Why Is My Air Fryer Not Working? Here’s The Fix!

Air fryers have become a culinary sensation, promising crispy, guilt-free indulgence. However, when your air fryer fails to deliver on its promise, leaving you with soggy or undercooked food, it can be a frustrating experience. If you’re wondering “why is my air fryer not making things crispy,” read on to uncover the potential causes and solutions.

Insufficient Heat

• Check the temperature setting: Air fryers require high temperatures to achieve crispiness. Ensure your air fryer is set to the recommended temperature for the food you’re cooking.
• Preheating: Preheat the air fryer for several minutes before adding food. This allows the air fryer to reach its optimal temperature and create a hot environment for crispy cooking.

Overcrowding

• Avoid overcrowding: Overloading the air fryer basket can restrict airflow, preventing food from crisping evenly. Fill the basket only up to the recommended level.
• Shake or toss food: During cooking, periodically shake or toss the food to ensure even cooking and prevent soggy spots.

Lack of Oil or Fat

• Add oil or fat: A small amount of oil or fat helps create a crispy crust. Brush or spray food with oil or use cooking spray before air frying.
• Choose fatty foods: Foods naturally high in fat, such as chicken wings or bacon, tend to crisp better in an air fryer.

Incorrect Cooking Time

• Adjust cooking time: Overcooking can result in dry or burnt food, while undercooking will leave food soggy. Adjust the cooking time based on the food type and quantity.
• Use a cooking thermometer: For precise cooking, use a cooking thermometer to monitor the internal temperature of the food.

Dirty Air Fryer

• Clean the air fryer regularly: A dirty air fryer can affect airflow and heat distribution. Clean the air fryer basket and heating element regularly to ensure optimal performance.
• Remove excess food debris: After each use, shake or brush out any excess food debris from the air fryer to prevent it from burning and affecting the taste of future meals.

Poor Air Fryer Quality

• Invest in a quality air fryer: Cheap or low-quality air fryers may not have the power or features necessary to achieve crispy results. Consider investing in a reputable brand with positive reviews.
• Check the wattage: Higher wattage air fryers generally perform better and can reach higher temperatures for crispy cooking.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Why is my air fryer burning food on the outside but not cooking on the inside?

• Reduce temperature: The temperature may be too high. Lower the temperature and cook for a longer period.
• Check for overcrowding: Overcrowding can prevent even cooking. Reduce the amount of food in the air fryer basket.

Why is my air fryer not browning food?

• Add oil or fat: Oil or fat helps create a crispy crust. Brush or spray food with oil or use cooking spray before air frying.
• Increase cooking time: The cooking time may not be sufficient. Increase the cooking time by a few minutes.

Why is my air fryer making my food soggy?

• Overcrowding: Overcrowding can restrict airflow and prevent food from crisping evenly. Fill the basket only up to the recommended level.
• Insufficient heat: The temperature may be too low. Increase the temperature according to the food type.

Why is my air fryer making food taste like plastic?

• New air fryer: New air fryers may release a plastic smell during the first few uses. Run the air fryer empty at the highest temperature for 15-20 minutes to burn off any manufacturing residues.
• Overheating: Excessive heat can cause the plastic parts of the air fryer to release chemicals into the food. Avoid overcooking or using the air fryer at too high a temperature.

Why is my air fryer smoking?

• Overcrowding: Overcrowding can cause food to release excess grease or fat, which can smoke. Fill the basket only up to the recommended level.
• Dirty air fryer: A dirty air fryer can accumulate food debris and grease, which can burn and produce smoke. Clean the air fryer regularly.