How to Clean an Air Fryer Heating Element
Reviewed by the RecipeAirFryer editorial team · Updated
The heating element is the part most people never clean, and it is the usual reason an older air fryer smokes and smells. It sits at the top of the chamber, so cleaning it means turning the unit over and working on it upside down, always cold and unplugged.
Quick answer
- 1Unplug the air fryer and let it cool completely.
- 2Remove the basket, then turn the unit upside down so the element faces you.
- 3Wipe the element with a damp cloth and a little washing-up liquid; use a soft brush for baked-on grease.
- 4For stubborn spots, apply a baking soda and water paste, leave a few minutes, then wipe clean.
- 5Let it dry fully, then run it empty for a couple of minutes before cooking.
Why the element is the culprit
Every time you cook fatty food, a little fat splatters upward and bakes onto the element. It builds up invisibly, and then each new cook scorches the layer that is already there - which is what you smell and see as smoke.
This is why airing the unit or scrubbing only the basket never fixes a smoking air fryer. The source is above the food, not below it.
Doing it safely
Cold and unplugged, always - the element holds heat for a while after cooking. Turning the whole unit over is the easiest way to reach it without dripping water down into the housing.
Keep water off the housing and never immerse the main body. A damp cloth and a baking soda paste are all you need; abrasive pads can scratch the coating and the element.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I clean the heating element on my air fryer?+
Unplug it, let it cool, turn the unit upside down and wipe the element with a damp soapy cloth. Use a baking soda paste for baked-on grease, then dry fully.
Why does my air fryer smoke even after cleaning the basket?+
Because the grease is on the heating element, not the basket. The element sits above the food and has to be cleaned separately.
How often should I clean the element?+
Every week or two with regular use, and sooner if you notice smoke or a burning smell after cooking fatty foods.