Goldmedal Astro Pop 16oz Series User manual

© 2021 Gold Medal Products Co.
Part No. 41474
Instruction Manual
10700 Medallion Drive, Cincinnati, Ohio 45241-4807 USA
Astro Pop 16 oz.
Model No. 2023E, 2023XE, 2023XEN

Astro Pop 16 oz. Model No. 2023E, 2023XE, 2023XEN
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SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
DANGER
Machine must be properly grounded to prevent electrical shock to personnel.
Failure to do so could result in serious injury, or death.
Make sure all machine switches are in the OFF position before plugging the
equipment into the receptacle. Keep cord and plug off the ground and away
from moisture. Always unplug the equipment before cleaning or servicing.
DO NOT immerse any part of this equipment in water.
DO NOT use a water jet or excessive water when cleaning.
008_012221
DANGER
Improper installation, adjustment, alteration, service, or maintenance can
cause property damage, injury, or death. Any alterations to this equipment
will void the warranty and may cause a dangerous condition. This appliance
is not intended to be operated by means of an external timer or separate
remote-control system. NEVER make alterations to this equipment. Read the
Installation, Operating, and Maintenance Instructions thoroughly before
installing, servicing, or operating this equipment.
014_020416
WARNING
To avoid burns, DO NOT touch the kettle or any heated surface.
DO NOT place or leave objects in contact with heated surfaces.
013_092414
WARNING
ALWAYS wear safety glasses when servicing this equipment.
010_010914
WARNING
No user serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified service
personnel.
011_051514
WARNING
Read and understand operator’s manual and all other safety instructions
before using this equipment. To order copies of the operator’s manual go to
gmpopcorn.com or write to Gold Medal Products Co., 10700 Medallion Drive,
Cincinnati, OH 45241 USA 1-(800)-543-0862
022_060215

Astro Pop 16 oz. Model No. 2023E, 2023XE, 2023XEN
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WARNING
DO NOT allow direct contact of this equipment by the public when used in
food service locations. Only personnel trained and experienced in the
equipment operation may operate this equipment.
Carefully read all instructions before operation.
012_010914
WARNING
This machine is NOT to be operated by minors.
007_010914
DO NOT install equipment in an area where a water jet is used.
This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced
physical, sensory or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless they
have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance by a person
responsible for their safety.
Unit to be in a supervised location.
Install unit on a level surface. Locate machine in a protected environment.
Note: Improvements are always being made to Gold Medal’s equipment. This information
may not be the latest available for your purposes. It is critical that you call Gold Medal’s
Technical Service Department at 1-800-543-0862 for any questions about your
machine operations, replacement parts, or any service questions. (Gold Medal
Products Co. does not assume any liability for injury due to careless handling and/or
reckless operation of this equipment.) General images may be used in manual for
reference only.

Astro Pop 16 oz. Model No. 2023E, 2023XE, 2023XEN
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INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
Inspection of Shipment
After unpacking, check thoroughly for any damage which may have occurred in transit. Claims
should be filed immediately with the transportation company. The warranty does not cover
damage that occurs in transit, or damage caused by abuse, or consequential damage due to the
operation of this machine, since it is beyond our control (reference warranty in back of manual).
Manual
Read and understand the operator’s manual and all other safety instructions before using this
equipment. To order copies of the operator’s manual go to gmpopcorn.com or write to Gold
Medal Products Co., 10700 Medallion Drive, Cincinnati, OH 45241 USA 1-(800)-543-0862.
Model Description
The Astro Pop is a 16 oz. popcorn popper.
Items Included with this Unit
Setup
This unit has been tested at the factory.
1. Remove all packaging and tape prior to operation.
2. Place the unit on a sturdy, level base.
3. The Popper blower vents out the top of unit, allow adequate clearance for airflow.
4. The door knobs are shipped facing the inside of the machine. Re-adjust knobs to face
the outside of the machine.
5. Make sure kettle lead-in cord is securely plugged into unit, and twisted to lock into the
kettle receptacle.
6. Reference the Instruction Manual for the oil dispense unit for instructions on
connecting the oil unit to the popper (oil unit sold separately).
7. After setup, the unit should be cleaned prior to use (see Care and Cleaning section).
Aluminum
Scoop
(PN 2071)
20cc Measure
(PN 47680)
6 oz. Oil
Measure
(PN 49049)
16 oz. Corn
Measure
(PN 68050)
Power Supply
Re
ceptacle
(PN
47211)
Cover
(PN 47377)
(2023E
Units ONLY)

