5 Safety Tips for a Commercial Deep Fryer

Blog Layout

September 2, 2021

When a deep fryer is working well, it’s an essential part of a commercial kitchen. Hot crisp fries, golden brown fish, and delicious donuts all use this important piece of equipment to give them an unmistakable crunch. If both management and employees are aware of the safety precautions they need to take, a commercial deep fryer can work well for years. Review these five safety tips to make sure your kitchen is well-equipped to troubleshoot any issues.

1. Change the fry oil regularly.

Dirty fry oil can get very smoky, imparting a burnt, acrid flavor to food. Very dirty fry oil can even ignite, making it very dangerous. Oil fires are stubbornly difficult to put out, and these fires can cause significant damage in a commercial kitchen. Deep fryers cause a significant amount of kitchen fires, so it’s important to be aware of the age of the oil you’re using. To prevent any major safety issues, fry oil should be changed after about eight uses. When you empty the oil, never put it down the sink. Instead, use a grease disposal service when it’s time to change the oil. Replacing the oil will improve food taste and help prevent the oil from igniting.

2. Keep the oil temperature consistent.

Oil that is heated too quickly may pose a safety hazard. When oil undergoes a quick temperature increase, it can smoke, burn, or bubble over. Nearby workers may be splashed with hot oil, or food items can be burnt beyond recognition. Using a steady increase in heat will allow you to monitor the temperature carefully.

3. Don’t overfill the deep fryer.

Keeping the oil in a deep fryer at the correct level is essential for using the equipment correctly. Filling the fryer with too much oil or trying to deep fry too much food at once can both cause issues. When the oil level is too high, any sputtering or spitting of the oil could injure a worker or cause slick spots to build up on the floor. If you find yourself tempted to overfill the deep fryer to cook more food, it may be time to invest in a second machine. With two fryers, you’ll be able to cook twice as much food without the danger of overcrowding.

4. Have employees wear appropriate, kitchen-safe gear/uniforms.

Close-toed shoes with a grippy sole and flame-resistant uniforms are an important part of deep fryer safety. Keeping toes covered will prevent burns to the feet, while a strong tread will prevent slipping on water, oil, or other spills. While long sleeves can keep arms safe from flames, hot water, or hot oil, excessive sleeve length could get dirty or could be unsafe for the wearer. When working with the deep fryer, make sure your sleeves aren’t dipping into the hot oil as you’re frying. Three quarter length sleeves can keep arms covered without impeding movement.

5. Have an expert inspect the deep fryer regularly.

The best way to prevent safety issues from occurring with any commercial kitchen equipment is to have it regularly inspected for defects. This is definitely true for a deep fryer, which can be dangerous if maintenance issues are not addressed in a timely manner. As a deep fryer ages, it can accumulate grease that compromises its function. This buildup can also cause safety issues with the equipment. An experienced repair technician will check the thermostat and heating element, advise on cleaning the equipment, and run several function tests. By having your deep fryer regularly serviced, you can prevent many issues from occurring.

Keep Your Commercial Kitchen Equipment Safe with ATECH

To use your professional kitchen equipment safely, reach out to ATECH for a planned maintenance quote. We’re an Authorized Service Agent for over 123 manufacturers. We’re also proud of our written 90-day parts and labor warranty, backed by our 100% customer satisfaction guarantee. Let us show you why so many Tennessee businesses trust ATECH for commercial equipment repair.

