Operating Information

How do I melt the chocolate?
The process of melting chocolate is called "tempering". SephraT Premium Fondue Chocolate can be "tempered" by the following method: (1) Place one bag of SephraT Premium Fondue Chocolate in the microwave. Heat on half power for 3-5 minutes as instructed on the package. It is important to gently massage the chocolate bag every 2-3 minutes, so that the chocolate will not burn. When the chocolate is melted, simply cut the top corner of the bag off, and pour the chocolate into the fountain. You can also temper the chocolate by pouring the chips directly into the basin. Melting the chocolate using this process takes about 1 hour.

Can I use the SephraT Fountains to melt the chocolate?
Yes. The SephraT Fountain acts as a tempering machine to keep the chocolate at the correct temperature and consistency. To use the fountain to melt the chocolate, place the chocolate inside the basin, and turn the control knob to "Heat Only" and set the temperature to the highest setting. The chocolate should be stirred occasionally as it is melting. Using the fountain to melt the chocolate takes considerably longer (about one 1 hour).

How much chocolate do I put into the fountains?
Typically you can run the fountains with 15 pounds of chocolate; however each fountain holds approximately 20 pounds of melted chocolate (If there is not enough chocolate in the basin, gaps will appear as the chocolate flows over the tiers). The basin should be full to within ½" of the basin rim. As chocolate is consumed by guests, more melted chocolate may be added to the basin of the fountain. Be careful not to add too much additional chocolate. When the fountain is turned off the chocolate settles into the basin. If too much chocolate has been added it will overflow.

What foods can I dip in the chocolate?
This is up to your imagination! Typically fruits such as strawberries and bananas work well. Other popular items are pineapple, marshmallows, grapes, blueberries, mangos, papaya, apple slices, dried apricots, and pretzels, and of course maraschino cherries. Things that are not recommended are foods that produce crumbs, such as cakes, blackberries, raspberries, and some cookies. Fingers are not recommended either and can result in some very unhappy guests. We recommend providing an ample supply of skewers, plenty of napkins, and small plates for your guests to use.

What do I do if the chocolate has hardened in the fountain?
Once the chocolate has hardened in the fountain and the auger within the fountain tower was not previously removed, DO NOT turn the fountain motor on! This will harm the motor and result in PERMANENT DAMAGE! Simply turn the fountain control knob to HEAT ONLY. This will gradually melt the remaining chocolate allowing you to clean the fountain as normal.

*Note: It is always easier to clean the fountain when the chocolate is melted. At a minimum, always remove the auger from the fountain tower immediately after use, if cleaning will be delayed.

Can I re-use the chocolate?
We do not recommend re-using the chocolate due to health concerns and safety.

How many people do the SephraT Fountains serve?
Both the tall fountain (Sephra'sT Fountain) and medium fountain (Montezuma's Tower) will serve the same amount of people and will continue to serve an infinite amount of people if additional chocolate is periodically added. As a guideline, 20 pounds of chocolate (one case of SephraT Premium Fondue Chocolate) will serve approximately 200-250 guests; unless of course they become chocoholics due the exquisite flavor of the SephraT Chocolate!

Can I use the SephraT fountains outside?

In certain instances the fountains will not function correctly outside. In order for the chocolate to flow smoothly over the tiers it must maintain a certain temperature. In areas where there are cool breezes or the temperature is somewhat cold, the fountain functionality may be affected. A good rule of thumb is this: "If the temperature is low enough for guests to wear jackets or coats, it's not a good idea to use the fountain outside." Another deterrent to outside fountain use may be the presence of chocolate craving insects - which dramatically decrease guest satisfaction! Wind and even slight breezes can also cause disasters when the chocolate fountain is run outside. Because of the thin, flowing curtain of chocolate, even a small breeze can cover more than just the strawberries in chocolate!