Air Fryer Fire Hazards: Can They Catch Ablaze?

Air fryers are a popular kitchen appliance, but can they catch on fire? The short answer is yes, air fryers can pose a fire risk if not used properly. There have been several reports of air fryers catching fire, leading to product recalls and safety warnings. Some models have been found to overheat, causing handles to melt or break, and in some cases, the appliances have caught on fire. It is important to follow safety precautions when using an air fryer, such as unplugging the appliance when not in use and monitoring cooking to prevent fires.

Air fryer safety tips

Air fryers are a popular appliance, but they can pose a fire risk if not used properly. Here are some safety tips to follow when using an air fryer:

• Always unplug the air fryer when it's not in use. This is an important safety precaution, as there have been reports of air fryers catching fire after being left plugged in, even when turned off.
• Keep an eye on your cooking. It's important to monitor your air fryer while it's in use to prevent accidents.
• Avoid placing flammable items near the air fryer. This includes items such as towels, curtains, or other combustible materials.
• Regularly clean your air fryer to prevent grease and food residue buildup, which can catch fire.
• Use the correct accessories. Some air fryers come with accessories like metal mesh trays or solid pans. Use the correct accessory for your model to prevent leaks and fires.
• Be mindful of the power source. If you experience a power outage, make sure to turn off your air fryer and unplug it before the power comes back on. This will prevent a surge of electricity from igniting a fire.
• Check for recalls. Stay informed about any recalls or safety concerns related to your air fryer model. You can check the Consumer Product Safety Commission website for updates and recalls on specific models.
• Follow the instructions. Always read and follow the instructions and safety guidelines provided by the manufacturer in the user manual.

By following these safety tips, you can help reduce the risk of fire and enjoy your air fryer safely.

Air fryer recall

Air fryers have become a popular kitchen appliance in recent years, offering a healthier and more convenient alternative to traditional frying. However, several air fryer models have been recalled due to safety concerns, particularly the risk of fire and burn hazards.

In March 2024, it was reported that over 280,000 units of the Insignia brand air fryers were recalled due to overheating problems that could cause skin burns and potentially lead to fires. This issue was caused by internal cables overheating beyond the manufacturer's set limits. Best Buy recalled these units, affecting models purchased between November 2021 and November 2023. This was not an isolated incident for Insignia, as they had previously recalled nearly 700,000 units in April 2022.

Another notable recall involved about 2 million Cosori air fryers in February 2024 due to faulty wiring and reports of air fryers catching fire, overheating, and smoking. Some consumers reported minor burn injuries and property damage.

Other brands that have issued recalls include Magic Chef, Secura, Empower Brands, and Newair. In total, since 2022, over 3 million air fryers have been recalled due to potential safety issues.

It is important for consumers to be vigilant and check if their air fryer model has been recalled. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website provides information on recalled products and the steps consumers can take if they own a recalled item. Additionally, following safety precautions, such as unplugging the air fryer when not in use and monitoring the appliance while cooking, can help prevent potential hazards.

Air fryer fire causes

Air fryers can be a fire hazard under certain circumstances. Here are some of the main causes of air fryer fires:

Overheating

Overheating is a common issue with air fryers that can lead to fire hazards. In 2024, Insignia recalled several models of its air fryers due to reports of overheating, melting handles, and even fires. Overheating can occur due to various factors, such as faulty heating elements, improper use, or inadequate ventilation.

Leaking Oil/Grease

When cooking greasy foods, it is essential to ensure that oil or grease does not leak onto the heating element. This can easily ignite and cause a fire. Always use the correct amount of oil and ensure it is distributed evenly on the food to prevent dripping.

Power Surges

Leaving an air fryer plugged in can pose a fire risk, especially if there is a power surge. A viral Facebook post shared by Cindy Jennings detailed how her air fryer caught fire due to a power surge after being left plugged in. Fire officials recommend unplugging appliances that generate heat when not in use.

