Introduction
This manual provides essential instructions for the safe and efficient installation, operation, and maintenance of your Pitco VF-35S 35 lb Single Pot Gas Fryer. Please read all instructions thoroughly before using the appliance to ensure proper function and to prevent injury or damage.
The Pitco VF-35S is a commercial-grade gas fryer designed for deep-frying various food products. It features a stainless steel tank, door, front, and sides, with a 35 lb oil capacity and 70,000 BTU/hr input.
Important Safety Information
WARNING: Improper installation, adjustment, alteration, service, or maintenance can cause property damage, injury, or death. Read the installation, operating, and maintenance instructions thoroughly before installing or servicing this equipment.
- Ensure adequate ventilation. This appliance must be installed in an area with proper air circulation.
- Do not store or use gasoline or other flammable vapors and liquids in the vicinity of this or any other appliance.
- Keep the area around the fryer clear of combustible materials.
- Always disconnect the appliance from the gas supply before performing any service or maintenance.
- Only qualified personnel should install, service, or repair this equipment.
- Never leave a hot fryer unattended.
- Use caution when handling hot oil. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment.
Setup and Installation
1. Unpacking
Carefully remove the fryer from its packaging. Inspect for any shipping damage. Report any damage to the carrier immediately.
2. Placement and Leveling
Place the fryer on a level, non-combustible surface. Ensure proper clearances from combustible walls: 6 inches from the sides and rear. The fryer requires adequate ventilation and must be installed under an exhaust hood.
Install the provided 9-inch adjustable legs. Use a spirit level to ensure the fryer is perfectly level for optimal performance and safety.
Image: Front view of the Pitco VF-35S Gas Fryer, showing its stainless steel construction and adjustable legs.
3. Gas Connection
Connect the fryer to the gas supply using a 3/4 inch NPT gas connection. It is strongly recommended to replace the gas supply hose when installing a new piece of equipment. All gas connections must be leak-tested with a soap solution after installation.
The integrated gas control valve acts as a manual and pilot valve, gas filter, regulator, and automatic main valve.
4. Initial Cleaning
Before first use, clean the fryer tank and accessories (baskets, clean out rod) with warm soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely.
Operating Instructions
1. Filling the Fryer
Ensure the drain valve is closed. Fill the fryer tank with cooking oil to the indicated "MIN" and "MAX" fill lines. Do not overfill or underfill.
2. Lighting the Pilot Light
This fryer features a standing pilot light. Refer to the specific lighting instructions located on the fryer's control panel. Generally, this involves turning the gas control knob to the "PILOT" position, depressing it, and lighting the pilot with an ignition source. Hold the knob for a short period until the pilot stays lit, then release.
3. Setting the Temperature
Once the pilot is lit, turn the main gas control knob to the "ON" position. Set the desired cooking temperature using the thermostat control, which ranges from 200°F to 400°F. The main burners will ignite to heat the oil to the set temperature.
4. Frying Food
Allow the oil to reach the set temperature before adding food. Use the two twin-size fry baskets provided. Do not overload the baskets, as this can lower oil temperature and result in soggy food. The cooking area is approximately 14 inches by 13 5/8 inches.
5. Draining Oil
When oil needs to be changed or filtered, ensure the oil has cooled to a safe temperature (below 100°F / 38°C). Place a suitable container under the 1 1/4 inch NPT drain valve and open the valve to drain the oil.
6. Shutdown
To shut down the fryer, turn the thermostat to its lowest setting, then turn the main gas control knob to the "OFF" position. For complete shutdown, turn the gas supply valve off.
Maintenance
1. Daily Cleaning
After each use, and once the oil has cooled, drain the oil. Clean the fryer tank thoroughly with warm soapy water and a non-abrasive brush or cloth. Use the provided clean out rod to clear any debris from the heating tubes. Rinse and dry completely.
Wipe down the exterior stainless steel surfaces with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
2. Oil Filtration and Replacement
Regularly filter your cooking oil to extend its life and maintain food quality. Replace oil when it darkens, smokes excessively, or develops an off-flavor.
3. Regular Inspections
Periodically inspect gas connections for leaks and ensure the pilot light and main burners are functioning correctly. Check the high temperature safety limit switch for proper operation. Any issues should be addressed by a qualified service technician.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Pilot light won't stay lit. | Insufficient gas supply, thermocouple issue, clogged pilot orifice. | Check gas supply. Clean pilot orifice. Contact service technician for thermocouple replacement. |
| Main burners won't ignite. | Pilot light out, thermostat set too low, gas valve closed. | Relight pilot. Increase thermostat setting. Ensure gas valve is open. |
| Oil not heating properly. | Thermostat malfunction, low gas pressure, excessive food load. | Verify thermostat setting. Check gas supply. Reduce food load. Contact service technician. |
| Excessive smoke from oil. | Oil is old or contaminated, temperature set too high. | Filter or replace oil. Reduce cooking temperature. |
For issues not listed or if solutions do not resolve the problem, contact a qualified service technician.
Specifications
- Model: VF-35S
- Brand: Pitco
- Type: Single Pot Gas Fryer
- Oil Capacity: 35 lbs
- BTU Input: 70,000 BTU/hr
- Material: Stainless Steel (tank, door, front, sides)
- Temperature Range: 200°F to 400°F
- Product Dimensions (W x D x H): 15 5/8 in x 32 in x 46 1/8 in
- Cooking Area: 14 in x 13 5/8 in
- Gas Connection: 3/4 inch NPT
- Drain Valve: 1 1/4 inch NPT
- Features: Standing pilot light, integrated gas control valve, high temperature safety limit switch, one tube rack, built-in flue deflector, (2) twin size fry baskets, clean out rod, 9 in adjustable legs.
- Certifications: ENERGY STAR, NSF certified
- Item Weight: 161 Pounds
Warranty Information
This Pitco VF-35S fryer comes with a one-year limited parts and labor warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers defects in material and workmanship under normal use and service. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims. For full warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the official Pitco warranty document or contact Pitco customer support.
Customer Support
For technical assistance, parts, or service inquiries regarding your Pitco VF-35S fryer, please contact Pitco customer support. Ensure you have your model number (VF-35S) and serial number ready when contacting support.
You can typically find contact information on the manufacturer's official website or in the packaging materials that came with your product.
