air fryer keeps tripping breaker (2023)

Do you have an air fryer that constantly trips the breaker? This can be a frustrating problem, especially if you love your air fryer and use it frequently. In this article, we will take a comprehensive look at the causes of air fryers tripping breakers and the steps you can take to prevent this issue from happening.

Understanding the Basics of Air Fryers

Before we dive into the causes of air fryers tripping breakers, it's important to understand the basics of how these appliances work. Air fryers use high-speed hot air circulation to cook food quickly and efficiently. The hot air is generated by a heating element, and a fan circulates the air around the food. This results in food that is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, without the need for a lot of oil or fat.

One of the benefits of using an air fryer is that it can cook a variety of foods, from chicken wings to vegetables to desserts. Many air fryers also come with pre-set cooking programs, making it easy to cook different types of food with just the touch of a button. Additionally, air fryers are often easier to clean than traditional deep fryers, as they don't require large amounts of oil and grease.

However, it's important to note that air fryers can vary in size and capacity, so it's important to choose one that fits your needs. Some air fryers may not be large enough to cook a full meal for a family, while others may be too large for a single person or small household. It's also important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for use and maintenance, to ensure that your air fryer operates safely and efficiently.

How Do Air Fryers Work?

When you plug in your air fryer and turn it on, the heating element will heat up the air inside the appliance. The fan will then circulate this hot air around the food, cooking it evenly on all sides. Most air fryers come with a temperature control mechanism that allows you to adjust the temperature according to your food type and preference.

One of the benefits of using an air fryer is that it can cook food with little to no oil, making it a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. The hot air circulating around the food creates a crispy outer layer, similar to the texture achieved through deep frying, but without the added oil. Additionally, air fryers are versatile appliances that can be used to cook a variety of foods, from chicken wings to vegetables to desserts.

Causes of Air Fryer Tripping Breaker

There are several reasons why an air fryer might trip the breaker. The most common reason is overloading the circuit, which we will discuss in detail below. Other possible reasons include a faulty electrical system, a damaged heating element, or a malfunctioning fan.

Another reason why an air fryer might trip the breaker is due to a power surge. Power surges can occur when there is a sudden increase in the electrical current flowing through the circuit. This can happen due to lightning strikes, power outages, or even when large appliances are turned on or off. If your air fryer is connected to a circuit that is prone to power surges, it may trip the breaker as a safety measure to prevent damage to the appliance or the electrical system.

Overloading Circuit: The Main Culprit behind the Air Fryer Tripping Breaker

One of the most common reasons why air fryers trip breakers is because they overload the circuit. This typically happens when you plug in too many appliances or devices into the same electrical circuit. When the circuit becomes overloaded, the breaker will trip as a safety mechanism to prevent an electrical fire.

It is important to note that the age and condition of your home's electrical system can also contribute to circuit overloading. If your home has outdated wiring or a low electrical capacity, it may not be able to handle the demands of modern appliances like air fryers. In these cases, it may be necessary to upgrade your electrical system to prevent circuit overloading and ensure the safety of your home.

Is Your Circuit Breaker Adequate for Your Air Fryer's Power Consumption?

Another reason why your air fryer might be tripping the breaker is because your circuit breaker is inadequate for your air fryer's power consumption. Air fryers typically require a lot of power to operate, especially when they are heating up. If your circuit breaker is not designed to handle the amount of power your air fryer requires, it will trip the breaker.

It is important to check the amperage rating of your circuit breaker before using your air fryer. Most air fryers require a circuit breaker with a rating of at least 15 amps. If your circuit breaker has a lower rating, it may not be able to handle the power requirements of your air fryer and could cause it to trip.

In addition, if you have other appliances or electronics connected to the same circuit as your air fryer, it could also cause the breaker to trip. To avoid this, try plugging your air fryer into a dedicated circuit with no other devices connected to it. This will ensure that your air fryer has enough power to operate without tripping the breaker.

Troubleshooting Tips to Fix Air Fryer Tripping Breaker Issue

If your air fryer is tripping the breaker, there are several steps you can take to troubleshoot the issue. First, try plugging it into a different outlet to see if the breaker still trips. If it does, then it's likely an issue with the air fryer itself. You can also unplug all other appliances from the same circuit to see if that resolves the problem.

If neither of those steps work, it's possible that the circuit breaker is overloaded and needs to be replaced. You can check this by turning off all the appliances on the same circuit and then turning on the air fryer. If the breaker still trips, then it's time to call an electrician to replace the breaker.

Another possible cause of the air fryer tripping the breaker is a faulty heating element. If this is the case, you will need to replace the heating element. You can do this yourself if you are comfortable with electrical work, or you can take it to a professional to have it replaced.

How to Reset the Circuit Breaker after an Air Fryer Trip?

If your air fryer trips the breaker, you will need to reset the breaker to restore power. To do this, locate your electrical panel and find the breaker that has tripped. Switch it off, then switch it back on again. If the breaker trips again immediately, then there may be a more significant issue at play, and you should call an electrician.

It is important to note that air fryers can draw a significant amount of power, especially if they are used frequently. If you find that your air fryer is tripping the breaker frequently, you may need to consider upgrading your electrical system to handle the load. This could involve installing a dedicated circuit for your air fryer or upgrading your electrical panel altogether.

Another common cause of air fryer trips is using an extension cord or power strip to plug in the appliance. These devices are not designed to handle the high power draw of an air fryer and can cause the breaker to trip. To avoid this issue, always plug your air fryer directly into a wall outlet and avoid using extension cords or power strips.

When to Call a Professional Electrician for Help with Your Air Fryer?

If you have tried troubleshooting your air fryer and cannot find a solution to the breaker trips issue, it's best to call a professional electrician. An electrician will be able to perform an electrical safety inspection and diagnose the issue. They can also help you upgrade your electrical system to better handle your air fryer's power consumption, if necessary.

Preventing Future Air Fryer Breaker Trips - A Comprehensive Guide

If you want to prevent future air fryer breaker trips, there are several proactive steps you can take. First, make sure you are plugging your air fryer into a dedicated circuit with an appropriate amp rating. Avoid plugging it into the same circuit as other high-power appliances, such as a microwave or toaster oven. Also, make sure your air fryer's electrical cord and plug are in good condition and not damaged.

Upgrading and Replacing Electrical System to Avoid Frequent Breaker Trips caused by an Air Fryer

If you find that your air fryer is frequently tripping the breaker, you may need to upgrade your electrical system to handle the power consumption better. This might include installing a dedicated, appropriately rated circuit for your air fryer, upgrading your electrical panel to handle more power, or even rewiring your kitchen altogether.

Conclusion: Keeping Your Air Fryer Safe and Functional

Your air fryer is a versatile appliance that can help you cook delicious, healthy meals quickly and easily. However, it can also be a safety hazard if you don't take proper precautions. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can keep your air fryer functional and safe, preventing unwanted breaker trips and other electrical issues.