How to Clean Air Fryer Heating Coil

Why the Air Fryer Heating Coil Needs Cleaning

The heating coil (also called the heating element) sits at the top of the air fryer interior and generates the intense heat that makes air frying work. Grease splatters from food below coat the coil during cooking and burn onto it with every subsequent use. This buildup causes smoke, burning smells, and can affect the efficiency of the heating element over time. Cleaning the coil regularly prevents these issues and extends the life of your air fryer.

Safety Rules Before You Start

• Always unplug the air fryer before cleaning the heating coil.
• Allow to cool completely — at least 30 minutes after last use. The coil retains heat longer than it appears to.
• Never submerge the air fryer body in water — only the removable basket and drawer are washable.
• Never use abrasive scrubbers on the heating coil — they can damage the element.

What You'll Need

• Soft cleaning brush or old toothbrush
• Damp microfiber cloth
• Baking soda paste (for stubborn grease)
• Small bowl

A soft-bristle cleaning brush is the ideal tool for the heating coil — it dislodges grease and food particles without scratching the element. Use a barely damp microfiber cloth for wiping — wring it out thoroughly so it's barely moist. For stubborn baked-on grease, a paste of baking soda and water applied carefully to the coil surface works effectively.

Step-by-Step: How to Clean an Air Fryer Heating Coil

Step 1: Unplug and Cool Completely

Unplug the air fryer and allow it to cool for at least 30 minutes. The heating coil gets extremely hot during operation and retains heat for longer than expected.

Step 2: Remove the Basket and Drawer

Pull out and set aside the basket and drawer. This gives you clear access to the interior of the air fryer and the heating coil above.

Step 3: Turn the Air Fryer Upside Down

For the best access to the heating coil, turn the air fryer upside down on a stable surface (place a towel underneath to protect the exterior). This positions the heating coil facing upward where you can see and reach it clearly.

Step 4: Brush Away Loose Debris

Use a dry soft-bristle brush to gently brush the heating coil and the surrounding area. Brush downward so loosened debris falls away from the coil. Remove any visible food particles or loose grease deposits.

Step 5: Wipe with a Barely Damp Cloth

Dampen a microfiber cloth with plain warm water and wring it out thoroughly — it should be barely damp, not wet. Gently wipe the surface of the heating coil to remove grease residue. Use light pressure and wipe in one direction along the coil. Never wrap the cloth around the coil or apply pressure from multiple sides.

Step 6: Apply Baking Soda Paste for Stubborn Grease

For baked-on grease that a damp cloth doesn't remove, mix baking soda with just enough water to make a thick paste. Apply a small amount to the affected area of the coil using a soft brush or your finger. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes, then gently scrub with the soft brush and wipe away with a barely damp cloth. Be careful not to get paste into any vents or openings.

Step 7: Wipe the Interior Walls

While the air fryer is upside down, wipe the interior walls and ceiling (which is now facing up) with a damp microfiber cloth. Grease splatters coat these surfaces during cooking and contribute to smoking and odors.

Step 8: Dry Completely

Allow the heating coil and interior to air dry completely — at least 30 minutes — before plugging in and using the air fryer. Any moisture near the heating element when it activates can cause damage.

Step 9: Run a Short Burn-Off Cycle

Once dry, plug in the air fryer and run it empty at 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes. This burns off any remaining residue on the coil and confirms it's clean. There may be a little smoke — this is normal and should clear quickly. Ventilate the kitchen during this step.

How Often Should You Clean the Heating Coil?

• Brush and wipe the coil every 5–10 uses, or whenever you notice smoke or burning smell during cooking.
• Deep clean with baking soda paste monthly for frequent users.
• Always clean after cooking particularly greasy foods like bacon, chicken wings, or sausages.

Prevention: Reduce Grease Splatter on the Coil

• Use air fryer parchment liners to contain grease in the basket.
• Don't overfill the basket — food too close to the heating coil increases splatter.
• Pat food dry before air frying to reduce moisture and grease splatter.
• Add a small amount of water to the drawer to prevent grease from smoking before it reaches the coil.

Final Thoughts

The heating coil is the heart of your air fryer — keeping it clean prevents smoke, burning smells, and performance issues. A gentle brush and wipe every few uses takes less than 5 minutes and makes a significant difference. Always work on a completely cool, unplugged appliance and dry thoroughly before use.