Air Fryer Maintenance Tips: Common Problems & Step-by-Step Solutions

Why Air Fryer Maintenance Matters
At DISPASAL, we don’t just sell appliances—we help you use them better and make them last longer. Air fryers are one of the most loved kitchen gadgets today, but without proper care, they can develop problems that affect performance.
This guide covers
Professional tips for maintaining your air fryer
Common problems and accurate step-by-step fixes
Bonus: Simple directions you can try at home before calling a technician
Professional Maintenance Tips for Your Air Fryer
1. Clean Thoroughly After Every Use
Wait until the air fryer cools down completely
Remove the basket and pan, wash with warm water + mild soap using a soft sponge
Dry properly before placing back ⚠️ Avoid steel wool or abrasive scrubbers—they can damage the non-stick coating
2. Take Care of the Heating Element
Food particles often stick to the coil above the basket
Unplug the unit, turn it upside down, and gently wipe with a damp cloth or soft brush
Do this weekly to prevent smoke and burning smells
3. Use the Right Oil Spray
Avoid commercial aerosol sprays—they contain additives that cause sticky buildup
Use a refillable spray bottle with pure oils like olive, avocado, or sunflower oil
4. Never Overfill the Basket
Overloading blocks hot air circulation and strains the motor
Stick to the recommended capacity in your user manual
5. Keep It on a Stable, Ventilated Surface
Place the fryer on a heat-resistant, flat countertop
Leave at least 4 inches of space around it for airflow
6. Schedule a Deep Clean Once a Month
Mix equal parts vinegar and water
Wipe the inside walls and basket holder
Run the fryer empty at 180°C (350°F) for 3 minutes to burn off lingering odors
Common Air Fryer Problems & Step-by-Step Solutions
1. Air Fryer Won’t Turn On
Possible Causes: Loose plug, faulty socket, tripped breaker, or blown fuse Fix:
- Check power cord connection
- Test another socket
- Inspect your fuse/breaker box
- If still unresponsive → internal fuse may be blown. Contact a technician
2. Food Not Cooking Evenly
Possible Causes: Overcrowding or blocked airflow Fix:
- Don’t stack food in one layer
- Shake/turn food halfway through cooking
- Ensure back vents aren’t blocked
3. Air Fryer Produces Smoke
Possible Causes: Excess oil, fatty food, or dirty basket Fix:
- Stop cooking and clean pan + basket
- For fatty meats → drain oil halfway or place bread at the bottom to absorb grease
- Wipe heating coil weekly
4. Bad Odors Coming Out
Possible Causes: Food residue buildup or poor cleaning habits Fix:
- Wash basket, pan, and tray with warm soapy water
- Wipe inside walls with vinegar + water
- Run fryer empty for 3–5 minutes at 180°C
5. Air Fryer Too Noisy
Possible Causes: Fan obstruction, uneven placement, or loose parts Fix:
- Unplug and check for trapped debris
- Place fryer on a flat, stable surface
- If noise persists → internal fan may need servicing
6. Touchscreen or Buttons Not Responding
Possible Causes: Grease on control panel, software glitch, or hardware issue Fix:
- Unplug the fryer
- Wipe screen/panel with a dry microfiber cloth
- Plug back in after 5 minutes
- If frozen → reset using manufacturer instructions or contact service
7. Basket Hard to Slide In/Out
Possible Causes: Misalignment or crumbs blocking rails Fix:
- Remove basket and check rails
- Clean with a damp cloth
- Dry completely before reinserting
DISPASAL’s Quick Care Checklist
- Clean after every use
- Use the right oil
- Avoid overfilling
- Deep clean monthly
- Handle issues early before they get worse
With these simple habits, your air fryer can stay reliable for years.
Final Thoughts
Air fryers are a game-changer in the kitchen—but only if you treat them right. With regular cleaning and smart usage, you’ll enjoy better meals and fewer breakdowns.
👉 At DISPASAL, we stock durable, easy-to-maintain air fryers from trusted brands. Whether you’re upgrading or buying your first, we’ve got the perfect fit for your kitchen.
Visit our air fryers catalogue 🌐 dispasal.com | 📞 09164425471
FAQs
Q: How often should I clean my air fryer? After every use, with a deep clean once a month.
Q: Can I use nonstick spray in my air fryer? Avoid commercial sprays. Use pure oil in a refillable bottle.
Q: Why does my air fryer smell bad? Likely due to residue buildup. Clean the basket and run a vinegar wipe-down.
Q: Is it safe to clean the heating coil? Yes—unplug first, then gently wipe with a damp cloth or soft brush.
Q: Can I fix a noisy air fryer myself? Try cleaning and stabilizing it. If noise persists, the fan may need servicing.