1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your Donper D150 Soft Serve and Frozen Drive Machine. The Donper USA D150 is designed as a compact, self-contained, air-cooled countertop unit, offering soft serve capability for various frozen products. It features automatic consistency control to ensure smooth and creamy results with every serving. Please read this manual thoroughly before operating the machine and retain it for future reference.
2. Important Safety Information
Always observe basic safety precautions when using electrical appliances to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and injury. This machine is intended for commercial use and should only be operated by trained personnel.
- Electrical Safety: Ensure the machine is connected to a properly grounded 115V, 60Hz electrical outlet. Do not use extension cords or adapters. Disconnect power before cleaning or servicing.
- Placement: Place the machine on a stable, level, and sturdy countertop. Ensure adequate air circulation around the machine, especially near air intake and exhaust vents, to prevent overheating.
- Food Safety: Always use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Follow all local health and safety regulations regarding food preparation and storage. Clean and sanitize all food-contact surfaces regularly.
- Moving the Machine: The machine weighs approximately 90 pounds. Use proper lifting techniques or assistance when moving to prevent injury.
- Children and Unauthorized Personnel: Keep children and unauthorized individuals away from the machine during operation and maintenance.
3. Package Contents
Upon unpacking, verify that all components are present and undamaged. If any items are missing or damaged, contact your supplier immediately.
- Donper D150 Soft Serve Machine Unit
- Drip Tray
- Power Cord (integrated)
- Cleaning Brush Kit (may vary by package)
- User Manual (this document)
4. Product Overview
The Donper D150 is engineered for ease of use and reliability. Familiarize yourself with the main components of the machine.




Key Components:
- Control Panel: Located at the top front, featuring digital displays and buttons for operation modes (Soft Serve, Clean, Blush), consistency control (Up/Down), and Hopper Cooling.
- Hopper: The top-loading reservoir where liquid mix is poured. It is refrigerated for faster recovery times. Capacity: 3.75 Qt (5 L).
- Dispensing Handle: Lever on the front used to dispense the frozen product.
- Freezing Cylinder: Internal component where the mix is frozen and churned. Capacity: 1.25 Qt (1.8 L).
- Drip Tray: Located at the base, collects any drips or spills during dispensing.
- Air Vents: Located on the sides and rear for proper air circulation for the air-cooled system.
5. Setup
5.1 Unpacking and Placement
- Carefully remove the machine from its packaging. Retain packaging for future transport or storage.
- Place the machine on a clean, dry, level, and sturdy countertop capable of supporting its 90-pound weight.
- Ensure there is at least 6 inches (15 cm) of clear space around all sides (especially the air vents) and the rear of the machine for adequate air circulation. This is crucial for efficient cooling and performance.
- Install the drip tray securely at the base of the dispensing area.
5.2 Initial Cleaning
Before first use, thoroughly clean and sanitize all food-contact parts.
- Disassemble the dispensing assembly (handle, cylinder door, beater/auger). Refer to the maintenance section for detailed disassembly instructions.
- Wash all disassembled parts with warm, soapy water. Many components are dishwasher safe.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
- Sanitize parts using an approved food-grade sanitizer solution according to manufacturer instructions.
- Allow all parts to air dry completely before reassembly.
- Wipe down the exterior of the machine with a damp cloth.
5.3 Power Connection
Plug the machine's power cord into a dedicated 115VAC, 60Hz grounded electrical outlet. Do not use power strips or extension cords.
6. Operating Instructions
6.1 Preparing the Mix
Prepare your soft serve, frozen yogurt, sorbet, custard, gelato, or frozen slush mix according to the mix manufacturer's instructions. Ensure the mix is chilled to refrigeration temperature (typically 34-40°F / 1-4°C) before pouring into the hopper.
6.2 Filling the Hopper
- Ensure the machine is assembled correctly and the dispensing handle is in the closed (upright) position.
- Carefully pour the chilled liquid mix into the hopper. Do not overfill; ensure the mix level is below the maximum fill line. The hopper capacity is 3.75 Qt (5 L).
6.3 Starting Operation
- Press the 'POWER' button on the control panel to turn on the machine.
- Select the 'SOFT SERVE' mode. The machine will begin the freezing process.
- The D150 features automatic consistency control. The machine will monitor the product's consistency and stop freezing once the desired firmness is reached. This typically takes 14-18 minutes for the first dispense.
