The Atosa ATFS-40 Deep Fryer: A Chef's Best Friend

The Atosa ATFS-40 Deep Fryer: A Chef's Best Friend

Why the Atosa ATFS-40 Deep Fryer Deserves a Place in Your Kitchen

The atfs40 (Atosa ATFS-40) is a 40-pound capacity, floor-model gas deep fryer designed for commercial kitchens that need consistent frying performance without breaking the bank. Here's what you need to know:

Quick Specs:

  • Capacity: 40 lbs of oil
  • Power: 102,000 BTU across 3 burners
  • Temperature Range: 200°F - 400°F
  • Dimensions: 15.6"W x 30.1"D x 44.4"H
  • Weight: 131 lbs
  • Fuel Types: Natural Gas or Liquid Propane
  • Certifications: ETL Listed, ETL-Sanitation
  • Warranty: 1 Year Parts and Labor
  • Price Range: $1,068 - $1,175

If you run a small to medium-sized restaurant, food truck, or any operation that does high-volume frying, you know the struggle. You need equipment that works — day after day, rush after rush. You need fryers that heat up fast, hold temperature, and don't quit when you need them most.

The Atosa ATFS-40 delivers exactly that. It's built with stainless steel construction inside and out, powered by Robert Shaw components (the industry standard for reliability), and comes with safety features like a self-reset high-temperature limiting device. It's not fancy, but it's solid.

What makes this fryer stand out is its balance of capacity and footprint. At just over 15 inches wide, it fits in tight kitchen spaces while still holding 40 pounds of oil. The three heavy-duty burners pump out 102,000 BTU total, giving you the recovery time you need when you're dropping basket after basket of fries, chicken, or whatever your customers are ordering.

The temperature control is straightforward — a Robert Shaw thermostat lets you dial in anywhere from 200°F to 400°F and actually stay there. No wild temperature swings. No guessing. Just consistent results, which means consistent quality for your customers.

One feature that pays for itself over time is the oil cooling zone at the bottom of the tank. It captures food particles and sediment, preventing them from burning and breaking down your oil. That means your oil lasts longer, your food tastes better, and you spend less on oil replacement.

The ATFS-40 also comes on pre-installed casters with brakes, so you can move it for cleaning or rearrange your kitchen layout without calling in help. It includes two nickel-plated baskets with cool-touch handles, a basket hanger, and a wire crumb rack — everything you need to start frying right away.

I'm Sean Kearney from Charbroilers.com, and I've spent over a decade helping restaurant owners find reliable equipment at fair prices, including models like the atfs40. I've seen how the right fryer can make or break a busy service, and I'm here to help you make the best choice for your kitchen.

Infographic showing Atosa ATFS-40 key specifications: 40 lb oil capacity, 102,000 BTU total output with 3 burners, 200-400°F temperature range controlled by Robert Shaw thermostat, dimensions of 15.6 inches wide by 30.1 inches deep by 44.4 inches high, weight of 131 lbs, available in Natural Gas and Liquid Propane models, ETL Listed and ETL-Sanitation certified, includes 2 nickel-plated baskets and pre-installed casters, 1 year parts and labor warranty - atfs40 infographic

Atfs40 glossary:

Unpacking the Atosa atfs40: Core Features and Specifications

When it comes to equipping a busy commercial kitchen, every piece of equipment needs to pull its weight. The Atosa ATFS-40 isn't just another deep fryer; it's a workhorse designed to handle the daily grind of food service operations. Let's explore the core features and specifications that make this fryer a reliable choice for your business.

ATFS-40 control panel with Robert Shaw thermostat - atfs40

Built for the Demands of a Commercial Kitchen

Durability is non-negotiable in a commercial kitchen, and the atfs40 understands this perfectly. It boasts a robust stainless steel construction for both its exterior and interior. Why does this matter? Stainless steel is renowned for its exceptional durability, resistance to corrosion, and its neat appearance that maintains professionalism in your cooking space. This means your fryer can withstand the inevitable bumps and splashes of a environment without showing wear and tear.

Furthermore, the welded stainless steel tank is designed for longevity. Unlike tanks that might be bolted or riveted, a welded tank minimizes seams where grease and grime can accumulate, making it easier to clean and significantly extending the lifespan of your unit. This thoughtful construction ensures that your investment continues to perform optimally for years to come, reducing the need for costly replacements.

Power and Performance Specifications

The heart of any deep fryer lies in its ability to heat oil efficiently and maintain temperature. The Atosa ATFS-40 comes with a generous 40 lb oil capacity, making it suitable for a variety of frying tasks, from crispy French fries to perfectly golden fried chicken.

