Introduction

Designed for commercial kitchens, the Vollrath Countertop Deep Fryer 40708 is a compact and multipurpose frying gadget. Its sturdy stainless steel construction guarantees longevity and minimal maintenance. This oil cooker has a 15-pound capacity and an 1800-watt heating element that produces consistent frying temperatures and rapid heat recovery. The fryer has safety cut-off to prevent overheating and temperature settings that may be adjusted from 120°F to 400°F. The Vollrath 40708 is ideal for medium-duty frying applications and is a great choice for cafés, restaurants, and catering businesses that need a space-saving appliance that still delivers dependable and efficient performance.

SPARE PARTS LIST

Countertop Fryer, Models ~ 40705, 40706, 40707, 40708

EXPLODED VIEW 

Countertop Fryer, Models ~ 40705, 40706, 40707, 40708

Unpacking the Equipment 

Dispose of all packaging, materials in an environmentally responsible manner.

1. Remove all packing material and tape, as well as any protective plastic from the unit.
2. Clean any glue residue left over from the plastic or tape.
3. Place the unit in the desired position and height.
4. Plug unit into a properly grounded electrical supply matching the nameplate rating. Damage to the unit can occur if incorrect power is supplied to unit.

Detailed Specifications

The Vollrath Countertop Deep Fryer 40708 is a 16 x 16 x 10 inch frypot with a 20,000 BTU stainless steel burner and a 40 lb. frying capacity. It requires 120V electricity, features a digital temperature control display, and an oil filter system that can hold 13.5 gallons of oil per hour. The fryer also has a sturdy enameled steel body, a 6-inch stainless steel basket, and a detachable stainless steel cover. It includes casters for ease mobility and weighs 150 lbs.

• One (1) dedicated 20 Amp circuit with a single outlet is required for each fryer head. 
• Two separate dedicated 20 Amp circuits with a single outlet for each fryer head is required.

Features and Controls

• A. THERMOSTAT CONTROL dial
  Used to set or adjust the temperature of the well. The numbers on the dial correspond with the oil temperature. The “0” position is off. 
• B. OVER TEMPERATURE RESET SWITCH and COVER
  Remove cover to access the reset switch. If the oil reaches a temperature of 430°F (221°C) this switch cuts power to the unit. 
• C. HIGH OIL LEVEL
  This is the maximum level mark for the well. Do not fill with oil above this mark because it may cause oil to overflow the well after the basket of food has been added. 
• D. LOW OIL LEVEL
  This is the minimum level mark for the well. Do not operate with oil below this level as the oil may overheat and start a fire. 
• E. LIFTING HANDLES
  Used to lift the well in and out of the unit for oil disposal and cleaning.
• F. WELL
  Holds the oil and is where the cooking takes place. A heating element is suspended in this component. 
• G. HEATING ELEMENT
  This is what heats the oil or lard. 
• H. PILOT LIGHT
  This light indicates that the element is heating. Once the temperature has been reached the light will go out. The unit will continue to maintain heat and temperature with light cycling on and off. This is not an “ON/OFF” light.

Description

With its adaptable and effective design, the Vollrath Countertop Deep Fryer 40708 is a deep fryer that can handle the needs of busy foodservice operations. It's perfect for swiftly and evenly frying huge amounts of food because of its 40 lb. frying capacity and 20,000 BTU burner. Precise temperature control is ensured by the fryer's computerized temperature control display, while food quality and oil life are preserved by the 13.5 gallon per hour oil filtering system. The fryer's robust enameled steel exterior gives it a sleek, polished appearance, and its removable stainless steel top and basket facilitate easy cleaning and maintenance.

Operation 

Follow these same instructions for each well of a two well unit. Each well operates independently and may be operated at different temperatures.

1. Remove basket(s) from fryer.
2. Fill or add oil/solid shortening to the well (F). Always maintain oil level between High Oil Level (C) and Low Oil Level (D) as indicated on the side of the well. See Figure 1. DO NOT overfill.
   • WARNING 
     Burn Hazard. Do not touch hot liquid or heating surfaces while the unit is heating or operating. Hot liquids and food can burn skin. Allow the hot liquid to cool before handling. Do not drop or spill water into hot oil as it will spray or splatter the hot oil out of the tank.
   • WARNING 
     Fire Hazard. Overheated oil or oil vapors can ignite causing a fire. Monitor oil temperature, quality and level. Use and maintain oil vapor removal system. Heat oil carefully. If oil smokes, reduce heat. Do not leave the unit unattended. If fire occurs, turn unit off, cover until cool. Do not put water on hot or flaming oil. Do not operate with oil below low oil mark. Dirty oil has a lower flash point. Replace oil on a regular basis. Maintain correct oil level. Use an oil vapor removal system (hood) to reduce oil and grease buildup on wall or ceiling surfaces.
3. Adjust the thermostat control (A) to the desired temperature; the pilot light (H) indicates when the elements are energized. If lard or solid type oil is used the unit must be pulsed in 1 to 2 minute on and off cycles at low-med temperature until liquid covers the heating coils. This will reduce smoking and risk of fire.
4. Allow the unit to preheat and the oil to come up to cooking temperature, approximately 15 minutes. The pilot light (H) will cycle when the oil has reached the set temperature.
5. Load each basket; NEVER more than half way full.
6. Carefully lower the basket into the cooking oil.
7. When removing the basket from the oil, allow the excess oil to drain back into the well before transferring to holding area.

