Are you clueless about how to clean air fryer heating element? This guide is for you! In this post, I’ll share the steps for keeping the heating coils pristine. Many people would often ignore the heating element’s maintenance despite its importance in the overall performance of an air fryer.
What is a Heating Element?
Before I proceed to the cleaning instructions, let me give you a quick primer on what a heating element is and what it does in an air fryer.
I’ve previously written about how an air fryer works. If you’ve read it, you’ll know that the heating element is one of the most important components in an air fryer.
The heating element is the coil, which primarily controls the air that circulates in the air fryer and gets in your food. The fan helps spread hot air.
If the heating element is not working properly, the air fryer will not become hot inside. Hence, it will not cook your food. As such, you must clean it regularly to ensure optimal performance.
A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Clean Air Fryer Heating Element
It can be intimidating if you’re cleaning the heating element for the first time but don’t be scared. Nonetheless, you should be careful. You might end up damaging the coil, making the air fryer unusable.
- The first thing to do is unplug the air fryer and let it cool down. Remember, the heating element is hot, so don’t touch it immediately after using the unit.
- Take off the basket, rack, or other removable parts. This way, it will be easier to access the heating element.
- Turn your air fryer upside down. The heating element is at the top of the air fryer. By turning the unit over, it is easier to reach the heating element.
- Prepare a bowl with warm water. Add a few drops of dishwashing soap. Mix until it bubbles.
- Dip a cloth or soft sponge in the soapy solution. Wring to remove excess water. Wipe the heating element.
- Alternatively, you can also use a soft-bristled brush, but be gentle with the brushing motion. This will make it easier to reach the back of the coil or the nooks and crannies in the heating element.
- Let the heating coil dry.
Alternative Materials for Cleaning the Air Fryer Heating Element
In the steps above, I recommended using mild soap and water. However, here are other cleaning materials you might want to consider, especially if you want to go natural.
- Baking Soda
If you like cleaning your home using natural materials, you’re probably aware of the wonders of baking soda. This is especially a great cleaner if you need to remove stubborn dirt.
Start by mixing baking soda and water until you achieve a paste-like consistency. Spread on the heating element, focusing on areas with the highest concentration of dirt. Leave for a few minutes and scrub with a soft-bristle brush or cloth. Finish by wiping the heating element with paper towels. Make sure the coil is dry before using the air fryer.
- Vinegar
For a more powerful cleaner, it’s hard to go wrong with mixing vinegar and baking soda. Vinegar is an acid, which makes it effective. Not to mention, the chemical makeup controls the presence of bacteria and molds, among other microorganisms that can thrive in the air fryer.
Mix equal parts of vinegar and baking soda. Add a splash of water. You’ll now have a thick paste to wipe the heating element, doing the same steps as mentioned above.
- Hydrogen Peroxide
Another alternative cleaner to use in the heating element is hydrogen peroxide. It’s a powerful disinfectant with oxidizing properties. It can also kill germs and bacteria, making the air fryer cleaner and safer.
Mix hydrogen peroxide with baking soda until it becomes thick and consistent. Apply on the heating element and wipe. Another thing you can do is add dishwashing soap, which can make the cleaning solution more powerful.
How Often Should You Clean the Air Fryer Heating Element?
I don’t recommend cleaning the heating element daily or after every use. That would be too much work! You should examine the condition of the heating element from time to time and see if it needs cleaning.
In most cases, it’s best to clean the heating element once a month as a part of routine deep cleaning. If you use it more often, you can clean it at least once every two weeks. The most important thing is to inspect it often, so you can determine if it needs to be cleaned.
Conclusion
By now, I hope you’re already aware of how to clean air fryer heating element. It’s one part most people often ignore. Keeping it spotless is essential to ensure consistent heating. It can also cause a stinky odor in the appliance.
