Pitco Fryer Thermostat Calibration
Known for their reliability and precision, Pitco fryers can prepare large quantities of food quickly and evenly, making them indispensable pieces of equipment wherever they’re located. If you want to keep your unit in working order, our Pitco fryer thermostat calibration guide will help you ensure that your machine is measuring temperature accurately so it can perform at its best.
These instructions are for fryers with solid state thermostats, such as the SG14, SSH55 and Solstice Supreme.
Supplies
- Oil or Shortening (if fryer is empty)
- Thermometer (with Probe)
- Screwdriver (Flat Head)
- Socket (5/16”)
Note: Water and hot oil can react violently when combined. So, be sure that no water comes in contact with the hot oil during the calibration process. If you need to fill the vat, make sure it’s completely dry before adding oil or shortening.
Preparing the Unit
- Step 1. Fill the fryer with oil (if necessary) - If needed, fill the fryer vat with oil or shortening. As previously stated, make sure there’s no water in the vat before adding the grease in order to minimize the risk of burns from splattering oil.
- Step 2. Place a thermometer probe in the oil - Position a thermometer probe in the oil so that it’s about 1” above the temperature probe in the vat.
- Step 3. Turn the fryer on - Use the power switch to turn the fryer on.
Checking the Temperature
- Step 1. Set the thermostat to 350° F - Turn the dial to 350° F (176.7° C).
- Step 2. Allow the oil temperature to stabilize - Let the unit cycle at least 4 times so that the oil can reach a consistent temperature.
- Step 3. Compare the thermometer reading and thermostat setting - Check the temperature reading on the thermometer with the thermostat setting: if they differ, the thermostat needs to be calibrated.
Adjusting the Thermostat
- Step 1. Remove the thermostat knob - Use a flathead screwdriver to remove the thermostat knob cap.
- Step 2. Loosen the collet - Use a 5/16” socket to loosen the thermostat collet.
- Step 3. Adjust the thermostat - Rotate the knob until the fryer thermostat setting matches the actual temperature of the oil as determined by the thermometer.
- Step 4. Double check the calibration - Let the unit cycle a few times, then compare the thermometer reading and the thermostat setting; if there’s still a significant discrepancy between the two, adjust the thermostat again.
Resuming Normal Operation
- Step 1. Reassemble the thermostat - Tighten the collet and reinstall the cap of the thermostat knob.
- Step 2. Remove the thermometer probe - Take the probe out of the oil and set the thermometer aside.
- Step 3. Adjust the oil temperature (as needed) - If needed, use the thermostat to change the temperature of the oil.
- Step 4. Use the unit normally - Now you may resume normal operation of the fryer.
For more information on operating, cleaning and troubleshooting your unit, be sure to take a look at the extensive library of Pitco manuals and diagrams on our site.