The modern kitchen is filled with efficient appliances designed to simplify cooking and make it healthier. An air fryer is still not the most common solution in today’s kitchens — and unfairly so.
This appliance can become an indispensable household assistant, allowing you to perform several tasks — stewing, baking, frying, and drying foods while using as least oil as possible. Most importantly, it helps save both time and effort.
But many beginners still wonder whether this appliance is actually practical for everyday cooking — if that sounds familiar, you may want to read if an air fryer worth it.
Let’s see next how an Air Fryer works.
How does an Air Fryer work?
An air fryer operates on the principle of convection. Food is cooked by a stream of hot air circulating inside a closed chamber. A fan is installed inside the unit. The heating element, built into the lid, quickly raises the temperature to the selected level. After that the fan directs the airflow in a circular pattern. Models like the Philips 2000 Series use this convection system very efficiently. That’s why airflow design plays such a big role in cooking results.
As a result, heat is distributed evenly. So food is cooked from all sides without the need to turn it over or add large amounts of oil. Because the appliance heats up quickly, many users ask if they need to preheat an air fryer. In most cases the answer depends on the recipe and model. Because the appliance heats up quickly and uses high temperatures, some users notice unusual odors. If this happens to you, read why your air fryer smells like plastic.
Essentially, an air fryer is a compact convection oven that combines the functions of an oven, grill, and even a deep fryer. This technology makes the appliance highly versatile. It can bake, grill on a rack, dry fruit, defrost, stew, and reheat dishes.
To get consistent results, it’s helpful to follow tested air fryer temperatures and times, especially when cooking new foods.
The Difference Between Cooking in an Air Fryer, an Oven, or a Frying Pan
Food is placed on a rack inside the cooking container. This allows it to do more than simply bake from top or bottom heat. Hot air surrounds the food, gradually bringing it to readiness and creating a unique flavor. This flavour is not always achievable even with a good convection oven. This intense airflow is also the reason many beginners struggle with texture — especially when air fryer food comes out dry and how to fix it.
During cooking, fat drains from the surface of the food into the lower tray, making dishes healthier compared to traditional frying, where oil particles remain on the surface. Unlike an oven, where heat spreads slowly and requires preheating, an air fryer reaches its operating temperature almost instantly.
This faster heating also affects electricity consumption, which is why many people compare air fryer vs oven electrical usage when choosing between the two appliances. This is especially convenient for quick preparation of meat, vegetables, baked goods, and frozen foods.
Popular meals like pizza in an air fryer benefit greatly from this rapid, even heat
Can You Use Foil or Parchment Paper in an Air Fryer?
One of the most common beginner questions is about accessories and liners.
In most cases, you can use aluminum foil in an air fryer, as long as it doesn’t block airflow or touch the heating element.
The same applies to baking liners — you can use parchment paper if it’s properly weighted and perforated for airflow.
Using these correctly can reduce cleanup time and prevent sticking, especially when cooking marinated or delicate foods.
Pros and Cons of an Air Fryer
Like any household appliance, an air fryer has both pros and cons. Below are the main ones.
Pros
- The ability to cook crispy and tasty dishes using minimal amount of oil, making the device attractive for those who lead a healthy diet.
- Hot air ensures even heating from all sides, creating a golden crust without overcooking.
- A fairly easy-to-use appliance that can replace several kitchen devices at once.
- Food cooks faster than on a stovetop.
- No open flame, oil splashes, or burnt fat odors during cooking, keeping the kitchen clean.
- The ability to monitor the process through a transparent window on the side of the bowl makes it easier to control doneness and prevents over-drying or burning.
- For small kitchens, an air fryer can replace multiple appliances, saving space and money.
Cons
- Due to active air circulation, some models operate at a relatively high noise level, which may be slightly irritating in small spaces. If this becomes an issue, read what it means when an air fryer makes loud noise and when it’s normal versus a problem
- Although the appliance heats up quickly, operating at high temperatures requires stable power.
- The need for regular cleaning of the bowl, racks, and trays, especially after cooking fatty foods.
- Not all dishes can be cooked without supervision; sometimes food needs to be turned to ensure the top does not burn while the bottom cooks through.
- To achieve optimal texture, some dishes require pre-marinating or the use of additional accessories (such as second-level metal racks).
Common Air Fryer Problems Beginners Face
Like any electric appliance, air fryers can sometimes malfunction.
If your air fryer won’t turn on, the issue may be as simple as a loose basket, power outlet problem, or safety lock.
When an air fryer is not heating up, the cause is often related to temperature settings, internal sensors, or airflow obstruction.
Knowing these basics helps prevent unnecessary returns or repairs.
Who an Air Fryer Is Best Suited For
Even in a kitchen equipped with all modern appliances, an air fryer can be a useful addition. It is especially helpful in the following cases:
- You often cook several dishes at the same time. If you prefer to prepare food for the whole family a few days in advance, an air fryer allows you to cook in parallel with a stovetop and oven without waiting for the oven to become available. You can simultaneously cook soup, bake pastries, and prepare meat dishes. This is particularly convenient when preparing for holidays and family gatherings.
- There are special dietary requirements in the family. If someone follows a specific diet — such as keeping kosher, avoiding meat, or having lactose intolerance or allergies — a separate appliance for preparing “special” meals greatly simplifies the process and reduces the risk of mixing foods. This is also why many people look for compact or personal models — if that applies to you, choosing the right size becomes especially important. If you’re looking for the best air fryer for one person, check out our detailed review comparing the top compact models for everyday cooking.
- The oven is occupied for long periods of time. When the oven is used for lengthy processes such as drying vegetables or making homemade fruit chips, an air fryer can serve as a substitute and free the oven for other dishes.
Who May Not Need an Air Fryer
Despite all its advantages, an air fryer may not be useful for those who rarely cook at home. If you prefer eating out or relying on ready-made foods, the appliance will likely be unnecessary and take up space.
Owners of small kitchens should also think carefully before purchasing an air fryer. Even compact models require storage space, and larger 16-liter units can be inconvenient due to limited space and the need to frequently take the appliance out and put it away.
Conclusion
An air fryer is more than just a trendy kitchen gadget! It is a versatile and efficient appliance that can significantly simplify everyday cooking. By using circulating hot air instead of large amounts of oil, it delivers crispy, flavorful food. If you’re wondering how this technology compares to traditional appliances, check out detailed comparison of air fryer vs convection oven.
Although it requires counter space and regular cleaning, its speed, convenience, and multi-functionality make it a valuable addition for many households. If you’re still unsure, revisiting the question is an air fryer worth it can help clarify whether it fits your cooking habits. In case you cook at home regularly and appreciate quick, energy-efficient meals, an air fryer can easily become one of the most useful tools in your kitchen.
If you want to learn more about common air fryer issues, check out guide on why an Air Fryer smoking.
