Can An Air Fryer Explode? Is it Safe For Using

Air fryers have recently become extremely popular. It wasn’t just the ease of cooking that drew people ; it was the health benefits that drew them in. Because of its ability to cook food with little or no cooking oil, this appliance has carved out a sizable market.

One thing you may be wondering is “Can an air fryer explode?” So, let us look for the answer in this article.

Can an air fryer catch fire and/or explode?

There is always the possibility of an explosion with electrical devices. If you use them according to the manufacturer’s instructions, you should have no problems. However, there is always the possibility of an electrical failure, overheating, or improper maintenance, which could result in a fire or explosion.

Let’s get into the specifics.

There have only been a few cases where an air fryer has exploded in flames that have been publicly documented. So, yes, your device has the potential to catch fire and even explode.

On normal occasions, I don’t see how such an event could occur if a user takes all of the necessary precautions when using it. However, because this is an electronic device that generates heat, there is the possibility of a disastrous situation even if all of the safety boxes were checked.

Surprisingly, each scenario differs slightly. It all comes down to how the unit was built, how it will program and how well it is maintained, and so on.

Read More: Why Does My Air Fryer Smoke? What Can I Do To Prevent It?

Is it safe to leave your air fryer unattended?

It is understandable to believe that an air fryer is the type of appliance that does everything for you and that you can leave it alone, but nothing could be further from the truth.

Sure, these units have timers that turn off after a certain amount of time. Some presets make it extremely convenient, allowing us to cook dozens of different types of food with the press of a single button.

While walking away from the kitchen during an air fry cooking session is acceptable, leaving the house while the device is on is completely unacceptable. If you intend to leave the house for the next 30 minutes, we recommend that you turn off it immediately before leaving.

Air fryers should never be left unattended. Several things can go wrong during the cooking process. Electrical failures and overheating can result in a fire, and as long as you’re closely monitoring the machine, you should be able to quickly assess the situation and put out the fire.

We understand that most people nowadays have a lot on their plates, and time isn’t always a luxury for everyone. However, leaving your home with your one turned on can be extremely dangerous.

You never want to get a call from a neighbor informing you that a firetruck arrived at your house.

What is the most likely cause of an air fryer catching fire and/or exploding?

There are several scenarios that can cause an air fryer to catch fire and/or explode, and the following are the most common reasons you may encounter that result in such a terrifying event.

#1. Instructions for Use

It may seem like a silly reason, but not reading the safety instructions is a common cause of fires. Most of us routinely discard any instructions provided by the manufacturer for any appliance.

The instructions were obviously given for a clear reason, which is our safety. There is important information about using equipment in the instructions.

For example, it’s a good idea to double-check the voltage needed to operate. If not, and if a mistake is made, the device can easily catch fire.

Read More: Air Fryer Making Noise – How To Fix It?

#2. The Air Fryer Is Overcrowded

When we have guests, we may be a little too hasty and overcrowd the air fryer with too many foods. However, this is not recommended. The hot air cannot circulate freely if the basket is overcrowded.

When this happens, it usually unevenly cook with foods. However, due to the stagnant hot temperature, it may also pose a fire hazard in the event of a malfunction.

As a result, you would be better off cooking your food in portions rather than all at once.

#3. Using Excessive Oil

Fried food, without a doubt, is all about greasiness and oil. It is not uncommon for people to use an excessive amount of oil when cooking traditionally. However, when using that one, we recommend using only a tablespoon of oil, if at all.

After all, the majority of air fryers claim to be oil-free. For example, certain foods, such as meat, already contain fat. As a result, using more oil than necessary may result in a fire.

However, it is still necessary to grease by spraying or rubbing a small amount of cooking oil on it. By greasing the bottom grates, the food will not stick or burn, and there is less of a fire hazard.

#4. Aerosol Spray Cans with a Nonstick Coating

Without a doubt, non-stick aerosol cans are notorious for causing chipping. Typically, this occurs as a result of additives and harsh agents that are not friendly to the coating of the basket.

Food particles and crumbs may become stuck on the basket as a result of the chipping, resulting in a sticky residue over time. Like using too much oil, the chipping or sticky residue may eventually cause a fire hazard.

#5. Surface Stability

The location in the air fryer’s kitchen is a common mistake among many that cause fire hazards. To begin with, we should place on a heat-resistance counter and a stable surface.

Otherwise, there is a risk of falls or other leaks, which could result in minor burns to other devices or even a fire hazard. Particularly if the exhaust vent is less than 5 inches from other surfaces.

#6. Allowing the Air Fryer to Run Unattended

Like I mentioned above, it is no secret that we have a thousand more chores to do while cooking. However, it is probably the most common cause of a fire. You should always keep an eye on them when using it.

Always keep an eye on it, especially if you have children or pets. It is simple to overthrow, resulting in burning wounds. If there are any unusual malfunctions, this one may catch fire while you are away doing other things.

Read More: What Is The Healthiest Oil To Use In An Air Fryer? Good Advises

#7. When not in use, unplug the device.

Unfortunately, most of us make the common mistake of not turning off or unplugging or any other electric device after using it. We are so excited about our delicious crispy fries after using and we frequently forget to unplug it.

Even if it appears unlikely that an air fryer will catch fire when turned off, it is still a good idea to unplug it when not in use. There is always the possibility of a malfunction, which could result in the kitchen device exploding and causing a fire hazard.

#8. Incorrect washing

It is understandable that, like any other appliance, especially one for the kitchen, you should clean on a regular basis. This is a very agreeable point. Assume that people do not clean them properly and on a regular basis.

