Air Fryer Placement: Can You Use It On Your Countertop?

Air fryers are a common kitchen appliance, but can you put them directly on your countertop? The short answer is: it depends on your countertop material. Air fryers can get very hot, so it's important to know if your countertop can handle the heat. Most countertop materials are not heatproof, so it's a good idea to put something heat-resistant under your air fryer to protect your countertop from potential damage.

Air fryers can damage countertops

Quartz countertops, for example, are strong and durable, but they are not heatproof. While quartz can handle high temperatures, it cannot do so for prolonged periods. Therefore, if you have a quartz countertop, it is recommended to use a protector under your air fryer, such as a non-slip silicone pad or mat, a wooden board, or a ceramic tile.

Granite countertops should be able to handle the heat of an air fryer, as granite can withstand temperatures up to 1200°F. However, if something sits on the countertop for too long, it can still cause damage. Therefore, it is recommended to use a protective board under your air fryer if you have a granite countertop and use it frequently.

Marble countertops are extremely heat-resistant, but it is the sealer that could become damaged. It is best to use a protector if using an air fryer on a marble countertop.

Wooden countertops are very durable, but excessive heat can cause warping and burn marks. It is best to use protective mats underneath the air fryer if you have a wooden countertop.

Laminate or Formica countertops are not heatproof, and prolonged use of a heating element on these surfaces can cause cracking, burn marks, and even melting. It is recommended to use a protector if placing an air fryer on a laminate or Formica countertop.

In summary, air fryers can damage countertops, especially if used frequently and without proper protection. To prevent damage, it is recommended to use a heat-resistant mat, such as a silicone pad or a wooden board, under your air fryer, regardless of the type of countertop you have. This will help to protect your countertop from heat damage and thermal shock, which can cause cracking or other issues.

Countertops that can withstand air fryer heat

Air fryers are a common kitchen appliance, but their high heat output can cause damage to countertops. To prevent this, it is recommended to use a heat-resistant mat or trivet underneath the air fryer. Some countertops are more susceptible to heat damage than others, so it is important to know which materials can withstand the heat. Here are some of the best countertops that can withstand air fryer heat:

Granite Countertops

Granite is a natural stone that can typically withstand temperatures up to 1000-1200°F. However, when granite is cut and processed into countertops, it becomes weaker and more prone to damage. The extreme heat from an air fryer can cause the granite to contract and expand, potentially leading to cracks. While granite countertops can usually handle the heat of an air fryer, it is recommended to use a heat-resistant mat underneath as a precaution.

Quartz Countertops

Quartz countertops are strong and durable, but they are not entirely heatproof. Quartz can handle high temperatures, but not for prolonged periods. Since quartz countertops are made up of about 90% quartz and 10% resin, the heat from an air fryer can damage the resin, causing discolouration or even cracks. It is recommended to use a heat-resistant mat or trivet with quartz countertops to protect them from potential damage.

Marble Countertops

Marble is a type of natural stone that is highly heat-resistant. However, similar to granite and quartz, it is the sealant or sealer that can become damaged by the heat. Marble is quite porous, so if the sealant is compromised, it can lead to staining. It is recommended to use a heat-resistant mat or trivet with marble countertops to protect the sealant and prevent heat damage.

Stainless Steel Countertops

Stainless steel countertops are an excellent option for withstanding high heat. They can handle the heat from an air fryer without the need for a protective pad or mat. Stainless steel is a durable and heat-resistant material, making it a safe choice for air fryer users.

Concrete Countertops

Concrete countertops are extremely durable and can withstand extreme heat. They are virtually indestructible and are an excellent choice for kitchens with air fryers. However, if a sealant is used on the concrete, it is important to ensure that it can withstand high temperatures. Concrete is porous, so if the heat penetrates the sealant, it may cause staining.

Heat-Resistant Mats and Trivets

While some countertops can handle the heat from an air fryer, it is always a good idea to use a heat-resistant mat or trivet as a precaution. These mats are designed to protect your countertops from burn marks and thermal shock. Silicone mats, wooden cutting boards, bamboo chopping boards, and ceramic tiles are all great options for heat-resistant materials. They add an extra layer of protection and help to absorb the heat emitted by the air fryer, preventing potential damage to your countertops.

Countertops that can't withstand air fryer heat

Air fryers can get very hot, and while some countertops can withstand the heat, others cannot. Here are some types of countertops that may not be able to withstand the heat of an air fryer:

Quartz Countertops

Quartz countertops are strong and durable but are not heatproof. They can handle high temperatures but not for prolonged periods. Since quartz countertops are made up of about 90% quartz and 10% pigments and resin, the heat of an air fryer can damage the resin. Therefore, it is recommended to use a protector under your air fryer if you have a quartz countertop.

Granite Countertops

Granite countertops can generally withstand temperatures up to 1200°F. However, if the granite has defects or was not sealed correctly, the sealant can be damaged by the heat, making the granite more vulnerable to stains. If you use your air fryer constantly, consider using a protective board underneath.

Marble Countertops

Marble is extremely heat-resistant, but it is the sealer that can be damaged by the heat of an air fryer. It is recommended to use a protector if you use your air fryer frequently on a marble countertop.

