Review: Presto 05411 GranPappy Electric Deep Fryer

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This GranPappy Presto model electric deep fryer is a basic black countertop unit with a bucket-style design.  It features a heavy-duty cast aluminum, non-stick finish and so it cleans up quickly and easily and also does not let the food stick to it.  It also promotes consistent cooking.  It features skid-resistant rubber feet making it much safer than other devices that tend to slide around.

The device operates at 1500 watts.  It consistently keeps oil at optimum temperature automatically.  It has a handy magnetic safety cord and comes complete with a slotted scoop spoon and a snap-on storage lid as well. This appliance is quite safe and is built to North American Electrical Standards.  It only uses 6 cups of oil and maintains a consistent frying temperature for perfect frying.  It uses 120 watts and 60 Hz only.  It measures 8 by 8-1/2 inches and has a one-year limited warranty.

It is recommended that after using, this device be allowed to cool completely. When it has cooled down completely, the grease can be emptied out.  Then, the device can be washed with warm and sudsy water and then dried.  It cannot be immersed.  Doing so can risk ruining the entire fryer.  Since it is made of non-stick material, no abrasive cleaning materials should be used on it like steel wool or those with scratchy surfaces.

Although it is stated that a lid can be used on the device to prevent splattering, the lid that comes with it is one that is for storage only. It is not designed to be used while the unit is being used and very well may melt.  The only time the device really splatters, as a rule, was said to be when new food is placed into the device and it splashes up a bit from the change of temperature, as grease does tend to do.

Most reviews on this unit were good.  Some were praising the convenience and durability and mentioning that it cooked great but it was noted that it tends to undercook at times such as chicken with the bone in but, most agreed that in general, it cooks evenly and consistently the majority of the time.  The price was considered a positive bonus.

It was said that in general, the cooking was even and that it is very lightweight and although it is considered by some to be just a glorified pot that holds oil, it was noted that it is easy to store and does not take up too much room if left on the counter plus the design is nice and attractive and goes well with most kitchen decors.  Many felt that when compared to many other makes and models of the same size and price range, this model came out on top in quite a few categories.

While there were some who felt that the device could benefit from some extra added features, it was pretty unanimous that the price tag was good for what this fryer does.

Click here to view prices on Amazon and find the best deal on the Presto 05411 GranPappy Electric Deep Fryer.

Review: Instant Pot IP-DUO60 7-in-1 Programmable Pressure Cooker

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This full-size 6-quart  features 7 functions.  It is a pressure cooker, slow cooker, rice cooker and yogurt maker plus it sautés, browns, warms and steams.  It is stainless steel with a black bottom, trip and lid and has a control panel that is large and easy to use.  The cooker is built with the latest 3rd Generation Technology.  There are 14 smart programs built in.  It has 3 temperature options for lower level settings when slow cooking or sautéing.  There are also two pressures to choose from and an auto-warm option as well.

This product is UL and ULC certified and has 10 safety mechanisms that have passed rigorous tests.  In addition, it is energy efficient.  The cooking pot is made of 3-layer stainless steel and comes with a stainless steel steaming rack with a handle.  Although the MAX line is marked on the inside pot, it is an indication for liquids.  Dry foods (like a chicken or pot roast) can extend over the MAX limit.  The cooker comes with recipes written in English, French, Chinese and Spanish.

While the Instant Pot is in the upper mid price range, selling on Amazon prime for around $135, most who reviewed the product stated that they felt it was a good buy with the features it offers and the size as well.

One aspect that those who reviewed seemed to enjoy was the built-in settings available for such things as meat/stew, chicken, multi-grains, porridge, soup, and bean/chili.

The stainless steel surface was rated high on its browning capabilities.  Although it is not non-stick, it was said to be fairly easy to clean.  The aluminum disk at the bottom of the cooking insert was a feature that, while helpful for keeping an even heat distribution, was a drawback for some who reported that it made it difficult to cook certain dishes such as pasta with tomato sauce.  But of those who mentioned such, they also agreed that it was a small complaint to have for a product that does not have chemicals often found in the non-stick ones and that holds up tough to metal utensils.  There is a non-stick insert that can be purchased from the manufacturer, but it does not brown as well as the stainless steel one.

The lid of the cooker can rest open by simply inserting a tab into the handle, which is a feature many find helpful.  This often times eliminates the need to completely remove the lid, risking burning and puddles on the countertop.  Some models tend to have areas in which condensation collects, but this one does not which many reviews found to be a huge plus.

