Air Fryer Catches Fire?
Air fryer catches fire? In general, the air fryer is a fairly safe household appliance. The probability of a deep fryer catching fire is very low, but like any electrical device that generates heat, there is a chance of catching fire if not used with the necessary safety measures.
What Can Cause My Air Fryer To Catch Fire?
Air fryers can catch fire due to incorrect use and maintenance. This can be easily avoided if you first familiarize yourself with it. Let’s see, below, the reasons why an air fryer can catch fire.
1. Not Reading The Instruction Manual
It is common that we do not read the instruction manual. This is the first thing you should do when purchasing your fryer. They were given for a reason, our safety. Inside the instructions, there is important information about the use of the fryer. An example is checking the fryer voltage. If the outlet voltage is not correct, the fryer can easily catch fire.
2. Location Of Use
Never use a fryer on top of a stove, oven or microwave. She needs a heat-resistant place, away from flammable products such as cloths, curtains and other appliances. At the top (back) of the air fryer there is a steam outlet. Be careful not to block this opening and not place it too close to or under electrical outlets, as hot steam can cause the outlet to overheat.
3. Overcrowding The Basket
Do not put food beyond the capacity, so the air cannot circulate freely.
4. Leave Air Fryer Unattended
When using the air fryer, stay close by, especially if you have children or pets. In case of any irregular fryer malfunction, it may catch fire while you are doing other tasks.
5. Electrical Failures
- Electrical failures can happen due to some factors such as:
- Using the air fryer on damaged electrical outlets
- Using the air fryer with stripped, damaged wires
- Fryer circuit design flaws
Always check all fryer components such as cords, sockets and plugs when using the fryer for the first time.
6. Leave Air Fryer Connected All The Time
After using the fryer, unplug it from the outlet. Even though it seems unlikely that a deep fryer will catch fire when turned off, it is still best to unplug the device when not in use. There is always the chance of a malfunction, which could cause a fire hazard.
7. Overheating
Overheating can occur when there is an accidental fault with the type of circuit or the way the device was designed by the manufacturer. Some of the electricity passing through the fryer turns into heat. Over time, the heat begins to build, making the fryer hotter. Signs you should look out for to avoid overheating:
- See smoke coming out of fryer or cord
- Damaged or frayed cables
- Fryer is hotter than normal
8. Maintenance And Cleaning
It is advisable to clean the fryer regularly. As we use it, the grease that squirts out of fatty foods and food residues is released, circulated and settled throughout the inside of the fryer, including the heating element (resistor). Food residue build-up can block the steam vent and the heat has nowhere to go. Grease build-up is combustion for fire, and can occur when the fryer is used for a long time at high temperature.
9. Low Quality Fryers
It is common to see complaints about the fragility of components on complaint sites. Plastic coatings that cannot withstand the high temperature of the deep fryer and melt as they are used. Research well about the air fryer brand you want to buy, avoid those that have many complaints.
10. Normal Wear And Tear
Like any electrical appliance, your air fryer will not last forever. It is normal over time to wear out the wires and parts. If you suspect your fryer is not performing as expected, discontinue use and contact the manufacturer. If you need to replace any part or wire, take it to a professional.
What To Do If Your Air Fryer Catch Fire
Here are the three steps that should be taken in the event of a fire hazard.
- Turn off the air fryer and unplug it
- While it’s instinctive to throw water on a fire, under no circumstances do that Throw in a towel or smother the fire with a blanket
- As the fire subsides, open the windows to let the heat and smoke out of the house
- In case of a more significant fire, call the fire department
Ways To Avoid An Air Fryer Incident
- Read the instruction manual
- Use your fryer in a flat, ventilated place, away from flammable objects and products
- Always be nearby when using the deep fryer.
- Never use an adapter
- Always unplug your fryer after use
- Clean your fryer frequently
