How Long Do CO2 Cartridges Last in Soda Makers? (8g to 88g Usage Comparison)

If you’re sourcing CO2 cartridges for commercial soda makers, one of the most common questions is:
“How many liters can each cartridge carbonate?”
Understanding this helps optimize your supply plan, reduce downtime, and ensure consistent drink quality for your customers.

Among all sizes, the 88g CO2 cartridge offers one of the longest-lasting performances — but how long exactly does it last, and is it the best choice for your application?

✅ How Many Liters Can an 88g CO2 Cartridge Carbonate?

On average, an 88-gram CO2 cartridge can carbonate between 30 to 45 liters of water, depending on:

• The pressure efficiency of your soda machine
• Desired carbonation level (light fizz vs. strong fizz)
• Temperature of the water

For commercial settings (restaurants, soda bars, mobile beverage stands), most machines consume about 2 grams of CO2 per liter. This means:

• Light fizzing: ~45 liters
• Strong fizzing: ~30 liters

💡 Pro Tip: Keep your cartridges at room temperature and always use chilled water for best performance.

🧊 Why Cold Water Extends Cartridge Lifespan

The temperature of the water plays a surprisingly large role in how efficiently CO2 is absorbed. Colder water holds gas much better, which means less CO2 is needed to achieve the same fizz level. This isn’t just anecdotal — it’s science-backed.
As explained in this scientific overview of carbonated water, gas solubility increases at lower temperatures, especially under pressure.

⚖️ Cartridge Size Comparison Table

🔍 Choosing the Right Cartridge for Your Soda Maker

Choosing the right cartridge isn’t just about size — compatibility with your machine model also matters. Some soda makers are optimized for 12g or 16g sizes, while others — especially commercial models — are built for high-capacity cylinders like the 88g.

If you’re unsure which size fits your setup, our CO2 cartridge selection guide for soda makers breaks it down by use case and machine type. The page includes specs, thread types, and packaging options designed for businesses like yours.

🏭 Why 88g CO2 Cartridges Work Best for Commercial Use

• Fewer cartridge changes, saving labor during busy hours
• Lower cost per liter compared to multiple smaller cartridges
• More stable output in high-volume environments
• Cleaner look in commercial beverage machines — no bulky tanks, no hoses

88g cartridges are especially suitable for:

• Food trucks & outdoor events
• Beverage kiosks or soda taps
• In-store sampling or promotional activations
• Private label soda maker kits (OEM business)

📦 B2B Buyers: Should You Standardize on 88g?

If your soda makers are consuming large amounts of CO2 daily, standardizing on 88g cartridges can help streamline your supply chain. Our clients in the beverage, catering, and OEM appliance sectors prefer them because they strike the right balance between:

• High capacity
• Easy installation
• Portability
• Reduced waste

Plus, with factory-direct sourcing, you gain better control over quality and customization (logos, gas purity, thread type).

🧾 Summary

• 88g CO2 cartridges can carbonate 30–45 liters depending on use.
• Ideal for commercial-grade soda makers used in high-turnover environments.
• Lasts significantly longer than smaller sizes like 12g or 16g.
• Performs best with cold water and machines with consistent gas control.
• Learn more on our Soda Maker Cartridge Category Page