- You can adjust the consistency setting using the 'UP' and 'DOWN' buttons on the control panel if a firmer or softer product is desired.
- The 'HOPPER COOLING' function can be activated to keep the mix in the hopper chilled, which aids in faster recovery times between batches.
6.4 Dispensing Product
Once the machine indicates the product is ready (e.g., a 'READY' indicator or stable consistency reading), place a serving cone or cup under the dispensing nozzle and pull the dispensing handle down. Push the handle back up to stop dispensing.
7. Maintenance
Regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial for the longevity and hygienic operation of your Donper D150 machine.
7.1 Daily Cleaning
All food-contact parts must be cleaned and sanitized daily.
- Empty Hopper: If there is remaining mix, drain it from the hopper.
- Rinse Cycle: Pour warm water into the hopper. Select the 'CLEAN' mode on the control panel. Allow the machine to run for a few minutes to rinse the freezing cylinder. Drain the water through the dispensing nozzle. Repeat with a sanitizing solution, then rinse again with clean water.
- Disassembly: Turn off and unplug the machine. Disassemble the dispensing handle, front door, and beater/auger assembly.
- Wash and Sanitize: Wash all disassembled parts with warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and sanitize with an approved food-grade sanitizer. Allow to air dry completely. Many components are dishwasher safe for convenience.
- Clean Drip Tray: Remove and clean the drip tray.
- Exterior Cleaning: Wipe down the exterior of the machine with a damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or immerse the machine in water.
- Reassembly: Reassemble all parts once dry. Ensure all seals and O-rings are correctly seated to prevent leaks.
7.2 Air Filter Cleaning (Monthly/As Needed)
The air-cooled system relies on clean air filters for efficient operation. Check and clean the air filters monthly, or more frequently in dusty environments.
- Turn off and unplug the machine.
- Locate the air filter grilles (typically on the sides or rear).
- Remove the filters (refer to specific machine diagrams if available).
- Wash filters with warm, soapy water, rinse, and allow to dry completely before reinstalling.
8. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter. For problems not listed here, or if solutions do not resolve the issue, contact Donper customer support.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Machine does not turn on. | No power supply; tripped circuit breaker; faulty power cord. | Check power connection and outlet. Reset circuit breaker. Contact service if power cord is damaged. |
| Product not freezing or too soft. | Mix not chilled; hopper empty; air vents blocked; consistency setting too low; refrigerant issue. | Ensure mix is pre-chilled. Refill hopper. Clear air vents. Adjust consistency setting higher. Contact service for refrigerant issues. |
| Product too hard. | Consistency setting too high. | Adjust consistency setting lower using the 'DOWN' button. |
| Machine is leaking. | Improperly assembled parts; worn or missing O-rings/seals. | Disassemble and reassemble dispensing parts, ensuring all seals are correctly seated and undamaged. Replace worn seals. |
| Unusual noise during operation. | Loose components; motor issue; compressor issue. | Turn off machine and inspect for loose parts. If noise persists or is severe, contact Donper customer support. |
9. Specifications
Technical specifications for the Donper D150 Soft Serve and Frozen Drive Machine:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Name | D150 |
| Brand | Donper |
| Type | Self-contained Air Cooled Countertop Model |
| Freezing Cylinder Capacity | 1.25 Qt (1.8 L) |
| Hopper Capacity | 3.75 Qt (5 L) |
| Approx. Hourly Production | 10 Qt (11.4 L) |
| Typical Freeze Time (First Dispense) | 14-18 minutes |
| Voltage | 115VAC |
| Phase | Single |
| Rated Input Power | 500 W |
| Compressor | 1/3 Horsepower |
| Hertz | 60 Hz |
| Plug Type | 115 volt Standard Plug |
| Overall Dimensions (HxWxD) | 26 x 8.75 x 26 inches |
| Item Weight | 90 pounds |
| Material | Stainless Steel |
| Color | Silver |
| Operation Mode | Automatic Consistency Control |
| Product Care Instructions | Dishwasher Safe Components |
| UPC | 761373840371 |
| Manufacturer | Donper |
| Date First Available | October 6, 2023 |
10. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, please refer to the documentation provided at the time of purchase or visit the official Donper USA website. Donper stands behind its products and offers customer support for any operational or technical inquiries.
Contact Information:
- Donper USA Customer Service: 1-844-366-7371
- Email for Parts/Support: parts@donperusa.com
- Website: Refer to your purchase documentation for the official website.





