Why Does My Air Fryer Keep Tripping the Breaker? (4 Common Problems & Fixes!)

Air fryers have become increasingly popular due to their efficiency and ability to cook food with less oil than traditional frying methods. However, one common issue that some users face (including me!) is that their air fryer keeps tripping the breaker. This not only disrupts the cooking process but it can also raise safety concerns.

But, why does my air fryer keep tripping the breaker?

There could be several factors contributing to your air fryer tripping the breaker. These may include an overloaded circuit, a faulty circuit breaker, or a defective air fryer component. Understanding the underlying cause of the problem can help you take appropriate steps to fix the issue and ensure that your air fryer operates safely and efficiently.

By identifying the reasons for your air fryer to trip the breaker and taking appropriate action to address them, you can prevent potential hazards and enjoy using your air fryer without disruptions.

As you continue reading this article, you will gain valuable insights into troubleshooting breaker-related issues and maintaining the proper functioning of your air fryer.

What is the purpose of circuit breakers?

Circuit breakers are essential components of a home’s electrical system. They protect your appliances and, more importantly, your home from dangerous electrical issues that can cause damage or injury.

Circuit breakers are designed to protect electrical systems and appliances from damage due to excess current, short circuits, and ground faults. When a breaker detects an issue with the flow of electricity, it automatically disconnects the circuit, stopping the current before it can cause any harm.

Circuit breakers can be found in your home’s electrical panel and are designed to be easily reset after tripping.

What causes a circuit breaker to trip or overload?

A circuit overload occurs when more electricity is drawn from a circuit than it can handle, leading to a tripping breaker. 

Here are some possible reasons why your air fryer can cause a circuit overload and trip the breaker:

1. High wattage: Some air fryers have a high wattage, causing the circuit to be overloaded, especially if other appliances are also drawing power from the same circuit. Make sure the wattage of your air fryer is within the limits of the circuit.
2. Faulty outlet or wiring: A faulty outlet or wiring can lead to the breaker tripping when you plug in your air fryer. It’s essential to test different outlets and have faulty wiring checked by a professional electrician.
3. Power surges: A power surge can cause sudden changes in voltage and result in the breaker tripping. These events might come from external sources, like lightning strikes or internal ones, such as turning on other high-wattage appliances.

What is a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI)

The Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) is a specialized type of circuit breaker designed to prevent electric shock by quickly shutting off power when it detects a ground fault. GFCI outlets are commonly found in kitchens and bathrooms, where electrical appliances are frequently used near water.

An air fryer may trip the GFCI if it detects a ground fault, such as a leak or moisture in the appliance.

Common reasons why an air fryer would trip the breaker

There could be several reasons why your air fryer is tripping the breaker. Let’s explore some of the most common causes, including:

• Faulty heating element
• Short circuits in the air fryer
• Overloading kitchen circuits

Faulty Heating Element

A faulty heating element may cause your air fryer to trip the breaker, as it can draw more power than it should, causing an imbalance in the electrical system. This problem can lead to overheating and even a fire if not addressed properly.

How to fix it

To solve this issue, it is advisable to have a professional inspect and potentially replace the heating element to ensure safe and proper functioning of your air fryer.

Short Circuits in Air Fryer

Short circuits within the air fryer can also lead to tripping the breaker. These can occur due to damaged wires, faulty components, or even a damaged power cord.

When short circuits happen, the electrical current is diverted from its intended path, causing a spike in power usage. This sudden increase in power can trip the breaker, leading to power loss and potential damage to your air fryer.

How to fix it

To address this issue, you should inspect the power cord and internal components for visible signs of damage. If you find any issues, have them repaired or replaced by a professional.

Overloading Kitchen Circuits

Another common reason for air fryers tripping breakers is overloading kitchen circuits. Often, multiple appliances, such as microwaves, ovens, and refrigerators, share the same electrical circuit in the kitchen.

When you plug in your air fryer and run it at the same time as other high-power appliances, the combined power usage can overload the circuit, causing it to trip the breaker.

How to fix it

To minimize the risk of overloading the circuit, consider the following tips:

• Ensure your air fryer is connected to a dedicated circuit that doesn’t share power with other high-power appliances.
• If possible, avoid using multiple high-power appliances simultaneously.
• Check your home’s electrical system to ensure it can handle the power requirements of all appliances.

By addressing these potential causes of your air fryer tripping the breaker, you can ensure the proper and safe functioning of your appliance.

Identifying and troubleshooting issues with your air fryer

When an air fryer trips the breaker, it is crucial to identify the cause of the problem. Overloading the circuit is one common reason, as air fryers can draw a significant amount of power, especially when other appliances are also in use on the same circuit. Ensure to avoid using multiple high-power appliances simultaneously.

Another possible reason could be a faulty breaker. The most obvious sign that this is the problem is that other appliances or devices tend to trip this breaker, as well.

