My air fryer was my favorite kitchen gadget—until I learned about its hidden danger. Like most people, I used to leave it plugged in 24/7. Why wouldn’t I? It’s not like it was running when turned off. But then I spoke to a firefighter friend who set me straight.
“Air fryers are one of those appliances we’re seeing more and more in kitchen fires,” he told me. The combination of high heat, powerful motors, and electrical components makes them riskier than your average toaster or blender. Even when switched off, a small electrical fault can cause overheating.
The problem is compounded by where we typically keep air fryers—on countertops surrounded by flammable materials like paper towels, wooden utensils, and curtains. A small spark could quickly turn into a major fire.
Now I follow three simple rules: always unplug after use, keep the area around it clear, and inspect the cord regularly for damage. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind.
