If your fryer (Actifry type) no longer heats up, first check that you have closed the lid and selected a cooking program (as well as a duration, depending on the model). Also check that your fryer is clean and that there is no trace of moisture (on the filter, lid, grid protecting the resistance, cover, etc.).
If the appliance still does not heat up, you can check and test several parts of the fryer with a multimeter:
- the switch, if your fryer is equipped with one,
- or the lid switches if you don’t have a switch,
- resistance,
- thermal safety devices,
- the fan motor.
- Finally, you can check your electronic card and the fuses.
Whether it’s for a fast food restaurant or a home kitchen, a deep fryer is an essential cooking appliance. The ability to heat up quickly and evenly is one of its defining features. However, there may come a time when you notice that your fryer is not heating as it should, disrupting your cooking process and causing concern. In this article, we will delve into some possible reasons for this issue and how to resolve it.
Faulty Power Supply
The most straightforward reason your fryer may not be heating is an issue with its power supply. Ensure your fryer is properly plugged into a working outlet. If the fryer doesn’t heat up, try plugging it into a different outlet or check the circuit breaker. A blown fuse or a tripped breaker could be cutting off the power supply, which would prevent the fryer from heating.
Malfunctioning Thermostat
The thermostat in a deep fryer plays a critical role in heating. It regulates the temperature by switching the heating element on and off as needed. If your fryer is not heating, the thermostat might be defective. It may not be able to sense when to activate the heating element, resulting in the fryer not heating up. If you suspect this, contact a professional to inspect and replace the thermostat if necessary.
Defective Heating Element
The heating element is the heart of your fryer, responsible for generating the heat required for cooking. If it’s damaged or faulty, it will not heat up, and as a result, the fryer will fail to reach the desired temperature. You can usually tell if the heating element is defective by looking for signs of burnout or breakage. If the heating element is indeed damaged, it will need to be replaced by a professional.
Incorrect Oil Level
Deep fryers require a certain level of oil to operate correctly. If the oil level is too low, the heating element may not be completely submerged, which can prevent it from heating the oil to the right temperature. Make sure to fill your fryer to the recommended oil level indicated on the fryer.
Safety Features Engaged
Deep fryers have safety features to prevent overheating and possible fire hazards. If the fryer senses that it is overheating, it will automatically shut down the heating process. If your fryer is not heating up, it might be that these safety features have been triggered. Try resetting your fryer using the reset button, typically found on the back or bottom of the appliance. If this doesn’t resolve the issue, a professional may need to inspect the safety system.
Wear and Tear
Like any appliance, a deep fryer is subject to wear and tear over time. Regular use can lead to the breakdown of critical components, such as the thermostat or heating element, which will affect the fryer’s ability to heat. If you have an older fryer that’s heavily used, it might be time to consider a replacement.
CHECK FRYER FAN MOTOR
The fan motor ensures uniform cooking by distributing the heat generated by the resistance of the appliance.
- Unplug the device and let it cool down if you have used it before.
- Unscrew the bottom cover of the fryer and remove the honeycomb vent cover that hides your fan.
- Check the condition of your fan: its blades must not be broken. If they become dusty, wipe them with a dry cloth.
- Two wires (often black and red) will be visible at the exit of the metal cylinder that protects your engine. Trace the path of each of the wires to the electronic board, then disconnect these wires from the lugs (metal connection points).
- Set your multimeter to 2000 ohms (2 kΩ) and place each multimeter probe on the ends of the wires.
You should get a numeric value other than 1 or OL . If your multimeter does not show any change in value on its screen, your motor is definitely defective: it must therefore be replaced.
Conclusion
A deep fryer failing to heat can be a significant inconvenience, but understanding the possible causes of this issue can help you identify the best solution. In some cases, you may be able to address the problem yourself by checking the power supply or oil level. However, if the problem is due to a faulty component, you’ll likely need the help of a professional. Always remember, safety is paramount when dealing with electrical appliances. If in doubt, it’s best to consult a professional rather than attempting to fix the problem yourself.