Astro Pop 16 oz. Model No. 2023E, 2023XE, 2023XEN
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Electrical Requirements
The following power supply must be provided (reference unit Data Plate for Wattage requirement):
2023E:120 V~, 60 Hz
2023XE, 2023XEN: 220-230 V~, 50/60 Hz
DANGER
Machine must be properly grounded to prevent electrical shock to personnel.
Failure to do so could result in serious injury, or death.
Make sure all machine switches are in the OFF position before plugging the
equipment into the receptacle. Keep cord and plug off the ground and away
from moisture. Always unplug the equipment before cleaning or servicing.
DO NOT immerse any part of this equipment in water.
DO NOT use a water jet or excessive water when cleaning.
008_012221
A certified electrician must furnish sufficient power for proper machine operation and install any
supplied receptacle (reference unit Data Plate for model specific Volts AC, Hertz, and Wattage
requirements). We recommend this equipment be on a dedicated and protected circuit. Failure
to wire properly will void the warranty and may result in damage to the machine. It is Gold Medal
Products Co.’s recommendation that this machine be plugged directly into a wall outlet. The use of
extension cords is not recommended due to safety concerns, and may cause sacrificed and/or
reduced performance. Make sure cord is located to prevent a trip hazard or unit upset.
Before You Plug In Machine
1. Make sure all machine switches are OFF before plugging equipment into receptacle.
2. Make sure wall outlet can accept the grounded plugs (where applicable) on the power
supply cord.
3. The wall outlet must have the proper polarity. If in doubt, have a competent
electrician inspect the outlet and correct if necessary.
4. DO NOT use a grounded to un-grounded receptacle adapter (where applicable).
5. Install unit in a level position.
CAUTION
If the supply cord is damaged, it must be replaced by Gold Medal Products Co.,
its service agent or similarly qualified persons in order to avoid a hazard.
039_080614

Astro Pop 16 oz. Model No. 2023E, 2023XE, 2023XEN
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OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Controls and Their Functions
OIL SYSTEM MASTER SWITCH
Sends power to the oil pump. The warmer/blower on the oil pump is activated. The
warmer/blower on the oil pump will keep coconut popping oil in liquid form if the doors
on the base are kept closed. It may be desirable to keep this switch on at night if you have
problems keeping the coconut oil liquefied. Coconut oil will congeal at temperatures
below approximately 76º F [24º C]. (Reference Instruction Manual for oil dispense unit.)
RED OIL DISPENSE MOMENTARY SWITCH (Oil Light Indicator)
When pushed, this will dispense the predetermined amount of oil into the kettle.
LIGHT SWITCH
This switch operates the LED lighting and sign.
WARMER SWITCH
This switch operates the forced air popcorn crisping system.
KETTLE MOTOR SWITCH
This switch operates the popcorn agitator motor. This switch must be on at all times when
popcorn (popped and un-popped) is present in the kettle. This switch activates the
exhaust fan.
KETTLE HEAT SWITCH
This switch turns on the heat elements located in the popcorn kettle by sending power to
the Big Eye electronic control system.
YELLOW LIGHT AND AUDIBLE SOUND
The Astro-Pop is equipped with the state of the art Big Eye electronic control that “watches
your popcorn machine” to deliver optimum popping performance. The Big Eye control will
signal the operator to:
•Load the corn and oil or
•Dump the popped corn from the kettle or
•Turn OFF the Kettle Heat if you are finished popping corn.
Kettle Heat
Switch
Lights
Switch
Warmer
Switch
Kettle Motor Switch
Oil
Dispense
Switch
Oil Master
Switch
Oil Light
Indicator
Load
Dump
Indicator

Astro Pop 16 oz. Model No. 2023E, 2023XE, 2023XEN
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Popping Instructions
Remember: When the Yellow Light comes ON, and Audible Signal (if enabled) is sounding, one
of the following actions should be taken:
•Load the corn and oil or
•Dump the popped corn from the kettle or
•Turn OFF the Kettle Heat if you are finished popping corn.
Amount of Popcorn and Oil
This popper is equipped with a corn, salt, and oil measure. Gold Medal recommends flavored and
colored coconut oil. Popcorn popped in coconut oil stays fresh longer and does not leave black
deposits in your kettle like other oils. Use only top quality, fresh popcorn from reputable suppliers.
Kettle Size
Popcorn Charge
Oil Charge
Flavacol (Salt)
16 oz.
16 oz. (473 ml)
5 oz. (148 ml)
1.5 Tblsp. (20cc)
Popping Standard (Salted) Popcorn
Premeasure all ingredients (adjust as needed for desired taste), or for best results use Mega-Pop®
premeasured popcorn and oil pouch made for your kettle size.
Note: When using coconut oil, be sure the oil is liquid. As a check, dispense oil
into a measuring cup first, then use that oil for the first popping cycle.
1. Turn all switches ON.
2. Kettle is ready to pop (about 4 minutes) when the Load/Dump Light and Audible Signal
(beeper, if enabled) turn ON.
3. Lift kettle lid, pour in popcorn and Flavacol, then add oil; close lid (if equipped, press
the “Red” Oil Dispense PB Switch to add oil) (light and beeper will turn OFF in approx.
20 seconds).
4. When the light and beeper come on again, gently dump the kettle.
Note: The signal “To Dump” was factory set based on Gold Medal popcorn and oil. If,
after 3 consecutive batches, the signal occurs before or after popping has
stopped, then the signal timing can be adjusted by a qualified service person
(reference Electronic Temperature Control section).
Popping Tip: On final batch, turn Kettle Heat Switch OFF just as lids are forced open by
the popping corn (kettle has plenty of heat to finish popping). This helps
eliminate smoke/odor from any oil residue remaining in kettle. With the Heat
Switch OFF, the light and beeper will not activate for the last batch.
5. When finished popping, turn KETTLE HEAT and KETTLE MOTOR switches OFF. NEVER
LEAVE THE HEAT ON WHEN YOU ARE NOT POPPING CORN!

