. So if you prefer drinking sparkling water over regular water, then you may want to invest in buying a soda machine and cartridges rather than buying bottles upon bottles of sparkling water every time you run out to the store.
Sparkling water isn’t something that’s bought and sold by the gallon (at least in retail). You’ll likely buy by the bottle or can, which will cost more over time. If you used a soda siphon or soda machine instead, you’d end up with far fewer expenses, as you’d only be spending money on cartridges rather than the water itself, as well as the bottles and cans used to contain them. And that leads us to our next point—environmental friendliness.
It’s more environmentally friendly.
One issue many people have with sparkling water is that it’s typically only accessible through buying plastic bottles or metal cans, which is an environmental nightmare. If you prefer not to support the creation and production of wasteful one-use products, then a soda machine may prove to be a more sustainable solution. By using cylinders to create soda and sparkling water, you limit your purchase of bottled soda, which is better for the environment in the long run.
It’s more convenient than re-buying.
Finally, let’s talk about convenience. While some of us live close to corner stores, for most of us, it is a hassle getting to the store, and we have to carve out time in our daily routines to make the trip.
That's where soda machines come in. By providing a means to make soda any time you want, you don’t have to worry about remembering to purchase more at your next trip to the store.
Things to Consider When Buying a Soda Machine
CO2 Cylinders/Cartridges
Soda isn’t really soda without CO2. It’s what gives the beverage that sparkling texture and feel to it. Despite all the different types of soda machines out there, virtually all of them require some form of cylinder or cartridge to work. And those that don’t use cylinders obtain CO2 through other means, such as carbonators.
The type of carbon supply, however, isn’t as important as the compatibility it has with other cartridges. Not all cartridges and cylinders are universal. While some soda machines support various cartridges and cylinders, others only allow cartridges, cylinders, and carbonators produced by their own company. This is common among manufacturing companies and can lead to restocking problems should the company not have any of their cartridges or cylinders readily available to you.
So, when buying a soda machine, consider whether or not you prefer one that supports third party cartridges. If you think that you won’t be able to easily buy proprietary cartridges, then you’ll have to settle with a unit that supports more universal designs.
Ease of use
Soda machines are designed differently from manufacturer to manufacturer. Some create soda siphons, which help make cocktails and sparkling drinks similar to how bartenders and professionals make them. Other soda machines use the convenience of modern technology to allow anyone to make soda without any hassle or expertise required, only needing to press a single button for the magic to happen.
If you think you have what it takes to learn and master the art of making soda through siphons, then you should, by all means, get a siphon. But if you prefer something a little less hands-on and more convenient for day-to-day use, a soda machine will serve you far better.
Soda Machine Price Range
Soda machines can vary in price depending on the type of machine you’re referring to. If it’s a soda siphon, for example, you can get your hands on a decent one for around $25 or so. For soda machines, however, you can spend much more, with some units selling for more than $200. Of course, these come with more features and ease-of-use and are made with better materials, but that’s still far more than $25, so choose wisely.
Soda Machine FAQ
Q: Are soda machines safe?
A: Soda machines are able to create sparkling water that’s safe and enjoyable to drink.
Q: Is sparkling water healthy?
A: While it is not any healthier than regular water, sparkling water by itself does not cause any harm to your body.
Q: Does sparkling water lead to weight gain?
A: You do not gain weight as a result of sparkling water. The misconception is caused by the other ingredients mixed with carbonated drinks that cause weight gain, such as sugar.