SRTG

Overview

The Pitco SRTG is a floor-model gas rethermalizer for heating food in a water tank. The installation and operation manual applies to SRTG units built after August 2005. It lists a tank capacity of 17½ gallons (66.2 litres) and a maximum recommended product capacity of 2,160 cubic inches per tank after a 195°F preheat. That product amount is described as 12 bags of 180 cubic inches each, or equivalent.

The SRTG is intended for use with potable water, not oil. The manual cautions that the water must completely cover the heat tubes whenever the appliance is operating. Its automatic water-level system fills the tank and maintains the level during normal operation.

Key Features

• Automatic water-level maintenance: Level sensors signal the water-fill solenoid to stop the flow when the active sensors are covered. The system maintains the appropriate level during normal operation.
• Manual filling option: The manual describes a rocker-switch position that allows the tank to be filled without placing the appliance in full operational mode.
• Tank drainage: The tank has a drain and an overflow line. The manual says the drain and overflow connect to a common drain line, with the overflow path arranged after the drain valve.
• Controller varies by unit: The operational-features section identifies a controller that controls tank-water temperature and may include timers. The manual notes that a controller is not present on all models.

Specifications

• Model: Pitco SRTG gas floor-model rethermalizer.
• Manual coverage: SRTG units built after August 2005.
• Tank capacity: 17½ gallons (66.2 litres).
• Maximum recommended product capacity: 2,160 cubic inches total per tank after a 195°F preheat; equivalent to 12 bags of 180 cubic inches each, or equivalent.
• Water inlet: ½-inch male NPT.
• Gas connection: ¾-inch male NPT.
• Drain outlet: 1-inch NPT. The manual identifies the drain connections as either 1-inch female NPT or 1-inch male NPT.
• Water conditions: Incoming water temperature up to 180°F (82°C); hardness no more than 2.0 grains per gallon; pH 6.5 to 8.0; water pressure 20 to 60 psi.
• Gas supply pressure: 7.0 to 10.0 inches water column for natural gas, or 11.0 to 13.0 inches water column for propane, with appliances on the supply line operating simultaneously at full demand. Pressure at the gas valve must not exceed ½ psi.
• Clearances from combustible construction: 6 inches at the back, 6 inches at the sides and 6 inches at the floor.
• Clearances from non-combustible construction: 0 inches at the back, 0 inches at the sides and 6 inches at the floor.
• Front aisle space: At least 16 inches.
• Use location: Indoor use only.

Installation & Requirements

Placement and support

The manual requires the SRTG to be installed with legs or casters; it cannot be curb mounted because curb mounting interferes with component ventilation. Legs or casters must be fitted before connecting the appliance to the gas supply. The manual describes leveling the unit using the leveling devices; when leveling casters, loosen the specified screws before making height adjustments and retighten them afterward. Do not level the appliance while it is operating or filled with hot liquid.

Allow the clearances listed in the specifications and at least 16 inches of aisle space in front. Do not obstruct ventilation or air openings. The manual warns against installing the unit next to a deep-fat fryer because splashed water can cause a flash fire in hot oil. It also says not to install a floor drain directly beneath the cabinet, because steam from the drain can shorten the life of internal components.

Water and drain connections

The manual lists a ½-inch male NPT water inlet and a 1-inch NPT drain outlet. It identifies the drain and overflow connections as either 1-inch female NPT or 1-inch male NPT, depending on the appliance. Water conditions are to be checked against the manual’s limits: a maximum incoming temperature of 180°F (82°C), hardness no greater than 2.0 grains per gallon, pH from 6.5 to 8.0, and pressure from 20 to 60 psi. The manual cautions that water connections should be made to avoid damage from water hammer.

Gas connection and ventilation

For units equipped with casters, the manual calls for a gas connector that complies with ANSI Z21.69 and CSA 6.16, a quick-disconnect device that complies with ANSI Z21.41 and CSA 6.9, and a restraint that limits movement without relying on the connector or quick disconnect. Before use, test gas connections for leaks with soap and water while pressure is applied; never use an open flame. If the fuel line is tested above ½ psig, disconnect the appliance. At ½ psig or less, the appliance may remain connected if its gas valve is shut. Do not use an adapter to make a smaller gas line fit the appliance.

Operation

Filling the tank

The manual recommends filling the tank with hot water to reduce the time required to reach operating temperature. Before filling, make sure the drain valve is closed. Fill to the water-level lines and confirm that the heat tubes are completely covered before turning the appliance on. The SRTG’s automatic water-level system fills the tank when the unit’s I/0 switch is set to ON. When both active level sensors are covered, the solenoid valve closes and stops the incoming water; during normal operation, the system maintains the water level.

The manual also describes filling without putting the appliance into full operational mode: hold the rocker switch in the designated fill position until the tank is full. Do not leave the appliance unattended while filling if the overflow drain is not equipped or an overflow-drain stop is being used. Overfilling can cause injury or equipment damage.

Heating and product capacity

The controller, when fitted, controls the water temperature in the cook tank; optional timers are located on the controller if equipped. If the water-level control activates while the main burners are running, the burners turn off while the tank refills. The manual identifies this as normal and says the main burners relight when the water reaches the high-level probe. The maximum recommended product capacity is 2,160 cubic inches per tank after a 195°F preheat, or 12 bags of 180 cubic inches each, or equivalent.

This appliance is not designed for cooking with oil. Use potable water only, and keep the heat tubes fully covered with water whenever the appliance is on. Shut the appliance down completely before draining so it cannot heat during draining or filling.

Cleaning & Maintenance

Cleaning and deliming

Disconnect the power supply before cleaning or servicing. The appliance is not approved for jet-stream cleaning; do not wash it with a water jet. Wear protective gloves and clothing when draining or cleaning, because the water can be extremely hot. Do not leave the appliance unattended during cleaning, and never allow the water level to fall below the heat tubes while the appliance is operating.

Use a commercial-grade cleaner formulated for food-contact surfaces. Read its directions and precautions, paying particular attention to cleaner concentration and contact time. For deliming, follow the cleaner manufacturer’s instructions to remove deposits from the inside of the tank. When cleaning is complete, rinse the tank and its components thoroughly with cool water at least twice, or until all cleaner has been removed. Wipe away the remaining water with a clean, dry cloth. Take care not to disturb the water-level probe or high-temperature limit during cleaning.

Inspection

The manual recommends an inspection by a qualified service technician at least once a year to check performance and operation. It identifies this periodic inspection as work for a qualified technician as part of a regular kitchen maintenance program. The manual also recommends monthly preventative maintenance for mineral deposits; deliming may be needed more than once a month depending on deposits.

Applications

The SRTG is suited to commercial kitchens that rethermalize prepared food in a water tank. The manual’s product-capacity guidance specifically describes bagged product, with a maximum recommended amount per tank after preheating. Its automatic fill system supports water-level maintenance during operation, while the manual’s safety instructions make clear that the tank must contain potable water and the heat tubes must remain covered.