5 Signs Your Commercial Deep Fryer Needs Repair

Commercial deep fryers are used to prepare a wide array of foods. Several types exist; the right choice depends on your needs and a preferred power source. Due to the high use of deep fryers, they can develop problems over time, reducing their efficiency.



It is necessary to know how to spot early signs and respond quickly to protect your business's productivity. Below are warning signs your commercial deep fryer needs repair.

1. Broken Thermostat

Deep fryer manufacturers always include a thermostat to control the operating heat of the equipment. Thus, the oil temperature cannot raise or lower excessively. When the thermostat is broken, your deep fryer can't adjust the heating element accordingly. The oil may either be too hot or too cold, which can cause food to burn or undercook, respectively. 

An overheating deep fryer can burn oil to combustion, which can lead to a fire outbreak. Hence, if your employees inform you of a broken thermostat or problems with oil temperature, you should call professionals to service your machine immediately. The specialists will change the thermostat and test the equipment to tell if any other underlying issue may be the cause.

2. Faulty Pilot Light

The pilot light is a significant part of a deep fryer, as it ignites gas used to heat the oil. This saves your employees the struggle of lighting the burners manually. When the pilot light is faulty, the deep fryer cannot start, delaying your operations.

Before you call in professionals, confirm that the hose between the pilot light and the gas line is in good condition. If it is securely connected, but the pilot light still malfunctions, get professional help. 

3. Broken Thermopile

A deep fryer's heating component is called a thermopile, and it converts thermal heat into electric energy to power the equipment. However, since deep fryers are used for extended periods to heat large quantities of oil, the thermopile can be overpowered and break down.

The thermopile is directly connected to the pilot light. When it malfunctions, it can't generate electric energy, and in turn, the pilot light won't be powered. Hence, a defective pilot light is an indication of a faulty thermopile. 

4. Broken Oil Filter

Deep fryers usually collect a lot of food debris, which can affect the quality of food. Fortunately, they have an oil filter that gets rid of such debris to keep the oil clean. This allows oil to circulate in the equipment without difficulties. 

When the filter is damaged, your oil will be dirty, and it can't circulate effectively. This will result in food that is not cooked well. Your employees will have a hard time preparing recipes. You should get experts to replace the oil filter early to avoid this outcome.

5. Blocked Burners

When your chefs turn on your deep fryer, and no fire ignites, or it lights partially, your burners are likely clogged. Oil build-up, food particles, debris, and dust can accumulate in the burner orifices. Train your employees to clean the burners with a stiff brush when they experience this issue. The bristles in the brush get rid of the debris.

If this solution doesn't work, the problem may be due to a significant issue such as inconsistent gas pressure or flawed fuel lines. Do not attempt to solve the gas problem by yourself, as this can lead to further damages. Instead, call the experts to examine your burners and the gas lines to discover the exact problem and solve it. 

Commercial deep fryers are primary kitchen equipment in restaurants and other institutions. It is vital to have well-functioning equipment to keep your business operations going. Our company provides service on all cooking and refrigeration equipment, and so we can help you when you experience any of the discussed issues. Contact us today for more information.