PITCO VF SERIES INSTALLATION & OPERATIONAL MANUAL
L20-418 Rev 2 (5/16)
17
APPLIANCE START UP
Refer to the following procedure to start the appliance prior to operation.
1. Fill the cook tank with oil/shortening (See Section 2.1 FILLING THE COOK TANK). Never operate the
appliance unless the cook tank is properly filled.
2. Light the pilot as previously described in this manual.
3. Turn the temperature control knob (thermostat) to the desired temperature setting. This knob is
located behind the door.
4. The appliance is now on and heating the oil/shortening in the cook tank.
To ensure the quality of the food you cook in this appliance, follow the preparation instructions from the food
manufacturer. When the appliance is not in use, the oil should be cooled and covered to prevent
contamination.
Maximum Allowable Load per Tank Size (W x L)
7 x 14 in
(17.8 x 35.6 cm)
14 x 14 in
(35.6 x 35.6 cm)
18 x 18 in
(45.7 x 45.7 cm)
14 x 18 in
(35.6 x 45.7 cm)
18 x 14 in
(45.7 x 35.6 cm)
1.5 lbs. (0.68kg)
3 lbs. (1.36 kg)
5 lbs. (2.27 kg)
3 lbs. (1.36 kg)
5 lbs. (2.27 kg)
Always follow the food manufacturer’s directions.
The lower the oil temperature, the longer the
cooking time and the greater the fat absorption.
NEVER overfill appliance baskets. Overfilling
can result in soggy, greasy product.
When removing baskets from the cook tank,
shake gently to remove excess oil.
Never leave a basket over the appliance. The
heat from the cook tank will continue to cook the
product.
Oil/shortening quality can affect product quality.
Keep salt and water away from the oil/shortening
to maintain its life. Oil/shortening filtration
removes crumbs from the oil which will also
extend its life.
Typical French Fry Cook Times (m/s)
Temperature
350°F
360°F
370°F
Fry Thickness (177°C) (182°C) (188°C)
Thin
2:45
2:30
2:15
Medium
3:45
3:30
3:15
Thick
4:15
4:00
3:45
This table is for reference only. Please refer to
the product manufacturer’s specifications to
determine exact cook temperatures and times.
WARNING
Dry fired heat tubes are extremely hot, will shorten the tank service life and will void your warranty.
WARNING
NEVER operate the appliance with an empty fry tank. It will void the warranty.
WARNING
Oil/shortening level should NOT be allowed to fall below the indicated level line at any time. Dry
firing of the fry tank will shorten tank service life and will void your warranty.
WARNING
Oil level should NOT be allowed to fall below the indicated level line at any time. Dry firing of the
tank may cause a fire, and can shorten tank service life. Evidence of dry firing will void your
warranty.
