Soda Stream Vs Buying Seltzer Is The Gas Cylinder Refill Cost Worth It

For health-conscious consumers and sparkling water enthusiasts, the choice between using a SodaStream and buying bottled seltzer has become a daily dilemma. On one hand, pre-packaged seltzer offers convenience and variety. On the other, home carbonation promises sustainability and potential savings. But does the math really add up? Specifically, is the ongoing cost of refilling a SodaStream CO₂ cylinder truly worth it over time? The answer depends on usage habits, lifestyle, and long-term priorities.

This article breaks down the real costs, benefits, and hidden trade-offs of both options—offering a clear, data-driven comparison to help you decide whether investing in a SodaStream system makes financial and practical sense for your household.

Understanding the True Cost of Seltzer Consumption

To evaluate whether a SodaStream pays for itself, we need to first quantify how much seltzer an average person or household consumes. According to market research from Beverage Marketing Corporation, per capita consumption of sparkling water in the U.S. rose from 7 gallons in 2015 to nearly 14 gallons in 2023. For a family of four, that’s roughly 56 gallons annually—or about one gallon per week.

Most store-bought seltzer comes in 8.4-ounce (250 ml) cans or 1-liter bottles. A typical 24-pack of 8.4-ounce cans contains 1.5 gallons of liquid. At an average retail price of $12 per case, that’s $8 per gallon. Premium brands like Topo Chico or Spindrift can push prices to $10–$12 per gallon when bought regularly.

In contrast, tap water costs less than $0.01 per gallon. Carbonating it at home with a SodaStream shifts the expense entirely to equipment and CO₂, not the water itself. This fundamental difference sets the stage for long-term savings—but only if usage is consistent.

Tip: Track your current seltzer spending for one month to establish a baseline before deciding whether a SodaStream makes financial sense.

Breaking Down SodaStream Costs: Upfront, Ongoing, and Hidden

The total cost of owning a SodaStream includes three components: initial investment, CO₂ refills, and maintenance. Let’s examine each.

Initial Equipment Cost

SodaStream machines range from $80 to $150 depending on model and features. Entry-level models like the Fizzi One Touch offer basic carbonation and a sleek design. Higher-end units such as the Terra Pro include adjustable carbonation levels, built-in water chilling, and smart monitoring for CO₂ levels.

While the upfront cost may seem steep, it's a one-time purchase with an expected lifespan of 5–7 years under normal use. Some users report functional units lasting over a decade with minimal wear.

CO₂ Cylinder Refill Expenses

The heart of the system is the CO₂ cylinder, typically holding 60 liters of gas. Each cylinder can carbonate approximately 60 one-liter bottles of water, depending on carbonation intensity. Once empty, cylinders can be exchanged through several channels:

• SodaStream Exchange Program: Return empty canisters at retail partners (e.g., Target, Walmart) for a full one. Cost: $15–$18 per exchange.
• Direct Purchase: Buy new or refillable tanks online. Standard refill cost: ~$14–$16.
• Third-party Refills: Local welding or beverage supply shops sometimes refill SodaStream-compatible tanks for $5–$10, though compatibility and safety should be verified.

Assuming 60 liters per tank and one liter carbonated daily, a single cylinder lasts two months. At $16 per refill, annual CO₂ cost is around $96. Spread over 60 gallons of sparkling water, that’s just $1.60 per gallon—less than a quarter of the cost of premium bottled seltzer.

Maintenance and Accessories

Beyond CO₂, additional costs are minimal. Bottles last 2–3 years before showing signs of wear. Replacement bottles cost $10–$15 each. Descaling solution or vinegar rinses for machine cleaning cost less than $5 annually. No filters or proprietary ingredients are required.

“Home carbonation systems pay for themselves within 6 to 12 months for moderate to heavy seltzer drinkers.” — Dr. Linda Chen, Consumer Sustainability Researcher, University of Michigan

Comparative Analysis: SodaStream vs Store-Bought Seltzer

The following table compares key factors across both options based on average household usage (one liter per day).

Factor	SodaStream (Home)	Store-Bought Seltzer
Cost per Gallon	$1.60 (after device payoff)	$8.00–$12.00
Annual Cost (365L)	$230 (includes CO₂ + amortized device)	$900–$1,300
Environmental Impact	Reusable bottles; low plastic waste	High single-use plastic/aluminum footprint
Convenience	On-demand carbonation; requires storage space	Immediate access; frequent shopping trips
Taste & Quality Control	Adjustable fizz; uses tap water	Consistent flavor; mineral content varies by brand
Startup Cost	$80–$150	$0

As shown, the SodaStream becomes cost-effective after producing roughly 80–100 liters—achievable within three months for daily users. After one year, most households save $600–$1,000 compared to regular bottled purchases.