Astro Pop 16 oz. Model No. 2023E, 2023XE, 2023XEN
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Care and Cleaning
DANGER
Machine must be properly grounded to prevent electrical shock to personnel.
DO NOT immerse in water. DO NOT clean appliance with a water jet.
Always unplug the equipment before cleaning or servicing.
025_111616
WARNING
To avoid serious burns, DO NOT touch the kettle while it is hot!
028_082715
Good sanitation practice demands that all food preparation equipment be cleaned regularly (only
use non-toxic, food grade cleaners).
For surfaces needing further cleaning or degreasing, Watchdog Stainless Cleaner (Item No. 2088)
or Watchdog Concession Equipment Degreaser (Item No. 2580) is available for use accordingly.
For any cleaning products used, follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the product. DO NOT
use oven cleaners or abrasive materials as they will damage parts of machine.
Note: It is extremely important to follow all cleaning procedures, otherwise parts
damage and equipment failure will result. The warranty does not cover parts
that are damaged due to improper cleaning.
Daily Kettle Cleaning Instructions
1. Turn the power switch OFF and unplug the unit.
CAUTION: A hot kettle will cause burns if you touch it. Allow kettle to cool at least 1
hour before attempting to clean. DO NOT use ice or water to cool down a hot
kettle! Severe kettle damage will result and steam burns may occur!
2. When cool, wipe outside of kettle clean using a clean, soft cloth and Gold Medal
Watchdog Stainless Cleaner (Item No. 2088). DO NOT use oven cleaners or abrasive
materials as they will damage the kettle.
3. Mix 2 tablespoons (29.6 ml) of Gold Medal’s Heat’n Kleen (Item No. 2095) in 1 gallon
(3.8 L) of water.
4. Only pour enough of the Heat’n Kleen pre-mixed solution into the kettle to fill it 1/2 inch
(12.7 mm) deep (it is not necessary to use the entire gallon at once).
5. Plug in the unit.
6. Turn kettle heat ON. When solution starts to boil, turn kettle heat OFF.
7. Allow kettle to cool at least 1 hour, then unplug unit.
8. Dump solution into a bucket, do not spill any in the interior of machine.
9. Rinse kettle interior with clean water and a clean cloth.

Astro Pop 16 oz. Model No. 2023E, 2023XE, 2023XEN
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10. Dump any water remaining into a bucket (do not spill any in the interior of machine),
then wipe the kettle interior clean with a clean dry cloth.
For an extra dirty kettle, the process may be repeated; or, after turning kettle heat OFF,
allow solution to sit in kettle overnight. The next morning, finish the cleaning steps.
11. With unit OFF and unplugged, use a clean SLIGHTLY damp cloth (wring ANY EXCESS
water from cloth before use) and wipe the kettle lead cord clean. DO NOT get moisture
into the kettle lead-in cord, severe damage will result.
12. After kettle cleaning, check to be sure the crossbar fasteners are securely tightened.
Daily Unit Cleaning Instructions
1. Turn machine OFF, unplug unit and allow it to cool before attempting to clean.
2. Remove any remaining popcorn.
3. Remove all pans/accessories and take them to the sink to clean with soap and water,
then rinse and dry.
4. Clean under corn pan to remove all popcorn bits and seeds with a vacuum as needed,
then wipe the area with a clean dry cloth to remove any grease.
5. Wipe clean the area above the corn pan and exterior surfaces using a clean, SLIGHTLY
damp cloth to remove any grease from the glass and cabinet (cloth may be SLIGHTLY
dampened with soap and water, then wipe again with clean water to remove any
remaining cleaner).
6. Clean glass panels with glass cleaner. Gold Medal Watchdog Glass Cleaner (Item No.
2588) is recommended.
Ammonia cleaners will damage plastic doors/panels. Only use a non-ammonia cleaner,
such as Gold Medal Watchdog Glass Cleaner (Item No. 2588).
7. Reinstall the clean, dry pans/accessories.
8. Check the kettle lead cord, make sure it is fully plugged into the kettle receptacle and
the plug (or plug collar) is fully twisted to lock it into place.
Sanitizing the Oil System (Tubing and Pump)
Reference the Oil Dispense Unit manual for oil system cleaning instructions.

Astro Pop 16 oz. Model No. 2023E, 2023XE, 2023XEN
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Filter Cleaning Instructions
The popcorn machine is equipped with an efficient and durable filtration system. The filter
should be cleaned every 1-2 weeks to maintain maximum efficiency.
Steps to Clean Filter
1. Turn unit OFF and allow it to cool before
removing filter. Filter is located inside the
popcorn machine, above the popping kettle.
2. Remove filter by gripping the filter itself and
pulling straight down.
3. Clean filter in warm soapy water, then rinse and
allow to dry overnight. Replace filter by putting
it into the slot and pushing upward. Make sure
the filter frame is flush with the ceiling of the
popper (as shown above).