Overfilled and dirty commercial air fryer in a professional kitchen, with excess grease, burnt residue, and poor maintenance

February 12, 2025 Lisa Santorelli

Don't Let These 5 Things Ruin Your Air Fryer

Ever wonder why your air fryer isn’t crisping like it used to? Short answer: misuse! Non-stick sprays, metal utensils, overcrowding, and poor cleaning can ruin it—even a commercial air fryer. Want to keep yours running like new? Stick around for the dos and don’ts of air fryer care!

overloaded commercial air fryer basket with unevenly cooked food, showing the impact of poor airflow on cooking results

1. Overfilling the Basket

It’s tempting to pile in as much food as possible, especially when cooking for a crowd. But stuffing your air fryer basket to the brim blocks airflow, leading to uneven cooking and disappointing results. Food needs space for hot air to circulate properly. The solution? Cook in smaller batches. It may take a little longer, but you’ll get that perfect crisp every time.

2. Using Too Much Oil

An air fryer is designed to cook with minimal oil, but some people go overboard, turning their appliance into a greasy mess. Excess oil can drip onto the heating element, causing smoke, lingering odours, and potential damage over time. Non-stick sprays are even worse—they can break down the coating inside the basket. Instead, use a light brush or a refillable oil sprayer to keep things under control. Check out the article "The Right Way to Oil an Air Fryer" for more information.

commercial air fryer with grease buildup and burnt food residue, highlighting the importance of regular cleaning for efficiency and safety

3. Improper Cleaning

Skipping regular cleaning or using harsh scrubbing materials can lead to serious problems. Grease and food residue build up quickly, leading to unpleasant smells, smoke, and even fires. Scrubbing too hard with steel wool or abrasive cleaners can wear down the non-stick coating, making your food stick and burn. Always wash the removable parts with warm, soapy water and use a soft sponge to protect the surface.

4. Cooking the Wrong Foods

Not everything belongs in an air fryer. Wet batters turn into a sloppy mess, cheese-heavy dishes can burn and cause smoke, and overly fatty meats can create excess grease buildup. Even some processed foods contain coatings that release harmful chemicals when exposed to high heat. Always check your air fryer’s manual and do a little research before trying something new.

5. Ignoring Temperature Guidelines

Cranking up the heat too high might seem like a shortcut to faster cooking, but it often leads to burnt exteriors and raw insides. Extreme temperatures can also put unnecessary strain on the heating element, reducing the appliance’s lifespan. Follow recommended cooking temperatures and times for the best results, and when in doubt, use a food thermometer to check doneness.

Tips for Extending the Life of Your Air Fryer

If you want to keep your air fryer working like new for years to come, follow these simple maintenance tips:

Clean it regularly to prevent buildup and odours.
Use the right utensils—stick to silicone or wooden tools instead of metal.
Avoid overcrowding to ensure proper airflow and even cooking.
Follow temperature guidelines instead of blasting the heat too high.
Store it properly in a dry, cool place when not in use.

By steering clear of these common mistakes and following proper care tips, your air fryer will stay in top shape. More importantly, your meals will come out crisp, delicious, and perfectly cooked every time!