ommercial air fryer with a glass measuring cup of water beside it and a large floating question mark, set against a blue background representing water, illustrating the debate on using water in an air fryer

February 12, 2025 Lisa Santorelli

The Surprising Truth: Do You Put Water in an Air Fryer?

Ever stared at your air fryer wondering, "Do I put oil in the bottom?" Short answer: Not really, but sometimes! While a commercial air fryer or home model benefits from a light mist of oil, drowning it in oil defeats the magic. Stick around for pro tips on getting that perfect crisp!

The Purpose of Water (and Why It's Usually Not Needed)

Air fryers work by circulating hot air to cook food evenly and give it a crispy finish. Unlike deep fryers, they don’t rely on oil or water to function. In most cases, adding water to the bottom of an air fryer isn’t necessary and can actually disrupt airflow, leading to uneven cooking.

That said, there are rare occasions when a small amount of water can be helpful. If you're cooking fatty foods like bacon or sausage, a bit of water can help reduce excessive smoke caused by grease hitting the heating element. Even then, it should only be done in moderation and according to your air fryer’s manual.

commercial air fryer in a bright professional kitchen with a glass water pitcher beside it and a large question mark subtly incorporated into the scene

Risks of Putting Water in Your Air Fryer

Preventing Smoking (Sometimes)

A tiny amount of water can help reduce smoke when cooking greasy foods, but too much water can cause more harm than good. Excessive water can create steam, which interferes with crisping and browning. Instead of that perfect golden crunch, you might end up with soggy, disappointing results.

Not for Moisture

Some people think adding water keeps food moist, but air fryers aren’t steamers. Instead of making food juicier, water can slow down the cooking process by making it harder for the fryer to reach the right temperature. This can lead to longer cooking times and less crispy results.

Damage to the Appliance

Air fryers aren’t built to handle large amounts of water. Pouring water directly into the bottom can damage the heating element and other internal components. Over time, this could shorten the lifespan of your air fryer or even void the warranty.

Safety Concerns

Water and electricity don’t mix well. While a small splash won’t cause harm, too much water inside an air fryer increases the risk of electrical issues. To avoid potential hazards, always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and never exceed the recommended amount of water.

ommercial air fryer in a vibrant professional kitchen with a bottle of cooking oil, a roll of parchment paper with some sheets pulled out, and a drip tray, set against a well-lit, colourful background with natural tones and stainless steel surfaces

Better Alternatives for Reducing Smoke

Instead of adding water, there are safer ways to keep your air fryer running smoothly and prevent smoke.

Use parchment paper or a drip tray to catch grease before it burns.
Cook fatty foods at a lower temperature to reduce excessive splattering.
Clean your air fryer regularly to remove grease buildup that can cause smoking.
Lightly coat food with oil spray to enhance crispiness without creating smoke.

Air fryers are designed to cook with hot air, not water. While a little moisture can help in certain cases, it’s rarely needed. Stick to best practices, and your air fryer will deliver crispy, delicious results every time.