Oil Tips

1. Use high quality oil.
2. Cook at temperatures that are recommended by the food manufacturer.
3. Change oil as needed or food quality requires.
4. Skim oil often and filter daily.
5. Cover oil overnight.

Cleaning 

To maintain the appearance and increase the service life, clean your unit daily.

WARNING 
Burn Hazard. Do not touch hot liquid or heating surfaces while the unit is heating or operating. Hot liquids and food can burn skin. Allow the hot liquid to cool before handling. Do not drop or spill water into hot oil as it will spray or splatter the hot oil out of the tank.

WARNING 
Fire Hazard. Overheated oil or oil vapors can ignite causing a fire. Monitor oil temperature, quality and level. Use and maintain oil vapor removal system. Heat oil carefully. If oil smokes, reduce heat. Do not leave unit unattended. If fire occurs, turn unit off, cover until cool. Do not put water on hot or flaming oil. Do not operate with oil below low oil mark. Dirty oil has a lower flash point. Replace oil on a regular basis. Maintain correct oil level. Use an oil vapor removal system (hood) to reduce oil and grease buildup on wall or ceiling surfaces.

NOTE: Do not clean the unit with steel wool.

1. Allow the unit and oil to cool completely before cleaning.
   • WARNING 
     Electrical Shock Hazard. Keep water and other liquids from entering the inside of the unit. Liquid inside the unit could cause an electrical shock. Do not spray water or cleaning products. Liquid could contact the electrical components and cause a short circuit or an electrical shock. Do not use unit if power cord is damaged or has been modified.
2. Unplug the unit.
3. Do not immerse the cord, plug or controls in water or any other liquid.

4. Rotate the fryer head to the up position (A). See Figure 2.

   

5. Carefully remove the well(s) (C) from the unit and filter or discard used oil.
6. Using a damp cloth or sponge dipped in soapy water to clean the unit and well(s); rinse thoroughly. Or, you may also fill the well(s) (C, Figure 1) with water and dishwashing liquid. Lower fryer head to the down position (B) and boil it for a few minutes; rinse thoroughly. It’s important that the unit doesn’t run dry as it will cause the element to burn out.
7. Dry thoroughly after cleaning.

Wiring Diagram 

Models 40705 and 40707

Models 40706 and 40708

Setup Guide

Prior to using the Vollrath Countertop Deep Fryer 40708, make sure the space is well-ventilated and that the appliance is set up on a level, sturdy surface. After plugging the fryer in, flip the power switch on. Fill the frypot to the correct level, being careful not to go over the maximum fill line. After turning on the burner, adjust the appropriate frying temperature using the digital temperature control display. Use the stainless steel basket to put food to the frypot and cook it according to your preferences after the oil reaches the proper temperature.

Safety Precautions

To ensure safe operation, read the following statements and understand their meaning. This manual contains safety precautions which are explained below. Please read carefully.

WARNING 
Warning is used to indicate the presence of a hazard that can cause severe personal injury, death, or substantial property damage if the warning is ignored.

CAUTION 
Caution is used to indicate the presence of a hazard that will or can cause minor personal injury or property damage if the caution is ignored.

NOTE 
Note is used to notify people of installation, operation, or maintenance information that is important but not hazard-related.

For Your Safety! 
These precautions should be followed at all times. Failure to follow these precautions could result in injury to yourself and others. To reduce risk of injury or damage to the unit:

1. Do not operate unattended.
2. Unit must be only used in a flat, level position.
3. Change oil regularly or as necessary. Old or dirty oil has a lower flash point than clean oil.
4. Fill to correct level with oil. Do not over fill.
5. Do not overfill basket. Do not fill basket more than half full.
6. Hot oil is flammable - keep open flames away from hot oil and oil vapors.
7. Unplug unit, turn off and let it cool before cleaning or moving.
8. Do not spray controls or outside of unit with liquids or cleaning agents.
9. Do not operate unit in public areas and/or around children.
10. The unit and oil may be hot even though the Pilot Light is not on.
11. Do not operate if unit has been damaged or is malfunctioning in any way.
12. Do not tamper with the Safe Operation Switch or Over Temperature Protection Switch.
13. Do not spray controls or outside of unit with liquids or cleaning agents.
14. Do not clean the unit with steel wool.
15. Dispose of oil in an environmentally responsible manner.

Function and Purpose 
This unit is intended to be used for deep frying foods in commercial foodservice operations only. It is not intended for household, industrial or laboratory use. Before using this equipment it must be cleaned and dried thoroughly. Clean all surfaces before use. Failure to clean surfaces before using the unit could cause food contamination.

This fryer is a medium duty appliance capable of a wide variety of frying applications. The temperature is thermostatically controlled between 120°F (49°C) and 400°F (204°C). The thermostat is also the ON/OFF switch. An indicator lamp adjacent to the thermostat dial indicates when the elements are heating.

