Fried foods aren’t just a staple of summer evenings at the county fair. They’re also a primary component on menus around the world. Frying is a cooking method that uses oil or fat, which can reach higher temperatures than water, to quickly cook and crisp a variety of different foods. This adds another layer of texture and flavor profile to enhance even the most mundane treats.
Read also: Which oil is best for deep frying?
Frying also enables operators to sear or carbonize food surfaces while also caramelizing sugars. Some commonly fried foods popular on American menus include french fries and potato chips, onion rings, breaded pickles and vegetables, chicken tenders, buffalo wings, seafood, etc. Given the mass popularity of fried foods, commercial deep fryers are an indispensable piece of cooking equipment for every commercial kitchen.
Fryers are generally grouped and rated based on:
- Power input – rated in BTU (British Thermal Unit) for gas models, or kilowatts for electric (read also: What are BTUs?)
- Shortening capacity – the amount of oil or fat a fryer can accommodate
- Production output – typically relayed in pounds per hour (often, you’ll see french fries used as the principal example)
In This Commercial Fryer Buying Guide:
The Four Types of Fryers
To begin, it is best to gain an understanding of the four main types of commercial fryers on the market. Each features unique benefits.
The four main fryer types are:
1. Deep-Fat Fryers
Commercial Deep-Fat Fryers are the most popular type of commercial fryer in foodservice. They are available in liquid propane (LP) or natural gas configurations, as well as electric. Additional options include countertop models, freestanding floor models, or multiple battery units.
Deep-fat fryers come with either one or two wire baskets constructed of either nickel plate or stainless steel. These are placed outside of the frypot and used to load product into the shortening to cook. When cooking is complete, these baskets are removed and excess shortening drained back into the tank to finalize the product for service. Most fryers also feature thermostat controls and a timer.
Avg. Cost: $20,000 – $30,000
Countertop Fryers
Commercial countertop fryers save floor space by resting on top of worktables or counters, and are generally cheaper than their floor model counterparts. Power input for gas-powered countertop deep-fat fryers range between 45,000 to 75,000 BTUs. Electric countertop deep-fat fryers range from five to 21 kW.
Shortening capacities for countertop fryers typically range from 15 to 30 lbs. and production output between 25 and 60 lbs. of french fries per hour. Drop-in fryers work in tandem with countertop models to help conserve kitchen space. Both countertop and drop-in fryer models are ideal for small kitchen spaces, food trucks, or concession stands.
Avg. Cost: Varies Widely, $200 – $5,000 Depending on Brand and Quality
Floor Fryers
For high-volume operations needing to produce more than 60 lbs an hour, you’ll want to opt for either a freestanding floor fryer or a battery of fryers. Gas floor fryers usually range in input from 80,000 to 200,000 BTUs an hour while electric models range between 12 to 42 kW.
Shortening capacities for floor fryers range between 35 to 210 lbs., capable of cranking out 60 to 300 lbs. of fries an hour. These types of fryers are marketed more toward fast-paced restaurants, cafeterias, or industrial kitchens.
Avg. Cost: $20,000 – $25,000
Battery of Fryers
Floor fryers can also be built into what is commonly known as a battery of fryers for high-production output. Installing batteries entails banking several fryers together for a continuous lineup. Although this may take up more floor space, it allows operators to accommodate specific production demands, ideal for preventing cross-contact among common food allergens. For instance, if peanut oil is a commonly used oil used to fry certain foods in your establishment, a battery of fryers will also enable you to have a tank dedicated to vegetable or canola oil as an alternative should a guest have a peanut allergy. Fryer batteries also alleviate the stress of ordering multiple units separately.
