Households with air fryers have been issued an urgent warning (Image: Getty)
An urgent safety warning has been issued to UK households following a spate of air fryer safety recalls and incidents.
The kitchen appliances have surged in popularity in recent years because they’re usually cheaper to run than a standard traditional oven and often produce healthier food because they don’t need oil.
But fire experts have issued a warning to UK households about the time and cost saving cookers following a rash of recent safety recalls.
Fire services across the UK have reported a steady rise in incidents involving air fryers, often caused by simple mistakes such as overcrowding the basket, allowing grease to build up inside the appliance, or positioning the unit too close to flammable materials.
According to research commissioned by insurer Aviva, nearly one in five UK residents say they have encountered fire-related issues with air fryers, ranging from smoking and overheating to small fires. »
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Aviva’s data also suggests the financial impact can be significant, with the average insurance claim for air fryer-related fires reaching £29,555 in 2025, and some claims reported to be as high as £80,000.
While product recalls can highlight manufacturing faults in certain models, Jonny Smith from fire safety firm Crusader Fire says many incidents are still linked to everyday usage mistakes that can easily be avoided.
Fire safety risk assessment specialist Jonny Smith is warning homeowners to take a few simple precautions when using the devices.
He said: “Air fryers are pretty straightforward to use, and this one little fact is what puts off most owners from reading the instruction manual before using
“There are a lot of precautions to take when it comes to putting your air fryer to use, such as never using oil and making sure that when you are using it, there is enough ventilation to keep the system from overheating and sparking flames.”
To reduce the risk of problems, Smith recommends homeowners follow a few simple safety habits when using the appliance.
• Read the manual – Take time to understand the manufacturer’s guidance before using a new air fryer.
• Avoid overcrowding – Filling the basket too much can restrict airflow, leading to overheating and uneven cooking.
• Ensure proper ventilation – Always operate the appliance in a well-ventilated area and keep it away from flammable surfaces.
• Clean regularly – Built-up grease and food residue can ignite if the appliance becomes too hot.
• Place it on a suitable surface – Air fryers should be positioned on a stable, heat-resistant surface and never placed on or near stovetops.
• Never leave it unattended – Like any cooking appliance, air fryers should always be monitored while in use.
As more households continue to rely on air fryers for everyday cooking, Smith says a few simple precautions can go a long way in preventing accidents.
He added: “They’re a great kitchen appliance when used properly.
“But like any device that produces heat, it’s important to treat it with the same level of care you would give to an oven or hob. »
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