Improper Use

Improper use of an air fryer can increase the risk of fire. For example, using inappropriate cooking materials, such as tinfoil or parchment paper, can be hazardous. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and use recommended accessories and cooking methods.

Defective Units

In some cases, air fryers may have manufacturing defects that increase the risk of fire. This could include faulty wiring, defective components, or design flaws. Always purchase air fryers from reputable sources and follow product recalls to ensure your appliance is safe to use.

Towels or Flammable Items Nearby

It is important to keep the area around your air fryer clear of any flammable items, such as towels, curtains, or other combustible materials. These items can easily catch fire if they come into contact with the heat generated by the air fryer.

Air fryer fire prevention

Air fryers are a popular kitchen appliance, but they can pose a fire risk if not used and maintained properly. Here are some tips to help prevent fires when using an air fryer:

Unplug When Not in Use

It is important to always unplug your air fryer when it is not in use. This is because there is a risk of fire if the appliance is left plugged in and switched on, especially if there is a power surge. By unplugging the air fryer, you can help reduce the risk of a fire starting.

Monitor Cooking Activity

Always keep an eye on your air fryer while it is in use. Do not leave it unattended, as this can increase the risk of a fire. If you need to leave the kitchen, turn off the air fryer or unplug it to be safe.

Avoid Flammable Items Nearby

Keep flammable items, such as towels, oven mitts, or paper towels, away from the air fryer. These items can easily catch fire if they come into contact with the heating element or hot surfaces of the air fryer.

Use the Correct Tray

Some air fryers come with a metal mesh tray, which can allow grease and oil to drip onto the heating element and cause a fire. To prevent this, use a solid tray or put a solid pan or foil on a lower rack to catch any drips. You can also invest in a silicone mat with a suitable heat rating to place under the basket.

Regular Cleaning

Grease and food residue can build up on the air fryer over time, increasing the risk of fires. Regularly clean your air fryer, following the manufacturer's instructions, to help reduce this risk. Pay particular attention to the heating element and ensure it is free of grease and debris.

Product Recalls

Keep an eye out for product recalls. In 2024, several models of Insignia air fryers were recalled due to fire, burn, and laceration hazards. If you own one of the affected models, stop using it immediately and follow the manufacturer's instructions for a refund.

Air fryer fire stories

Air fryers are a popular kitchen appliance, but they can also be dangerous if not used properly. There have been several reports of air fryers catching fire and causing damage to homes. Here are some stories of air fryer fires that serve as a reminder of the importance of fire safety:

The Viral Facebook Post

A woman named Cindy Jennings shared a picture of her charred kitchen on Facebook, blaming her air fryer for the fire. She claimed that she left it plugged in, and when the power surged back on after an outage, it sparked a fire. Jennings's post has been shared over 700,000 times and caught the attention of fire officials, who confirmed that it is possible for air fryers to spark fires if left plugged in.

The Recalled Air Fryers

In 2024, there were several recalls of air fryers due to fire and burn hazards. Best Buy recalled more than 700,000 Insignia air fryers, and 11,000 Newair Magic Chef Air Fryers were also recalled for similar concerns. These air fryers were found to overheat, causing handles to melt or break and posing a fire risk.

The TikTok Air Fryer Explosion

A woman named Abbey Trbovich shared a video on TikTok that quickly went viral, showing the aftermath of her Costco air fryer exploding in her apartment. Trbovich accidentally turned on the stovetop while the air fryer was on top of it, causing the appliance to melt and combust. Fortunately, no one was injured in the fire, but it serves as a reminder to never place an air fryer on a stovetop or other combustible surfaces.

The Florida Fire

In March 2024, fire officials in Florida believed that an air fryer used to heat up pizza sparked a fire that destroyed a home. The homeowner was in her yard at the time and was able to save her dog, but the property was completely destroyed.

These stories highlight the potential dangers of air fryers if not used and maintained properly. It is important to follow safety guidelines, such as unplugging the appliance when not in use, cleaning it thoroughly, and avoiding placing it on combustible surfaces.

Frequently asked questions