Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient operation, installation, and maintenance of your Pitco Solstice SG14-S Natural Gas Floor Fryer. Designed for commercial use, this stainless steel fryer features 4 tubes and a powerful 110,000 BTU heating system, capable of handling 40-50 lbs of oil. Adhering to these instructions will ensure optimal performance and longevity of your equipment.

Front view of the Pitco Solstice SG14-S Natural Gas Floor Fryer, showcasing its stainless steel construction and dual fry baskets.
Safety Information
Always prioritize safety when operating commercial kitchen equipment. Failure to follow safety guidelines can result in serious injury or property damage.
- Ensure proper ventilation in the installation area.
- 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.
- Only qualified personnel should install, maintain, or repair this equipment.
- Always turn off the gas supply and disconnect power before cleaning or servicing.
- Never leave the fryer unattended while in operation.
- Use caution when handling hot oil. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
Setup
Unpacking and Inspection
Carefully remove the fryer from its packaging. Inspect for any shipping damage. Report any damage immediately to the carrier and your supplier.
Placement and Clearances
Position the fryer on a level, non-combustible surface. Ensure adequate clearance from walls and other equipment for proper ventilation and maintenance access. Refer to local fire codes and regulations for specific clearance requirements.
Gas Connection
This fryer operates on natural gas. Gas connections must be performed by a licensed and qualified technician in accordance with all local and national codes. Ensure the gas supply pressure matches the appliance requirements.
Leveling
Adjust the adjustable legs at the bottom of the fryer to ensure the unit is perfectly level. This is crucial for even heating and proper oil drainage.
Initial Cleaning
Before first use, thoroughly clean the frypot and baskets with warm water and a mild detergent. Rinse completely and dry all surfaces to prevent water spots or residue from affecting oil quality.
Operating Instructions
Filling with Oil
Ensure the drain valve is closed. Fill the frypot with cooking oil to the indicated "MIN" and "MAX" fill lines. Do not overfill or underfill.
Lighting the Pilot
Locate the pilot light assembly, typically accessible through a front panel. Follow the instructions on the unit's control panel to ignite the pilot. This usually involves turning a knob to the pilot position, pressing it in, and applying a flame (e.g., with a lighter) to the pilot opening until it ignites and holds. The video provided by an influencer demonstrates the ease of lighting the pilot.
Temperature Control
Once the pilot is lit, turn the main control knob to the desired frying temperature. The fryer will automatically heat the oil to the set temperature and maintain it.
Frying Procedures
Carefully place food into the fry baskets. Lower the baskets slowly into the hot oil to prevent splashing. Do not overload the baskets, as this can lower oil temperature and result in soggy food. Cook until desired crispness and internal temperature are reached.
Basket Usage
The Pitco SG14-S comes with two fry baskets, allowing for simultaneous frying of different items or larger batches. Ensure baskets are clean before each use. The video highlights the clean appearance of the baskets, emphasizing the importance of regular cleaning.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance is crucial for the performance and lifespan of your fryer. The video emphasizes the importance of keeping the fryer "very, very clean" and scrubbing it down regularly.
Daily Cleaning
- At the end of each day, filter the cooking oil to remove food particles.
- Wipe down the exterior of the fryer with a damp cloth and mild detergent.
- Clean the fry baskets thoroughly.
Oil Filtration/Changing
Oil should be filtered daily. Depending on usage, the oil should be completely changed regularly. The fryer features a convenient drain port to facilitate oil removal. Always allow oil to cool before draining.
Deep Cleaning
Periodically, a deep clean of the frypot is necessary. Drain all oil, then fill the frypot with water and a suitable fryer cleaning solution. Boil the solution according to the cleaner's instructions, then drain, scrub, rinse thoroughly, and dry. The video shows the internal components, which should be cleaned during deep maintenance.
Burner Maintenance
Regular inspection of the burners and heat exchange tubes is recommended to ensure efficient operation. Remove any carbon buildup or debris. This should ideally be done by a qualified technician during routine servicing. The video provides a glimpse of the internal burner components.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Fryer not heating | No gas supply; Pilot light out; Thermostat setting too low | Check gas valve; Relight pilot; Adjust thermostat |
| Oil not reaching set temperature | Overloading; Insufficient gas pressure; Dirty burners | Reduce batch size; Check gas supply; Clean burners (professional service recommended) |
| Excessive smoke | Old oil; Food particles in oil; Oil level too low | Change oil; Filter oil; Add fresh oil |
For issues not listed or if problems persist, contact a qualified service technician.
Specifications
- Brand: Pitco
- Model Name: Solstice
- Item Model Number: SG14S
- Fuel Type: Natural Gas
- BTU: 110,000
- Oil Capacity: 40-50 lb.
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Color: Silver
- Product Dimensions: 25 x 46 x 60 inches
- Item Weight: 230 Pounds
- Wattage: 32219.56 watts
- UPC: 638632235752
- Manufacturer: Pitco
- Date First Available: August 9, 2009
Warranty and Support
For warranty information, please refer to the documentation provided at the time of purchase or contact Pitco customer support directly. Keep your purchase receipt and model/serial number handy for any service inquiries.
For technical assistance or to locate authorized service providers, visit the official Pitco website or contact their customer service department.