To power this capacity, the fryer is equipped with 3 heavy-duty burners that collectively deliver an impressive 102,000 total BTU. This high BTU output is crucial for quick heat recovery, ensuring that your oil returns to optimal frying temperature rapidly after fresh product is added. This translates directly to consistently cooked food and a smoother workflow during peak hours.

Understanding that different kitchens have different utility setups, the atfs40 is available in models configured for either Natural Gas (NG) or Liquid Propane (LP). It's vital to order the correct gas type for your kitchen to ensure safe and efficient operation. A standard 3/4” NPT rear gas connection simplifies installation, allowing for a secure and direct link to your gas supply.

Precision and Control

Consistent temperature is the secret to perfect frying. Too hot, and your food burns on the outside while remaining raw inside. Too cold, and it becomes greasy and soggy. The Atosa ATFS-40 eliminates this guesswork with its precise temperature control.

The fryer operates within a temperature range of 200°F-400°F, giving you the flexibility to fry a wide array of items. At the core of its temperature management is a high-quality Robert Shaw thermostat. Robert Shaw is an industry leader in electronic and electromechanical controls, known for their reliability and accuracy. This thermostat, combined with independent manual controls for each burner, allows you to maintain a consistent temperature, preventing those frustrating temperature swings that can ruin a batch of food. Just set it and forget it, knowing your oil temperature is precisely where it needs to be. For more insights into advanced temperature control in kitchen equipment, you might find our guide on The Ultimate Atosa Griddle Guide: Manual, Thermostatic, and Beyond helpful.

Dimensions and Certifications for the atfs40

Space is often at a premium in commercial kitchens, and the Atosa ATFS-40 offers a compact yet powerful solution. As a floor model design, it's built to stand alone, providing a stable and efficient frying station. Its precise dimensions are 15.60 inches wide, 30.12 inches deep, and 44.41 inches high, including the casters. This narrow footprint makes it an excellent choice for kitchens where every inch counts, allowing you to maximize your layout without compromising on frying capacity.

Mobility is another thoughtful feature. The fryer comes with pre-installed casters that include both a bumper and a brake. This means you can easily move the unit for thorough cleaning underneath and behind, or to reconfigure your kitchen layout as needed. The casters are designed to support significant weight, ensuring stability when the fryer is in use and ease of movement when it's time to clean.

For peace of mind and compliance with health and safety standards, the atfs40 holds important certifications. It is ETL Listed, signifying that it meets essential safety standards for electrical and gas equipment in both the US and Canada. Additionally, it is ETL-Sanitation certified, ensuring it complies with rigorous sanitation requirements for food service equipment. These certifications are a testament to the fryer's quality and our commitment to providing safe and reliable products. You can View official product details for more information.

Advanced Engineering for Safety and Longevity

In the environment of a commercial kitchen, safety and equipment longevity are paramount. The Atosa ATFS-40 incorporates advanced engineering and high-quality components to ensure not only consistent performance but also the well-being of your staff and the extended life of your investment.

Nickel-plated fryer baskets with cool-touch handles - atfs40

The Robert Shaw Advantage

When we talk about reliability in kitchen controls, Robert Shaw components are often the benchmark. The atfs40 proudly features several key Robert Shaw parts, underpinning its robust performance and safety. The Robert Shaw gas valve ensures precise control over gas flow to the burners, contributing to stable temperatures and efficient energy use.

Beyond basic operation, safety is a critical concern, especially with high-temperature equipment like deep fryers. The Robert Shaw self-reset high-temperature limiting device acts as a crucial secondary safety feature. In the rare event that the primary thermostat fails and the oil temperature rises above safe limits, this device automatically cuts off the gas supply, preventing dangerous overheating. This self-resetting mechanism means that once the issue is resolved and the temperature returns to a safe level, the fryer can be restarted without manual intervention, minimizing downtime. This dedication to safety, utilizing industry-leading controls, means you can operate with greater confidence.

Smart Design for a Safer Kitchen

Every aspect of the Atosa ATFS-40 is designed with practical kitchen safety in mind. It includes a robust safety valve with an automatic voltage stabilizing function that helps maintain consistent flame height, even with minor gas pressure fluctuations. This contributes to safer operation and consistent cooking results.

The heavy-duty burners with standing flame and standby pilots are another smart design choice. These pilots ensure quick ignition of the main burners when needed, reducing ignition delays and providing a reliable starting mechanism.