Installation Safety Precautions

WARNING Fire Hazard. Correct installation precautions, procedures and regulations must be followed. Operation and safety training is necessary for all users of this equipment. The equipment must be installed by qualified personal only. Correct installation precautions, procedures and regulations must be followed in order to reduce the risk of fire. Hood and fire suppression systems must be maintained per manufacturer’s guidelines. Only personnel qualified and trained are to use this equipment.

1. The fryer must not be installed under combustible materials and the minimum clearance from combustible construction must be 6” (15 cm) from the sides and back of the fryer. The area surrounding the fryer should be kept free and clear of combustible materials.
2. All deep fryers must be installed with at least 16” (40.6 cm) space between the fryer and surface flames from adjacent cooking equipment.
3. Equipment must be installed by qualified personnel in accordance with federal, state and local codes.
4. The fryer should be installed under a hood in accordance with the latest edition of the Standard for Ventilation Control and Fire Protection of Commercial Cooking Operations, NFPA 96.
5. Never direct the automatic fire extinguishers so they can blow the oil out of the container.
6. Locate the fryer in a place where it cannot be pushed off counter.
7. Keep the area at the front of the fryer clear for unobstructed access during operation.
8. Keep unit and power cord away from open flames, electric burners or excessive heat.
9. Use only grounded electrical outlets matching the nameplate rated voltage.
10. Do not use an extension cord with this equipment.
11. Do not spray controls or outside of unit with liquids or cleaning agents.

Troubleshooting

Temperature Safety Reset Switch 
This unit is equipped with a switch that cuts off power if the oil temperature reaches 430°F (221°C). This switch has a manual reset. The reset switch and cover (B) is located on the front panel of the unit. See Figure 1. Determine what caused the safety switch to activate and correct it. Possible causes include; dirty oil, low oil level and element not properly submerged in oil.

To reset the temperature safety switch:

1. Wait until the oil has cooled to 300°F (149°C) or below.

2. Remove the switch cover (A) by unscrewing counterclockwise. See Figure 3.

   

3. Use a pen or similar narrow tool (A) and press the reset button (B) down. The button should stay in the down or in the set position. See Figure 4.

   

4. Replace the switch cover and secure by screwing clockwise. See Figure 5.

   

If unable to reset the temperature safety switch or the switch continues to trip, contact Vollrath Technical Service.

Safe Operation Switch 

This unit is equipped with a safe operation switch. The switch allows power to the heating element when it is in the correct position. See Figure 6. 
Safe operation switch:

Troubleshooting Chart

Countertop Cooking Equipment

1. When the heating element (B) is in the correct or down position the safe operation switch (A) is pushed in and the heating element will be supplied with power.
2. When the heating element is in the up position (C) or removed from the unit, switch (D) goes to the “OFF” position and cuts power to the heating element.

WARRANTY

The Vollrath Company LLC warrants the products it manufactures and distributes against defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one year, except as specifically provided below. The warranty runs 12 months from the date of original installation. (End user receipt)

1. Refrigeration compressors – The warranty period is 5 years.
2. Replacement parts – The warranty period is 90 days.
3. Fry pans and coated cookware – The warranty period is 90 days.
4. EverTite™ Riveting System – The warranty covers loose rivets only, forever.
5. Cayenne® Heat Strips – The warranty period is 1 year plus an additional 1 year period on heating element parts only.
6. Ultra and Professional Induction Ranges – The warranty period is 2 years.
7. Mirage and Commercial Induction ranges - The warranty period is 1 year.
8. ServeWell® Induction Workstations – The warranty period is one year on the workstation table and 2 years on induction hobs.
9. Slicers – The warranty period is 10 years on gears and 5 years on belts.
10. Mixers – The warranty period is 2 years.
11. Extended warranties are available at the time of sale.
12. Boxer Mixers – 1 Year exchange Warranty.
13. Vollrath – Redco products – The warranty period is 2 years.
14. Optio / Arkadia product lines – The warranty period is 90 days.
15. All non-stick products (i.e. fry pans and surfaces) are 90 days for the non-stick surfaces.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 40 lbs of frying capacity in a high-volume frying appliance
• robust stainless steel burner with 20,000 BTUs
• For accurate temperature management, use a digital temperature control display.
• For extended oil life, use a 13.5-gallon per hour oil filtration system.
• Stainless steel basket and lid that are detachable for simple upkeep and cleaning

Cons

• Expensive pricing range
• 150 lbs. of heavy weight
• needs a 120V power outlet to function.
• may generate a great deal of steam and heat when operating.

Customer Reviews

Positive reviews of the Vollrath Countertop Deep Fryer 40708 are common, with users complimenting it for its accurate temperature control and large capacity for frying. Although some consumers complain that the fryer is bulky and needs a special 120V electrical socket, most consumers are generally happy with their purchase.

Common Complaints

The Vollrath Countertop Deep Fryer 40708 is often criticized for being too expensive, which could be out of reach for some home cooks or small companies. Although these concerns are not common, some customers have also mentioned problems with the oil filtration system and temperature control.