Cleaning the air fryer basket is something most people remember to do. But the heating element? That’s often forgotten—until smoke starts coming out or your food tastes a little off. If you’ve ever wondered how to clean an air fryer heating element without damaging it, you’re not alone.
Grease, oil vapors, and tiny food particles naturally rise during cooking. Over time, they stick to the heating coil and the metal shield around it. At first, you may not notice anything. But later, you might smell burning grease, see smoke, or even notice uneven cooking. In some cases, buildup can also make your air fryer louder than usual as the fan struggles to circulate hot air properly.
If your air fryer is making unusual sounds, this guide on air fryer noise explains what’s normal and what’s not. That’s your air fryer telling you it needs attention.
The good news is that cleaning the heating element is easier than it sounds. You don’t need special tools, harsh chemicals, or technical skills. With a bit of patience and the right method, you can safely clean it at home and extend the life of your air fryer.
In this guide, you’ll learn when the heating element needs cleaning, what to use (and what to avoid), and a step-by-step method that actually works. Let’s get into it.
Why the Air Fryer Heating Element Gets Dirty
Every time you cook, hot air circulates inside the air fryer. Along with it comes grease mist, oil droplets, and crumbs.
Over time, this buildup can cause:
- Burning smells during cooking
- Smoke coming from the air fryer
- Reduced heating efficiency
- Unevenly cooked food
Grease buildup on the heating element is also one of the most common reasons an air fryer starts smoking unexpectedly.
If smoke is a frequent issue for you, this article on why an air fryer smokes can help you pinpoint the exact cause.
This happens faster if you cook fatty foods like chicken wings, sausages, or burgers often. Larger models, especially extra large capacity air fryers, can collect even more residue simply because they’re used for bigger portions and longer cooking times.
Regular light cleaning helps prevent heavy buildup and keeps your air fryer performing like new.
When Should You Clean the Heating Element?
You don’t need to clean the heating element after every use. But there are clear signs that it’s time.
Look out for:
- A smoky smell even when cooking simple foods
- Visible grease or dark spots on the coil
- Smoke appearing before food starts cooking
- A burnt taste that wasn’t there before
Heavy buildup can also affect temperature performance and make it seem like your air fryer is not heating up properly.
For most households, a deep clean every 1–2 months is enough. If you use your air fryer frequently, monthly cleaning is a smart habit.
What You’ll Need Before You Start
Before cleaning, make sure the air fryer is completely cool and unplugged. Safety always comes first.
Prepare these simple items:
- Soft sponge or microfiber cloth
- Old toothbrush or soft-bristle brush
- Warm water
- Mild dish soap
- Baking soda (optional, for tough grease)
- Paper towels
Avoid steel wool, metal brushes, or harsh cleaners. These can damage the heating element’s protective coating.
Step-by-Step: How to Clean Air Fryer Heating Element
This method is safe for most basket-style air fryers and doesn’t require taking the unit apart.
Unplug and Flip the Air Fryer
Remove the basket and tray first. Then carefully turn the air fryer upside down or on its side so you can clearly see the heating element.
Good lighting helps here. Use a flashlight if needed.
Dry Clean Loose Debris First
Start with a dry paper towel or soft brush.
- Gently wipe away crumbs and loose residue
- Don’t press hard on the heating coil
- Take your time around corners and shields
This step prevents grease from spreading once you add moisture.
Use a Damp Cloth for Light Grease
Dip a cloth or sponge in warm soapy water. Wring it out well—it should be damp, not dripping.
- Gently wipe the heating element
- Focus on greasy spots
- Avoid soaking the area
For light buildup, this may be all you need.
Tackle Stubborn Grease with Baking Soda
If grease is stuck on, baking soda works surprisingly well.
- Mix baking soda with a few drops of water to form a paste
- Apply gently with a toothbrush
- Let it sit for 5–10 minutes
- Wipe clean with a damp cloth
This method is commonly recommended and works without scratching the surface.
Let It Dry Completely
Once clean, leave the air fryer upside down for at least 30–60 minutes.
Make sure everything is fully dry before plugging it back in. Moisture left near the heating element can sometimes cause odors or prevent the air fryer from turning on.
If your air fryer won’t power up after cleaning, see this guide on air fryer won’t turn on for safe troubleshooting steps.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cleaning the heating element is simple, but a few mistakes can cause problems.
Avoid these:
- Spraying water or cleaner directly into the air fryer
- Using abrasive pads or metal tools
- Cleaning while the unit is still warm
- Ignoring the underside of the element
Taking a gentle approach is always better than scrubbing aggressively.
How to Keep the Heating Element Clean Longer
Prevention makes cleaning much easier.
Try these habits:
- Clean your air fryer basket regularly
- Use parchment liners or air fryer-safe mats
- Avoid overloading greasy foods
- Wipe the interior once a week
Conclusion: A Small Habit That Makes a Big Difference
Learning how to clean an air fryer heating element is one of those small habits that pays off over time. It helps prevent smoke, improves food taste, and keeps your air fryer running efficiently.
You don’t need special tools or advanced skills—just gentle cleaning, the right materials, and a little patience. By checking the heating element regularly and cleaning it when needed, you’ll avoid unpleasant smells and extend the life of your appliance.
Pair this routine with regular basket cleaning and mindful cooking habits, and your air fryer will stay in great shape for years. A clean air fryer doesn’t just work better—it makes cooking more enjoyable every single day.
