Tower Overheating / Residue Combustion

Air fryer emits a burning smell or smoke during use.

Advertisements

Possible Causes

Grease buildup on heating element, Food debris stuck near heater, Overfilled basket causing oil splatter, Faulty temperature control allowing overheating

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety first: Turn off and unplug the air fryer immediately if you see smoke or smell burning plastic. Allow it to cool completely before inspection.

  • Inspect for food residue: Remove the basket and drawer. Look for burnt food or grease on the heating element and cavity walls. Clean thoroughly with a non-abrasive sponge and mild detergent. Do not immerse the main unit in water.
  • Check maximum fill: Ensure you are not exceeding the recommended food quantity or using excessive oil. Overfilling can cause oil to contact the heater and smoke.
  • Look for melted plastic: Inspect the basket handle, drawer rails, and internal plastic parts for signs of melting or deformation. Replace any damaged components.
  • Test on empty cycle: After cleaning, run the air fryer empty at a moderate temperature for 5–10 minutes in a well-ventilated area. Light odor is normal initially; persistent heavy smoke indicates a deeper issue.
  • Control fault suspicion: If the unit overheats (very high temperatures, discoloration) even at normal settings, the control PCB or sensor may be faulty. Discontinue use and seek professional service.
Advertisements

Repair Difficulty

Easy 2/5

Required Part

Heating Element Assembly
Check Price on Amazon

We may earn a commission from links on this page.

Advertisements