Why Is My Air Fryer Oven Smoking?

If you’ve ever been excitedly cooking in your air fryer oven only to see it suddenly start smoking, you’re not alone. While air fryers are generally safe, efficient, and incredibly popular for making healthier versions of fried foods, they can sometimes emit smoke, which can be alarming. Understanding the reasons behind the smoke can help you prevent it and enjoy worry-free cooking. Below, we’ll discuss some common causes of smoking in air fryers, along with tips for avoiding it, so you can get the best results from your appliance.

1. Excess Oil and Grease Buildup

One of the most common reasons an air fryer oven may start smoking is due to an excess of oil or grease. When food cooks, any fats and oils on the surface can drip down into the basket or tray. If there is too much oil, it may accumulate at the bottom and start to burn, causing smoke. This is particularly common when cooking fatty foods like bacon, sausages, or even some cuts of meat that release a lot of fat as they cook.

 

To avoid this, be mindful of the amount of oil you’re using. Since air fryers require less oil than traditional frying methods, try to use only the recommended amount. Additionally, you can place a small piece of bread in the basket below the food to absorb excess oil. This can prevent the oil from accumulating and burning, thereby reducing the chance of smoke.

2. Food Debris or Residue Left in the Air Fryer

Another common reason for smoking is food debris or residue left in the air fryer from previous cooking sessions. Small bits of food can get stuck in the fryer basket or at the bottom and, if not cleaned, can start to burn and cause smoke the next time you use the appliance.

 

Regular cleaning is essential to avoid this issue. After each use, make sure to remove the basket, tray, or any other removable parts and wash them with warm, soapy water. Wipe down the interior to remove any crumbs or residue that might have splattered during cooking. Keeping your air fryer clean is not only key to preventing smoke but also helps maintain the performance of your appliance, especially if you’ve invested in a high-quality option like the best air fryer available.

3. High Temperature Settings

Air fryers are designed to cook food quickly at high temperatures, but if the temperature is set too high, it can cause the food or any oils on it to start burning, resulting in smoke. For instance, cooking foods with a lot of natural fat, such as chicken wings, at maximum temperature can cause excess grease to burn and smoke. If you’re consistently seeing smoke when cooking fatty foods, try lowering the temperature by about 20–30 degrees Fahrenheit.

 

Starting with a slightly lower temperature can help prevent oil or fat from burning too quickly. For some foods, preheating your air fryer might be helpful to get a crispier finish without turning up the temperature too much. Lowering the temperature setting is a simple fix that can keep your air fryer functioning well without producing unwanted smoke.

4. Water Content in the Food

Certain foods, like vegetables, have a high water content, and this can cause steam, which might be mistaken for smoke. Steam, unlike smoke, is generally not a cause for concern, but if there is excess water in the food, it can sometimes create enough vapor to look like smoke.

 

To minimize this, try patting your food dry before placing it in the air fryer. Vegetables, for instance, can be tossed in a small amount of oil after being dried to reduce excess moisture. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the basket, as too much food can trap moisture, leading to steam buildup.

5. Using Cooking Sprays That Aren’t Air Fryer-Safe

Some cooking sprays contain additives that may not be compatible with high heat, causing residue to build up on the fryer’s basket or heating element. This residue can then start to smoke the next time you use your air fryer oven.

 

Instead of aerosol sprays, consider using a high-heat oil like avocado or olive oil applied with a brush or pump sprayer, as these are less likely to burn or cause smoke. Opting for air fryer-safe oils and sprays will also help preserve the non-stick coating of your fryer basket.

6. Cooking High-Fat Foods

As mentioned earlier, high-fat foods can release a lot of grease, which can accumulate and start smoking when the air fryer heats up. Foods like pork belly, hamburgers, and certain types of sausages are particularly likely to cause this issue.

 

If you frequently cook high-fat foods, clean the fryer thoroughly after each use, and consider placing a piece of parchment paper or a slice of bread under the food. This can absorb some of the excess fat and reduce the risk of smoking.

7. Damaged or Old Heating Element

If you’ve been using your air fryer for a long time, or if you’ve purchased a used model from air fryers on sale, it’s possible that the heating element might be worn or damaged. A damaged heating element can cause uneven heating, resulting in burned food and smoke.

 

Inspect the heating element periodically and make sure it’s free of residue and in good condition. If you notice any signs of wear or damage, it might be time to replace the element or consider upgrading to a newer model.

Conclusion

An air fryer oven can be a fantastic addition to any kitchen, providing a fast, healthier alternative to traditional frying. However, like any kitchen appliance, it requires proper maintenance and understanding to work effectively. By being mindful of the type of food, oil, and cleaning routine, you can prevent smoking issues and get the most out of your air fryer. If you’re looking for an upgrade or a model with enhanced safety features, check out the best air fryer options on the market or browse air fryers on sale to find one that fits your needs and budget.