5 Ways To Ruin Your Air Fryer (2024)

FAQs

5 Ways To Ruin Your Air Fryer? ›

Air fryers can't get hot enough to pop the kernels. In fact, heating kernels in here will just be a waste of energy and food. And should the oiled kernels scatter from the fan circulation, you risk them hitting the heating element or even the fan itself which could damage the appliance or be a potential fire hazard.

Air fryers can't get hot enough to pop the kernels. In fact, heating kernels in here will just be a waste of energy and food. And should the oiled kernels scatter from the fan circulation, you risk them hitting the heating element or even the fan itself which could damage the appliance or be a potential fire hazard.

Air fryer health risks

COPs are linked to an increase in heart disease, cancer and other medical conditions. You may have also heard about polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are carcinogens that are produced as fumes when foods are cooked at a high temperature.

You should not attempt to boil water in an air fryer, as this can cause water droplets to get into the electric parts, such as the heating element, creating a short circuit and permanently damaging your device and even creating a dangerous fire hazard.

Summary. In conclusion, while air fryers offer certain benefits such as reduced calorie intake and faster cooking times, they are not without their limitations. Size constraints, limited cooking options, and concerns about crispiness are driving some people to look for alternatives.

What's more: the “frying” is faster! Caution! Forget about butter or delicate cold-pressed oils, which are very likely to burn and smoke the whole kitchen. Everyone knows someone who has already had this misfortune!

Air fryers have a limited cooking capacity compared to traditional ovens or deep fryers, making them unsuitable for larger families or cooking larger portions.

In one study, air frying of fish raised the amount of a substance called "cholesterol oxidation products" (COPs). COPs form when the cholesterol in meat or fish breaks down during cooking. Studies connect these substances to coronary heart disease, hardening of the arteries, cancer, and other diseases.

Increased air fryer recalls since 2021

But that doesn't mean air fryers pose no risk. Faulty wiring or user error can cause air fryers to overheat, burn the food inside or melt the machine itself, leading to several reported cases of kitchen fires and burns. To date, there have been no deaths reported.

Is tinfoil safe in an air fryer? ›

Foil is safe to use in an air fryer so long as you follow three basic rules: never let foil touch the heating element; make sure the foil is weighted so it doesn't blow around the basket; and avoid contact with acidic ingredients, which can cause the foil to leach onto your food.

Chan and Kudler agree that soaking is the best method for cleaning more stubborn air fryer messes, and share what they call “an enhanced version of the 'let it soak' method”: Mix dish soap and about an inch of water in the basket. Put it back into the slot and turn to 200 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 to 15 minutes.

You can add a small amount of water to the bottom of the air fryer before cooking certain foods such as potatoes or vegetables. This will help create steam and prevent them from drying out during cooking.

Avoid using plastic or paper containers, as they can't handle high heat and might release toxic chemicals. Water, wet food, heavy sauces, and stews are also a no-go. What type of container can I put in an air fryer? You're safe with oven-proof materials like glass, ceramic, silicone, and metal.

For those who use the air fryer regularly, such as three to four times a week, mainly for dinner or snacks, it may need replacement every 3 to 5 years, depending on usage intensity and maintenance. Regularly used air fryers are prone to wear and tear, so regular air fryer accessories checks and maintenance are crucial.

Using the air fryer with grains that are already cooked is no problem, but steer clear of firing up the appliance for uncooked grains, including rice, quinoa, and pasta. Air fryers are designed to cook dry foods, and rice and other grains need to be cooked in water.

Too close to a wall

Having this appliance placed directly against a wall could cause heat damage, or a potential fire risk — especially if hot air is vented into electrical wall sockets. Experts suggest keeping at least a five-inch gap around your air fryer to be on the safe side, and avoid a hazard.