Frymaster E42 Error Code

What does Frymaster E42 mean?

During a filtration cycle on gas models, the FQ4000 monitors oil level in the vat after commanding the drain valve open. E42 means the vat oil level did not drop as expected within the allowed drain time — indicating the drain path from the vat to the filter pan is partially or fully blocked. The filtration cycle is aborted to prevent the drain valve from being left open indefinitely.

Symptoms

• Display shows E42 during a filtration cycle; oil remains in the vat.
• Drain valve is open but little or no oil flows into the filter pan.
• Filtration cycle times out with the vat still at or near full oil level.
• Oil may appear thicker or have more crumb accumulation than normal near the drain.

Common causes

• Solidified shortening or crumb accumulation blocking the vat drain port or drain tube.
• Drain valve not fully opening despite the open command (partial actuation).
• Oil too cold and viscous at the time of filtration — oil must be above approximately 250°F for normal drain flow.
• Crumb screen in the filter pan severely clogged, creating back pressure that slows flow.
• Kinked or collapsed drain hose between the vat and the filter pan on portable-pan models.

Ask the AskWhiz AI about Frymaster E42

AskWhiz

online

Hi — I'm the Commercial Kitchen demo. Ask me anything in this domain.

What causes Frymaster E42?Step-by-step fix for Frymaster E42?Is Frymaster E42 safe to ignore?

MessageHelp me troubleshoot Frymaster E42

Diagnostic steps

1. Verify oil temperature before filtering

   Filtration should be performed at cooking temperature or at least above 250°F (121°C). Cold or cooled oil becomes too viscous to drain quickly. If oil was allowed to cool, reheat to operating temperature and retry filtration.

2. Inspect and clear the vat drain port

   With the fryer off and oil cooled to safe handling temperature, inspect the vat drain port (at the bottom of the frypot, inside) for crumb buildup or solidified grease blocking the opening. Use a long brush or the drain cleaning tool to dislodge any blockage.

3. Inspect and clean the crumb screen

   Remove the filter pan crumb screen and clean it thoroughly. A severely clogged screen dramatically slows oil flow from the vat. Inspect the filter pad as well — a fully saturated pad can back up oil flow.

4. Verify drain valve opens fully

   Use the component check function to command the drain valve open and observe the valve actuator. If the valve is partially opening (motor stalling or gear slip), the restricted opening reduces flow. Inspect the actuator per E32 procedures.

5. Check the drain hose routing

   On models with a portable filter pan, inspect the flexible drain hose for kinks, collapsed sections, or buildup inside the hose. Straighten the hose routing and flush with hot water if accessible.

When to call a professional

Call a technician if the drain port is packed with hardened grease requiring disassembly to clear, or if the drain valve actuator is found to be partially failing. Do not attempt to clear a hot oil clog — the drain area presents a severe burn risk when oil is at cooking temperature. Frymaster service: 1-800-551-8633.