Your air fryer’s fan is whirring away like normal, but your food stays cold and uncooked. This frustrating issue means the heating element isn’t working properly, leaving you with a fancy countertop fan instead of the crispy food maker you need.
Step-by-Step Fixes
Step 1: Check the Power Connection
First things first – unplug your air fryer completely and wait 30 seconds. Plug it back in directly to a wall outlet, not a power strip or extension cord. Many heating issues happen because air fryers need more power than other kitchen appliances. If you’ve been using a power strip, that’s likely your culprit right there.
Step 2: Reset Your Air Fryer
Turn off your air fryer and unplug it for at least 10 minutes. This gives the internal components time to fully reset. While it’s unplugged, check the power cord for any visible damage or bent prongs. After 10 minutes, plug it back in and try a simple test run at 350°F for 5 minutes without food.
Step 3: Clean the Heating Element
Let your air fryer cool completely if you’ve been using it. Remove the basket and look up inside the main unit – you’ll see the heating coil that looks similar to an oven element. Use a soft brush or cloth to gently remove any grease buildup or food debris. Built-up grease acts like insulation and prevents proper heating. Never use water directly on the heating element.
Step 4: Test Different Temperature Settings
Set your air fryer to its maximum temperature (usually 400°F or 450°F) and let it run empty for 3 minutes. Place your hand near the top vents – you should feel hot air within 60 seconds. If you only feel room temperature air after 3 minutes, the heating element has definitely failed. Try this test with multiple temperature settings to see if any work.
Step 5: Check for Error Codes
Modern air fryers from brands like Ninja, Cosori, and Instant Pot often display error codes when something’s wrong. Look at your display panel for any blinking lights or unusual symbols. Check your manual or the manufacturer’s website for what these codes mean. Error code E1 or E2 commonly indicates heating element failure.
Step 6: Inspect the Door or Lid Closure
Many air fryers have safety features that prevent heating if the basket isn’t properly inserted or the lid isn’t fully closed. Remove and reinsert your basket, making sure you hear a click. For models with doors, check that nothing is blocking the door from closing completely. Even a small gap can trigger the safety shutoff for the heating element.
Likely Causes
Cause #1: Failed Heating Element
The heating element is the metal coil that generates heat in your air fryer. After 2-3 years of regular use, these elements can burn out, especially in budget models under $50. You can check for visible damage like dark spots, breaks, or warping in the coil. If you see any damage, the element needs replacement. This repair typically costs $30-60 for parts, but labor can add another $50-80, making replacement more economical for cheaper models.
Cause #2: Faulty Temperature Sensor
Your air fryer uses a temperature sensor (thermostat) to regulate heat. When this sensor fails, it might think the unit is already hot enough and won’t activate the heating element. This issue is ideal for warranty claims if your unit is under 2 years old. You can’t easily test this yourself, but if your air fryer is less than 6 months old and showing this problem, it’s almost certainly a sensor issue rather than element failure.
Cause #3: Control Board Malfunction
The control board is your air fryer’s brain, telling the heating element when to turn on and off. Power surges, moisture, or manufacturing defects can damage this board. Signs include unresponsive buttons, random beeping, or the display showing incorrect information. Control board issues are not recommended for DIY fixes as they involve complex electronics and often cost more than a new air fryer.
When to Call Expert Help
Stop using your air fryer and seek professional help when you notice burning smells, see sparks, or hear unusual crackling sounds. These symptoms indicate serious electrical problems that could be dangerous. If your air fryer is under warranty (check your receipt – many brands offer 2-year coverage in 2025), contact the manufacturer first. They often provide free replacements for heating element failures within the warranty period.
For out-of-warranty units, get a repair quote from an appliance repair shop. If the quote exceeds 50% of a new air fryer’s cost, replacement is your better option. Premium brands like Breville or Cuisinart might be worth repairing, but entry-level models are usually best replaced.
Copy-Paste Prompt for AI Help
“My [brand and model] air fryer’s fan runs normally but won’t heat up food. I’ve tried resetting it and cleaning the heating element. The display shows [describe any error codes or unusual behavior]. It’s [age] old and was working fine until [when problem started]. What specific troubleshooting steps should I try for this model? Should I attempt repairs or replace it?”
Remember, a non-heating air fryer with a working fan often means a simple fix like a power issue or a terminal problem requiring replacement. Most air fryers last 3-5 years with regular use, so if yours is approaching that age, a heating element failure is unfortunately normal wear and tear.