How To Install A Spigot On Your Deep Fryer

Deep fryers are a great way to get a juicy, flavorful meal with a crispy exterior. However, they can be messy and hard to clean. One way to make cleaning easier is to install a spigot on the deep fryer, which allows for easy draining of hot oil. This can be done by purchasing a deep fryer with a built-in spigot or by installing a metal spigot on an existing deep fryer. While the former is safer and more convenient, the latter is a more cost-effective option.

Safety considerations when installing a spigot on a deep fryer

Deep fryers can be dangerous, causing burns, fires, and other hazards if not used correctly. Here are some safety considerations to keep in mind when installing and using a spigot on a deep fryer:

Spigot Installation:

• If possible, opt for a pre-fabricated fryer with a spigot attached. While these can be more expensive, they are safer than attempting to install a spigot yourself.
• If you are set on installing a spigot yourself, you will need a step bit and a weldless ball valve. However, please note that welding is often required to install a spigot on a round pot, and this can be dangerous if proper safety precautions are not taken.
• As an alternative to installing a spigot, consider using an oil pump to remove oil from your deep fryer.

General Deep Fryer Safety:

• Always set up your deep fryer outdoors, away from any structures, on a flat surface. This will reduce the risk of damage to your home in the event of hot oil splashes and minimize the risk of injury by allowing you to maintain a safer distance.
• Ensure your deep fryer is not left unattended while in use, and keep children and pets away from the hot oil at all times.
• Only use completely thawed food in your deep fryer, as frozen food can cause the oil to bubble and splash.
• Use long-handled tongs to safely handle food, maintaining a safe distance from the hot oil.
• Wear heat-resistant gloves to protect your hands and arms from burns in case of hot oil splashes.
• Keep the lid of the deep fryer closed at all times, unless adding or removing food.
• Do not attempt to extinguish a fire in a deep fryer with water, as this will cause the hot oil to splash.
• Do not overfill the deep fryer with oil. Follow the fill line markers to prevent overflow.
• Always monitor the oil temperature carefully to prevent overheating and dangerous accidents such as fires and burns.
• When disposing of used oil, allow it to cool, then strain it into a sealed container for disposal. Do not pour it down the drain, as it can cause pipe blockages. Instead, contact your local government or waste management department to inquire about recycling programs for used cooking oil.
• Keep the area around the deep fryer clean and free from flammable materials such as paper towels, rags, or other debris.
• Wear protective clothing, such as long sleeves and closed shoes, to minimize exposed skin in case of hot oil splashes.
• Always unplug the deep fryer when not in use to reduce the risk of electrical shock and fire hazards.

By following these safety considerations, you can help ensure a safer and more enjoyable cooking experience when using a deep fryer with a spigot.

Types of spigots available for deep fryers

Spigots are a handy feature of deep fryers as they allow hot oil to be drained away from the pot after cooking. When choosing a deep fryer with a spigot, look for a sturdy and easy-to-use design. Some deep fryers come with additional features such as a drain tray to catch oil from the spigot for cleaner draining.

DeLonghi Livenza Deep Fryer

The DeLonghi Livenza Deep Fryer is designed for frequent use and features a spigot and filter for easy oil draining and cleaning. It also has a frying oil life indicator, helping you keep track of when to change the oil. While it performed well with frozen chicken tenders, it left potato chips and French fries greasy due to its lower power of 1,500 watts.

Masterbuilt Electric Fryer Boiler Steamer

The Masterbuilt Electric Fryer Boiler Steamer is a large-capacity indoor deep fryer with a 10-quart capacity. It features a spigot and filter for easier cleaning and has heavy, stable construction. However, it struggles to hold heat well and the outside of the machine can get very hot.

Bayou Classic Stainless Steel Turkey Fryer

The Bayou Classic Stainless Steel Turkey Fryer is a 30-quart pot made of durable stainless steel, which distributes heat evenly. It comes with an aluminium basket and a perforated lift. While it doesn't have a spigot, it is a great choice for frying large items like turkeys.

Char-Broil Big Easy Oil-Less Turkey Fryer

The Char-Broil Big Easy Oil-Less Turkey Fryer is a unique option that uses infrared heating to cook the entire bird at once. It doesn't use oil, making it a safer and less messy alternative to traditional deep fryers. However, it does require a more complicated setup.