There were a few reported occurrences of defective cookers and non-working or missing parts, but those situations were resolved.  An issue with the fuse was the most common problem listed and although the majority of those who reviewed stated they were sent a replacement fuse that provided the fix, a few were unhappy that the issue existed in the first place.

Overall, this product got high reviews and was described as being a great addition to the kitchen.

Click here to view prices on Amazon and find the best deal on the Instant Pot IP-DUO60 7-in-1 Programmable Pressure Cooker.

Review: Presto 05450 DualDaddy Electric Deep Fryer

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This home deep fryer is a dual-compartment bucket-style countertop electric deep fryer.  The brand is Presto.  It is made of heavy-duty aluminum and features a nonstick finish so food won’t stick and it is easy to clean. It has stay-cool handles for easy pickup and comes complete with a slotted spoon, snap-on storage lid, and even a magnetic safety cord.

This device has a removable divider that allows for frying two different kinds foods at one time without worry that the flavors will marry. It is capable of making up to 8 servings at one time. It keeps oil consistently at the most optimal temperature automatically and operates at 1500 watts. It uses 120 volts and 60 Hz only. This frying unit measures 9 by 14 by 8-1/2 inches and carries a one-year warranty.

The unit is sleek and has an elliptical black bucket shape. It is simple yet nice looking with a design that goes well with most kitchen decors. It conveniently sits on most any counter and looks nice.

It is recommended that after frying with the device, it be unplugged so it can cool down completely before any attempt is made to empty oil out of it. Then, it can be washed with warm, soapy water and dried completely. The use of steel wool to clean it is not advised nor is the use of any other harsh cleaning solution. There is a simple instruction book and recipe sheet that comes with the purchase.

The reviews on this deep fryer were good, for the most part. The device was said to look attractive and to perform well. It was noted that the price was fair too. The nice and convenient size of the unit was praised and the fact that it is easy to clean. It was stated that if the unit had a power light to alert that it was on and also one to indicate when the oil temperature was up, it would be an even better device.

It was also stated that it is important not to overload the fryer or it will foam over. Our deep fryer reviews indicated that it was a minute or two quicker in heating up than some other models that are of comparable price and size.  The fact that the temperature holds quite well was noted by more than one review.

On the negative side, it was noted that the utensils it comes with were said by some to be lacking in quality such as the slotted scoop spoon was said to be cheap.  Some mentioned that the filter that is included was not worth messing with and stated they just bypass using it and pour the oil straight in.  Some felt the 2 compartments were too small and that the lid was worthless and that it actually melted on one occasion.  Some found it helpful to purchase their own thermometer and used it since the device does not come with one.  It was also mentioned that the outside of the fryer gets very hot.

Click here to view prices on Amazon and find the best deal on the Presto 05450 DualDaddy Electric Deep Fryer.

No-Bake Blueberry Cheesecake Mousse

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“quick, creamy, and delightfully sweet”

Many delicious recipes have originated from the French culture, and I’m a fan of most of them – with sweet chocolate mousse being on the top of my list! However, there comes a time when you have eaten so much that your body starts craving a different flavor. Since I easily get attached to the things I like, this is usually the time when I start searching for a way to still enjoy a sweet mouse but try different flavors at the same time. Long story short, this no-bake blueberry cheesecake mousse recipe quickly became my new addiction.

It’s soft, creamy, fluffy, and it melts on your tongue – what more can we ask from a mousse?

The cheesecake and blueberry puree make for the perfect balance between sweet and sour. The cheesecake cream is a little bit sweeter, which compliments the tartier flavor of the blueberry puree.

And, the good thing is that this is a very quick and easy-to-follow recipe, which means you can make this blueberry cheesecake mousse anytime your sweet-tooth kicks in. However, you still have to resist the temptation for an hour while it chills in the fridge, so keep that in mind!

To make this recipe, you’ll need two mixing bowls, a blender, plastic wrap, and serving glasses or bowls.

The first step is to prepare the Oreo crust, so you can let it cool in the fridge while you make the cheesecake and blueberry puree. Combine the Oreo cookie crumbs, butter, and sugar in a blender and pulse until all the ingredients are well combined. The mixture will be crumbly, but it should still clump together.

