Why Does Air Fryer Smoke? Don’t Miss Quick Fixes For Common Issues

Air Fryers have become an essential part of modern kitchens. They can make cooking fast, crispy, and easy. But if you spot smoke emanating from the appliance, it can cause panic. In maximum cases, it can be caused by simple and resolvable issues. It is significant to comprehend why it occurs and how to prevent it so that the appliance can function safely and efficiently. Check some of the most common issues and their quick fixes below:

1. Excess Oil or Fat Dripping: One of the most common reasons why an air fryer smokes is excess fat dripping into the bottom of the basket. When preparing foods such as chicken wings, bacon, sausages, or grease may accumulate and burn as it heats up and that can cause smoke.  

Quick Fix: After preparing fatty foods, let the air fryer cool and clean the basked and bottom tray properly. You may also add 2 to 3 tablespoons of water to the drawer below the basket to prevent grease from burning. You also need to ensure that the appliance manual allows it.  

2. Food Residue From Previous Cooking: Leftover crumbs or grease from previous meals can burn when you cook next time that can cause smoking.

Quick Fix: Make sure that you clean the device after every use. Remove the basket and tray, wash them with lukewarm soapy water, wipe the interior smoothly with a wet cloth. Presence of small crumbs can lead to smoke if left behind.  

3. Cooking At Extremely High Temperature: If you cook at very high temperatures, particularly foods containing oil or marinades, the oil can start to burn and produce smoke.  

Quick Fix:  Reduce the temperature slightly and adjust cooking if required. Several foods can cook properly at 180–190°C. Therefore, do not use the maximum setting unless the recipe specifically requires it.  

4. Using Excessive Oil: Air fryers have been designed to cook with minimum oil or no oil at all. If you add excessive oil, it can cause it to drip and burn thus producing smoke, according to Air Fryer World.

Quick Fix: You may opt to use a light spray or brush of oil instead of pouring oil directly on to food. Small amount of oil is sufficient to achieve required crispiness.  

5. White Smoke Vs Dark Smoke: It is vital to figure out the type of smoke emanating from the device. White smoke often suggests burning of grease or food residue. Dark or black smoke may indicate something dangerous or serious. It can be an electrical issue or burning of components.

Quick Fix: If you spot dark smoke or smell of plastic burn, switch off and unplug the appliance immediately. Allow it to cool and check the issue. If the issue continues to persist, get in touch with the manufacturer or a technician.  

6. Overcrowding of Basket: When you overfill the basket, it can block the airflow that can cause uneven cooking and burn the food in extreme situation. It may cause smoke.  

Quick Fix: Try to cook in smaller batches as adequate air circulation is significant for even cooking without burning or producing smoke.  

7. Protective Coating Burning Off:  If you air fryer is brand new, slight smoke can come in the initial uses due to factory coating burning off.  

Quick Fix: Try to run the device empty at moderate temperature for 15 to 20 minutes before first use. Make sure you follow the manufacturer instructions.   

Therefore, we may conclude here that air fryer smoking can be caused by grease accumulation, excess oil, or extremely high heat. Regular cleaning, effective temperature control, and avoiding overcrowding of the basket can prevent maximum issues without any hassle. If smoke still persists despite cleaning and adjustment, it is better to stop using the appliance and seek professional help. With adequate care and maintenance, the device can become a reliable and smoke-free kitchen companion.