Working around hot oil requires careful consideration, which is why the atfs40 comes with nickel-plated baskets featuring cool-to-touch handles. These coated handles minimize heat transfer, making it safer and more comfortable for staff to handle hot food. Additionally, a convenient basket hanger allows excess oil to drain back into the tank, reducing waste and mess, and further enhancing safety by keeping hot baskets securely in place away from walking paths.

Extending Oil Life and Simplifying Use

One of the ongoing costs in deep frying is the cooking oil itself. The Atosa ATFS-40 is designed to help you get more mileage out of your oil, saving you money and improving food quality. A key feature is the oil cooling zone located at the bottom of the tank. This cooler zone sits below the heating elements and serves a crucial purpose: it captures food particles and sediment that fall off products during frying. Because this zone is cooler, these particles don't burn and break down the oil as quickly.

By preventing sediment from burning, the cooling zone extends oil life, meaning you change your oil less frequently. This not only reduces operational costs but also improves food taste and quality by ensuring your products are always fried in cleaner, fresher oil. No one likes the taste of burnt sediment!

To further aid in oil management and ease of use, the fryer also includes a wire mesh crumb screen and nickel-plated baskets. The crumb screen works in conjunction with the cooling zone to filter out smaller particles, keeping your oil pristine. The durable nickel-plated baskets are easy to clean and designed to withstand the rigors of commercial use. These features combined make the atfs40 a smart choice for maintaining high standards of food quality and operational efficiency.

Is the Atosa ATFS-40 Right for Your Business?

Choosing the right equipment is crucial for the efficiency and success of your food service operation. The Atosa ATFS-40 is a specific tool designed for specific needs. Let's explore who can benefit most from this fryer and how to keep it running smoothly.

Ideal Applications and Users

The Atosa ATFS-40 excels in environments that require consistent, reliable deep frying without needing the massive capacity of larger, multi-fryer setups. We find it to be an ideal fit for:

  • Small to medium restaurants: Perfect as a primary fryer for a diverse menu or as a dedicated fryer for specific items like seafood or fries.
  • Food trucks: Its relatively compact footprint and high BTU output make it suitable for tight spaces where quick service is essential.
  • Bars with food service: Great for churning out appetizers like wings, mozzarella sticks, and jalapeño poppers during busy happy hours.
  • Delis and cafeterias: Excellent for preparing daily specials or quick-serve fried items.

Essentially, if your business experiences high-volume frying and needs a dependable, efficient unit that won't take up too much floor space, the atfs40 is a highly versatile and cost-effective solution. It's built for those who value consistent performance and durability in their kitchen workflow.

Maintenance and Cleaning for Your atfs40

Keeping your deep fryer clean and well-maintained is key to its longevity, the quality of your food, and the safety of your kitchen. The stainless steel construction of the Atosa ATFS-40 makes it relatively easy to care for, but regular attention is crucial.

Here are our recommended steps for maintaining your atfs40:

  • Daily Cleaning:

    • Filter the oil: After each shift or day of operation, filter your oil to remove food particles. This extends oil life and keeps food tasting fresh.
    • Wipe down exterior: Use a damp cloth with mild soap to wipe down the stainless steel exterior, removing any grease splatters or spills.
    • Clean baskets and crumb rack: Wash the nickel-plated baskets and wire crumb rack thoroughly with hot, soapy water.
  • Weekly Cleaning (Boil-Out Procedure):

    • Drain and dispose of old oil: Safely drain all oil from the tank.
    • Scrape down tank: Use a fryer brush or scraper to remove any hardened residue from the tank walls and bottom.
    • Fill with water and fryer cleaner: Fill the tank with water to the oil fill line and add a commercial fryer cleaning solution (follow manufacturer's instructions for the cleaner).
    • Boil-out: Turn on the fryer and bring the water/cleaner mixture to a boil for 20-30 minutes. Be cautious of foaming.
    • Drain and rinse: Drain the solution and thoroughly rinse the tank multiple times with clean water until all traces of cleaner are gone.
    • Dry: Ensure the tank is completely dry before refilling with fresh oil.
  • Regular Checks:

    • Checking pilot lights: Periodically inspect the standing pilot lights to ensure they are lit and burning cleanly. If they go out, refer to your manual for relighting instructions.
    • Stainless steel care: While durable, stainless steel can be scratched. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scouring pads. For stubborn spots, use a specialized stainless steel cleaner.

Following these maintenance and cleaning recommendations will keep your atfs40 operating at peak performance, ensuring delicious results and a long service life.

