How to Choose the Best Commercial Deep Fryer

Tube-type gas fryers are the most versatile and economical, making them the most popular choice in commercial kitchens. These fryers feature heating elements inside the pot to heat the oil quickly and help it maintain its temperature, resulting in faster recovery times between batches. They are particularly well-suited for breaded and high-sediment food items.

One key feature of tube-type fryers is the large cold zones they offer. These cold zones help extend the life of the oil by preventing sediment from burning and affecting the flavor of the oil. Tube-type fryers can be challenging to clean due to the fixed heating tubes. Proper maintenance and cleaning procedures are essential to ensure the longevity and efficiency of these fryers.

Open-pot gas fryers are a popular choice for high-volume kitchens. These fryers feature heating elements on the tank's exterior, making them easy to clean and maintain. However, because the heating elements are outside the fryer, they are generally less energy-efficient than other fryer types and have longer preheat and recovery times.

One of the key advantages of open-pot fryers is that they provide more frying space than other types of fryers and can hold more oil, allowing for the efficient cooking of large quantities of food. Since they have a smaller cold zone, they are best suited for cooking low-sediment items and frozen foods.

Electric fryers feature ribbon-like elements that run through the bottom of the fryer and are directly submerged in the oil. This design allows for fast preheating and quicker recovery times than gas fryers.

Electric fryers have a large cold zone, which helps to prevent oil contamination and extend the life of the oil. They are known for their energy-efficient heating method, making them a cost-effective option for businesses looking to save on energy expenses. The main drawback of electric fryers is that it can be challenging to clean under and behind the ribbon element if it's stationary. Electric fryers typically have a higher upfront cost compared to other fryer styles.

Flat-bottom fryers, sometimes called funnel cake/donut fryers, are a popular choice for commercial kitchens looking to fry donuts, funnel cakes, and other wet batter products to perfection. Available in both electric and gas models, these fryers offer versatility to suit various kitchen setups. Flat-bottom fryers allow products to float freely in the oil, ensuring even cooking throughout. The flat bottom eliminates the cold zone in the fryer, which reduces oil life but maximizes the capacity for frying large batches of food at once.

While flat-bottom fryers offer efficient cooking, they may take slightly longer to heat up compared to other fryer types. Because they lack a cold zone, these fryers are not ideal for cooking high-sediment items. The heating elements do not obstruct the bottom of the tank, making it easier to clean and maintain the fryer for optimal performance.

Available in electric and gas models, pressure fryers are a valuable addition to any commercial kitchen looking to produce high-quality fried foods efficiently and consistently. They are well-suited for quickly frying high- and low-sediment foods in high volumes. Compared to open deep fryers, pressure fryers offer quicker cooking times due to the increased boiling point of water. Their built-in oil filtration system helps maintain the quality of the oil and allows it to last through several cooking cycles before needing to be drained and replaced.

Pressure frying allows you to cook full batches of product in less time and at lower temperatures, which is perfect for locking in moisture and flavor. The pressure seals excess oil from the food for a healthier product. This is all done using less energy and oil than a standard open fryer.

Outdoor fryers are great for any commercial operation that requires cooking equipment for outdoor events. These fryers are designed with a portable design that makes them perfect for outdoor catering applications, barbecue competitions, and state fairs. When determining your production requirements, select an outdoor fryer that offers the specific features you need. Whether you opt for a multi-tank model or an outdoor fryer with additional side grills, there are versatile options available to expand your cooking capabilities.

Most outdoor fryers are liquid propane-powered, offering the convenience of not needing to be plugged into an electrical outlet. This feature allows for easy setup and operation in outdoor settings where electricity may not be readily available.

Drop-in fryers are a practical and efficient choice for commercial kitchens looking to combine functionality with space-saving design. These fryers are designed to fit inside a cutout in your countertop, allowing for a seamless integration that conserves valuable space in your kitchen layout. The height of the fryer is consistent with that of your countertop, creating a visually appealing design ideal for front-end facing and open kitchens.

The fry pot in a drop-in fryer is removable, making it convenient to clean and maintain. Many have added safety features and will automatically shut off if they overheat.

The innovative ventless fryer features a built-in filtration and fire suppression system that eliminates the need for hood ventilation. This means you can place a ventless fryer anywhere in your kitchen for greater flexibility. Easy to clean and operate, they are virtually odorless and even feature a self-contained oil drainage kit that allows operators to empty oil even when it's hot.

Ventless fryers are ideal for kitchens that may not have the space or capability for proper ventilation, such as historic buildings or stadiums. They are one of the most expensive fryer options and come in semi- or fully-automatic electric models.