I also bought this deep fryer, after considerable product comparisons. One of the deciding reasons was the "hi-tech" lid, which is stainless steel and plastic, with a filter gauze and a glass inspection window. I wanted to avoid splashing but also wanted to see how it was going through the window. I was therefore totally dismayed when I unpacked it, and found a notice on this "hi-tech" lid - DO NOT USE THIS APPLIANCE WITH THE LID ON. So why don't they just use a tin or plastic cover, and why design and manufacture such a complex item that has no use whatsoever? Strange.