Inspecting Vat for Leaks

Some locations may choose to do this procedure on a more frequent basis (i.e., quarterly, semi-annually, or other frequency).

Fire Hazard To avoid fire, remove fryer from service and replace vat if any oil accumulation is noticed on a vat weld.

Only perform this procedure when the unit is cool or severe burns may result.

Excessive oil accumulation on the exterior of the vat may indicate the fryer is having a hardware issue or the operator is not following recommended operating procedures. With both side panels and the back shroud removed, clean off the oil accumulation, and then use a flashlight to inspect the vat, vat welds, vat plumbing and fittings, and the probe and element fittings.

If the vat is suspected of leaking, do the following:

• If the oil accumulation is toward the upper half of the vat, take the fryer out of service immediately, and replace the fryer.

• If the oil accumulation is toward the lower half of the vat, and it is not evident if the oil accumulation is due to the store using a filter pan without a cover or other operator error, do the following:

  1. If necessary, scrape and clean off the existing oil from the vat and welds,

  2. Have the store bread and cook 4 head or greater of bone in chicken.

  3. During cooking, monitor the suspected area for leaking:

     • If oil is pushed out of the vat or welded areas while the fryer is under pressure, take the fryer out of service and replace the fryer.

     • If the vat is not leaking, take the fryer out of service until the oil accumulation is removed and the store operates the fryer with a filter pan cover or the operator error is corrected.