2. Pressure Fryers
Pressure fryers, though not as common as deep-fat fryers, offer a distinct set of operational benefits. These are ideal when speed cooking is critical, and are usually used to quickly prepare fried chicken. Unlike the open-pot design of traditional deep-fat fryers, pressure fryers use a cover to seal in and better insulate the shortening and product inside. Once the food is inserted and it starts to heat, its natural moisture vaporizes into a steam barrier that slows the saturation of the shortening. After a short amount of time, this steam begins to create pressure (most pressure fryers operate between five and 12 PSI). During this process, the food retains most of its natural juices. As the pressure continues to build, the shortening experiences minor turbulence that causes the food to gently tumble, creating an even and consistent fried product. Some advantages of pressure frying include:- Retention of natural juices
- Less grease due to reduced shortening absorption
- Less shortening used, thus reducing operational costs
3. Conveyor Fryers
Conveyor fryers are great for high-volume sites, such as theme parks, where concession stands need to produce large supplies in such short periods of time. These units operate with a belt conveyor system that automatically moves the product through the cooking cycle, requiring less labor and monitoring while still gleaning consistent results. The food is placed on one end and carried through the shortening-filled tank, depositing out a freshly fried product ready to serve. The fry basket then returns to the front for another round. Speeds can be increased or decreased, depending on the demand. This allows the operator control over the cooking process while still using automation for high and efficient production. Some high efficiency models can product up to 100 lbs. of fries an hour!4. Air Fryers
Air fryers are smaller countertop units that require a minimal amount of oil in a rotating drum that’s mounted inside a closed compartment to fry single portions in smaller batches. They make use of convection heat technology to force air through to heat frozen products. The big advantage of these units is they don’t normally require a type I ventilation exhaust hood like traditional fryers often do since they don’t release high amounts of grease-laden vapor and aren’t as high a risk for fire hazards. This makes them ideal for bars looking to offer small bites, food trucks, pop-up food kiosks, and more. They are also becoming more in demand in residential settings.
Commercial Fryer Capacity
The amount of product you’re wanting to produce is one of the biggest determinants in deciding which fryer to go with. The fryer’s tank capacity will inform you of how much oil it can hold, and therefore how much you’ll be able to cook at a time. Some manufacturers rate their fryers based on tank capacity, while others rate theirs based on production output (again, usually notated in terms of pounds of french fries per hour). An efficient commercial fryer will be able to produce a volume of either one-and-a-half to two time the weight of oil it holds. For example, a 50 lb. deep fryer should be able to produce 100 lbs. of fries and hour.
Tube-Type Deep Fryers
Tube-type deep-fat fryers are designed with a series of tubes welded into the frypot near the bottom of the vat, housing gas-fired burners that evenly heat the oil they’re submerged in. Their versatility in frying a variety of food makes them the most popular type of restaurant fryer.
Other advantages of tube-top fryers include energy efficiency and a large cold zone that assists in preserving oil life, making them ideal for breaded foods that leave behind excess sediment. On the other hand, they can also be more challenging to clean than their open pot counterparts, and use a high percentage of oil. These tubes hold baffles to ensure the most efficient heat transfer that can weaken oven time.
Open Pot Fryers
Fryers with an open pot design are better used with foods with lower degrees of excess sediment, such as french fries or frozen items and nothing breaded, due to the smaller cold zone size. They don’t feature any tubes or burners in the oil themselves, making them easier to clean. Instead of containing tubes that house the heating element, these units feature the element on the exterior of the frypot, and are usually gas-powered.
In addition to more efficient cleaning, other advantages of open pot fryers include a reduction in the amount of oil required for the cold zone, and burners that are more reliable because they don’t require baffles. This means they’re less prone to breaking down. However, they’re not considered as energy efficient as tube-type fryers, and they have a much lower capacity for handling excess sediment.
Read also: How to Clean a Commercial Fryer
Gas vs. Electric Fryers
As previously mentioned, commercial fryer models are available in either gas or electric. There are pros and cons to each. For many, the choice ultimately comes down to the cheaper unit. This can vary based on location. Some operators are charged less for utilities, so for them, a gas fryer is ideal. Other operators experience lower energy costs, so an electric deep fryer may suit them better. Regardless, you must know how your kitchen is naturally outfitted before making a purchase.
Commercial Gas Fryers
Before committing to a gas fryer purchase, you should know whether you have a natural gas hookup at the ready, or if you’ll need to opt for a liquid propane (LP) unit. The main benefits of a gas fryer include:
- More options for the frypot shape
- Since they’re more common, more employees will likely already be familiar with their operation so less need for training
- Heats and cools down faster
- Not as affected by power outages
Commercial Electric Fryers
For electric commercial fryers, you should know the voltage and phase requirements. Fryers are available in 208V, 240V, or 480V, and in single or three phase. Some electric units may need to be hardwired directly into the building’s energy supply, while others may simply plug right into an outlet with very little installation hassle.
