Deep Fat Fryers

Deep-frying is essential for that crispy, crunchy result, but working with hot oil can be dangerous. Follow our advice to ensure you stay safe while using your deep fat fryer.

Deep Fat Fryer Safety

Safety First

  • When buying a new deep fat fryer, always buy from a reputable dealer, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Always register a new deep fat fryer with the manufacturer. That way you can be contacted easily if a safety notice or recall is required. While the chances of a faulty product causing serious damage are small, the risk is still there and returning a faulty product or ordering its repair is very easy to do. To find out more information about registering your appliances, regardless of age, visit our Product Registration page.
  • Use our free online Product Recall checker to see if you have any recalled electrical items.
  • Check that your appliance has a UK plug, but if it doesn’t, do not use a UK travel adaptor, but rather seek advice from the retailer.
  • Do regular checks of the plug and socket for burn marks, sounds of ‘arcing’ (buzzing or crackling) or if it feels too hot to touch. If you have fuses blowing or circuit-breakers tripping then contact a registered electrician to investigate.
  • Ensure your home is fully protected by an RCD (residual current device), which can be found in your fuse box (also known as a consumer unit).  An RCD is a life-saving device that protects against dangerous electric shock and reduces the risk of electrical fires.
  • If you don’t have RCD protection in your fuse box for your sockets, consider installing an RCD socket or use an RCD plug to protect you and your property from serious appliance faults.
  • Sometimes, appliance fires are caused by something beyond your control. Smoke alarms and heat detectors are essential in keeping you safe by raising the alarm in the event of a fire. There should be a minimum of one alarm/detector per floor and fit enough to cover all areas where a fire could start, and make sure they are tested regularly.
  • If a fire does start, don't try to fight the fire. Get out and call 999 immediately.

Safe Use

  • If you notice a burning smell or any unusual noises, switch the deep fat fryer off immediately and contact the retailer and/or manufacturer.
  • Never leave the deep fat fryer unattended. It only takes a minute for oil to overheat and start a fire.
  • Don’t overfill your fryer – check the manufacturer’s instructions but typically it should be no more than two-thirds full.
  • Turn the handles away from the front of the cooker. This will reduce the risk of knocking it off the hob
  • Ensure you have a well-fitting lid close by, in case the oil catches fire.
  • If the oil does catch fire, never pour water on it. Raise the alarm, evacuate the house and call 999.
  • Always turn off the deep fat fryer at the socket when not in use.