The Ultimate Guide to Commercial Air Fryers: How to Choose, Use, and Clean

Posted: October 04, 2023

Air fryers have become a popular appliance in households all over the world due to their ability to cook food quickly and healthily. But did you know that there are commercial air fryers that are specifically designed for restaurants and other food businesses? In this ultimate guide to commercial air fryers, we will cover everything you need to know about these larger and more powerful air fryers. 

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We will discuss how does an air fryer works, different types of air fryers, the steps to choose the right commercial air fryer for your restaurant, how to use it effectively, and the best methods for cleaning the air fryer parts and maintenance. 

Whether you are looking to upgrade your current commercial air fryer for restaurant or purchase your first large commercial air fryer, this guide will help to make an informed decision.

Table Of Content:

What is a Commercial Air Fryer?

A commercial air fryer is a type of cooking equipment that uses hot air to fry food instead of oil. It is designed to handle high-volume cooking and is commonly used in restaurants and other commercial kitchens.

The air fryers for restaurants typically has a larger capacity than a home air fryer, allowing it to handle larger quantities of food at once. It may also have additional features such as programmable settings, timers, and multiple cooking racks to accommodate different types of food. 

Furthermore, commercial air fryer for restaurant are built to be durable, able to withstand constant use in a busy kitchen environment. However, it is important to note that proper air fryer cleaning and maintenance is crucial to ensure a long lifespan and optimal performance of the equipment. 

PartsFe is your one-stop shop for air fryer replacement parts. We offer a wide selection of restaurant equipment parts to fit all major brands and models. Also, we offer a great customer service team to help you find the right part for your needs. PartsFe also offers competitive prices and fast shipping, so you can get your air fryer back up and running in no time.

Benefits of using a commercial air fryer

Here are some of the benefits of using a commercial air fryer:

Healthier cooking: A commercial air fryer uses hot air instead of oil, reducing the amount of fat and calories in the food. This makes it a healthier option for customers who are looking to eat healthier or have dietary restrictions.

Faster cooking: With a commercial air fryer, food can be cooked faster than traditional deep-frying methods, reducing wait times and increasing efficiency in the kitchen.

Versatility: Commercial air fryers can cook fries, chicken wings, vegetables, and seafood. This versatility allows restaurants to expand their menu and offer new and exciting dishes to their customers.

Consistent results: A commercial air fryer for restautant ensures that the food is cooked uniformly and to the desired level of crispiness, delivering results that are reliable each and every time.

Less mess: Using a commercial air fryer creates less mess than traditional deep-frying methods, reducing the need for cleaning and making it easier to maintain a clean kitchen.

Cost-effective: A commercial air fryer can be a cost-effective option for restaurants, as it reduces the amount of oil used in cooking and can also reduce energy costs compared to traditional deep-frying methods.

Consider investing in a large commercial air fryer for your restaurant to take advantage of these benefits and provide your customers with delicious, crispy fried food.

Different types of air fryers

Commercial air fryers come in various types, each designed to meet specific cooking needs and preferences. Here are some of the different types of air fryers available in the commercial kitchens.

Countertop Air Fryers: This type of commercial air fryer is designed for small to medium-sized kitchens. It is compact and can be placed on a countertop, making it ideal for food trucks, small cafes. This is one of the best commercial air fryer for restaurants with limited kitchen space.

Counter top air fryer - PartsFeFloor Model Air Fryers: Floor model air fryers are larger and more powerful than countertop models. They are designed for high-volume cooking and can handle larger batches of food. They are the best commercial air fryer for large restaurants, catering companies, and food production facilities.

Floor Model Air Fryers - PartsFeConveyor Air Fryers: This type of air fryer is designed for high-speed cooking and is commonly used in fast-food restaurants. It features a conveyor belt that moves food through the fryer, ensuring that each piece is cooked evenly.

conveyor fryer - PartsFeOpen Fryers: Open fryers are a traditional type of commercial fryer that use hot oil to fry food. They are not technically air fryers, but they are often used in conjunction with air fryers in commercial kitchens. Open fryers can fry a variety of foods, including fish, chicken, and vegetables. They are less expensive than air fryers but require more maintenance and produce less healthy food.

Open fryers - PartsFe

Factors to consider when choosing an air fryers for restaurants

When choosing the best commercial air fryer for restaurant, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you get the right equipment for your specific needs. Here are some of the most important factors to consider when choosing a commercial air fryer:

Size: The size of the air fryer is an essential factor to consider, as it will determine how much food you can cook at once. Consider the volume of food you need to cook and choose a commercial air fryer with an appropriate capacity.

Temperature Range: The temperature range of the air fryer is also crucial, as it will determine the types of food you can cook. Choose an air fryer with a wide temperature range for different foods.

Ease of Use: Consider how easy the air fryer is to use, including the control panel, programming options, and user interface. Ensure that the air fryer is easy to operate, even for staff who may not have extensive cooking experience.

Cleaning: Air fryer cleaning is an essential factor to consider, as it will impact the maintenance and lifespan of the equipment. Find an air fryer with removable parts for easy cleaning.

Price: Commercial air fryers can vary in price, so consider your budget and choose an air fryer that offers the best value for your money. Don't sacrifice quality for price, as investing in a high-quality air fryer can save you money in the long run.

Warranties and Service: Find an air fryer with a warranty and good customer service. This will ensure that you can get assistance if you encounter any issues with the equipment and that your investment is protected.

How to use a commercial air fryer?

Using an air fryers for restaurants is relatively easy and straightforward, even for those who may not have extensive cooking experience. Here are the basic steps for using a commercial air fryer:

Preheat the air fryer: Before cooking, preheat the air fryer to the desired temperature to ensure that the food is cooked evenly.