< Older Post Newer Post >

Spring into Cleanliness: Essential Tips for Restaurant Spring Cleaning

By markl • March 20, 2024

As the season changes and springtime blooms, it's the perfect opportunity to refresh and rejuvenate your restaurant space. Spring cleaning isn't just about tidying up; it's about ensuring a safe, welcoming environment for your patrons and staff. In this blog post, we'll explore some essential tips and best practices for restaurant cleanliness in the springtime. Embrace Deep Cleaning : Spring cleaning is the ideal time to tackle those deep cleaning tasks that may have been neglected during the busier seasons. From scrubbing floors and walls to deep cleaning kitchen equipment, thorough sanitation ensures a hygienic environment for food preparation and service. Focus on High-Traffic Areas : Pay special attention to high-traffic areas such as dining areas, restrooms, and entryways. These areas are prone to accumulating dirt, dust, and germs, making regular cleaning essential for maintaining a pristine appearance and preventing the spread of illness. Refresh Outdoor Spaces : If your restaurant has outdoor seating areas, spring is the perfect time to freshen them up. Clean outdoor furniture, sweep away debris, and power wash outdoor surfaces to create an inviting atmosphere for al fresco dining. Check and Replace Equipment Filters : Don't forget to inspect and replace filters in HVAC systems, refrigeration units, and ventilation hoods. Clean filters help maintain air quality and prevent the buildup of contaminants, ensuring a healthy indoor environment for both customers and staff. Engage Staff in Cleaning Initiatives : Encourage staff members to take pride in the cleanliness of the restaurant by involving them in spring cleaning initiatives. Assign specific tasks and provide training on proper cleaning procedures to ensure consistency and effectiveness. Implement Regular Maintenance Schedule : Establish a regular maintenance schedule to keep up with cleaning tasks throughout the year. By incorporating daily, weekly, and monthly cleaning routines, you can maintain a high standard of cleanliness and prevent the accumulation of dirt and grime. Invest in Quality Cleaning Products : Choose cleaning products that are effective yet environmentally friendly. Look for products that are certified as safe for use in foodservice establishments and follow manufacturer recommendations for proper application and usage. Monitor and Adjust Cleaning Protocols : Continuously monitor cleaning protocols and adjust as needed based on feedback, customer traffic, and changing regulations. Regular evaluation ensures that your cleaning practices remain effective and in compliance with industry standards. Spring cleaning is an essential aspect of restaurant maintenance that goes beyond just aesthetics. By implementing thorough cleaning routines, engaging staff members, and investing in quality cleaning products, you can create a safe, hygienic environment that enhances the dining experience for your customers and promotes a healthy work environment for your staff. As you embark on your spring cleaning journey, remember that ATECH is here to support you with a wide range of cleaning and maintenance solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of your restaurant. Happy spring cleaning!

Mastering Winter with ATECH: A Comprehensive Guide for Businesses

By markl • January 26, 2024

Winter is here, and at ATECH, we understand the unique challenges businesses face in keeping their commercial equipment running smoothly during the colder months. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the strategies, tips, and success stories that can help your business navigate winter effortlessly. From equipment maintenance to emergency services, consider this your go-to resource for mastering winter with ATECH. Winter Equipment Maintenance Tips Checklist for Winter-Ready Equipment: Inspect Seals and Gaskets : Ensure a tight seal to prevent cold air leakage. Check Insulation : Evaluate the insulation of walk-in coolers and freezers. Clean and Sanitize : Thoroughly clean and sanitize all equipment surfaces. Temperature Adjustment : Set optimal winter temperatures for each piece of equipment. ATech Maintenance Tips for Different Equipment: Fryers and Grills : Clean and inspect burners for efficient operation. Ice Machines : Check water lines for insulation and replace filters regularly. Heating Systems : Schedule preventive maintenance to optimize efficiency. Electronic Equipment : Keep spaces well-heated and clean to prevent malfunctions. Businesses often grapple with specific equipment failures that can disrupt operations. ATECH understands the challenges posed by heating system malfunctions, electronic equipment performance, and other issues during the colder months. To tackle these common winter-related failures, businesses should prioritize preventive measures. Regular heating system maintenance checks and air filter replacements can prevent malfunctions. For electronic equipment, maintaining ambient room temperature and conducting routine cleaning are key strategies to ensure optimal performance throughout winter. ATECH's Winter Services: A Lifeline for Your Business Winter demands a proactive approach to equipment maintenance, and ATECH stands as the lifeline for businesses navigating the challenges of the season. Our comprehensive winter services go beyond mere repair and include prompt equipment repairs, planned maintenance, and emergency services. With a commitment to same-day service for urgent winter emergencies, ATECH ensures that businesses can rely on swift resolution during critical times. What sets us apart is our team of factory-trained and CFESA-certified technicians, offering not just reliability but a dedicated partnership to keep your business running smoothly through the coldest months. Trust in ATECH, your lifeline in the winter business landscape. Winter doesn't have to be a season of uncertainty for your business. With ATECH by your side, you have a reliable partner dedicated to providing top-notch equipment repairs and maintenance services. Master winter with confidence, knowing that our comprehensive guide and expert services are here to support your business every step of the way. For personalized winter readiness assessments and expert guidance, contact ATECH today. Let's navigate winter together, and keep your business thriving.