T-fal 3.5L Stainless Steel Deep Fryer

The T-fal 3.5L Stainless Steel Deep Fryer is a good choice if you're looking for a deep fryer with a drain spout. It has a capacity of 3.5 litres and features oil filtration, temperature control, and a digital timer. The parts are dishwasher-safe, making it easy to clean.

All-Clad 3.5-Liter Deep Fryer

The All-Clad 3.5-Liter Deep Fryer is a self-filtering and self-draining deep fryer that funnels oil through a filtered vent into a removable box. It has a straightforward control panel and a built-in thermometer. However, the temperature displayed on the dial may not match the actual oil temperature.

Step-by-step process of installing a spigot on a deep fryer

Step-by-Step Guide to Installing a Spigot on a Deep Fryer

Before starting, note that installing a spigot on a deep fryer is not a simple task and may be unsafe if done incorrectly. It is recommended that you purchase a deep fryer with a spigot already attached or use an oil pump to remove oil from your deep fryer.

Step 1: Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials

You will need a step bit and a weldless ball valve. If you do not have these tools and materials, you can purchase them from a hardware store or online.

Step 2: Prepare the Deep Fryer

Make sure your deep fryer is clean and dry before starting. This will provide a good surface for the installation.

Step 3: Mark the Installation Spot

Use a pencil or marker to mark the spot on the deep fryer where you will install the spigot. This will be the centre point for drilling.

Step 4: Drill the Hole

Using the step bit, carefully drill a hole at the marked spot. Go slowly and steadily to ensure the hole is straight and clean.

Step 5: Attach the Weldless Ball Valve

Follow the manufacturer's instructions to attach the weldless ball valve to the hole you just drilled. This will involve threading the valve into the hole and securing it in place.

Step 6: Test the Spigot

Once the weldless ball valve is securely attached, you can test the spigot by filling the deep fryer with water and slowly opening the valve to allow the water to drain. Ensure that there are no leaks and that the spigot opens and closes smoothly.

Step 7: Clean Up

Once you have confirmed that the spigot is functioning properly, clean up any debris or residue from the installation. Your deep fryer is now ready to be used with its newly installed spigot.

Tools required to install a spigot on a deep fryer

Installing a spigot on a deep fryer is not an easy task. In fact, according to some sources, it is impossible to install a spigot on a round pot without welding. If you are set on a DIY approach, you will need a step bit and a weldless ball valve. However, it is important to note that welding can be dangerous and should only be performed by those with the appropriate knowledge and experience.

If you are not confident in your welding abilities, it may be safer to purchase a pre-made turkey pot with a spigot attached. While this option is more expensive, it eliminates the risks associated with DIY welding.

Another alternative is to use an oil pump to remove the oil from your deep fryer. While reviews for these pumps are generally unfavourable, they may still be a safer and more effective option than attempting to install a spigot yourself.

Benefits of installing a spigot on a deep fryer

Installing a spigot on a deep fryer can offer several benefits and make the process of deep frying easier and more convenient. Here are some advantages of installing a spigot on your deep fryer:

• Ease of Cleaning: One of the biggest advantages of a spigot is the ease of cleaning it provides. Instead of having to turn the entire fryer over to drain the oil, a spigot allows for simple and quick drainage. You can easily drain the oil by placing a bucket under the spigot and opening the valve. This not only saves time but also reduces the mess and hassle associated with cleaning a deep fryer.
• Oil Conservation: Spigots enable you to drain and collect the oil for reuse. This is not only cost-effective but also environmentally friendly. By conserving and reusing oil, you reduce waste and save money on frequently purchasing new oil.
• Safety: Deep fryers can be dangerous due to the presence of hot oil. Spigots improve safety by providing a controlled method to drain and dispose of oil. This reduces the risk of spills and burns that can occur when attempting to empty a deep fryer without a spigot.
• Convenience: With a spigot, you can easily drain oil without having to move or tilt the fryer. This is especially beneficial for built-in or large-capacity deep fryers that are challenging to manoeuvre. The spigot provides a convenient way to manage the oil without the physical strain of lifting or tilting a heavy fryer.
• Efficiency: Spigots can improve the efficiency of your deep-frying process. By being able to quickly and easily drain oil, you can save time and get back to frying your favourite foods faster. Additionally, some spigots offer oil filtration, ensuring that your oil is ready for reuse without the need for separate filtering steps.

While installing a spigot on a deep fryer offers these benefits, it is important to note that proper installation methods should be followed to ensure safety and reliability, especially when dealing with high temperatures and hot oil.

Frequently asked questions