Next, pour the mixture on a plastic wrap and press it to form a flat circle, then wrap it tightly with the plastic wrap. Place the Oreo crumble in the freezer and let it cool for 10 minutes.

In the meantime, take a large mixing bowl and whisk half-and-half for a minute or two. Once it starts to thicken, add half of the icing sugar and stir again.

Take another mixing bowl and combine the cream cheese, vanilla extract, and the remaining icing sugar. Once the ingredients are combined, stir in the mixture into the half-and-half bowl. Set the bowl aside.

To make the blueberry puree, place the blueberries, brown sugar, lemon juice, and water in the blender and pulse for a minute or two. Once the puree is smooth, and there are no lumps, set it aside.

Take the Oreo crumble from the freezer and pour two to three tablespoons on the bottom of each serving glass or bowl. After this, pour a one-inch layer of the cheesecake, then the blueberry puree in each glass, and repeat the same layering process until each glass if full.

Put the glasses in the freezer to chill for an hour. It will be hard to resist, but the mousse tastes so much much better and more refreshing once it’s chilled. After all, we’re making a mousse, not a cream, so have patience.

Before serving, garnish each glass with a fresh blueberry or raspberry. Enjoy!


Prep Chill time Total Servings
15 minutes 1 hours 1 hours 15 minutes 4

Ingredients

For the cheesecake mousse:

  • 1 cup half-and-half
  • 1 cup softened cream cheese
  • ¾ cup icing sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the blueberry puree:

  • ⅓ cup brown sugar
  • 1 ½ cup blueberries
  • 1tbsp lemon juice
  • 3 tbsp water

For the crust:

  • 1 cup oreo cookie crumbs
  • 4 tbsp butter (melted)
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar

Instructions

  • Combine the Oreo cookie crumbs, butter, and sugar in a blender. Pulse the mixture until all of the ingredients are incorporated, and you have a crumbly blend that clumps together.
  • Roll the Oreo dough and make a flat circle. Take a plastic wrap and wrap the dough tightly, then place it in the freezer for 10 minutes.
  • Combine the blueberries, sugar, lemon juice, and water in a blender and pulse until you have a smooth paste with no lumps. Set it aside.
  • Take a large mixing bowl and whisk the half-and-half. Once it starts to thicken, add half of the icing sugar. Stir for one to two minutes.
  • Whisk together the cream cheese, vanilla extract, and the remaining icing sugar in another mixing bowl. Stir until smooth, then pour it into the half-and-half mixture. Mix again then set aside.
  • After 10 minutes, take the Oreo crust out of the freezer. Let it rest for 5 minutes at room temperature.
  • Prepare a serving glass and add two to three tbsp of Oreo crust at the bottom.
  • After this, pour a one-inch layer of the cheesecake mousse over the Oreo crust.
  • Next, pour a one-inch layer of the blueberry puree over the cheesecake mousse.
  • Repeat the blueberry-cheesecake layering until the serving glass is full.
  • Do this with the other three serving glasses.
  • Place the glasses in the fridge for an hour.
  • Garnish with a fresh blueberry or raspberry on top and serve.

Review: Presto 05466 Stainless Steel Dual Basket Pro Fry Immersion Element Deep Fryer

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This professional style home deep fryer is a Presto brand device that features dual stainless-steel oblong baskets.  It is great for frying larger pieces of meat such as chicken or fish.  The thermostat is adjustable and has a signal light that shows when the oil is heated enough for frying.  It holds 12 cups.

Both the heating element and the enameled pot can be removed for easy clean up.  The unit is safe, built to the specifications of North American Electrical Standards.  It has an 1800-watt immersion element so it preheats quickly and has a rapid oil temperature recovery as well.

There are a number of frying temperatures this device performs at.  It requires 3 ½ quarts of oil as a minimum and can hold 5 quarts maximum.  A cover with a charcoal air filter keeps splattering and odors to a minimum.  This deep fryer has a one year limited warranty.  The design is attractive and it nicely fits into most kitchen decors.

The reviews were generally favorable on this home fryer.  It was said to perform well, rendering crispy food that is tender on the inside.  The food was also not oily or greasy many stated which is due to a unit cooking at a high consistent heat.

It was said to look attractive too.  Many liked the fact that it has a temperature indicator, but it was stated that it sometimes comes on too early so food may be put in before the oil is hot enough.  Several reviewers did a bit of research, using their own thermometers and discovered that the unit was reading 375 degrees (ready for food to be placed in) when it was only around 345 degrees.  The reviews unanimously agreed that simply moving the oil around a bit with a utensil made the oil blend to a 375-degree temperature.  It was said to cook consistently after doing so and that the temperature stated on the thermometer was correct other than the top of it when first heating up.

