How To Change An Air Fryer Coil Safely

Air fryers are a fantastic, healthier alternative to deep fryers, but they do require regular cleaning and maintenance. The heating coil of an air fryer is prone to grease build-up and charring, which can cause it to stop working. While some people opt to replace the coil, others choose to clean it with warm soapy water and a soft brush or sponge. It is important to consult the manufacturer's cleaning instructions and to exercise caution when handling electrical appliances.

How to clean an air fryer coil

To clean an air fryer coil, follow these steps:

First, unplug the air fryer and let it cool down completely. This is important for safety reasons. Once it's cooled down, remove the basket, tray, and pan. These removable parts can be washed with soap and warm water or placed in the dishwasher, depending on the specific model (check the instruction manual).

Now, it's time to clean the main unit. Do not immerse the main unit in water. Instead, use a damp cloth to wipe down the entire unit, including the control panel, to remove any food splatters or grease residue. If there is food stuck on the heating coil, use a soft dish brush to gently remove it. You can also use a sponge or soft brush to clean the coil, but make sure it's not dripping wet. Rinse and wipe off any soap residue afterward.

After cleaning the coil, let all the parts dry completely before reassembling the air fryer.

To prevent grease buildup on the coil, it's recommended to clean your air fryer after every use or every few uses. You can also use air-fryer liners or foil to cover the basket's cooking surface and catch any grease or food residue.

How to replace an air fryer coil

Yes, you can replace the heating coil in an air fryer. It is cheaper to replace the heating coil than to buy a new machine.

To replace the heating coil, follow these steps:

Firstly, identify the type of heating coil you need. Consult your air fryer's owner manual, which should contain a list of parts and their corresponding part numbers. This will ensure you purchase the correct replacement coil. The heating coil is typically located at the top of the cooking chamber of your air fryer.

Next, ensure that your air fryer is unplugged and there is no power going to it. Check that the appliance is not functioning, as you want to avoid any potential safety hazards.

In most cases, replacing the heating coil is as simple as removing the old one and installing the new one. There are many online resources, such as step-by-step videos, that can guide you through this process in detail.

Additionally, regular cleaning of your air fryer's heating coil is important. After each use, check the heating coil for any oil or residue buildup. Allow the air fryer to cool down, then wipe the coil with a damp cloth or a soft dish brush, similar to cleaning the heating element of an electric stove.

By following these steps, you can effectively replace and maintain the heating coil of your air fryer, ensuring its optimal performance and longevity.

How to prevent an air fryer coil from burning

Air fryers are a convenient and healthier alternative to deep fryers, but they do come with some risks. The heating coil of an air fryer can burn and erode if not properly maintained, so it is important to take steps to prevent this from happening. Here are some tips to help you keep your air fryer coil in good condition:

Regular Cleaning

After each use, unplug your air fryer and allow it to cool down completely. Once it is cool, remove the basket, tray, and pan, and wash them with soap and warm water or put them in the dishwasher. Wipe down the main unit with a damp cloth to remove any food splatters or grease residue. Use a soft dish brush to remove any food stuck on the heating coil, and then wipe the coil with a damp cloth. Make sure to dry all parts completely before reassembling the air fryer. It is recommended to clean your air fryer after every use or every few uses to prevent greasy buildup.

Use Air Fryer Liners

Air fryer liners, such as disposable parchment papers or reusable silicone liners, can be placed at the bottom of the basket to catch any food residue or grease. This makes cleaning easier and helps to protect the heating coil from buildup.

Avoid Overcrowding the Basket

Make sure to leave enough space around the food in the basket to allow for proper air circulation. Overcrowding the basket can prevent hot air from reaching all surfaces of the food, leading to uneven cooking and grease buildup.

Preheat the Air Fryer

Just like an oven, it is important to preheat your air fryer before adding food. This ensures that the air fryer is at the right temperature to properly cook the food as soon as it is added.

Avoid Using Too Much Oil

Air fryers only require a small amount of oil, usually just a teaspoon or two. Using too much oil can lead to greasy buildup and increase the risk of it coming into contact with the heating coil.

Avoid Fatty Foods

Fatty foods, such as burgers, sausages, and bacon, can drip onto the heating coil and cause smoking and burning. If you are cooking fatty foods, place water in the bottom of the cavity under the frying basket to catch the drippings.

Avoid Small Foods

Avoid foods that are smaller than a quarter of an inch, as they can slip through the slots of the basket and fall onto the heating coil. These small pieces can burn quickly and fill your food and kitchen with smoke.

How often to clean an air fryer coil

It is important to clean your air fryer coil regularly to ensure your appliance is working at its best and to prevent a build-up of grease, which can cause fires. While some recommend checking the coil after each use, others suggest doing so every couple of months.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Air Fryer Coil:

Step 1: Unplug the Air Fryer

Safety first! Turn off and unplug your air fryer. Allow it to cool completely before cleaning.

Step 2: Remove Removable Parts

Take out the basket, tray, and pan. These can be washed with soap and warm water or placed in the dishwasher, depending on the manufacturer's instructions.

Step 3: Clean the Main Unit

Do not immerse the main unit in water. Use a damp cloth to wipe down the entire unit, removing any food splatters or grease residue.

Step 4: Check and Clean the Coil

After each use, check the heating coil for any oil or residue. If present, allow the unplugged machine to cool, then wipe the coil with a damp cloth or soft dish brush.

Step 5: Dry and Reassemble

Ensure all parts are completely dry before reassembling the air fryer.

Additional Tips:

• To prevent a greasy build-up, cover the basket's cooking surface with foil or an air fryer liner.
• For baked-on grease, soak the basket in hot water and soap for 20-30 minutes, then scrub with a brush.
• For a stinky odour, scrub the interior with a paste of baking soda and water.
• Never use metal utensils or abrasive materials to clean the fryer, as these can damage the non-stick coating.
• Avoid filling the basket with soapy water and turning on the machine to clean it, as this can damage the non-stick coating and pose an electrical hazard.

What to do if your air fryer stops producing heat

If your air fryer stops producing heat, there are several things you can do to troubleshoot the issue.

Firstly, check that the air fryer is plugged in correctly. Ensure that the power cord is fully plugged into both the air fryer and the power outlet. Some air fryers have detachable cords, so don't overlook this step. You can also test the power outlet with another appliance to ensure it's functioning properly. If there are too many gadgets plugged in, it could cause an electrical overload, so try unplugging other devices and resetting the breaker.

If the power outlet and cord connection seem fine, the issue could be a damaged wire. If the air fryer cord shows any signs of burning, even slight, it may need to be replaced as it could be unsafe and faulty.

Another potential issue is the power button. Some air fryers have hidden power buttons, so ensure that your appliance is turned on. Consult your instruction manual if you're unsure about the location of the power button or how to turn on your specific model.

If your air fryer has a lid or a frying basket, ensure that it is closed, locked, and clicked into position correctly. Some models have extra safety features that require the lid to be locked in a precise way before the heating starts.

Also, check that you're not overpacking the frying basket with too much food. This can restrict the necessary air circulation for the air-frying process, causing the fryer to heat up inconsistently or not at all.

If none of these troubleshooting steps work, the heating element may be damaged or broken. Contact the manufacturing company's customer service to discuss potential solutions, especially if your appliance is still under warranty.

If your air fryer is out of warranty, you may need to purchase a new one, as repair costs are likely to be higher than the cost of a new air fryer.

Frequently asked questions