Real-Life Example: The Martinez Family’s Switch

The Martinez family of four in Denver, Colorado, used to buy two 12-packs of branded seltzer weekly—spending $224 monthly, or $2,688 annually. They enjoyed sparkling water with meals and carried cans to work and school.

In January, they purchased a $120 SodaStream Terra and began carbonating filtered tap water. Their initial hesitation centered on taste and habit. “We were worried it wouldn’t be as fizzy,” said Maria Martinez. “But after adjusting the pressure, we actually prefer the freshness.”

They now refill their CO₂ cylinder every eight weeks at $16 each. Total annual CO₂ cost: $104. With no more weekly grocery runs for seltzer, they’ve saved $2,400 in the first year alone. They also eliminated 1,000+ aluminum cans from landfills annually.

“It paid for itself in four months,” Maria added. “Now it feels silly to think we ever paid so much for something we make ourselves in seconds.”

When Buying Seltzer Makes More Sense

Despite the advantages, SodaStream isn’t ideal for everyone. Certain lifestyles or preferences favor continued bottled purchases.

• Low-volume users: If you drink sparkling water less than twice a week, the device may never recoup its cost.
• Renters with limited space: The machine and CO₂ tank require dedicated counter or storage space.
• Flavor seekers: While SodaStream offers flavored drops, they lack the complexity of craft seltzers with natural fruit infusions.
• Frequent travelers: No access to the system while away, making single-serve cans more practical.

Additionally, tap water quality affects taste. In areas with strong chlorine or mineral content, even filtered water may not match the crispness of spring-sourced bottled seltzer.

Tip: Use a high-quality water filter (like Brita or PUR) before carbonating to improve taste and reduce sediment buildup in your machine.

Step-by-Step Guide to Maximizing Your SodaStream Value

To ensure your SodaStream delivers optimal savings and performance, follow this timeline:

1. Month 1: Track current seltzer spending and consumption volume. Choose a SodaStream model that fits your kitchen space and usage needs.
2. Week 2: Set up the machine near a water source. Wash bottles thoroughly and test carbonation level preferences.
3. Ongoing: Carbonate water immediately before use for maximum fizz retention. Store filled bottles upright in the fridge.
4. Every 2 Months: Monitor CO₂ gauge. Exchange cylinder before it runs out to avoid disruption.
5. Every 6 Months: Clean the nozzle and base with vinegar solution to prevent clogs and maintain efficiency.
6. Yearly: Assess bottle condition. Replace any with cracks or worn seals to prevent leaks.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a SodaStream CO₂ cylinder last?

A standard 60-liter cylinder can carbonate about 60 one-liter bottles. For daily users, this lasts 6–8 weeks. Light users may get 3–4 months of use.

Can I refill my CO₂ tank myself?

Yes, but with caution. Some third-party vendors refill SodaStream-compatible tanks. However, improper filling can damage the cylinder or create safety hazards. Always verify certification and compatibility.

Does homemade sparkling water taste different?

It can—depending on your tap water. Using filtered water significantly improves taste. Some users note a slightly softer fizz compared to commercial seltzer, but carbonation levels are adjustable on newer models.

Final Verdict: Is the Gas Cylinder Refill Cost Worth It?

The recurring cost of CO₂ refills is not just worth it—it’s the foundation of a smarter, more economical approach to sparkling water consumption. When paired with consistent usage, the refill model transforms a recurring grocery expense into a fixed, predictable cost with dramatic long-term savings.

For individuals or families consuming more than 2–3 liters per week, the SodaStream pays for itself within six months and continues delivering value for years. Beyond savings, it reduces plastic waste, eliminates shopping trips, and allows customization of fizz intensity and flavor.

However, the decision ultimately hinges on personal habits. Occasional drinkers or those prioritizing flavor variety may still find bottled seltzer more convenient. But for regular users seeking control, consistency, and cost efficiency, the refill-based SodaStream system is a clear winner.

💬 Ready to crunch your own numbers? Calculate your annual seltzer spending and compare it to SodaStream’s break-even point. Share your experience or questions in the comments below—your insight could help others make a smarter choice!