It was mentioned that a single fry basket is available which can replace the smaller double ones.  It was also stated that both the single and the doubles worked well and provided for great results.  The fact that the baskets would not hold enough for a 4-6 member family at one frying was mentioned.

There were some negative reviews, one saying that the device has sharp edges and is cheaply made.  Another stated that the unit doesn’t have an oil filtering mechanism.  It was mentioned that the power cord is a bit shorter than some would like.

The device got good grades for ease of cleaning and praised for the fact that some of the pieces can go in the dishwasher like the oil pan, lid, heating element and the baskets.  Another plus mentioned was that the baskets can be raised and lowered even when the lid is on.

The price tag was appealing to many who reviewed.  Most negative points seemed to be redeemed by the fact that it is fairly inexpensive.

Click here to view prices on Amazon and find the best deal on the Presto 05466 Stainless Steel Dual Basket Pro Fry Immersion Element Deep Fryer.

Review: Seal-a-Meal FSSMSL0160-000 Vacuum Sealer

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This Seal-a-Meal brand food vacuum sealer has a patented drip try making food sealing more convenient than ever before.  It fits 8 inch, 11 inch, quart, and gallon size heat-sealed bags and rolls.  This unit is hands-free so it is simple to use and has seal indicator lights so you know exactly when it is ready.  It is of a compact design making it easy to store.

The design of this sealer is sleek and attractive making it a nice and appealing addition to most any kitchen.  It removes the air from inside the bag so that food can be frozen without compromising freshness and taste.  Foods can be frozen longer due to this process.  The elimination of bulky containers in the freezer makes freezing food much more organized.  It works great for storing leftovers and new cuts of meat as well and is a great way to bring garden produce to the table at a later date.  And, this device can creatively be incorporated to even store a number of other things besides just food such as jewelry, important documents, silverware and other items from the house.

The process of sealing is now fast and easy.  Clean up is simple and convenient as well.  There is also a button that can be pushed in order to cancel the process at any time should you decide you have more to add to the bag or whatever reason you may have that you want to stop sealing.

The reviews of this food vacuum sealer were positive, for the most part.  Many found it to be very easy to use and to assemble as well.  It was said to be safe and well built by most who reviewed it.

One review did mention that all food sealers break and fail eventually.  The remark was not necessarily meant to be a negative one, but just a factual reason the reviewer decided to go with this unit, which is on the lower price end.

Many noted the indicator light as a positive attribute.  It takes the guesswork out of knowing when the bag is properly heated and sealed.  Also, the fact that the sealer is hands-free was another huge bonus feature that many complimented.

This unit was also praised for the liquid catch retaining capability.  The catch basin that comes with the sealer is said to be convenient in that it is instantly removable and allows for the liquid to be discarded while not slowing down the process of sealing.  The container being dishwasher safe was a plus as well.

It was noted that the sealer bar is mounted securely and was sturdy too.  The fact that the cord is short was a drawback, however.  The unit not offering the option to seal at partial vacuum was noted as something that could be improved upon though.  It was stated by at least one who reviewed that the sealing crimp had imperfections.

It was said that the unit is lightweight yet sturdy and affordable too.  It was also mentioned that it does not require a lot of time to cool off between sealing projects.

Click here to view prices on Amazon and find the best deal on the Seal-a-Meal FSSMSL0160-000 Vacuum Sealer.

Review: Waring Pro PVS1000 Pistol Vac Professional Vacuum Sealer System

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This Warning Pro brand food vacuum sealer is a professional version that uses a pistol style to operate, easily sealing food bags for use later.  It is smaller and easier to use than conventional countertop versions and comes at a fraction of the price as well.  It includes 12 one-gallon bags and 12 one-quart bags.  The heavy-duty NiMH battery is rechargeable which saves money on the purchasing of batteries.  There is a charging stand for the battery charger for easy storage.

This device can seal more than 30 bags with one single full charge of the battery.  The unit allows you to refrigerate, boil, microwave and freeze in the BPA free bags.  There is a five year limited warranty on the motor.  The unit is very portable so it can be taken along on hunting and fishing trips or wherever you may roam.

