When does oil in a deep fryer go bad and how to get rid of that SMELL?

Question

My husband works late and makes his own dinner each evening per his request. He loves tacos and has a deep fryer filled with olive oil that just sits there. He does not want me to throw it out because he uses it about 5 times a week. When he cooks, it stinks up the whole house. Letting it sit there day after day also stinks. Any suggestions? He won't use any other oil besides olive oil.

Answer 1

Oil for frying usually needs to be changed when the color of the oil changes and the smoke point (the temperature the oil heats to before it starts smoking) changes.  I'd recommend to your husband that he should change his oil immediately, especially since he fries food in the deep fryer 5 times a week because every time he does so the oil chemically breaks down affecting both the taste in his food and the smell the frying leaves.

Also, after each fry session, have your husband strain the oil and store it in an airtight container (or the deep fryer if he wishes, as long as it's also kept airtight).  As for the lingering smell, use an odor-neutralizing spray like Oust or Febreeze, and open up the windows when he fries his food.  

Answer 2

Most home fryers should be replaces after two uses (yea, that gets pricey). But you have to consider what you cook in it. If it is something that can cause excessive smell or residue, replace it, or you will be frying that food the next time you use it. It's the same as McDonald's, they barely ever change their fryers (ew)

Answer 3

I would think that using it 5 times a weeks, he needs to change the oil!!!! I usually change my oil when there is "chucks" of fried food on the bottom of the fryer.  The smell, try to get a cover for it.  Maybe you can store it in the oven (if it will fit) or in the pantry with a cover on it.  Good luck!!!