It’s a familiar scene in many British kitchens: you pop a few chips or chicken wings into the air fryer, set the timer, wander off to make a cuppa — and suddenly you notice smoke drifting out from the appliance, accompanied by an unpleasant, acrid smell. Not exactly the carefree mid-week meal you had in mind.
Before you panic or assume the worst, it’s important to understand why this happens and what you can do to fix it safely. Air fryers are generally reliable and efficient, but like all kitchen appliances, they can act up from time to time. In this guide, we’ll walk through the common causes of smoking and strange smells, how to deal with them immediately, and how to prevent the issue in future.
Why Is My Air Fryer Smoking?
When an air fryer emits smoke, it’s nearly always reacting to something inside the basket or heating compartment. The smoke might be white, blue-ish, or even grey, and the smell can range from harmless to downright alarming. Below are the most common causes.
1. Built-Up Grease and Residue
Over time, fats from previous cooking sessions can build up at the bottom of the basket or under the heating element. When the fryer heats up, these old oils burn, producing smoke and a fairly nasty smell.
2. Too Much Oil on the Food
Air fryers need very little oil. If your food is coated too heavily or if excess oil drips to the bottom of the fryer, it can easily burn and create smoke.
3. Food Debris Near the Heating Element
Tiny crumbs or loose batter can get caught in the fan or heating area. These burn quickly — and the smell is unmistakable.
4. Overcrowding the Basket
If the air cannot circulate properly, food cooks unevenly and may char at the edges, creating smoke while still undercooking other parts.
5. New Appliance “Burn-In” Smell
If your air fryer is brand new, a slight smell during the first few uses is normal. This is caused by the manufacturing oils burning off. However, thick smoke is not normal.
6. Faulty Heating Element
In the worst-case scenario, the smoking isn’t caused by food or residue, but by a malfunctioning component. This will usually be accompanied by an electrical smell.
What Should You Do Immediately?
If your air fryer begins smoking during use, follow these steps calmly and safely.
Turn It Off First
Unplug the appliance and stop the cooking cycle immediately. Continuing to cook while it’s smoking could worsen the issue.
Open Windows for Ventilation
Air fryers push hot air with a fan, so smoke can spread quickly. Good ventilation helps clear it fast.
Allow It to Cool
Never attempt to touch the internal basket or heating area while it’s still hot. Wait at least 10–15 minutes.
How to Diagnose the Problem Once It Has Cooled
Once the fryer is safe to handle, you can investigate the cause.
Check for Food Debris
Remove the basket and tray, then look for burnt crumbs or grease at the bottom. Check around the heating element for any stuck-on pieces.
Inspect the Basket for Oil
If there’s a pool of oil, that’s likely what caused the smoke. Fatty foods like sausages or bacon release a surprising amount of oil during cooking.
Give the Tray a Proper Clean
A deep clean can solve 90% of smoking issues. Use warm, soapy water, and avoid metal scrubbers that may damage the non-stick coating.
Smell the Appliance
This might sound odd, but smelling the inside of the fryer can help determine whether the odour came from burnt food, rancid oil, or something electrical.
When Should You Worry?
While most smoking incidents are harmless and related to food or residue, certain signs indicate a more serious problem.
Signs You Should Stop Using the Air Fryer:
- A burning plastic smell
- Visible sparks or crackling noises
- Smoke is coming directly from the heating element.
- Smell of burning wire insulation
- The issue occurs every time, even when the appliance is empty and clean.
If you notice any of these, unplug the fryer and contact the manufacturer or a qualified electrician. Air fryers run at high temperatures, so electrical faults should never be ignored.
How to Prevent Your Air Fryer From Smoking Again
Prevention is much easier than dealing with a smoking fryer every week. Here are some tried-and-true tips.
1. Clean It After Every Use
It doesn’t have to be a deep clean — a quick rinse and wipe make a huge difference.
2. Avoid Excess Oil
Lightly spraying food with oil is enough. Do not pour oil directly into the basket.
3. Line the Bottom
Some people place a small piece of baking paper or a silicone liner in the basket to catch oil. Check your manufacturer’s instructions first.
4. Don’t Overfill the Basket
Give your food space to crisp evenly. Overcrowding leads to smoking and poor results.
5. Use Lower Temperatures for Fatty Foods
If you’re cooking bacon, sausages, or fatty meats, start at a lower temperature to reduce splatter.
When the Smell Isn’t Caused by Smoke
Occasionally, your air fryer might not be smoking but still give off an unpleasant smell. Possible reasons include:
New Appliance Odour
This usually fades after 2–3 uses.
Old or Rancid Oil
If oil residue is left too long, it oxidises and gives off a sour, chemical smell.
Incorrect Cleaning Products
Using strong chemical sprays inside the fryer can create fumes when heated. Mild soap is always best.
Should You Replace Your Air Fryer?
If cleaning doesn’t help and the appliance continues to produce smoke or a burnt smell, you may need to consider replacing it — especially if:
- It’s more than a few years old.
- The heating element is visibly damaged.
- The smell is electrical.
- The fryer has been dropped or overheated.
Modern air fryers are far more energy-efficient and safer than older models, so upgrading may not be a bad idea.
Final Thoughts
A smoking air fryer can be alarming, but in most cases, the cause is simple and easy to fix. Regular cleaning, proper food preparation, and sensible use will keep your appliance running smoothly and safely. If the smoke seems electrical or the smell persists even after cleaning, it’s best to stop using it and seek professional help.
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