In the reviews, it was stated that the machine is well built and that the bags are heavy duty as is stated in the product description.  One review said that the plastic device that comes with the unit to be used for sealing the bags is generally not even needed and that the bags are said to be dishwasher safe but that it is probably best, in her opinion, to just wash them in soapy water.  It was seen as a positive that the bags are able to go into the dishwasher, though, should one desire to do so.

Another reviewer said that she uses the unit to seal mason jars and went on to tell how the procedure can be done successfully.  Others went on to tell of their creative endeavors using this product for their individual needs.

Some reviewed that they had used the unit for a period of time and that it was still holding up.  One said that when pulling air out of the unit, liquid came out as well which was a negative factor.  It was mentioned by the same reviewer that the device was a little difficult to clean but that pre-soaking should be helpful.

The device is said to be easy to use and quite convenient with its small size and portability.  It was recommended to use the little tool that comes with the unit to seal the bags so you do not injure your fingers and to be sure to press firmly to get a complete seal between the bags and the gun.  It was praised that the sealer takes up little counter space and is easy to store as well.

It was also mentioned that cheaper bags could be used instead of the more expensive ones that are available.  It was also mentioned that some actually sealed a dish with food inside of it successfully.

At least one review stated that the pistol did not work very well and sometimes not at all.  It was not concluded if the device was defective or not.  All in all though, most seemed happy with their pistol and said that although they were initially leery of the purchase, it was working better than they had anticipated and they were happy they had made the buy.  The price of this unit was a positive mentioned by many.

Click here to view prices on Amazon and find the best deal on the Waring Pro PVS1000 Pistol Vac Professional Vacuum Sealer System.

Review: FoodSaver V3240 Vacuum Sealing System

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This FoodSaver V3240 Vacuum Sealing System uses a patented system to freshly seal food with a moist/dry sealing system that allows you to choose the setting for optimal sealing.  It features a CrushFree Instant Seal and has a convenient roll holder and bag cutter as well.  The starter kit includes one 11″x10′ roll, three quart size heat-seal bags and two gallon heat-seal bags.

This Food Saver device keeps food fresh for up to five times longer than regular storage methods and also prevents freezer burn.  The system does this by removing moisture and air from bags that are specially designed and have multi layers that lock in freshness.  It works well to freeze cuts of meats or even leftovers.  A manual and instruction book accompany the purchase.

The reviews on this product were pretty positive.  Some stated that they wish they had bought it sooner than they did they were so pleased with it.  Many said they use it frequently and feel they have saved money in doing so.  A good number of those who reviewed have developed a system to save leftovers and to enjoy them at a later date. Such as one who said they use it to freeze meat that has been cooked on the grill, which they are now able to enjoy in the middle of the winter months.

It was recommended by at least one reviewer to not bother with the premade bags and to make your own from the roll that is available.  Some stated that the food vacuum sealer works flawlessly.  The moist/dry setting was a plus for several reviews.  It was also praised that the unit has a convenient built-in cutter and stores a bag roll.   The fact that the cord has a spot to be stored underneath the unit was a big bonus too.

It was stated that this model is superior to the older model.  The old model was said to require the pushing of a button that had to be continuously depressed when sealing.  This model does not require that.

One review stated that the food sealer did not withstand the test of time and that she had moved and when she unpacked the unit, it was no longer working.  The issue was diagnosed to be an issue with the automatic clamping not putting enough pressure on.  The reviewer solved the problem by manually applying pressure but was not happy about having to do so.

The multiple intuitive settings were mentioned as a plus and the fact that it services a wide range of sizes as well as wet and dry items.  It was said that it does not make a loud noise but rather, a slight hum when it is sealing.

Some have come up with creative ways to cut their own bags and mentioned watching instructional videos in order to gain helpful hints in using the unit and cutting the bags as well.

Overall, the reviews were good though and the machine was said to be reliable and that it was built well and performed better than most expected it to.

Click here to view prices on Amazon and find the best deal on the FoodSaver V3240 Vacuum Sealing System.

 

Review: West Bend 77203 Electric Can Opener

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This West Bend brand electric can opener is in the mid-price range.  It is 70 watts and is an attractive small appliance of plastic, chrome and aluminum and is of a sleek and slim design.  The device is extra tall to accommodate larger and taller cans. It measures 5-1/6 by 5 by 9-8/9 inches and comes with a 1-year limited warranty.   It is a well-made, heavy-duty designed can opener and has several added features such as doubling for a knife sharpener and a bottle opener too.

