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How to Choose and Buy a Deep Fryer

Here are some hints and tips on some of the things to consider when choosing and buying a deep fryer. Keep in mind that different models come with different features, so it’s worth deciding which features you are looking for before buying.

Size and Style of Deep Fryers

Deep fryers come in different shapes, ranging from square or round to the professional rectangular designs. Some fryers have several buttons and dials, whereas others are less cluttered and more basic looking. Fryers come in many colours, with white and silver being the most common.

The total food capacity varies between models, so bear this in mind when comparing fryers. Some fryers will also take a lot more oil than others, and this is another factor that’s worth considering when choosing a deep fat fryer.

Roto Fryers

Roto fryers are an excellent idea. They save on the amount of oil being used each time, therefore saving you money. They do this by having a specially angled rotating basket, which dips in and out of the oil as it turns, meaning that it does not have to be totally immersed in a large quantity of oil. Roto fryers give great golden, crispy results, which are said to be less greasy than foods cooked using a conventional fryer.

Draining Tubes

A draining tube is a very easy way to deal with the oil after cooking is finished. Just pull out a hidden tube from its storage compartment, and let the oil pour out into waiting cup. The oil can then be reused. Cleaning couldn’t be simpler either - just put water inside the tube and let it drain out.

Viewing Port

Most models of deep fryer have a viewing port in them so you can safely keep an eye on the progress of the food inside. These windows can vary in size, so if this is a feature you fancy, compare models before buying to be sure that you are getting the right one for your needs.

Timers and Thermostats

Some fryers have timers, and different models may have different maximum cooking periods, so you may wish to compare these before buying. Some timers will alert you with a bell when they turn off.

Fryers can also come with variable thermostats, which give you more control over the cooking process. Most fryers operate in the 140-200 °C. (280-400°F) temperature range and indicator lights will let you know when the correct temperature has been reached.

Some fryers have digital controls whilst others feature dials or slide buttons, and you should decide on the type of controls you would like in advance, and compare product descriptions when buying.

Cleaning the Fryer

Some deep fat fryers have lids that come off or removable non-stick bowls. Other models come apart completely, so all non-electrical pieces can be popped into a dishwasher for easy, thorough cleaning. Check to see if the model you’re interested in has many removable or dishwasher-safe parts if these features are important to you.

Other Features of Deep Fat Fryers

Here are some more features you may find on the model you choose:

• Power on indicator light.
• Handy indicator light to alert you when the oil needs changing.
• Cool touch handles or exteriors.
• Non-slip feet to keep your fryer safely in place.
• Cord storage (some cords detach completely).
• External buttons to bring the basket up safely before you open the lid, preventing hot oil from splattering on you or over your counter top.
• Fryers may have anti-grease and anti-odour filters. Some types will let you know when the filter needs changing. Some models have double filters.

Further Information

You can find out more about some of the top models of deep fat fryer available on the market on our Top Fryer Models page and our types of deep fat fryer page

If you want to buy a deep fryer, you can find out more about some of the top online fryer suppliers including details of their delivery times and postage and packaging costs in our Where to Buy section.

You can learn more about other types of cooking appliance in our Types of Cooking Appliance section.

You can find out about specific cooking appliance manufacturers and brands in our Brands of Cooking Appliance section.