Prepare the food: Prepare the food by washing and seasoning it as desired. Make sure that the food is not too crowded in the air fryer basket, as this can impact the cooking time and the quality of the food.

Load the food into the air fryer: Place the food into the air fryer basket, making sure that it is evenly distributed and not overcrowded.

Set the cooking time and temperature: Set the cooking time and temperature according to the type of food you are cooking. 

Start the cooking process: Once the temperature and cooking time have been set, start the cooking process by pressing the start button on the air fryer.

Monitor the cooking process: During the cooking process, monitor the food to ensure that it is cooking evenly and to the desired level of crispiness.

Remove the food: Once the cooking process is complete, remove the food from the air fryer basket and serve it immediately.

Clean the air fryer: After use, clean the air fryer thoroughly according to the manufacturer's instructions. 

Tips and tricks for cooking with a commercial air fryer

Cooking with a commercial air fryer can be a great way to prepare delicious, crispy fried food quickly and easily. Here are some tips and tricks for getting the most out of your commercial air fryer:

Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket: Overcrowding the air fryer basket can impact the cooking time and the quality of the food. Evenly distribute the food in the basket.

Preheat the air fryer: Preheat the air fryer for a few minutes before loading the food to ensure that the food is cooked evenly and to the desired level of crispiness

Use oil sparingly: Use a spray bottle to apply a light coating of oil to the food before cooking.

Shake the basket: Shaking the basket during the cooking process can help to ensure that the food is cooked evenly on all sides. Shake the basket every few minutes to prevent the food from sticking and to promote even cooking.

Experiment with different types of food: Commercial air fryers can cook a wide variety of foods, from fries and chicken wings to vegetables and seafood. Experiment with different types of food to find your favorites and to expand your restaurant's menu.

Clean the air fryer regularly: Clean the air fryer regularly according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Use the right temperature and cooking time: The temperature and cooking time will vary depending on the type of food you are cooking. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and adjust the temperature and cooking time.

Cleaning and maintenance of a commercial air fryer

Air Fryer cleaning and maintenance of a commercial air fryer is essential for ensuring that the equipment continues to function properly and lasts for a long time. Here are some basic steps for air fryer cleaning and maintenance:

  • Allow the air fryer to cool down before cleaning.
  • Remove the food basket and any other removable parts.
  • Using a soft sponge or cloth, wash the air fryer parts with warm water and mild detergent.
  • Wash and dry the parts with clean water.
  • For stubborn stains or grease buildup, use a non-abrasive cleaner or degreaser.
  • Carefully brush or wipe the heating element.
  • Wipe and dry the air fryer's exterior.
  • Check and replace worn parts regularly.
  • Keep the air fryer dry and cool.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your commercial air fryer is clean and well-maintained, which will help to prolong its lifespan and ensure that it continues to function properly.

Common problems with commercial fryers

Here are some of the most common problems with commercial fryers:

Blocked Burners: Grease and debris can accumulate on the burners over time, causing them to become blocked. This can impact the performance of the fryer, causing uneven cooking or even a lack of heat. Clean the burners and maintain them regularly.

Thermostat Malfunction: Fryers can overheat or not heat up if the thermostat fails. Check and replace the thermostat to stop this issue.

Pilot Problems: The pilot light is responsible for igniting the burner in the fryer. If the pilot light becomes clogged or malfunctions, it can cause the fryer to not ignite. 

Oil Contamination: Over time, oil in the fryer can become contaminated with food particles or other debris, impacting the quality of the food and the performance of the fryer. Change the oil and filter it regularly.

Electrical Issues: Commercial fryers rely on electrical components, which can malfunction over time. This can cause issues such as a lack of power or an electrical short. Regularly checking electrical components and addressing any issues can help to prevent this problem.

In conclusion, commercial air fryers are a versatile and efficient cooking tool that can save time and money in commercial kitchens. Proper usage and maintenance can also extend the lifespan of the air fryer, ensuring that it remains a valuable investment for years to come. With this ultimate guide, businesses can confidently incorporate air fryers into their cooking processes and reap the benefits of this innovative technology.

FAQ’s

Can you put foil in an air fryer?

Yes, you can put foil in an air fryer, but it should not be placed directly on the heating element or in contact with the walls of the air fryer, as it can melt or catch fire. 

Are air fryers healthy?

Air fryers can be a healthy cooking option, as they use less oil than traditional deep-frying methods, resulting in lower fat and calorie content. However, the healthiness of the food also depends on the ingredients and cooking methods used.

How to preheat an air fryer?

Turn on an air fryer and set the desired temperature for a few minutes before adding food. The air fryer can reach the right temperature and cook evenly.

What are air fryers used for?

Air fryers are used for cooking a variety of foods using hot air and minimal oil, resulting in crispy textures without deep frying.

Do restaurants use air fryers?

Yes, many restaurants use air fryers to prepare dishes with less oil, making them a popular choice for healthier and crispy alternatives to deep frying.

What are the benefits of a commercial oil-less fryer?

A commercial oil-less fryer offers healthier cooking options with less oil and reduced grease.

How does a quick and crispy commercial air fryer work?

A quick and crispy commercial air fryer uses hot air circulation to cook food quickly and make it crispy without deep frying.

Which commercial air fryer is best for making french fries?

The best commercial air fryer for french fries typically has a large capacity and even cooking technology.

What are the advantages of a commercial countertop air fryer?

A commercial countertop air fryer is space-saving, energy-efficient, and perfect for cooking a variety of foods with minimal oil.

How does a commercial greaseless air fryer operate?

A commercial greaseless air fryer cooks food with hot air and a high-speed fan, eliminating the need for traditional frying oil.