Wood Countertops

Wood countertops are durable, but excessive heat can cause warping and burn marks. It is recommended to use protective mats underneath an air fryer if placed on a wood countertop.

Laminate/Formica Countertops

Laminate materials are not heatproof, and prolonged use of a heating element can cause cracking, burn marks, or even melting. It is recommended to use a protector if placing an air fryer on a laminate or Formica countertop.

In general, it is a good idea to put something under your air fryer to protect your countertop, especially if you use it frequently and place it in the same spot. Some options for countertop protectors include non-slip silicone pads and mats, wooden or bamboo cutting boards, ceramic tiles, and glass cutting boards. These can help prevent damage to your countertop from the high heat of an air fryer.

Counter protectors for air fryers

Air fryers are a great way to cook food quickly and efficiently, but they can also put out a lot of heat that may damage your countertops. To prevent this, it is recommended to use a counter protector, such as a heat-resistant mat, underneath your air fryer. This will not only protect your countertops from burn marks and thermal shock but also make cleaning up any spills or splatters much easier.

There are several types of heat-resistant mats available, each with its own unique features and benefits:

• Silicone mats are the most common type of heat-resistant mat for air fryers. They are easy to clean, either by hand or in the dishwasher, and can be rolled or folded up for compact storage. Silicone mats typically have a heat resistance of up to 450°F and can be trimmed to fit your specific air fryer model.
• Felt mats are a good option if you need to be able to slide your air fryer around on the countertop. They often have a higher heat resistance than silicone mats (up to 500°F) and usually have a silicone side that comes into contact with the air fryer. However, they cannot be washed in the dishwasher.
• Metal mats with a heat-resistant rubber or silicone backing are a chic and aesthetically pleasing option. While they will protect your countertops from heat, the metal surface may get hot to the touch, so handle with care. These mats cannot be trimmed to size.
• Wooden cutting boards are a great option if you already have one in your kitchen. They can withstand heat up to 500°F and often have rubber feet that provide excellent traction and prevent sliding. Wooden cutting boards are also easy to clean with just soap and water.
• Bamboo chopping boards are similar to wooden cutting boards but are generally more aesthetically pleasing and have a pleasant scent. Bamboo is highly heat resistant and absorbs heat well, making it an excellent material for placing under hot appliances.
• Glass cutting boards are less heat resistant than other materials, with a maximum heat resistance of 450°F. However, they can still be used as counter protectors and add a decorative touch to your kitchen. To prevent sliding, place a wet kitchen towel under the glass cutting board.
• Ceramic tiles can also be used as a heat-resistant counter protector, as they can withstand temperatures up to 500°F. However, they will get as hot as the temperature in the air fryer, so always wear oven mitts when handling them during cooking.

When choosing a counter protector for your air fryer, it is important to consider the size and shape of your air fryer, as well as the material and heat resistance of the mat. The mat should be non-skid, flat, and large enough for the air fryer to fit comfortably on it without hanging over the edges.

Other things to consider when using an air fryer

Air fryers are a great, versatile kitchen appliance. They are compact, portable, and can cook a wide variety of foods, from breakfast to dessert. Here are some other things to consider when using an air fryer:

Countertop Protection

It is important to note that air fryers can get very hot and may cause damage to countertops. To prevent this, always place your air fryer on a heat-resistant surface, such as a wooden or bamboo cutting board, a glass cutting board, or a heat-resistant silicone mat. These materials can withstand high temperatures and will protect your countertop from burn marks and thermal shock. Additionally, ensure that your air fryer is at least 5 inches away from the wall to allow for proper ventilation.

Food Capacity

Air fryers have a limited food capacity, so it is important to work in small batches when cooking. Overcrowding the air fryer basket can lead to uneven cooking and affect the crispiness of the food. It is better to cook in multiple batches to ensure that your food comes out crispy and cooked evenly.

Preheating

Preheating your air fryer is not necessary, but it is recommended by manufacturers. Some recipes may turn out better with a preheated air fryer, so it is worth trying both ways to see which method works best for your particular air fryer and the food you are cooking.

Oil Usage

Air fryers require minimal oil, and it is important not to be too generous with it. Excess oil can end up in the drawer under the grate and may start to smoke. For foods with natural fat, such as skin-on chicken, you may not need to add any additional oil. For vegetables, a light coating of oil can help to achieve a nice, brown colour.

Food Preparation

When cooking greasy foods like bacon, it is recommended to add about a cup of water to the bottom of the air fryer basket to catch the grease and prevent smoking. Additionally, avoid using cooking spray on the basket, as it can damage the non-stick coating over time. Instead, toss your food in oil or rub it down with an oil-saturated paper towel.

Food Safety

Always use tongs or a spoon to remove cooked food from the air fryer. Do not dump the hot contents directly into a bowl, as this can cause excess oil to spill out and create a mess or burn hazard. Additionally, be cautious when handling the air fryer basket, as it can get very hot. Always use the handle to remove the basket and have a trivet or potholder ready to set it on.

Frequently asked questions