Checking for Damaged Power Cords and Outlets

Inspect the power cord of the air fryer for any visible signs of damage, such as frayed or exposed wires. Also, check for loose connections at the wall outlets and make sure there is no damage to the wiring of the outlet itself.

In case of damaged power cords, either repair or replace them with the manufacturer’s recommended parts. In the event that the outlet is faulty, replace the outlet or have a qualified electrician assess and repair the situation.

Assessing Kitchen Circuit Capacity

For older homes, it is possible that the wiring and maximum circuit capacity may not be sufficient to support multiple high-power appliances like air fryers, ovens, and refrigerators. Modern appliances can use a lot of power and air fryers tend to run for quite a while to cook food. In fact, an air fryer can pull anywhere from 800-2,000 watts of power from the wall at one time, potentially twice that of a microwave.

You might need to upgrade your home’s electrical system to handle the increased power requirements.

• Test your air fryer in a different outlet located in another section of the house.
• Make sure to unplug other high-power appliances from the same circuit while using the air fryer.
• Use a multimeter to monitor the electrical load on circuits and sockets during the cooking process.

By following the aforementioned guidelines, you should be able to address and resolve common issues related to air fryers tripping breakers. Always remember to prioritize safety when dealing with electrical wiring and internal components.

Preventive maintenance for your air fryer

• Use the air fryer properly
• Keep your air fryer clean
• Optimize your Kitchen’s Electrical Layout

Use the air fryer properly

To ensure your air fryer does not trip the breaker, make sure you are using the air fryer according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Always plug the air fryer into a properly grounded outlet and avoid using extension cords. Check the power source and outlet for any issues or damage, and never use a damaged plug. When switching on, ensure that no other kitchen appliances share the same power circuit to prevent overloading.

Keep your air fryer clean

Regular cleaning and maintenance of your air fryer can prevent buildup of grease and debris inside the appliance, which could lead to overheating and circuit issues. Follow these steps:

• Unplug the air fryer and allow it to cool down before cleaning
• Remove the basket, tray, and any removable parts for separate cleaning
• Use a soft sponge and mild detergent to clean the inside
• Wipe down the exterior and handle with a damp cloth
• Make sure to properly dry all parts before reassembling

Optimize your Kitchen’s Electrical Layout

To prevent your air fryer from tripping the breaker, assess your kitchen’s electrical layout and consider making necessary changes. Here are a few suggestions:

• Rewiring: Consult an electrician to ensure proper wiring and installation of circuit breakers with appropriate capacity for your appliance needs
• Socket distribution: Make sure you have enough electrical sockets in the kitchen to avoid sharing a circuit with multiple high-power appliances
• Power source: If possible, dedicate an electrical circuit to your air fryer, and label it accordingly to avoid accidental overloads

By following these preventive measures and maintaining the air fryer, you can minimize the risk of your air fryer tripping the breaker.

If you still face issues with your air fryer, consult the manufacturer’s troubleshooting guide or reach out to customer support under the product’s warranty.

When to consult a professional for your air fryer

If your air fryer continues to trip the breaker after trying basic troubleshooting steps such as using a different outlet or checking other appliances on the same circuit, it may be time to consult a professional electrician.

Some signs that warrant seeking an expert include:

• Frequent tripping: If your breaker trips repeatedly every time you use your air fryer or other appliances like a stove, it could indicate a deeper electrical issue within your home’s wiring system. Also, it isn’t good for the breaker to trip constantly – it is meant to be a failsafe, not something to rely on frequently.
• Burning smell: A burning smell around the breaker box or outlets can signify potentially hazardous wiring problems that require immediate attention.
• Old or outdated wiring: Homes with older wiring systems may struggle to handle the power consumption of modern appliances, necessitating an upgrade by a professional.
• Flickering lights: When using your air fryer, if you notice flickering lights or other electrical anomalies, it may indicate an overloaded circuit or a faulty breaker.

Tips for hiring an electrician

Once you’ve determined that the issue with your air fryer tripping the breaker warrants professional intervention, it’s essential to hire a licensed electrician. The following tips can help you find a qualified electrician:

1. Ask for referrals: Reach out to friends, neighbors, or family members for recommendations. Positive feedback from someone you trust can go a long way in finding the right electrician.
2. Verify licenses and certifications: Check if the electrician is licensed and certified in your region, as this ensures they have met standard requirements and are knowledgeable about local building codes.
3. Compare quotes: Gather quotes from multiple electricians to review their services, rates, and gauge their expertise in addressing your specific breaker issue.
4. Check reviews and references: Look for online reviews, and ask for references to verify the electrician’s reliability, quality of work, and professionalism.

By seeking the assistance of a professional electrician, you can confidently resolve any underlying issues with your home’s electrical system that may be causing your air fryer to trip the breaker and ensure the safe operation of your appliances.

Frequently Asked Questions