A San Diego couple has taken the home appliance game to a new level with the installation of a £4,000 commercial soda machine in their property. This unconventional addition has sparked a variety of reactions online, as many viewers have labelled it either brilliant or absurd.
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Jordan Shakarjian, a 27-year-old content creator, shared her excitement about the soda machine in a recent video that has gone viral. In the video, she reveals that the couple installed the in-wall unit, sourced from a local commercial beverage equipment supplier, during the build of their “dream” home. Tailored for residential use, the machine features a remote chiller housed in their garage, offering a taste of restaurant-quality soda right at home.
“The initial investment seemed hefty,” Shakarjian admitted. “But we knew we’d use it every day.” In fact, she reports that the couple taps into the soda machine multiple times daily, particularly when entertaining friends and family. Their usual choices include Diet Coke and Dr. Pepper, but they also enjoy switching flavours, allowing for a refreshing variety.
“It’s amazing to get a fresh, crisp soda whenever I want without the hassle of buying cases, storing cans, or making trips to the shop,” Shakarjian said. The couple’s daily ritual with the machine not only satisfies their thirst but also serves as a captivating talking point for guests. It’s a feature that tends to surprise visitors who often comment on how it resembles those found in restaurants.
The response to the soda machine has been highly mixed on social media, with Shakarjian noting that some find the idea outrageous while others deem it ingenious. In her viral TikTok video, which has received over 1.8 million views, she remarks on the polarising opinions surrounding their home feature. “Everyone comes over and has the same reaction, ‘Wait, you have what in your house?’” she said, reflecting the curiosity it provokes.
Despite some backlash, Shakarjian stands by their decision, stating, “I think it’s a great use of free will. So keep on judging, I’ll be happily sipping my Diet Coke in peace.” She and her husband are child-free, which allows them the liberty to indulge in this luxurious home feature without guilt.
Nonetheless, the couple did face challenges with the installation, which required a significant upfront cost. Shakarjian acknowledges that owning the machine involves more than just enjoyment—it requires regular maintenance and occasional investments in supplies. Each month, they spend approximately £16 on carbon dioxide refills and between £100 to £115 on soda syrup, which can last up to several weeks depending on usage.
Maintaining the machine isn’t as daunting as it may sound. Routine tasks include cleaning the exterior and drip trays, sanitising the nozzles, and maintaining the soda lines using specialised cleaning products. Shakarjian expressed that, for them, the upkeep has been easier than anticipated, dispelling any fears about the complexity of the appliance.
Reflecting on their decision, Shakarjian believes it has significantly enhanced their home life. “It’s one of those things that feels a little unnecessary until you have it, and then you use it constantly,” she shared. The machine has not only upped their hosting game but has also saved them valuable storage space that would have otherwise been taken up by soda cans.
Interestingly, what began as a quirky addition to their home has blossomed into a highlight of Shakarjian’s online content. She notes that the machine has drawn substantial attention and has sparked debate about the best soda flavours, turning it into a fun source of engagement with her followers.
As Shakarjian continues to share her soda machine experience, her story stands as a testament to how personal preferences can lead to unique home features that invite both admiration and critique. The Shakarjians are certainly enjoying their investment, celebrating their love for soda in a way that transforms their daily routines into something truly special.