Frequently Asked Questions

 

Question: How much is it to rent a margarita machine from The Margarita Man?

Answer: Rentals start at $175 and includes setup, pickup, your first mix concentrate, use of our 5 gallon pre-measured mixing bucket, and a wheeled cart with table skirting appropriate for your event.

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Question: What flavors do you offer?

Answer: We have 27! See our Flavors page on the toolbar.

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Question: Are the machines easy to use?

Answer: Absolutely. We mix the first batch for you on delivery and leave instructions for making extra batches. The machines make their own freeze so no ice is required, only power. Your guests can serve themselves so you can enjoy the party and let the machine do all the margarita-makin’!

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Question: How many drinks does one batch yield?

Answer: Each batch yields approximately 60-70 8oz. cups of slushie. Our experience shows that about half your guests will drink the frozen drinks while the others will drink beer, liquor, soft drinks, or whatever else is offered. We suggest 1 batch for every 20-30 guests assuming you are offering other alcoholic beverages. Extra batches are $25 and refundable if unopened.

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Question: How long until the machine is ready to serve?

Answer: 45 to 90  minutes depending on the temperature. Once the machine completes the first freeze cycle it’s non-stop for the rest of the night. There is no waiting between batches because you add to the reservoir when the mix-low light comes on.

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Question: Do the mix concentrates contain alcohol?

Answer: No, the mixes do not contain alcohol. You provide the liquor. For margaritas, a medium strength drink calls for 2 liters of tequila per batch. Mixes that require rum use 2 liters per batch. ALL CAN BE MADE AS NON-ALCOHOLIC FRUIT SLUSHIES FOR THE KIDS!

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Question: Do you have to use liquor?

Answer: No. All our mixes are real fruit concentrates and are great for non-alcoholic slushies at business functions or kids parties. For variety, the mixes can be made without liquor and guests advised to add whatever they would like to their cups to make their favorite drink.

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Question: How far in advance should I book my machine?

Answer: We recommend two weeks or more in advance for the warm season of April through September, although machines are sometimes available at the last minute. Feel free to call and check!

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Question: My party is huge and my friends drink..enthusiastically. Will one machine be enough?

Answer: One machine is usually sufficient for parties up to 100 guests. Beyond 100 we strongly suggest a second machine. Extreme heat and/or party guests might call for extra freezing power for smaller parties but not often. Ask The Margarita Man for suggestions on your particular party.

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Question: How big are the machines and what are the power requirements?

Answer: The machines are just over two feet tall and come on a wheeled cart. They require a standard 120V outlet. Since they draw about the same amps as a refrigerator or freezer, they MUST be plugged into a dedicated circuit. (No other appliance plugs into that circuit). 99.9% of any machine problems that arise are caused by the machine sharing a circuit with an inflatable jumper, a disc jockey set-up, a freezer or refrigerator, nacho cheese warmer, etc. THIS IS CRITICAL!

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Question: Do I have to clean the machine before you come to pick it up?

Answer: No! There are no cleaning responsibilities or charges for you. Just turn the machine off when your party is over.

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Helpful Hints

 

If you have not rented a machine before, you may be surprised to learn that 50-70% of your guests will choose the frozen drinks over beer and wine. This means you can probably get by with providing less beer and wine.

Keep margarita machines in the shade during daytime operation.

Use a dedicated 120V, 15-amp circuit for each machine. If you don’t know what that means, call us!

Using a cold mix will ensure better output. During hot weather, add a 1/2 small bag of ice to mixing bucket before adding the water.

Heavy gauge extension cords (12 Ga) are provided with each rental. Please do not use any other cords. Extension cords provided are typically 25 ft and should not exceed 50 feet total length.

Please tell us when you make your reservation if we will encounter any steps or stairways during delivery. If so, there must be one or more healthy males around to help the delivery person.

Unauthorized transportation of machine(s) will result in a $500 fine. Please do not attempt to relocate, lift or otherwise move machines.