Available Accessories and Upgrades

The Atosa ATFS-40 comes ready to fry right out of the box, with several essential accessories included to get you started:

  • Two nickel-plated baskets with coated handles: These durable baskets are designed for heavy use and feature cool-to-touch handles for safe operation.
  • Wire crumb rack: This sits above the oil cooling zone, helping to filter out larger food debris and contributing to cleaner oil.
  • Basket hanger: A convenient bar that allows you to hang baskets above the oil to drain excess grease, reducing mess and oil consumption.

While the unit comes with pre-installed casters for mobility, some users might prefer a stationary setup. An optional leg kit is available if you wish to replace the casters with fixed legs, providing a more permanent installation.

Should any components wear over time, replacement parts for the atfs40, such as additional baskets, crumb racks, or specific Robert Shaw components, are generally available through commercial kitchen equipment suppliers like us. Investing in quality accessories and timely replacements ensures your fryer continues to operate efficiently and safely.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Atosa ATFS-40

We often get questions about specific aspects of the Atosa ATFS-40. Here are some of the most common inquiries, answered to help you make an informed decision.

What is the warranty on the Atosa ATFS-40?

The Atosa ATFS-40 comes with a 1-year parts and labor warranty. This warranty covers defects in materials or workmanship that may arise during normal use within the first year of ownership. It's designed to protect your investment and ensure that any manufacturing issues are addressed promptly.

However, the warranty typically requires proper installation, operation, and maintenance of the unit as outlined in the manufacturer's instructions. Damage resulting from misuse, improper installation, or lack of maintenance would generally not be covered. Always refer to the specific warranty documentation provided with your fryer for full details and conditions.

Can the ATFS-40 be converted from Natural Gas to Propane?

This is a critical question for any gas appliance. The Atosa ATFS-40 is manufactured and sold in separate models for Natural Gas (NG) and Liquid Propane (LP). This means that each unit is specifically configured at the factory for one type of gas.

Conversion from Natural Gas to Propane, or vice-versa, is generally not recommended or supported by the manufacturer. Attempting to convert a gas appliance without proper factory-approved conversion kits and professional expertise can be extremely dangerous, leading to gas leaks, inefficient operation, and potential fire hazards. It would also likely void your warranty.

Therefore, it is crucial to order the correct gas type for your needs when purchasing the atfs40. If you're unsure about your kitchen's gas supply, we always recommend consulting with a licensed plumber or gas technician in Seattle, WA to determine the correct type before placing your order. Professional installation by a certified technician is always advised to ensure safety and compliance with local codes.

What are the benefits of the oil cooling zone?

The oil cooling zone is one of the most underrated features of the Atosa ATFS-40, offering significant benefits for your operation:

  • Extends oil life: By keeping fallen food particles at a lower temperature, the cooling zone prevents them from burning and carbonizing. This significantly slows down the degradation of your cooking oil, allowing you to use it for longer periods before needing a full oil change.
  • Prevents sediment from burning: Burnt sediment not only taints the flavor of your food but also creates unpleasant odors and smoke. The cooling zone keeps these particles from reaching high temperatures, maintaining cleaner oil.
  • Improves food taste and quality: Frying in clean, fresh oil directly translates to better-tasting food. Your fried items will have a cleaner flavor profile, a more appealing golden color, and a crisper texture, leading to happier customers.
  • Reduces operational costs: By extending oil life and improving food quality, the oil cooling zone helps you save money on oil purchases and potentially reduces waste disposal costs. It's a small feature that delivers a big impact on your bottom line.

This thoughtful design element is a prime example of how the atfs40 is engineered not just for performance, but for practical efficiency and cost savings in a busy commercial kitchen.

Conclusion: Your Partner in Culinary Excellence

When it comes to outfitting your commercial kitchen, every piece of equipment is an investment in your culinary success. The Atosa ATFS-40 deep fryer stands out as a testament to reliability, efficiency, and safety, offering a perfect blend of robust features and practical benefits for a wide range of food service operations.

From its durable stainless steel construction and powerful 102,000 BTU burners to its precise Robert Shaw thermostat and innovative oil cooling zone, the atfs40 is engineered to deliver consistent, high-quality results day in and day out. It’s a workhorse designed to keep up with the demands of a busy kitchen, ensuring your fried foods are always perfectly crisp and delicious.

At Charbroilers.com, we understand the challenges and demands of the restaurant industry. We are dedicated to providing quality commercial equipment that helps your business thrive. The Atosa ATFS-40 embodies the kind of dependable performance we believe every chef deserves.

Ready to lift your frying game with a fryer you can trust? We invite you to explore our full range of commercial kitchen solutions. For an even deeper dive into optimizing your kitchen, Explore our complete guide to commercial kitchen equipment.

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