In that case, food particles or crumbs may become stuck on the surface and burn on the next use. You should also avoid using water on any of the device’s electrical components when cleaning it. Otherwise, it may pose a fire risk.

#9. Check the Temperature

It is essential to always use the correct temperatures for the food you are about to cook, just as it is necessary to read and use your equipement correctly. Some foods may require a high temperature, while others may require a lower temperature.

Similarly, not all air fryers are created equal. As a result, you should never simply heat everything to the highest possible temperature. If the recommended temperature of the food if we check properly, the equipment may overheat and catch fire.

Read More: Why Are My Air Fryer Chips Not Crispy? Useful Tip for Cooker

#10. Repairs by a Professional

Many people decided to repair themselves, similar to how everyone rushed through using them without consulting the manufacturer’s instructions.

However, no matter how handy you are, it is not a good idea to attempt to repair without the assistance of a professional.

If you have a warranty, make the most of it, and if not, seek the assistance of an experienced technician. Otherwise, there is a risk of the air fryer catching fire.

What Should You Do If Your Air Fryer Starts Burning?

Here are the three steps to take in the event of a fire hazard.

#1. Remove the air fryer from the oven.

First and foremost, if your one catches fire, you must turn off the heat source. This is none other than the air fryer. Even if the fire appears to be frightening and dangerous, it will not go away unless the heat from the air fryer is released.

As a result, it is critical to first turn off it and unplug it. Although it is instinctive to throw water on a fire, never throw water on the device that is still plugged in and turned on.

It, like any other electronic device, would instead cause a fire hazard, electric shock, or even electrocution.

#2. A Damp Towel

The air fryer will never be usable again. Instead of worrying about your prized one, try to keep your home from catching fire. To do so, after turning off them, place a wet towel over the device.

Dip a towel large enough to cover the device in cold water. If the fire isn’t already big enough, toss it on the burning them without hesitation. As the fire dies down, open the windows to allow the heat and smoke to escape.

#3. Department of Fire Protection

In the event of a larger fire, always call the fire department. Still, turn off or, if possible, unplug the device and prepare to make an emergency call. But first, close all of your house’s windows and doors.

Especially in the kitchen or any other room where you arrange your device. Then, get out of your house and dial the emergency number, as well as the number for the firefighters.

Although it is unlikely that an air fryer will cause such a significant hazard, it is always a good idea to be aware of how to deal with a fire hazard and the number of emergency calls.

Read More: Air Fryer Not Turning On – How to Fix This

Methods for avoiding an air fryer mishap

#1. After using your air fryer, always unplug it.

One of the scariest things that could happen is that you did everything you should have done.

While it was cooking, you kept a close eye on it. You keep it as clean and well-maintained as possible. And you always make sure it’s turned off when you’re finished with it.

There have been reports in some cases of a consumer’s air fryer turning on by itself without the intervention of a human.

It’s a scary situation, especially if you left the house immediately after cooking with your one and eating.

In this case, my best recommendation is to completely unplug the device from the outlet. If you turn off your equipement, there is almost no chance of a fire starting.

#2. Clean your air fryer on a regular basis.

This is critical because, as you may have read in the previous topic, a user who did not consider the years of build-up grease and residue could cause a fire.

We recommend that you try to clean your device at least once every two months.

If you use it frequently, especially more than once a day, you should clean it more frequently. You should also consider the type of food you are putting.

Foods that naturally contain a lot of fat will accumulate this residue faster.

Read More: Can You Put Water In An Air Fryer To Clean? – Useful Tip For User

#3. Learn about the voltage requirements

We recommend learning about your air fryer’s voltage requirements. Now, each of them may be slightly different from the next. And this may be determined by the amount of power required.

Most devices, in most situations and in modern electronics, will have something called a regulator that controls the flow of current or voltage in a circuit. It will determine how much electricity flows through your device, allowing you to use it safely.

In some cases, a faulty regulator can cause further damage to your appliance, particularly if it generates heat, such as your one.

When dealing with an air fryer, make sure you understand the signs of potential hazards we discussed above.

#4. What you should not put in an air fryer

You should avoid using too much water.

You should also avoid using a lot of oil in your fryer. A small amount of either of these is acceptable, but do not overdo it.

You should also avoid sprinkling a lot of seasoning on your food until you’ve removed it. Heavy seasoning can fall off the food, pass through the basket, and burn on the bottom.

Cheese and any type of wet batter should also avoid. There is, however, a catch to these two. We saw a fantastic recipe for air fryer pancakes. The important thing is to use a lining between each pancake and to keep the batter from touching the basket.

However, no batter, such as battered chicken, should be used.

We are talking about wet buttered chicken or fish that will not turn out the way you expect. However, if you want crispy chicken, use flour, eggs, and breadcrumbs. This way, it won’t just be a wet batter that falls off.

It’s also a good idea to avoid rice, pasta, and lettuce. Rice and pasta require far too much water to cook. However, I’m not sure why you’d want to do this with lettuce; it’s more likely to clog your one than to produce a tasty snack.

If you plan on feeding a large group, an air fryer is not your best friend. The largest size can only hold a few handfuls of food. Keep in mind that you don’t want to overcrowd your food in the basket.

Read More: Ninja Air Fryer Manual: What Should You Pay Attention To?

Conclusion

In this article, we answered the question “Can an air fryer explode?” and discussed all of the dangers of an air fryer. If you have any further questions, please leave them in the comments section below and we will do our best to answer them. Thank you for taking the time to read this.