Air Fryers Causing Fire Hazards and Damage Worth £80,000
Recent reports have revealed a concerning trend of air fryers erupting into flames, resulting in considerable damage and substantial financial costs for homeowners. According to insurance provider Aviva, claims related to air fryer fires have been escalating over the past four years, with some claims exceeding £80,000 in damages. The average claim in 2024 reached £29,555, highlighting the severity of these incidents. One particular case detailed by Aviva involved an air fryer fire that led to £80,000 worth of damage in a kitchen, destroying various elements within the room.
In several instances, claimants reported witnessing flames emerging from collapsing and melting air fryers, causing extensive damage to surrounding surfaces. Additionally, there have been cases where air fryers were inadvertently placed on hobs, triggering fires that resulted in further destruction. Notably, a situation arose where a pet inadvertently activated a hob, leading to a fire incident. Aviva also conducted a survey in partnership with Censuswide, revealing that approximately 68% of respondents owned an air fryer. Alarmingly, 19% of participants had encountered fire-related hazards such as smoke, overheating, or scorching due to air fryer usage.
The survey also exposed a concerning trend of users disregarding safety guidelines, with only 21% claiming to strictly adhere to the provided manuals. Some respondents confessed to habitually overfilling their air fryers or using them in inadequately ventilated areas, potentially amplifying fire risks. Hannah Davidson, senior underwriting manager at Aviva, emphasised the necessity for heightened awareness regarding fire risks associated with air fryers. She highlighted the importance of practices such as never leaving air fryers unattended, avoiding excessive oil usage, and ensuring proper ventilation during operation.
Luke Osborne, deputy technical director at Electrical Safety First, echoed these concerns, underscoring the significance of using air fryers safely. He advised individuals to register their products, avoid overfilling the fryers, and refrain from plugging them into extension leads to prevent overheating incidents. Regular maintenance and adherence to manufacturers’ cleaning instructions were also emphasised as crucial precautions to avert fire hazards. Osborne recommended keeping power cords away from hot surfaces to prevent cable damage, a potential source of fires.
Aviva provided a comprehensive list of safety tips for air fryer users, including following manufacturer instructions, avoiding excess oil, ensuring proper placement on non-flammable surfaces, and regular cleaning to prevent grease build-up. Additionally, users were advised to inspect the fryer for damage, avoid overfilling the basket, keep the appliance away from water, and have suitable fire safety equipment readily available. Having adequate home insurance coverage was highlighted as a crucial measure to mitigate financial losses in the event of a fire incident.
As reports of air fryer-related fires continue to emerge, it is imperative for users to exercise caution and adhere to recommended safety practices. The rising popularity of air fryers necessitates heightened vigilance to prevent potential fire hazards and protect both property and individuals. By implementing these safety measures and staying informed about fire prevention strategies, users can minimise the risk of air fryer accidents and safeguard their homes.