Who doesn’t love air fryers? They make food preparation much easier and results in crispy, crunchy and healthier dishes. But are air fryers energy efficient?

In this blog post, we will help you understand if they are actually a cost-saving solution, offering both convenience and reduced energy consumption. In addition to that, we will present you with three affordable models that stand out for their performance and qualities.

Keep reading!

Are Air Fryers Energy Efficient? Understanding Their Benefits

Nowadays, an air fryer is a must-have kitchen essential in any household. Especially because, according to Satista — an online platform specialising in data gathering — this item is considered a healthier alternative to standard frying methods.

Of course you are already aware of these home appliance benefits, but are air fryers energy efficient? The answer to that is a big and loud yes. 

They work combining rapid air technology and convection heating to cook food. The heating element heats the air, and a fan circulates this hot air around the food at high speed, cooking it evenly.

What does that mean? While a 2200-watt electric oven costs about 49p per hour, a typical 1500-watt air fryer will cost about 33p. This represents 30% less consumption. Moreover, an air fryer usually takes half the time it takes an oven to heat up. 

You can see how it all adds up. So if you are wondering if it is worth it buying a model of  cheap air fryers, you should wonder no more! 

Which air fryer models are the most energy efficient?

Now that you understand the answer to the question “are air fryers energy efficient”, you probably want to know which models are most energy efficient. If you are looking for the most cost-saving ones, our pro tip is to look for models with lower wattage, especially for smaller air fryers (1-2 litres), which typically run between 800W and 1000W. 

If you want to go for larger air fryers, with nearly the same capacity as an oven, keep in mind that it will still be cheaper to run than an oven in most cases due to its shorter cooking time.

Top 3 affordable and energy efficient air fryers

After getting familiar with the question “are air fryers energy efficient” how about getting to know three affordable products? Check it out!

1. Salter Compact Air Fryer

The Salter Compact Air Fryer is a budget-friendly option that packs a punch when it comes to energy efficiency. It offers low wattage and efficient design, heating up quickly, reducing cooking time and energy use. 

Moreover, the adjustable temperature control and automatic shut-off feature ensure that your food is cooked to perfection without unnecessary energy consumption.

Key Features:

  • compact size, with a 2-litre capacity, this air fryer is perfect for small kitchens, singles, or couples looking to save counter space;
  • low power consumption as it uses only 1,000 watts, making it one of the most energy-efficient air fryers available;
  • temperature control, offering precise temperature settings;
  • 30-minute timer, that automatically shuts-off the appliance to prevent overcooking and save energy;
  • non-stick basket, ensuring easy cleanup. 
cheap-air-fryers

2. NETTA Air Fryer

If the question is “are air fryers energy efficient” the NETTA Air Fryer is one of the answers. This affordable option is perfect for those seeking a balance of quality and cost-effectiveness in their kitchen appliances.

It has a larger capacity than the previous model and that means that you can cook larger portions in one go, reducing the need for multiple cooking cycles and saving energy in the long run. 

Again, the temperature and timer controls also help prevent overcooking and energy wastage, making it a smart addition to your household.

Key Features:

  • large capacity, as it varies from a 4.2 to 9.2 litre capacity,
  • moderate power consumption, the smaller models operate at 1,300 watts, which is efficient for its size and capacity.

3. Russell Hobbs Rapid Digital Air Fryer

The Russell Hobbs Rapid Digital Air Fryer is another excellent choice for those seeking an energy-efficient and budget-friendly kitchen appliance. Its large capacity and rapid cooking technology mean you can prepare meals quickly and efficiently.

Key Features:

  • digital controls, that make it simple to set the cooking time and temperature accurately, reducing the risk of overcooking and unnecessary energy use;
  • moderate consumption, as it operates at 1,350 watts, balancing energy efficiency with powerful cooking performance;
  • pre-set cooking programs for popular dishes, ensuring you use the optimal settings for each meal and further enhancing energy efficiency.

Additional tips for maximising energy efficiency with air fryers

While choosing an energy-efficient air fryer is a great start, there are additional steps you can take to ensure you’re getting the most out of your appliance:

  • avoid overcrowding the basket can lead to uneven cooking and longer cooking times;
  • preheat when necessary, as some recipes may benefit from it;.
  • keeping your air fryer clean ensures it operates efficiently, as built-up grease and food particles can affect performance and energy consumption;
  • cooking at the recommended temperature for each food item ensures efficient cooking and prevents energy wastage.

In summary, in this article, you understood that when the question is “are air fryers energy efficient” the answer is yes! Choosing among budget-friendly products, like the ones presented in this article, can help you increase your savings further. 

In addition, by incorporating these tips, you can enjoy delicious, crispy meals while saving time and money. So, why not give one of these affordable air fryers a try and experience the benefits for yourself?

With Dr Cooker’s help that is easier than you think, as our team selects the best and most affordable products exclusively for you. So, don’t waste any more time: check out Dr Cookers’ air fryer page and find the best appliance for our household!


sarah.almeida-de-carvalho

Hello there, this is Sarah! I'm from a small city in southern Brazil. When you think of Brazil, you probably imagine sunny beaches, caipirinha, and warm weather, right? But let me tell you, my hometown doesn't exactly fit that description - it's wet, cold, and rainy, especially in winter. But hey, that has prepared me well for the Scottish weather now that I live in Glasgow. I'm part of the Dr Cooker's team and I'm here to help you find the perfect kitchen essential for your home.