Which soda maker brand to go with?
Here are some top brands to consider:
- SodaStream: One of the most popular brands globally. SodaStream offers various models and their CO2 cylinders are widely available. They provide good value for money, and the price per liter of carbonated drink is typically low due to the efficiency of their CO2 canisters.
- Aarke: Known for its high-end, stylish design, Aarke soda makers use standard CO2 cylinders, often compatible with SodaStream refills. They are more expensive initially, but the cost per liter remains competitive due to the wide availability of compatible cylinders.
- DrinkMate: This brand allows carbonation of any beverage, not just water. DrinkMate uses standard CO2 cartridges, making it easy to find refills. The price per liter can be kept low if you primarily carbonate water.
- iSi Sodamaker: This is a more niche option but known for its durability and performance. It uses standard CO2 capsules which can also be found relatively easily.
Among these, SodaStream is usually the go-to option for most people due to its widespread availability and established presence in the market. The cost per liter with SodaStream tends to be one of the lowest due to the efficiency and reusability of their CO2 canisters.
When choosing, consider the initial cost of the machine, the availability and price of CO2 refills, and whether you want to carbonate just water or other beverages as well.
What can SodaStream do?
SodaStream primarily carbonates water, but they offer flavor syrups you can add after carbonation to make various sodas. The main function is to carbonate water, and adding flavors is optional and done post-carbonation.
What can other options do when it comes to carbonating? Only water or other stuff too?
DrinkMate, on the other hand, allows you to carbonate any liquid, including juices, wine, cocktails, and more. This flexibility makes it a versatile option if you like experimenting with different beverages.
Aarke machines are similar to SodaStream in that they mainly carbonate water. You would need to add any flavors or other ingredients after the carbonation process.
iSi Sodamaker can carbonate water and other beverages but is more specialized for professional use, often found in bars and restaurants. It is known for its durability and performance but may not offer the same level of convenience for everyday home use as SodaStream or DrinkMate.
So, if you primarily want to carbonate water, SodaStream and Aarke are excellent choices. If you want the flexibility to carbonate various types of beverages, DrinkMate would be the better option.
Can I use tap water when I’m doing this carbonation? Does it hurt the machine or…?
Yes, you can use tap water for carbonation with these machines. It won’t hurt the machine. In fact, many people use tap water because it’s convenient and cost-effective. Just make sure the water is cold, as colder water carbonates better and holds the bubbles longer. If your tap water isn’t great quality, you might want to filter it first for better taste.
How is the carbonation process going on? Is it bad for my health if I drink too much carbonated water I make at home?
The carbonation process involves infusing water with carbon dioxide (CO2) to create carbonated water. This is done by pressing a button or lever on your soda-making machine, which releases CO2 from a canister into the water, creating bubbles.
Drinking carbonated water is generally safe for most people. It can help with digestion and can be a fun way to stay hydrated. However, drinking excessive amounts of carbonated water might cause some discomfort, like bloating or gas, due to the extra air in the stomach.
As long as you drink it in moderation, carbonated water made at home is a healthy and enjoyable beverage.
How many liters per day you consider too much?
Drinking up to one to two liters of carbonated water per day is generally considered safe for most people. Going significantly beyond this might lead to bloating or discomfort due to the carbonation. As with any beverage, it’s important to listen to your body and adjust your intake if you experience any adverse effects.
Other than bloating, does it give me high blood pressure?
Drinking carbonated water generally does not cause high blood pressure or significant health issues for most people. The primary concern with carbonated water is bloating or gas due to the carbonation. However, if you’re adding syrups or flavors that contain sugar or sodium, those could impact your health, including potentially increasing blood pressure if consumed in large amounts. Plain carbonated water without added sugars or sodium is typically safe and doesn’t have adverse effects like high blood pressure.
Water carbonation machines / soda makers and blood pressure
Home Carbonation Machines:
- Control over Ingredients: You can use plain tap or filtered water, ensuring no added sugars or sodium unless you choose to add flavors.
- Cost-Effective: Over time, using a carbonation machine can be cheaper than buying bottled water.
- Environmental Impact: Reduces plastic waste compared to buying bottled water.
- Convenience: Always available at home, so you don’t need to go out to buy bottles.
Store-Bought Mineral Water:
- Mineral Content: Contains beneficial minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium. However, some mineral waters might have higher sodium levels, which can be a concern for blood pressure if consumed in large amounts.
- Quality and Taste: Consistently high quality and often has a distinct taste due to the minerals.
- Cost: Can be more expensive over time compared to using a home carbonation machine.
- Plastic Waste: Contributes to environmental pollution if bottles are not recycled properly.
Health Impact:
- Home Carbonation: Using plain water with a carbonation machine at home is generally healthier because you avoid the added sodium or sugars found in some store-bought beverages.
- Mineral Water: While it provides essential minerals, some types with high sodium content could affect blood pressure if consumed excessively. However, this isn’t typically a concern with moderate consumption.
In summary, a home carbonation machine gives you more control over what you’re drinking and can be a healthier, more environmentally friendly, and cost-effective option. Mineral water from the store can be beneficial for its minerals but watch out for high sodium content if you have blood pressure concerns.
Can I use other manufacturer’s gas cylinders with SodaStream machines?
Yes, you can use gas cylinders from other manufacturers with SodaStream machines, but it’s important to ensure compatibility. Some third-party cylinders are specifically designed to work with SodaStream machines. Always check for any warranty issues or potential safety concerns before using non-SodaStream cylinders.
How many liters of drink I can make with one cylinder?
A standard SodaStream CO2 cylinder, which contains around 14.5 ounces (410 grams) of CO2, can carbonate up to 60 liters of water. This can vary slightly based on how much carbonation you prefer in your drinks. If you prefer highly carbonated drinks, you might get slightly fewer liters, while if you prefer lightly carbonated drinks, you might get slightly more.