How to Set Up, Use & Maintain a Star Griddle
Star Manufacturing produces several variations of griddles for commercial kitchens - the 515TG, 524TG, 536TG, 548TG in the Star-Max Electric Griddle line and the 524CHS, 536CHS, and 548CHS in the Chrome-Max Electric Griddle line.
The griddle is an appliance with a long history and a simple design. Griddle heat and cook food by heating a flat metal plate (composed of various different materials). A commercial griddle is a relatively simple to understand machine - there is a plate, a heat source, and mechanism for controlling the temperature.
Installing the Star Manufacturing Griddle
As always, make sure you're using the right voltage and power source for your griddle, which is clearly detailed in the operating instructions that came with your appliance.
A Star Manufacturing griddle may be wired for operation for either 1-phase or 3-phase power supplies - have a qualified electrician handle this part of the job for you. It'll make your life much easier.
You can level the griddle by adjusting the four feet on the bottom, so you can ensure the griddle is lined up properly with other appliances.
Cooking with the Griddle
Before cooking, you'll want to make sure your Star Manufacturing griddle is nice and clean. Then you'll need to season the surface to prevent food from sticking. To season a Star griddle, follow these simple steps:
1. Heat the griddle surface to 350
2. Use a cloth to spread a thin layer of cooking oil (or fat) on the surface - leave it for 30 minutes and then remove the excess, and wipe clean.
3. Repeat step 2.
Now, you're ready to cook! And come to Parts Town if you need replacement temperature control knobs for your Star Manufacturing griddle.
Caring for the Griddle
Star Manufacturing griddles are built to last. Since the griddle isn't a very complex machine, it's fairly simple to maintain them for many years. The biggest key to griddle maintenance is avoiding grease buildup. If you allow grease to stay on the surface, it will harden into a tough substance that is almost impossible to remove. If you simply scrape the griddle after each use to remove excess fat and food, you'll be able to avoid this condition.
If any grease remains after scraping, simply scour and re-season your griddle.
Important note: DO NOT use steel wool for this! Steel wool can leave slivers behind on the surface, which can then invade the food you cook - not a good situation. Abrasives can also damage the surface, so avoid using stones, pumice or other types of materials.
Major Problems
If you experience major problems with your griddle, make sure to call Parts Town - we can help you troubleshoot and determine what parts (or repair services!) you might need to get your Star Manufacturing griddle cooking again!