Tefal Maxi Fryer "permanent" filter

UnhappyHarry

I recently noticed that there were small particles in our fryer oil, which, initially, I assumed were small food particles. Further examination showed that they were actually particles of metal, up usually about 2-3mm long.

The particles were actually pieces of the permanent filter which was disintegrating, and dropping into the cooking chamber.

Thinking that there must be some manufacturing defect with the filter, I called Tefal, who were, to put it mildly, totally disinterested, and insisted that I had to purchase a new filter, as the product was out of warranty. "But, it's a PERMANENT filter!" Not interested. Just give us the money and we'll send you a new one in 2 weeks.

I'm pretty appalled at this. The fryer is 2 years old, has had very light use (probably on average about once every 10 days), and the lid and filter were cleaned in the dishwasher after every use (as recommended in the user manual).

What does permanent actually mean?

Just to compound Tefal's crimes, I've been charged £5.43 for a small piece of metal mesh, which I've calculated to equate to more than 13% of the total cost of the fryer.