ELECTRIC DEEP FRYERS

i am trying to find out the advantages and disadvantages between an electric and gas fed deep fryers.

Commercial deep fryers are an integral part of commercial establishments like hotels, restaurants, fast food centers, night cubs, bars and cafeterias. The deep fryers are used to fry a large number of things like, fries, onion rings, potatoes, cheese, fish, chicken, pastries and even ice creams. A commercial deep fat fryer can cook up to 100 pounds of food every hour. Many models are available to match varying needs. Many fryers are available as stand alones, space saving portable counter tops, floor models or with many small fryers.

The commercial deep fat fryers can also be differentiated by the energy source, they may be gas or electricity operated. The later are becoming more and more popular as they are economical and run on a clean fuel. The electric deep fryers reduce running costs and are also safer than gas deep fryers. They have uniform temperatures in the fry pot leading to faster cooking and also help to retain the flavor of the food cooked.

The deep fryer is normally made of stainless steel on the front, doors and sides. The basket hangers are also made of steel. The deep fat fryer has an insulated frypot to save the food and a cold zone to collect the crumbs and extra oil. The sides of a most units are welded securely and the insides are made in non stick surfaces to facilitate easy cleaning of the fryer.

The deep oil fryer has a thermostat to keep the temperature of the oil or shortening at constant levels. This leads to economy in the use of oil or shortening as maintaining a constant temperature protracts their life. When a precise temperature is maintained it cooks food faster. A centerline thermostat can sense it when frozen food is put inside the deep fryer and begins the cooking processes faster. The safety shut off is activated if the temperatures cross a pre set level and also if the deep fat fryer is accidentally left on after the closing hours.

The commercial deep fryers have many useful features like a
- Disconnect-valve combo which also provides protection from bacteria,
- Drain board which collects excess grease and also acts as a cover when the unit is not in use.
- Submerger screen which helps keep the food in the oil and also does not let it fall in to the pit.
- Melt cycle is used to liquefy the shortening for frying.
- Solid state controls has the on/off switch, digital temperature reading and signal lights located on it.
- Twin kettles to fry two different foods at the same time.
- Ribbon design to transfer heat uniformly for even cooking
- XL frypots for cooking large quantities of food in one go.

Some basic safety tips to get the most out of your deep fat fryer:
- Always use on a flat surface to avoid accidental tipping.
- Do not leave a fryer unattended.
- Avoid overfilling the fryer to reduce oil spillover accidents.

Electric deep fryers are just as effective at frying your food as a gas commercial fryer, but use electricity instead. An electric deep fryer will use coils like those found on an electric range in your kitchen to heat the oil from inside the oil tank. These coils heat very quickly and so can have your oil ready for cooking in just a matter of minutes, depending on how much oil you need. Electric deep fryers make delicious deep fried foods fast and easy. The most efficient home models fry up to six big servings with using just the minimal amount of oil. They can maintain the perfect frying temperature automatically and should come with handy scoop lifts, drains, stirs, and a “no mess” basket to place your finished product.

Features to keep in mind when purchasing an electric deep fryer are; adjustable thermostats for selecting desired temperature, indicator light signals to determine when the oil is right for frying, large viewing windows to to supervise your frying without removing the lid, removable non-stick pots for quick cleaning, tightly sealed lids to eliminate splatters, reduce frying odors, and allow you to store oil in the fryer. Additionally, a heavy cast aluminum body as well as non-stick surfaces inside and out for easy cleaning are preferred.

Since electricity is usually cheaper and cleaner environmentally than gas, electric fryers are generally cheaper to maintain. No gas line is needed either, just somewhere to plug the machine in, along with an adapter since the plug is usually a large commercial or three-pronged plug. Many of the newer, more efficient commercial fryer models are electric fryers.

Commercial deep fryers can come with single pots and twin baskets which are perfect for frying a variety of menu items. The compact fryers require only a minimum counter space to make room for your other appliances. The technology used in creating the commercial electric deep fryers provide even heat distribution once the food is immersed. Best of all, the larger units should come with easily removable features which make cleaning up a snap. No matter what the menu items; onion rings, fries, chicken or fish, commercial electric deep fryers cook food while sealing in the flavor.

Whether for your home or for your business, electric deep fryers assist you in diversifing your menu. Even a small deep fryer seals in the taste of all of your (and your customer’s) favorite foods such as; chicken, seafood, vegetables, and much more. Most importantly, with electric deep fryers, manufacturers keep your well-being in mind and reduce the risk of accidental fires which are associated with deep fryers by including safety features. You too can keep deep frying safe by following a few key tips such as; make sure the fryers are used on a flat surface to reduce accidental tipping, never leave the fryer unattended, and to avoid oil spillover do not overfill the fryer. Once you enjoy your favorite meal with the assistance of an electric deep fryer, you’ll wonder how you ever did without it!