Abstract: This invention relates to a deep fat fryer of the external heat exchanger, pumped-recirculation type, and more specifically, discloses a control system for automatically heating and recirculating the fat either continuously or intermittently as needed to accommodate one or both of two conditions existing in such a fryer. First, during continuous circulation and frying vapor lock may occur at the pump impeller, inhibiting recirculation. Automatic shifting to intermittent operation is made to occur until the vapor "burps" itself from the pump. Additionally, when starting a fryer and using solid shortening, the pump and burner are operated intermittently until such time as the pump and heat exchanger are sufficiently full of melted shortening to permit continuous circulation. Upon sensing that full condition and our associated pressure, the system shifts automatically to continuous recirculation.