Aviva issues fire warning around air fryer habits

Aviva is urging people to exercise caution after a new survey revealed nearly one in five UK adults (19%) have encountered potential or actual fire hazards in their homes due to air fryers. 

Smoke coming from the air fryer (9%) and overheating (9%) were the most common fire-related issues, followed by scorching (4%). The data also highlighted more serious incidents, including experiencing an explosion in the home due to an air fryer (3%), while another 3% of people have experienced a fire.

The study of 2,000 UK adults indicated that more than two thirds (68%) own an air fryer and over six in ten people (61%) use one at least weekly^[3] – meaning millions of UK residents could be at risk of a potentially devastating house fire.

Fire awareness

Worryingly, almost half (45%) of people surveyed are unaware of the fire risks associated with air fryers^[4], while three in ten (30%) would not know what to do if a fire broke out in their home because of an air fryer.

Approximately one in six respondents (16%) say they would use any fire extinguisher to extinguish the blaze, and 7% of people say they would throw water on the flames, which can pose a significant risk in the case of an electrical fire.

The insurer also surveyed people’s air fryer habits. While just over one in five residents (21%) strictly follow all guidelines and advice in the manual provided with the air fryer, the study revealed some bad habits amongst users. These included:

• Leaving the air fryer unattended when it is in use (12%)
• Using oil in the air fryer (8%)
• Using the air fryer in a non-ventilated area such as a cupboard or under an overhead cabinet (6%)
• Keeping the air fryer on a soft tea towel or flammable surface (4%)
• Plugging the air fryer into an extension lead (4%)
• Regularly overfilling the air fryer (3%)

Aviva home insurance claims

Aviva has also seen a number of significant home insurance claims relating to air fryer fires over the last four years, with claimants sustaining considerable fire and smoke damage to their homes. Some claims incurred tens of thousands of pounds worth of damage, with the average claim for 2024 sitting at £29,555.

In one case, an air fryer fire caused £80,000 worth of damage to a customer’s kitchen after spreading and setting the entire room alight, ultimately destroying the kitchen ceiling, walls, cupboards and their contents, a washing machine and a television.

Other claimants describe seeing flames erupting from collapsing and melting air fryers, completely destroying the surfaces on which they were placed. There were also several claims which involved placing air fryers on hobs and accidentally switching the hob on, inadvertently setting the air fryer ablaze. In one unfortunate incident, a hungry dog was responsible for switching the hob on.

Hannah Davidson, senior underwriting manager at Aviva, says: "With the increasing popularity of air fryers, it's crucial that users are aware of the associated fire risks. Aviva’s survey shows that nearly one five UK residents have encountered fire-related issues with air fryers, from smoking and overheating to explosions and fires. This, alongside our claims insights, underscores the need for constant vigilance.

“At Aviva, we’re committed to helping our customers stay safe. Simple practices such as not leaving air fryers unattended, avoiding excessive amounts of oil when cooking, placing air fryers on non-flammable surfaces, and ensuring proper ventilation during use can significantly reduce fire risks. Keeping a fire blanket and a small fire extinguisher in the kitchen is also good practice.

“In the unfortunate event of an air fryer fire, never throw water on an electrical fire. Instead, use a fire blanket or a fire extinguisher rated for electrical fires, and call the fire brigade if necessary. Having the right home insurance policy can also help protect against significant financial losses, providing extra peace of mind while you prepare your meals."

Air Fryer Safety Tips

1. Follow the manufacturer's instructions: always refer to the user manual for your particular air fryer model for specific guidelines and safety instructions when cooking.
2. Never leave your air fryer unattended: always monitor your air fryer while it's in use to prevent overheating or other issues.
3. Avoid using excess oil: air fryers are designed to cook with minimal oil. Using too much oil can cause smoke and increase the risk of fire.
4. Ensure proper placement of the air fryer: place your air fryer on a stable, non-flammable surface, and ensure it is in a well-ventilated area. Avoid placing it under cabinets or in enclosed spaces.
5. Clean your air fryer regularly: doing so can prevent the buildup of grease and food particles, which can ignite during use and cause a fire.
6. Check your air fryer for any damage: regularly inspect the power cord and plug for any signs of damage. Do not use the air fryer if you find damage.
7. Avoid overfilling your air fryer: don’t overfill or overcrowd the basket and allow enough space for air to circulate around the food for even cooking. This will help prevent overheating.
8. Keep your air fryer away from water: ensure the air fryer is kept away from water and other liquids to prevent electrical hazards. In the case of a fire, never throw water on it.
9. Have fire safety equipment ready: keep a fire blanket and a small fire extinguisher rated for electrical fires in your kitchen. In the case of a fire, use the appropriate safety equipment and call the fire brigade if necessary.
10. Purchase the right home insurance: accidents happen but having the right home insurance policy can help protect against significant financial losses.

See more fire safety tips.

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References:

^1. _{The research was conducted by Censuswide, among a sample of 2000 UK natrep (18+). The data was collected between 27.12.2024 - 31.12.2024. Censuswide abides by and employs members of the Market Research Society and follows the MRS code of conduct and ESOMAR principles. Censuswide is also a member of the British Polling Council. [↑]}

^2. _{Reverse of those who responded ‘none of the above’ [↑]}

^3. _{Responses ranging from ‘every day’ to ‘once a week’ combined [↑]}

^4. _{‘Somewhat unaware’ and ‘very unaware’ responses combined [↑]}

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