Air Fryer Fire Safety: What You Need To Know

Air fryers are a popular kitchen appliance, but can they catch fire? The short answer is yes. While air fryers are typically safe to use, there have been several reports of air fryers catching fire and even some models being recalled due to fire and burn concerns. So, what causes air fryers to catch fire, and how can you prevent it from happening?

Leaving an air fryer plugged in

Firstly, reducing waste and pollution. Even when turned off, an air fryer left plugged in still uses electricity. Unplugging it will reduce energy consumption, lower your utility bills, and prevent overloading the power grid.

Secondly, unplugging your air fryer will extend its life. Taking a few moments to unplug it after each use will help keep it functioning properly and protect against accidental fires caused by faulty wiring.

Thirdly, unplugging your air fryer can prevent electrical surges and accidental overheating. This will protect your appliance and home circuitry from potential damage.

Most importantly, unplugging your air fryer will reduce the risk of fires. Leaving electrical appliances plugged in when not in use can pose a fire hazard. Unplugging your air fryer and safely storing it away will give you peace of mind and ensure your safety.

In addition to the above, it is important to be mindful of the on/off status of your air fryer and other cooking devices. Always monitor your cooking, and avoid placing flammable materials near your air fryer. Regularly check your power cords for any fraying or exposed wiring, and be cautious of any unusual smells or sounds coming from the appliance.

Faulty wiring

To prevent fires caused by faulty wiring, it is important to regularly inspect the power cord, plug, and outlet for any signs of damage or wear and address any issues promptly. It is also recommended to have the appliance inspected by a qualified technician if you notice any abnormalities, such as sparks or unusual sounds during operation.

In addition to regular inspections and maintenance, there are several other precautionary measures that can be taken to minimize the risk of air fryer fires:

• Proper maintenance and cleaning routines: It is important to regularly clean the air fryer after each use to remove any food residues or grease buildup, which can potentially ignite during subsequent cooking sessions.
• Following the manufacturer's guidelines and instructions: It is crucial to read and understand the user manual provided by the manufacturer before using the air fryer. Adhering to recommended cooking times, temperatures, and maximum food quantities can help prevent overheating and potential fires.
• Using compatible accessories and cookware: Only use accessories and cookware recommended by the manufacturer, as incompatible materials can pose fire hazards.
• Ensuring proper ventilation during operation: Place the air fryer on a stable, level surface with sufficient clearance to allow proper airflow and ventilation.

By following these precautionary measures and staying vigilant about the maintenance and use of your air fryer, you can help reduce the risk of fires caused by faulty wiring or other electrical faults.

User error

One user error that can lead to air fryer fires is failing to unplug the appliance when it is not in use. Several manuals for air fryers instruct users to unplug the appliance when it is not in use. A fire marshal confirmed that it is possible for an air fryer to spark a fire if it is left plugged in. There have been several reports of fires caused by air fryers that were left plugged in. Unplugging appliances that can generate heat when they are not in use is a general safety precaution that fire departments recommend.

Another user error that can lead to air fryer fires is failing to clean the appliance regularly. The underside of the air fryer hull, where the heating coils are housed, is prone to food splatter and gunk buildup. If not cleaned regularly, this buildup could cause an air fryer malfunction, leading to a fire. It is recommended that users clean the underside of the air fryer hull with a wet rag every few weeks to reduce the risk of fire.

Additionally, overcrowding the air fryer basket can lead to fires. Users should avoid overcrowding the cooking basket or piling food so high that they have to jostle or squish it into the basket. If food is touching the hot coils during use, or if there is a large amount of grease and sauce splattering up toward the hot coils, this can increase the risk of fire.

Leaving the air fryer unattended while it is turned on is another user error that can lead to fires. As with any oven, users should not walk too far away from the air fryer while it is in use. It is important to monitor the air fryer for smoke or unusual smells, such as burning food or plastic, and to always adhere to the cooking instructions. Many ovens recommend only cooking at higher temperatures for 20 minutes or less at a time, so users should read the instructions for their air fryer carefully before use.

Not cleaning your air fryer

Air fryers are generally safe to use, but they can pose a fire hazard if not properly maintained. Using a dirty air fryer can lead to grease fires, which can be dangerous if you're unprepared. Therefore, it is important to clean your air fryer regularly to prevent a dangerous buildup of food residue.

Parts of the air fryer to clean

The most important part of the air fryer to clean is the basket, as residual oil and small burnt bits of food will increase the chance of a fire starting inside the basket. It is recommended to wash the entire air fryer basket with soap and water after every use, avoiding the dishwasher, as this can corrode the non-stick surface over time.

Another important area to clean is the coils and the area surrounding them inside the hull of the fryer and above the basket. During cooking, oil, sauce, and food can splatter onto the coils, which can lead to a buildup of grease and residue. To clean the coils, it is best to avoid using soap, as residual soap could taint the food the next time you cook. Instead, use a damp scrubber or the rough side of a sponge.

The underside of the air fryer hull, where the heating coils are housed, is also prone to food splatter and gunk buildup. This area should be cleaned every few weeks with a wet rag to reduce the risk of an air fryer malfunction and prevent fires.

Other safety tips

In addition to keeping your air fryer clean, there are several other safety precautions you should take to prevent fires:

• Always unplug the air fryer when it is not in use.
• Plug the air fryer directly into an outlet, rather than into an extension cord or outlet extender.
• Do not overcrowd the cooking basket, as this can cause food to touch the hot coils or grease and sauce to splatter onto them.
• Do not leave the air fryer on and unattended.
• Always monitor the air fryer for smoke or unusual smells like burning food or plastic.

Overcrowding the air fryer basket

To prevent fires, it is also important to clean your air fryer regularly. Grease and food residue can build up over time, especially on the underside of the air fryer hull where the heating coils are housed. This buildup can be dangerous and lead to air fryer malfunction and fires. Therefore, it is recommended to clean the air fryer basket with soap and water after each use and to clean the coils and surrounding area at least once a month.

In addition to overcrowding and poor cleaning practices, there are other factors that can contribute to air fryer fires. Faulty wiring or user error, such as leaving the air fryer unattended or plugged in, can also lead to fires. It is important to follow safety guidelines and use your air fryer correctly to mitigate these risks.

Frequently asked questions