Bakers Pride FKM-FC User Manual

14 

Solid shortening should always be returned to the filter vat while in the liquid state. If this is not done, it 
will have to be heated to a liquid state. When using solid shortening, the fryer must be equipped with a 
pump heater. After filtering with solid shortening, the filter lines must be completely emptied of shortening. 
The pump heater will take care of any residual shortening in the pump, but cannot melt all of the 
shortening in the filter lines. The pump heater accessory may be purchased separately from BKI. 
 
To extend the life of your shortening, for the best possible flavor in your products, and for economy and 
efficiency of operation, we urge you to follow these recommendations: 
 

1.  Use only high-quality frying shortening without additives, of low moisture content and with a high 

smoke point. 
 

2.  Press excess moisture from products before breading. The more moisture released in the 

shortening, the quicker it will break down. 
 

3.  Filter at least once a day or once every three loads during frequent cooking. 

 

4.  Clean any residue or crust formations from the sides and bottom of the pot each time you filter 

the shortening. 
 

5.  Add fresh shortening as needed to maintain the proper shortening level TO THE FILL MARK ON 

THE POT WALL. 
 

6.  DO NOT HOLD SHORTENING AT HIGH TEMPERATURE when the fryer is not in use. If you 

expect an elapsed time of one hour or more between cooking, close the lid and press the “0” 
button on the FKM-FC model. On Models FKM and FKM-F, set the thermostat to 150º F. 
 

7.  Shortening changes are determined by the quantity and type of food prepared. Excessive boiling 

and foaming are definite signs of shortening breakdown. 
 

8.  After you have finished frying for the day, filter the shortening and replace the filter pad. Also, 

thoroughly clean the pot of sediment and crumbs and empty the condensate pan. 

 

1.  Make sure the main drain valve is closed.  

 

2.  Fill pot with shortening to about one inch below the fill mark.  

 

 

Risk of fire exists if the oil level drops below the minimum oil level. The level of oil 
within the pot must not fall below 5mm of the maximum oil level. 

 

Use of oil/shortening older than the manufacturers recommendations for life of 
the oil is prone to surge boiling and flash fires. Follow the oil manufacturers 
guidelines for lifecycle of oil/shortening. 

 

Overfilling the fryer pot with shortening could lead to serious injury. Ensure that 
the fryer pot is filled with shortening only to the fill mark when shortening is hot. 
Do not use any shortening other than what is specified in this manual and do not 
overfill the fryer pot. 

 

The FKM/FKM-F fryer has a maximum temperature setting of 375º F (190º C). 
Do not use oil/shortening with a flashpoint less than 554º F (290º C)