Air fryers have taken over kitchens everywhere, making crispy, delicious meals with little to no oil. They’re convenient, easy to use, and a healthier alternative to deep frying. But like any appliance, they’re not perfect.
If you’ve ever found yourself frustrated because your air fryer won’t turn on, isn’t heating properly, or is making strange noises, you’re not alone. Many air fryer owners experience common issues, but the good news is that most of them have simple fixes.
This guide will walk you through the most common air fryer issues, what causes them, and how to fix them. Whether your food isn’t cooking evenly, your fryer is smoking, or the touchscreen isn’t responding, we’ve got solutions to help you get back to cooking with ease.
Common Air Fryer Problems & Solutions
Air fryers are a fantastic addition to any kitchen, but as with any appliance, you might run into a problem from time to time. Luckily, most air fryer issues are easy to troubleshoot and resolve. Below, we’ll go through some of the most common problems users face and how to fix them.
1. Air Fryer Not Turning On
Possible Causes:
When your air fryer refuses to turn on, it can be frustrating. There are a few things that could be causing this, and most of them are simple fixes.
- Power Connection Issues: The first thing to check is whether your air fryer is properly plugged into a working outlet. Sometimes the simplest solution is the one we miss.
- Faulty Power Outlet: If your air fryer is plugged in but still doesn’t turn on, try plugging it into a different outlet. The outlet itself could be the issue.
- Blown Fuse: Another common cause is a blown internal fuse. If this is the case, it might require professional repair or a replacement fuse.
- Power Button Problem: The power button itself may have become worn out or damaged. If it feels loose or unresponsive, it could be the culprit.
What to Do:
- Check Power Supply: Ensure the power cord is securely plugged into the outlet. Test the outlet with another device to make sure it’s working.
- Try a Different Outlet: If the current outlet isn’t working, move the air fryer to another outlet and test it again.
- Inspect the Fuse: If you suspect a blown fuse, you may need to contact the manufacturer or a technician to have it replaced. Some air fryers come with a removable fuse, which you can replace yourself.
- Test the Power Button: If the button feels unresponsive, try pressing it firmly or look for any obvious signs of damage. If nothing changes, consider contacting customer service.
2. Air Fryer Not Heating Up
Possible Causes:
If your air fryer isn’t getting hot enough or not heating up at all, it could be due to a variety of factors. Here’s what to check:
- Overloaded Basket: When you put too much food in the basket, it can block the airflow and prevent the fryer from reaching the desired temperature.
- Thermostat Malfunction: A malfunctioning thermostat can lead to uneven heating or no heat at all. If the thermostat is not working correctly, the air fryer may not be able to regulate its temperature properly.
- Broken Heating Element: The heating element inside the air fryer is what actually generates the heat. If it’s broken, the fryer won’t heat up. This may require replacement of the element.
What to Do:
- Avoid Overcrowding: For proper heat circulation, ensure there’s enough space for the air to flow around the food. Avoid overloading the basket.
- Check the Thermostat: If the temperature settings seem off or the fryer isn’t heating as it should, the thermostat may be the problem. Try resetting it by unplugging the fryer and plugging it back in after a minute.
- Inspect the Heating Element: If you suspect the heating element isn’t working, visually check it for signs of damage. If it looks burnt or broken, contact the manufacturer for a replacement.
3. Air Fryer Producing Smoke or Burning Smell
Possible Causes:
One of the more alarming problems with air fryers is when they start producing smoke or emitting a burning smell. Here’s why this might happen:
- Excess Oil: If you use too much oil or greasy food, the excess can drip onto the heating element, causing smoke. This is common when cooking fatty foods like bacon or chicken wings.
- Dirty Air Fryer: Leftover food particles, grease, or oil that hasn’t been cleaned properly can burn when heated, leading to smoke.
- High-Temperature Settings: Cooking fatty foods at high temperatures can cause them to release more grease, which then burns on the heating element.
What to Do:
- Clean the Basket and Fryer Regularly: Make sure to clean your air fryer thoroughly after each use. Pay extra attention to the basket, tray, and heating element to prevent grease buildup.
- Use Less Oil: Avoid spraying too much oil on your food. A light mist is often sufficient for achieving a crispy texture without the mess.
- Lower the Temperature: If you’re cooking greasy foods, try lowering the temperature to prevent excess fat from dripping onto the heating element.
If your air fryer smells like plastic, especially when it’s new, you’re not alone. This is a common issue caused by manufacturing residues or protective coatings. Fortunately, there are simple ways to eliminate the odor so it doesn’t affect your food. Check out our detailed guide on why your air fryer smells like plastic and how to get rid of it.
