Frymaster RE17TC-SD User Manual

The Frymaster RE17TC-SD is a 17-inch heavy-duty countertop fryer designed for commercial food service operations. It features solid-state temperature controls, a high-efficiency heating system, a stainless steel construction, a built-in cold zone, a melt cycle, automatic basket lifts, digital temperature display, safety cut-off, and easy-cleaning design. Powered by 208-240V AC, 60Hz, three-phase. 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. Safety Features 9. Cleaning & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Stainless steel fry tank with cold zone, Control Panel, Heating Elements, Basket Lift Mechanism, Digital Temperature Controller, Drain Valve, Filter System.

FeatureDescription
Fry Tank17-inch capacity, stainless steel construction with integrated cold zone
Control PanelDigital temperature display and solid-state controls
Heating SystemHigh-efficiency, low-watt density elements
Basket LiftAutomatic lift mechanism with adjustable hold time
Melt CycleAutomatic solid shortening melt function
Drain ValveManual or optional automatic oil drainage
Filter SystemBuilt-in or optional external filtration
Power ON/OFFMain power switch with indicator light
Temperature ControlDigital setpoint and actual temperature display
Safety Cut-offHigh-limit thermostat for over-temperature protection

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on level, stable, heat-resistant surface.

  1. Electrical Connection: Have a qualified electrician connect to appropriate 208-240V AC, 3-phase power supply.
  2. Ventilation: Ensure adequate overhead clearance and install proper exhaust hood.
  3. Positioning: Allow sufficient space on all sides for air circulation and service access.
  4. Oil/Filling: Fill fry tank with appropriate shortening or oil to fill line.

WARNING! This appliance is heavy; use proper lifting equipment or multiple persons. Installation must comply with all local codes.

First-Time Setup

After installation, perform initial setup before first use.

  1. Power On: Turn main power switch ON. The digital display will illuminate.
  2. Melt Cycle: If using solid shortening, initiate the MELT cycle via control panel.
  3. Temperature Calibration: Set desired cooking temperature (typically 325°F - 375°F).
  4. Basket Lift Test: Test automatic basket lift function without product.
  5. Initial Heat-up: Allow fryer to reach set temperature. This may take 15-20 minutes.

CAUTION! Never operate without oil/shortening. Keep area clear of flammable materials.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access functions via the front control panel.

Control Panel: POWER ON/OFF, Temperature UP/DOWN buttons, Digital Display, MELT button, BASKET LIFT button, RESET button.

Temperature Setting: Use UP/DOWN buttons to set desired cooking temperature. The display shows setpoint and actual temperature. Melt Cycle: Press MELT to initiate automatic shortening melt function. Basket Lift: Press LIFT to raise/lower baskets; hold time can often be adjusted via dip switches. High-Limit Reset: If safety thermostat trips, press RESET button after unit cools.

Connecting Utilities

Electrical: 208-240V AC, 3-phase connection via hard-wired conduit. Venting: Connect to approved Type 1 exhaust hood.

  1. Turn off all power at the circuit breaker before making any connections.
  2. Have a licensed electrician perform electrical hookup according to local codes.
  3. Ensure the exhaust hood is installed and operational before using the fryer.
  4. Verify proper grounding of the appliance.

Tip: Keep electrical connections dry and free from grease buildup.

Operating Procedures

Standard frying procedure for consistent results.

  1. Preheat: Ensure fryer is at desired set temperature.
  2. Loading: Place food product in basket. Do not overload.
  3. Lowering: Press BASKET LIFT button or manually lower basket into hot oil.
  4. Frying: Monitor cooking time. The automatic lift will raise the basket when set time elapses (if programmed).
  5. Draining: Allow basket to drain over fry tank for a few seconds after lifting.
  6. Dumping: Transfer food to holding station or serving container.
  7. Shake Function (if equipped): Use basket shake to remove excess oil.

WARNING! Hot oil can cause severe burns. Use caution and proper protective equipment.

Safety Features

High-Limit Thermostat: Cuts power if oil temperature exceeds safe limit. Requires manual reset. Cold Zone: Area at bottom of tank where food particles settle, preventing burning. Melt Cycle: Safely melts solid shortening without scorching. Grounded Construction: All metal parts are electrically grounded.

Cleaning & Maintenance

Turn off power and allow to cool completely before cleaning. Drain oil when cool. Clean interior with mild detergent and hot water. Rinse thoroughly. Wipe exterior with damp cloth. Clean filter system (if equipped) according to separate filter manual. Inspect heating elements for debris monthly.

CAUTION! Never use water spray or hose on electrical components. Never use abrasive cleaners on stainless steel.

Regulatory Information

This appliance complies with NSF/ANSI 4 for commercial cooking equipment and UL 197 for safety. It is certified for use in the United States and Canada. Copyright © by Frymaster, a member of the Welbilt group. For technical support, parts, or service, contact Frymaster at 1-800-221-4583 or visit www.frymaster.com.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Fryer won't heatPower, thermostat, elementsCheck circuit breaker; reset high-limit; verify element continuity.
Temperature inaccurateSensor, calibrationCheck sensor connection; recalibrate controller per manual.
Basket lift not workingMotor, switch, obstructionCheck power to lift motor; inspect for mechanical obstruction.
Oil smoking excessivelyTemperature, oil qualityVerify thermostat calibration; change oil; clean cold zone.
Error code on displaySensor fault, system errorRefer to error code chart in manual; power cycle unit.

Reset: Power cycle unit. For persistent errors, contact authorized service.

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

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