Experts over at Aviva have urged Brits to learn the ‘associated fire risks’ of using an air fryer following a number of expensive insurance claims over the last four years
Experts have issued a stark fire warning for anyone who uses an air fryer. Over the last few years, the mini-devices have propelled into the mainstream – offering households a handy way to rustle up late-night beige food.
They’re the height of convenience, are ideal for small kitchens, and can often work out as a cheaper alternative to turning the oven on. However, just like any electrical appliance – air fryers pose a serious fire risk. Alarming new research from Aviva – who has seen a number of significant home insurance claims relating to air fryer fires over the last four years – has found that nearly one in five (19 per cent) of Brits have encountered potential or actual fire hazards due to the popular appliances.
Some of the insurance claims incurred tens of thousands of pounds worth of damage, with the average claim for 2024 sitting at a staggering £29,555. One particular air fryer fire resulted in £80,000 worth of damage to one person’s kitchen after spreading and setting the ‘entire room alight’. Other claimants describe seeing ‘flames erupting from collapsing and melting air fryers, completely destroying the surfaces on which they were placed’.
In a survey of 2,000 participants, almost half (45 per cent) were unaware of the fire risks associated with air fryers, while three in ten would not know what to do if a fire broke out in their home because of an air fryer. Three per cent had actually experienced an ‘explosion’ while another three per cent had experienced a fire.
In a statement sent to the Mirror, Hannah Davidson at Aviva stressed the importance of air fryer users understanding the ‘associated fire risks’. She added: “Simple practices such as not leaving air fryers unattended, avoiding excessive amounts of oil when cooking, placing air fryers on non-flammable surfaces, and ensuring proper ventilation during use can significantly reduce fire risks. Keeping a fire blanket and a small fire extinguisher in the kitchen is also good practice.”
The expert warned that Brits should never throw water on an electrical fire – as this can make things much worse. “Instead, use a fire blanket or fire extinguisher rates for electrical fires, and call the fire brigade if necessary,” Hannah stated. “Having the right home insurance policy can also help protect against significant financial losses, providing extra peace of mind while you prepare your meals.”
How to safely use an air fryer
- Never leave your air fryer unattended while it’s on.
- Avoid using excess oil.
- Ensure proper placement of the air fryer: place your air fryer on a stable, non-flammable surface, and ensure it is in a well-ventilated area. Avoid placing it under cabinets or in enclosed spaces.
- Clean your air fryer regularly.
- Check your air fryer for any damage – and avoid using if you spot anything concerning
- Avoid overfilling your air fryer.
- Keep your air fryer away from water.
- Have fire safety equipment ready.
- Purchase the right home insurance.
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