Urgent warning issued to anyone with an air fryer | UK | News
Urgent warning issued to households with air fryers (Image: Getty)
An urgent safety warning has been issued to households across the UK following air fryer safety recalls and incidents.
Kitchen appliances have increased in popularity in recent years because they are cheaper to run than the standard conventional oven and generally produce healthier food because they do not require oil.
But fire experts have issued a warning about stoves saving UK homes time and money following recent safety recalls.
Fire services in the UK have reported a steady increase in incidents involving air fryers, often caused by simple errors such as overfilling the basket, allowing grease to accumulate inside the appliance, or positioning the unit too close to flammable materials.
“According to research commissioned by insurance company Aviva, almost one in five UK residents say they have experienced fire-related problems with their air fryers, ranging from smoke to overheating and small fires.”
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Aviva’s data also suggests the financial impact could be significant, with the average insurance claim for air fryer fires set to reach £29,555 in 2025, with some claims reported to be as high as £80,000.
While product recalls highlight manufacturing faults in certain models, Jonny Smith, of fire safety firm Crusader Fire, says many incidents are still linked to everyday use errors that can be easily prevented.
Fire safety risk assessment expert Jonny Smith warns homeowners to take a few simple precautions when using the devices.
He said: “Air fryers are pretty simple to use, and this little fact is what keeps most users from reading the user manual before using them.
“There are many precautions you should take when putting your air fryer into use, such as never using oil and ensuring there is adequate ventilation to prevent the system from overheating and sparking when using it.”
To reduce the risk of problems, Smith recommends homeowners follow a few simple safety habits when using the device.
• Read the manual – Take the time to understand the manufacturer’s manual before using a new air fryer.
• Avoid overcrowding – Overfilling the basket can restrict airflow, leading to overheating and uneven cooking.
• Ensure proper ventilation – Always operate the device in a well-ventilated area and keep it away from flammable surfaces.
• Clean regularly – If the appliance gets too hot, accumulated grease and food residue may catch fire.
• Place on a suitable surface – Air fryers should be placed on a stable, heat-resistant surface and never placed on or near a stove.
• Never leave unattended – Like any cooking appliance, air fryers should always be monitored during use.
As more homes continue to rely on air fryers for daily cooking, Smith says a few simple precautions can go a long way in preventing accidents.
He added: “They are a great kitchen tool when used correctly.
“But like any appliance that produces heat, it’s important to treat it with the same care you would an oven or stove.”