4. Food Not Cooking Evenly
Possible Causes:
Unevenly cooked food is a common frustration, but it’s usually easy to fix. Some potential reasons for this problem include:
- Overcrowding the Basket: When you pack the basket too tightly, there’s less air circulation around the food, which leads to uneven cooking.
- Incorrect Temperature Settings: If the temperature isn’t set correctly, some food may cook faster than others.
- Not Shaking the Basket: Air fryers work by circulating hot air around the food. If you don’t shake the basket during cooking, you’ll end up with uneven results.
What to Do:
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For even cooking, make sure there’s enough room for the air to circulate freely around the food.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating the air fryer helps ensure a consistent cooking temperature, leading to better results.
- Shake or Flip Your Food: Halfway through cooking, stop the fryer and give the basket a shake or flip the food to ensure even cooking.
5. Air Fryer Basket Won’t Slide In or Close Properly
Possible Causes:
Sometimes the basket just won’t slide in, or it doesn’t close properly. This issue could arise from a few things:
- Food Debris: Crumbs, grease, or leftover food can accumulate along the rails of the basket, blocking the path for smooth insertion.
- Misaligned Parts: The basket or tray might be misaligned, making it difficult to slide it back into place.
What to Do:
- Clean the Basket Rails: Always clean the rails where the basket slides in and out. Wipe them down with a damp cloth to remove food debris.
- Ensure Alignment: Make sure the basket and tray are aligned properly before inserting them back into the fryer.
6. Touchscreen or Buttons Not Responding
Possible Causes:
If the touchscreen or buttons on your air fryer aren’t responding, it can be due to a few reasons:
- Moisture or Grease Build-Up: If the control panel has food splatters or moisture, the buttons or screen may not register your touch.
- Software Glitch: Sometimes, a simple reset can fix this problem if it’s a minor glitch in the software.
What to Do:
- Clean the Control Panel: Use a dry cloth to wipe down the control panel. Be sure to remove any moisture or food particles that might be affecting the buttons.
- Reset the Air Fryer: Unplug your air fryer for a minute, then plug it back in. This can reset the system and fix minor glitches.
7. Air Fryer Making Loud Noises
Possible Causes:
It’s not uncommon for air fryers to make some noise while in operation, but if they’re suddenly louder than usual, it could be a sign of something wrong.
- Loose Fan: The fan inside your air fryer is essential for circulating air. If it’s loose or misaligned, it can cause strange noises.
- Faulty Motor: A malfunctioning motor can also produce louder-than-normal noises.
What to Do:
- Check for Loose Parts: Turn off the air fryer and check for any loose screws or parts that might be causing the noise.
- Contact the Manufacturer: If the noise persists and you suspect it’s a motor or internal issue, contact the manufacturer for further assistance.
How to Maintain Your Air Fryer & Prevent Issues
Keeping your air fryer in top shape isn’t difficult, but a little regular maintenance goes a long way. Proper care ensures your air fryer lasts longer, cooks food evenly, and avoids common problems like smoking, overheating, or poor performance. Here’s how to keep your air fryer running smoothly.
Regular Cleaning is Key
One of the biggest reasons air fryers develop issues is grease and food buildup. When leftover crumbs and oil collect inside, they can burn, create smoke, or even damage the heating element over time. Cleaning your air fryer after every use prevents this from happening.
How to Clean Your Air Fryer Properly:
- Let It Cool Down First
Always unplug the air fryer and allow it to cool completely before cleaning. This prevents burns and protects the unit from damage. - Remove and Wash the Basket & Tray
Take out the basket and any removable trays. Wash them with warm soapy water using a soft sponge. If they have stuck-on grease, let them soak for a few minutes before scrubbing. Most baskets and trays are dishwasher-safe, but always check your manual first. - Wipe the Interior & Heating Element
Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe the inside of the air fryer. Pay special attention to the heating element, as food particles and grease can collect there. If there’s stubborn residue, a soft brush can help clean it without damaging the element. - Clean the Exterior & Control Panel
Wipe the outside with a damp cloth, and clean the control panel with a dry cloth to prevent moisture from interfering with the buttons or touchscreen. - Let Everything Dry Completely
Ensure all parts are dry before reassembling to prevent moisture buildup, which could lead to electrical problems.
Preventing Smoke & Burning Smells
An air fryer should never produce excessive smoke or a burning odor during use. If this happens, it’s likely due to grease buildup or incorrect cooking methods.
Tips to Prevent Smoke Issues:
- Use Less Oil: Too much oil can drip onto the heating element, causing smoke. A light mist is all you need for crispy results.