Read also: A Beginner’s Guide to Electricity in the Kitchen
Key advantages of an electric fryer include:
- No need to fret about gas leaks
- Simple installation
- Faster recovery times
- Smaller models are easier to transport
- Considered more energy efficient, especially during heat transfer thanks to the submerged burners (on tube-type designs)
Fryer Oil & Filtration
The type of oil you use in the frying process is an important decision. Shortening is expensive and requires regular filtering to extend its life to ensure a high quality of food. A key component to use for model comparison purposes is how long the fryer can make the shortening last. Efficient fryers that boast a longer shortening life may cost a little more upfront but will save on expenses down the road.
No shortening will last forever, but there are some areas to be conscientious of as they can increase to the rate of shortening deterioration.
- Exposure to oxygen is the primary cause of shortening breakdown
- High heat can destroy shortening; some brands are formulated to withstand temperatures between 200°F and 400°F
- Various physical contaminants like acid, food particles, water, and salt can also impact the shortening life
- Detergent residue left over from improper cleaning will also have a negative impact on the shortening
Read also: How to Properly Clean a Commercial Fryer
There are many ways to be proactive about extending the life of your shortening to glean the most bang for your buck. A solid fryer filtration system will have the biggest positive impact. Filter systems work to remove contaminants that break down the oil and can have a negative effect on the flavor profile of your fried delights. Some units have filtration systems built-in, but add-on filter systems are available in case yours doesn’t. These are usually mobile and can service multiple units that are equipped with a quick-disconnect hose.
Other factors that increase the longevity of your shortening include:
- Units with a larger tank capacity can hold more shortening; once the shortening is initially heated to the desired temperature, they tend to maintain it longer
- Cold zones that are designed into most modern fryer units work to catch food particles and hold them at lower temperatures to reduce burning or carbonization
- Fryers with a high BTU input feature faster recovery to the desired cooking temperature after raw foods are added; with a faster recovery time, units don’t have to use high-temperature setting to compensate for the addition of cold products, saving on energy and shortening costs
- A unit with sophisticated controls make it easier to maintain the desired temperature
Commercial Fryer Exhaust Hoods
A Type I exhaust hood ventilation system is required for any cooking equipment to collect and remove grease and smoke to reduce the risk of fires, maintain a comfortable work environment for kitchen staff, and abide by local health inspection codes. This means your commercial deep fryer will need to be placed under such a system.
There are four main components of an exhaust hood system: a vent hood that’s placed over the cooking equipment and works to remove grease, smoke, and odor; a baffle filter that captures and drains grease; a make-up air unit that’s usually installed outside and connects through ductwork, and assists in bringing in clean air to replace grease-laden vapors; and an exhaust fan that suctions out low-quality air.
Though required, a challenge with ventilation systems is space and extensive ductwork. There are ventless exhaust systems available that help alleviate these constraints, allowing for cooking equipment to be installed in areas they have previously not been able to go. Ventless fryer units are ideal for smaller spaces, like food trucks, bars, and pop-up kiosks, in historic buildings where the ductwork is outdated or non-existent, or in ghost/delivery-only kitchens.
Additional Considerations When Selecting the Right Fryer
A few other key considerations that you should be familiar with include:
Control Type
Some fryers come with programmable controls for more automation to assist in cooking processes that your operation uses regularly. Others feature solid state or manual controls.
Programmable controls allow operators to program multiple factors, such as temperature and cook time, to control the cooking process with a simple push of a button. This ensures consistent results each time while saving on labor. Some high-end fryers even feature options to adjust the temperature or cook time based on the current quality of the fryer.
Fryers with manual controls are usually less expensive than programmable fryers and they’re pretty straightforward to use. However, they’re unable to automatically adjust settings and require more hands-on operator use.
Recovery Time
A fryer’s recovery time refers to the amount of time needed for the oil to return to the desired cooking temperature after raw foods are inserted. If the oil temperature decreases too much or fails to rise fast enough, there’s a greater risk of fat absorption and a greasier product.