This modern can opener is has a safety measure built-in so that it shuts down after it completes the opening of a can.  Another great feature of this device is that it has a cutting apparatus is removable and dishwasher safe as well.  There is a storage spot built in the back of the can opener.

The many features of this model make it a favorite for many.  The sleek and the contemporary attractiveness have gotten much praise along with the fact that it is easy to operate.  There is no need to press down on the handle and that was noted as a big plus.  It seems to be regarded as well made and dependable.  There were some who mentioned having their device for a number of years and some still had not experienced any trouble whatsoever.

Though there were some mentions of small problems like the paper of the can peeling off or bunching up as the can was cut, there were no huge problems.  Some mentioned peeling the top of the label off themselves to avoid the bunching.  There was a review that noted that after five years, the magnetic device that holds the can top on broke.

It was stated that the machine has more plastic parts that it did in earlier models.  But, it was also noted that the device functioned well even though the parts were plastic.

The retractable cord and spot for it to fit in is noted as being “thoughtful”.  Also, there is a plastic cover that can be placed over it so that it doesn’t come out or get dusty when stored.  It was also praised that the front of the device also has a magnet that grips the can opener itself when it is folded down and not in use so it doesn’t stick out as most others do, making it more compact and easy to work around.

There was praise for the fact that the device requires practically no assembly nor does it really call for directions but instructions are included.  The way in which this machine holds even large cans was noted as a plus and that the magnet holds heavy cans well.  The height attracted many buyers, as shorter can openers cannot open tall cans or if they can be manipulated to do so, are unsafe and inconvenient in the process.

The reviews for this can opener were generally very positive.  The many features, nice looks, and affordable price tag were most appealing.

Click here to view prices on Amazon and find the best deal on the West Bend 77203 Electric Can Opener.

Review: SodaStream Fountain Jet Home Soda Maker Starter Kit

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This SodaStream Fountain Jet Home Soda Maker Starter Kit is a quick and convenient way to make carbonated soft drinks in your own home.  It’s great for parties and to keep the children entertained on family nights as well.  This device requires no electricity and does not use batteries.  It operates on carbon dioxide in the form of a can.  This particular unit takes a mid-sized 60-liter can and comes with a rebate that is good at over at over 15,000 locations.  It comes with a small complimentary canister of CO2 to get you started.

The starter kit includes a sample of 6 flavorings.  Additional flavorings can be purchased including a better-for-you more nutritional alternative, diet and regular.  There are, to date, over 60 flavorings available.  None of the SodaStream brand flavorings contains high fructose, corn syrup or aspartame.

This device is 17 inches x 10 inches x 5.5 inches and weighs eight pounds.  It comes in an attractive silver and black design.  It puts out about 33 cans of soda per 60-liter can of CO2, which is roughly 12 liters.

There is a handy carbonation controller on this soda maker that is a helpful feature for those who like more or less than the average amount of carbonation.  Another plus is that it has a fizz-preserving bottle.

For the price, this soda maker is a steal.  It sells for what many of the much smaller units go for and has a larger CO2 than most in its price range.  It doesn’t come without a few complaints but most reconcile that given the price tag, it is well worth the money.

One typical complaint was that the soda maker or any soda maker for that matter does not actually save money because of the price of the CO2 refill or replacement.  Many, however, conceded that the nostalgic touch of the device was more what they were going for anyway.  Others resolved to the fact that the ability to make their own custom drink or seltzer was worth figuring in the cost of the CO2.

Something that seemed to be shared by many of those who reviewed was the fact that the device saves the use of cans and bottles, which must be thrown away or recycled.  They felt good about saving time and money eliminating them and saving the earth as well.

A number of those who wrote reviews spoke of how far the 60-liter CO2 cans went.  They seemed to be pleasantly surprised.  Some did inquire as to a way to tell how low the cans were getting, but it was stated that there was no real way to know and that it was a good idea to keep a spare handy.

Again, for the low price of this soda maker, many were able to overlook things such as the fact that it is not stainless steel and the device is not extremely durable as some reported that assembly is quick and easy but should be done with care so as not to push too hard on the device.  All in all, this soda maker is a great quality item with a low price tag.

Click here to view prices on Amazon and find the best deal on the SodaStream Fountain Jet Home Soda Maker Starter Kit.
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