Frymaster FPEL214-2LCA User Manual

The Frymaster FPEL214-2LCA is a high-capacity electric fryer designed for commercial kitchen use, featuring two 14-inch fry pots, solid-state temperature controls, built-in filtration system, automatic basket lifts, melt cycle, and energy-saving features. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Utilities 7. Operating Procedures 8. Filtration & Cleaning 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Two 14-inch fry pots, Solid-state temperature controllers, Automatic basket lift system, Built-in filter system, High-limit safety thermostat, Power ON/OFF switch, Digital temperature display.

FeatureDescription
Fry PotsTwo 14-inch stainless steel pots with 35 lb oil capacity each
Temperature ControlSolid-state digital controllers with ±5°F accuracy
Basket LiftAutomatic electric lift system with manual override
Filtration SystemBuilt-in pump and filter for daily oil maintenance
Melt CycleAutomatic solid shortening melt function
Energy SaverIdle mode reduces energy consumption during non-use
High-Limit ThermostatSafety cut-off at 425°F (218°C)
Power SwitchMain power control with indicator light
Digital DisplayLED readout for set and actual temperatures
Drain ValvesManual lever-operated drains for each pot

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Position on level, stable surface with proper clearance.

  1. Location Requirements: Minimum 6-inch clearance from walls, 18-inch clearance from combustible materials.
  2. Electrical Connection: Requires dedicated 208/240V AC, 60Hz, 3-phase power supply with proper grounding.
  3. Ventilation: Install under approved exhaust hood with minimum 150 CFM per linear foot.
  4. Leveling: Adjust leveling feet to ensure proper oil distribution and drainage.

WARNING! Installation must be performed by qualified personnel. Ensure proper electrical and ventilation systems are in place before operation.

First-Time Setup

Complete installation before initial startup and seasoning.

  1. Season Fry Pots: Fill with oil, heat to 350°F (177°C) for 30 minutes, then cool completely.
  2. Calibrate Thermostats: Verify temperature accuracy with test thermometer.
  3. Test Basket Lifts: Cycle lifts several times to ensure smooth operation.
  4. Test Filtration: Run filter cycle with water to check pump and valve operation.
  5. Set Melt Cycle: Program melt cycle if using solid shortening.

CAUTION! Never operate without oil or shortening. Always wear protective equipment when handling hot oil.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Control Panel: POWER switch, Temperature control knobs, Basket lift controls, Filter switch, Melt cycle button, Digital displays.

Temperature Control: Set desired frying temperature (200°F-375°F). Actual temperature shown on digital display. Basket Lift: AUTO (timed lift) or MANUAL operation. Filter System: PUMP ON/OFF, DRAIN, RETURN valves. Melt Cycle: Activates low-temperature melting of solid shortening. Energy Saver: Reduces temperature during idle periods (configurable 1-4 hours).

Connecting Utilities

Electrical: 208/240V 3-phase connection. Ventilation: Exhaust hood connection. Water: Optional filter flush connection.

  1. Turn off all power at circuit breaker before making connections.
  2. Connect power leads to terminal block (L1, L2, L3, Ground).
  3. Verify proper phasing and voltage before energizing.
  4. Connect to exhaust hood with minimum 6-inch duct.
  5. Connect water supply if using filter flush option.

Tip: Label all circuits clearly. Test voltage at unit before final connection.

Operating Procedures

Daily operation for optimal frying performance.

  1. Startup: Turn POWER switch ON. Set desired temperature.
  2. Loading: Place food in baskets, lower into hot oil using lift control.
  3. Frying: Monitor cooking time. AUTO lift raises basket automatically at set time.
  4. Draining: Allow baskets to drain over fry pot for 10-15 seconds.
  5. Shutdown: Turn temperature to OFF, then POWER switch OFF at end of day.
  6. Filtering: Perform daily filtration (see Section 9).
  7. Melt Cycle: Use for solid shortening - activates low heat melting.

WARNING! Never add water to hot oil. Never overfill baskets. Keep floor area clean and dry.

Filtration & Cleaning

Daily filtration extends oil life and maintains food quality.

  1. Heat oil to 275°F (135°C) before filtering.
  2. Turn FILTER switch to PUMP position.
  3. Open DRAIN valve to transfer oil to filter tank.
  4. Clean fry pot interior while empty.
  5. Close DRAIN valve, open RETURN valve to pump oil back.
  6. Clean filter screen and replace filter paper daily.
  7. Wipe exterior with damp cloth and mild detergent.

CAUTION! Oil is extremely hot. Wear heat-resistant gloves and eye protection.

Care & Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety.

Daily: Filter oil, clean exterior, check temperature calibration. Weekly: Inspect heating elements, check basket lift mechanism, clean behind fryer. Monthly: Check electrical connections, inspect drain valves, verify high-limit thermostat. Annually: Professional inspection of all components, replace worn parts.

CAUTION! Disconnect power before performing any maintenance. Never use steam or pressure washers.

Regulatory Information

NSF/ANSI 4: Certified for commercial cooking equipment. UL 197: Listed for commercial electric fryers. CSA C22.2 No. 128: Canadian safety standard. FCC Part 15: Class A digital device. Copyright © Frymaster, LLC. For support, visit www.frymaster.com or contact 1-800-221-4583.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerCircuit breaker, power switchCheck circuit breaker; ensure power switch is ON; verify voltage at terminal block.
Oil not heatingThermostat, elements, contactorsCheck thermostat setting; test elements for continuity; inspect contactors.
Temperature inaccurateCalibration, sensorRecalibrate thermostat; check sensor connection; clean sensor tip.
Basket lift not workingMotor, limit switches, powerCheck lift motor; inspect limit switches; verify power to lift circuit.
Filter pump not workingMotor, valves, blockageCheck pump motor; ensure valves are open; clear any line blockage.
Oil smoking excessivelyTemperature, oil qualityVerify thermostat accuracy; replace old oil; check for food particles.
High-limit trips frequentlyThermostat, ventilationCheck main thermostat calibration; ensure proper ventilation clearance.

Reset: Turn power OFF for 60 seconds to reset electronic controls.

Service: 1-800-221-4583; www.frymaster.com

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