Quick diagnosis
There are a few common reasons why your gourmet air fryer may have stopped working:
- Power issue – Check that the air fryer is plugged in and the outlet is working.
- Overheating – The air fryer may have overheated and shut off as a safety precaution. Let it fully cool down before using again.
- Faulty heating element – The heating element inside the air fryer may have malfunctioned.
- Dirty air filter – A clogged air filter can cause the air fryer to overheat and shut down.
- Faulty fan – If the internal fan is not working, the air fryer will not circulate hot air properly.
- Bad control panel – Issues with buttons, display, or control circuitry can lead to failure.
If basic troubleshooting does not get your air fryer working again, it likely needs professional service or replacement parts. Contact the manufacturer or authorized repair center for assistance.
Do some basic troubleshooting
Before calling for service on your air fryer, there are a few basic troubleshooting steps you can try yourself:
Check the power supply
Make sure the air fryer is plugged into a working outlet. Reset the outlet by flipping the breaker off and back on. Test the outlet with another appliance like a lamp. If the outlet doesn’t have power, you’ll need to call an electrician.
Inspect the cord
Examine the power cord for damage. Look for cuts, nicks, or bent prongs on the plug. Damaged cords are a fire hazard and will need to be replaced.
Check for overheating
If the air fryer was running for a long time before stopping, it may have overheated. Let the appliance fully cool down for at least 30 minutes before restarting. Make sure it has enough space around it for ventilation. Clean out any accumulated debris inside the fryer basket and around the heating element.
Reset the machine
Unplug the air fryer from the power source for a full minute, then plug it back in. This may reset any tripped internal breakers. Attempt to turn it on again and see if the problem is fixed.
Clean the air filter
A dirty air filter will block airflow and cause the air fryer to overheat. Check the filter and wash it if needed. Allow it to completely dry before reinstalling.
Inspect the fan
Open up the air fryer (when unplugged) and check that the cooling fan spins freely. If not, the fan is faulty and needs replacement. Do not use the air fryer without a working fan.
Common problems and solutions
If basic troubleshooting doesn’t work, one of the following may be the issue:
Faulty heating element
The heating coil or element provides the high heat for air frying. It can burn out over time. This requires replacement of the part.
Bad control panel
If buttons aren’t working or you can’t select cooking functions, there may be an issue with the control panel or display. This requires electronics repair or replacement.
Damaged interior components
Problems with the rotator, fryer basket, or interior fan often require disassembling the fryer and replacing worn parts. Only attempt this if you are experienced with appliances.
Safety sensor issues
Many air fryers have auto-off sensors for overheating. If faulty, these will turn off the fryer even when not overheated. The sensors will need diagnosis.
Power supply problems
Inconsistent power, voltage spikes, or a bad cord can damage the air fryer’s electronics. This may require an electrician plus appliance repair.
When to call for professional help
Contact the manufacturer or authorized repair center if:
– You smell burning/melting coming from the air fryer
– The fryer emits smoke or fire
– Troubleshooting steps don’t work
– The internal electronics/components appear damaged
– You are not comfortable doing repairs yourself
Do not attempt to use an air fryer that is damaged or not working properly. This can result in fire, electric shock, or injury. The manufacturer or a certified repair technician should evaluate and service the appliance.
Find your warranty & contact info
Check the warranty coverage on your air fryer. Newer models often come with 1-3 year warranties. If still under warranty, repairs may be fully or partially covered. Have the receipt, model number, serial number, and proof of purchase on hand when contacting the manufacturer. All this information is usually printed somewhere on the air fryer.
If the warranty is expired, you will have to pay for repairs. Contact authorized service centers in your area and compare rates on labor and parts replacement. Independent appliance repair technicians may also be available. Get an estimate before approving any repairs.
Tips to extend the life of your air fryer
With proper care and maintenance, your air fryer should provide several years of service. Follow these tips:
- Clean the fryer basket, pan, and filter after each use. Don’t let grease and debris build up.
- Only air fry in small batches. Overloading will cause overheating.
- Don’t exceed the timer – set it for the recommended cooking time.
- Allow at least 15 minutes cool down time between batches.
- Clean the exterior with a soft damp cloth. Don’t submerge the body in water.
- Store in a clean, dry place to prevent grease and dust buildup.
- Unplug when not in use to protect the electronics.
- Don’t use harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers to clean.
Replace or upgrade your air fryer
If your unit is outside of warranty and repairs will cost more than 50% of a new air fryer, it may make sense to replace it. You can also upgrade to a newer model with more features. Popular options include:
Digital Touchscreen – Preprogrammed cooking modes, digital displays, and touch controls for ease of use.
Large Capacity – Fryers with 5.5 qt or larger baskets cook more food at once. Good for families.
Dual Drawer Design – Models with two independent baskets allow you to cook different foods simultaneously.
Toaster Oven Combo – Air fry, bake, broil, and toast in one machine. Takes up more counter space.
Smart Fryers – Connect to your mobile device for remote control, notifications, and voice commands.
When purchasing a new air fryer, look for reputable brands known for quality and safety. Read reviews on sites like Consumer Reports to compare top models. Investing in a reliable, high-performing fryer can provide many years of satisfactory service.
Conclusion
Air fryers are a convenient way to cook crispy fried favorites with less oil and fat. But like any appliance, they can break down over time. If your air fryer suddenly stops working, there are ways to troubleshoot common problems and potentially get it running again. Basic issues like power supply, overheating, and dirty filters can often be fixed with simple DIY solutions.
For larger repairs, don’t hesitate to call the manufacturer or authorized service center. They have the expertise to diagnose and safely repair issues with heating elements, control panels, sensors, and internal components. With proper maintenance and care, a quality air fryer should provide many years of delicious results in your kitchen!
| Issue | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Air fryer won’t turn on | Plugged in improperly, damaged cord, no power, tripped breaker | Check power, cord, and reset breaker |
| Turns off while cooking | Overheated, overfilled basket, faulty sensor | Clean debris, let cool fully, troubleshoot sensor |
| Button not working | Control panel damaged, electronics issue | Have control panel serviced |
| Makes burning smell | Built up debris, overheated motor | Clean thoroughly, replace heating element |
| Fan not circulating air | Obstructed fan, damaged fan motor | Clean fan, replace motor if faulty |
| Food not crisping | Dirty filter, faulty heating element | Clean filter, check heating element |
Preventive Maintenance Tips
- Unplug when not in use
- Let cool fully between batches
- Wipe interior & exterior after each use
- Clean filter monthly
- Don’t overload cooking basket
- Use non-abrasive cleaners
- Store in clean, dry location
When to Buy New Fryer
- Unit is over 3 years old
- Repairs exceed 50% of new cost
- Manufacturer no longer services model
- Want newer features like smart controls
- Fryer has suffered fire, flood or major damage