Frymaster E13

What does Frymaster E13 mean?

The controller's temperature probe (RTD) is reading outside its valid operating range. The fryer shuts down heating to prevent uncontrolled temperature conditions. This indicates either the RTD probe itself has failed, its wiring harness has an open or short circuit, or in rarer cases, the controller board has developed a fault in its probe-reading circuitry.

Symptoms

• Display shows E13 and the fryer stops heating.
• Temperature readout is erratic, frozen at an implausible value, or blank.
• Fryer enters lockout and will not resume cooking.
• Visible wiring damage or corrosion at the probe connector.

Common causes

• Failed RTD probe element — open or shorted resistance element inside the frypot.
• Damaged or corroded probe wiring harness between the probe and controller.
• Loose or corroded probe connector at the controller terminal block.
• Controller board probe-input circuit failure.

Diagnostic steps

1. 01

   Power down and disconnect the fryer

   Turn the fryer off and unplug it or open the circuit breaker before touching any probe wiring. Allow the frypot to cool to safe handling temperature.

2. 02

   Inspect the probe harness and connector

   Trace the probe wiring from the frypot to the controller. Look for pinched insulation, burn marks, or corrosion at the connector pins. Reseat the connector firmly and retest.

3. 03

   Measure RTD probe resistance

   Using a multimeter set to Ohms, measure resistance across the probe leads. Frymaster RTD probes read approximately 100 Ω at 32°F (0°C), increasing roughly 2 Ω per °F. A reading of zero (short) or infinity (open) confirms probe failure.

4. 04

   Replace the RTD probe if out of spec

   Install a new Frymaster-approved RTD probe. Seal the probe fitting with Loctite PST56765 sealant or equivalent to prevent oil leakage. Reconnect the harness and torque the fitting to spec.

5. 05

   Verify the repair and clear the error

   Restore power, set the fryer to heat, and confirm the temperature display reads a realistic value. If E13 persists with a confirmed good probe, the controller board requires replacement.

When to call a professional

Call a licensed Frymaster service technician if the probe tests good but E13 persists, indicating a controller board fault. Also escalate if the probe fitting is seized or if oil has infiltrated the probe conduit, as both require proper sealing and torque procedures to avoid creating a fire or burn hazard.