- Cook Greasy Foods at a Lower Temperature: If you’re making bacon, sausages, or other fatty foods, lower the temperature slightly to prevent excess grease from burning.
- Always Clean Between Uses: Leftover crumbs and grease are the main reasons for smoke production. Cleaning after each use solves this issue.
Ensure Proper Airflow
An air fryer needs good airflow to cook food evenly. If you’re experiencing uneven cooking or poor performance, the cause might be blocked vents or an overcrowded basket.
How to Improve Airflow:
- Don’t Overfill the Basket: Overcrowding prevents hot air from circulating, leading to uneven cooking. Leave some space between pieces for the best results.
- Shake or Flip Food Halfway Through: This ensures all sides cook evenly and prevents one side from becoming too crispy while the other remains undercooked.
- Keep the Air Vents Clear: Always check that the air fryer’s vents are not blocked by food particles or placed too close to a wall. Restricted airflow can cause overheating.
Store Your Air Fryer Properly
If you don’t use your air fryer daily, proper storage helps prevent dust buildup and potential damage.
- Store it in a clean, dry place where it won’t get knocked over.
- Avoid placing heavy objects on top of it, as this can damage the control panel.
- If storing for a long time, clean it thoroughly before putting it away.
When to Replace Air Fryer Parts
Even with proper maintenance, some parts may wear out over time. Knowing when to replace them can prevent larger issues.
| Part | Signs It Needs Replacing | Solution |
| Basket & Tray | Peeling nonstick coating, warping, rusting | Purchase a replacement basket from the manufacturer |
| Heating Element | Air fryer not heating, uneven cooking | Contact customer service for repairs or replacement |
| Power Cord | Fraying, loose connections, intermittent power | Stop using immediately and replace |
| Control Panel | Buttons unresponsive, display flickering | Reset the air fryer or contact manufacturer |
FAQs – Quick Fixes for Air Fryer Problems
Having trouble with your air fryer? Here are some quick and direct answers to common questions.
Why is my air fryer not turning on?
Your air fryer may not be plugged in properly, the power outlet might be faulty, or the power cord could be damaged. Try plugging it into a different outlet and inspecting the cord for any wear. If the issue persists, check the user manual for reset options or contact customer support.
Why is my air fryer not heating up?
This could be due to a faulty heating element, an unlatched basket, or an issue with the power supply. Ensure the basket is correctly in place, inspect the heating element for grease buildup, and test a different outlet. If none of these fix the issue, the heating element may need professional repair.
Why does my air fryer produce smoke?
White smoke usually comes from excess oil or food grease burning, while black smoke may indicate something burning inside. Clean the basket and heating element, reduce the amount of oil used, and avoid cooking fatty foods at high temperatures. If smoke persists, check for food debris near the heating coil.
How do I stop my air fryer from smelling like burnt food?
Burnt odors often come from leftover grease or crumbs. Clean your air fryer thoroughly, including the basket, tray, and heating element. Running the air fryer empty at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes with a bowl of water and lemon slices inside can also help remove stubborn smells.
Why is my air fryer making loud noises?
A slight fan noise is normal, but loud rattling or buzzing could mean loose components or food particles stuck in the fan. Check the fan for debris, tighten any screws if accessible, and make sure the fryer is placed on a stable surface.
Why does my air fryer keep shutting off mid-cycle?
This could be caused by an overheating safety feature, a loose basket, or a faulty power connection. Let the air fryer cool down for 10–15 minutes before restarting. Ensure the basket is properly inserted and test a different power outlet. If it keeps happening, contact customer service.
When should I replace my air fryer?
If your air fryer frequently malfunctions, takes longer to cook food or has significant wear like a peeling nonstick coating, it may be time for a new one. Most air fryers last 3–5 years with proper care, but replacing worn-out parts can extend their lifespan.
Conclusion
Air fryers are a fantastic addition to any kitchen, offering fast and healthier cooking options. However, like all appliances, they can encounter issues from time to time. The good news is that most common air fryer problems can be easily fixed with a little troubleshooting, cleaning, and maintenance.
By following the solutions and maintenance tips we’ve discussed, you can keep your air fryer running smoothly for years. Regular cleaning, proper usage, and occasional checks for wear and tear are essential to avoid issues like overheating, uneven cooking, or malfunctioning buttons. And if problems do arise, knowing how to handle them or when to seek professional help will save you time and frustration.
Remember, air fryer issues aren’t always the end of the world. Many of them have simple fixes, and with a bit of care and attention, you can continue enjoying crispy fries and perfectly cooked meals with ease.
Got any air fryer tips or questions? Feel free to share them in the comments below!