Energy Star Rebates
ENERGY STAR® rated products are given this designation for designs that reduce energy usage, thereby contributing to a cleaner environment. Products with an ENERGY STAR® label reduce utility costs and, in some states, qualify for sizable rebates.
Cleaning Your Commercial Fryer
Regularly cleaning and maintenance are important to ensure optimal performance and a long product life of your commercial fryer investment. Both proper oil filtration and cleaning have a direct impact on the flavor quality of your fried foods. How often you need to filter your machine is based on usage, but it is recommended to filter your oil at least once a day. Operations with higher volumes may need to filter more often.
The same rule of thumb applies to filter cleaning practices. Most establishments include cleaning as part of the nightly kitchen shutdown. It is encouraged to wear high-heat gloves, an apron, and protective goggles for safety. Always follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions.
Here are the basic steps for a thorough clean:
Turn off the burners but ensure the oil is still hot when you begin the filtration process. Otherwise, it will start to congeal and solidify, creating a challenge to thoroughly clean. After the unit is depleted of oil:
1. Locate and secure the thermostat probes on the frypot. These are often fragile and can be damaged or lose calibration if hit with a scrub brush.
2. Using a fryer brush, which is specifically designed with a bed to assist in the scrubbing of hard to reach burner tubes, scrub excess sediment off the walls and the bottom.
3. Confirm the valve is closed and the burner tubes or heating elements are covered. Then, fill the frypot halfway with hot water. Add a cleaning solution.
4. Turn the thermostat off and drain the water.
5. Rinse thoroughly with clean hot water, ensuring the drain valve remains open.
6. Confirm the drain valve is open and rinse thoroughly with clean hot water.
7. Dry with a clean towel.
8. Refill with oil and secure a cover over the frypot until ready to use.
Read our Guide on How to Clean a Commercial Deep Fryer for more information.
Pitco fryers come in both electric and gas and feature integrated oil management technology with data designed to enhance accuracy and customize reminders for sensor, filter cycles, and auto oil top-off that replenishes lost oil with fresh supply. Take advantage of an estimated 50% in oil savings due to less usage, and additional automated processes that cut operating costs while enhancing employee safety efforts.
Vulcan fryers offer ease of operation and maintenance to maximize productivity while minimizing costs. Many Vulcan fryer models also feature faster recovery times than traditional fryers, and many are ENERGY STAR® rated. They deliver consistent results for the best-tasting foods faster than ever and are available in gas or electric with a range of oil capacities.
Frymaster fryers come in diverse options to meet specific demands. Some are strategically designed for oil conservation, while others for high production output, and some built for reliability at a value price.
Fryer FAQ’s
What is the Most Common Type of Fryer?
The most common type of fryer is the deep-fat fryer.
What Do Restaurants Use in Deep Fryers?
Restaurants will use oil in their deep fryers, whether it be:
- Canola Oil
- Peanut Oil
- Blended Oil
What Tastes Better, an Air Fryer or a Deep Fryer?
When it comes to taste, it is purely opinion-based and will vary from person to person–however, with air-frying, there is less oil involved in the frying process, which can help the flavors of the food stand out versus with a deep fryer, where more oil is used in the frying process.
What Are the Different Types of Commercial Deep Fryers?
The different types of commercial deep fryers are:
- Tube-Type Fryers
- Open-Pot Fryers
- Flat-Bottom Fryers
- Commercial Pressure Fryers
What Are the Best Commercial Fryers?
There are a wide variety of fryers that would work best in every unique kitchen–so to find the best commercial fryer for you and your needs, take a look at some of our resources listed below!
Additional Cooking Equipment Buying Guides:
- What to Look for When Buying a Convection Oven
- Commercial Combi Oven Buying Guide
- Commercial Ranges: What to Know Before Buying
- Griddles vs. Charbroilers
- Griddle Me This: Choosing the Right Griddle for Your Kitchen
- Now Steaming: How to Choose the Right Steamer for Your Kitchen
- What to Know About Restaurant Exhaust Hood Systems
- Insulated vs. Non-Insulated Holding and Proofing Cabinets
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