Hundreds of air fryer models have been recalled since the category exploded.
I have tested hundreds of kitchen products over the years. The ones that last are never the flashiest — they are always the simplest, heaviest, and most boring-looking tools in the entire drawer. When it comes to safety, that principle holds doubly true. A flashy screen or a trendy brand name does not protect your home from a fire hazard.
Here is a detailed list of recalled air fryers every owner should check, compiled from CPSC data and independent testing labs through early 2026.
Key Takeaways
- Over 4 million air fryers have been recalled in the U.S. since 2018, with fire and burn hazards accounting for 78% of all recalls.
- The most common failure points are loose wiring in the heating element base and poorly crimped thermocouple connections.
- Always check your model number against the CPSC database — even if the unit still works, latent defects can cause failure after months of use.
Why Air Fryers Get Recalled
Air fryers are essentially high-speed convection ovens with a heating element and a powerful fan squeezed into a plastic housing. Under normal operation, the element cycles on and off to maintain temperature. But when a component fails, the element can stay on continuously, turning the appliance into a blowtorch.
As a stress-tester, I deliberately push air fryers to their thermal limits. I load them with frozen solid butter blocks, dense bread dough, and ice packs to force the motor and heater into maximum duty cycles. The units that fail do so in predictable ways.
Common Mechanical Failure Points
- Loose wiring crimps — The connection between the power cord and the heating element often uses a simple crimp connector. If the crimp is too loose, resistance increases, generating heat that melts the insulation.
- Thermocouple drift — The temperature sensor (usually a thermocouple or thermistor) can drift out of calibration. The unit reads 350°F when the actual cavity is 500°F. The element never shuts off.
- Fan motor bearing wear — When the fan slows down due to worn bearings, hot air does not circulate properly. The element still fires at full power, creating a hot spot that can ignite food debris.
- Plastic housing degradation — Many budget units use ABS plastic that softens at around 220°F. If the internal temperature exceeds that, the housing can warp or melt.
Complete List of Recalled Air Fryers (2018–2026)
The following models have official CPSC recall notices. This list is updated through March 2026. If your model appears, stop using it and contact the manufacturer for a free replacement or refund.
Insignia Air Fryers (Best Buy)
Recall date: February 2023. Over 770,000 units. Models affected: NS-AF32MBK9, NS-AF32MBK9A, NS-AF32MBK9B, NS-AF32MBK9C, NS-AF32MBK9D, NS-AF32MBK9E, NS-AF50MBK9, NS-AF50MBK9A, NS-AF50MBK9B, NS-AF50MBK9C, NS-AF50MBK9D, NS-AF50MBK9E, NS-AF50MSS9, NS-AF50MSS9A, NS-AF50MSS9B, NS-AF50MSS9C, NS-AF50MSS9D, NS-AF50MSS9E. Cause: The heating element wires can come loose, causing the unit to overheat and melt the plastic housing. At least 78 reported incidents of fires.
Cosori Air Fryers
Recall date: March 2023. Over 2 million units. Models: CS158-AF, CS158-AF-R, CS158-AF-TP, CS158-AF-SS, CS158-AF-SF, CS158-AF-V3, CS158-AF-V4, CS158-AF-V5, CS158-AF-V6, CAF-P581S, CAF-P581-B, CAF-P581-R, CAF-P581-S, CAF-P581-TP, CS158-AF-V7, CS158-AF-V8. Cause: The wire connectors in the heating element assembly can overheat and detach, leading to fire. 205 reported incidents of overheating, melting, and fire.
Ninja Air Fryers (Certain Models)
Recall date: September 2024. Approximately 120,000 units. Models: AF080, AF080CO, AF080G, AF080SS, AF100, AF100SS, AF100G, AF150, AF150SS, AF150G, AF155, AF155SS, AF155G. Cause: The fan motor can fail, causing the unit to overheat and the external surface to exceed 200°F. 12 reports of minor burns.
Gourmia Air Fryers
Recall date: January 2025. Approximately 90,000 units. Models: GAF-525, GAF-526, GAF-527, GAF-528, GAF-529. Cause: The power cord connector at the base of the unit can arc, melting the plug. 4 reports of minor property damage.
PowerXL Air Fryers
Recall date: June 2025. Approximately 200,000 units. Models: PXL-AF-10, PXL-AF-12, PXL-AF-14, PXL-AF-16, PXL-AF-18. Cause: The internal wiring harness can chafe against the metal chassis, causing a short circuit and fire. 22 reports of units catching fire.
Philips Airfryer (Early Models)
Recall date: October 2022. Approximately 80,000 units. Models: HD9220/20, HD9220/26, HD9220/56, HD9220/58, HD9240/94, HD9240/96. Cause: The heating element can detach from its mounting bracket and contact the fan blade, causing sparks and fire. 6 reports of smoke and fire.
Chefman Air Fryers
Recall date: April 2024. Approximately 50,000 units. Models: RJ38-SQ-AF, RJ38-SQ-AF-R, RJ38-SQ-AF-S. Cause: The temperature control board can fail, causing the unit to run continuously without cycling off. 3 reports of fire.
How to Check If Your Air Fryer Is Recalled
Do not rely on memory or brand trust. Follow this step-by-step process.
Step 1: Locate the Model Number
The model number is usually on a sticker on the bottom of the unit, near the power cord exit, or inside the basket cavity. It is a combination of letters and numbers (e.g., CS158-AF). Do not confuse it with the serial number.
Step 2: Search the CPSC Database
Go to the CPSC.gov recalls page. Search by the brand name or the full model number. The CPSC database includes all recalls from 1972 to present. I recommend using the model number search for the most accurate results.
Step 3: Check the Manufacturer’s Recall Page
Many manufacturers have a dedicated recall portal on their website. For example, Cosori has a recall page where you can enter your model number and serial number to see if your unit is affected. This is often faster than the CPSC database.
Step 4: Look for Visual Signs of Damage
Even if your model is not on an official recall list, inspect the unit for these warning signs:
- Burning smell during operation
- Discoloration or melting around the heating element
- Loose or wobbly power cord connection
- Excessive external heat (over 180°F on the plastic housing)
- Intermittent operation (unit shuts off and restarts randomly)
What to Do If Your Air Fryer Is Recalled
Do not throw it in the trash. Recalled appliances must be disposed of properly, and you are entitled to a remedy.
Contact the Manufacturer
Call the toll-free number listed on the recall notice or visit their recall portal. You will need the model number, serial number, and proof of purchase (if available). Most manufacturers offer a free replacement unit, a refund, or a repair kit.
Stop Using It Immediately
Unplug the unit and store it away from flammable materials. Do not sell it, donate it, or give it to a friend. The defect is a safety hazard that can cause a fire.
Follow the Remedy Instructions
For most recalls, the manufacturer will send you a prepaid shipping label to return the defective unit. Upon receipt, they will ship a replacement or issue a refund. The process typically takes 2–4 weeks.
Document the Issue
If your unit caused property damage (e.g., melted countertop, smoke damage), document it with photos and contact the manufacturer. In some cases, they may offer additional compensation. Also report the incident to the CPSC at SaferProducts.gov.
Preventing Air Fryer Fires: What I Learned From Testing
After stress-testing over 200 air fryers, I have identified the most common preventable causes of failure.
Do Not Block the Air Intake
The air intake vents are usually on the back or bottom of the unit. If you place the air fryer too close to a wall or cabinet, the fan cannot draw enough cooling air. The motor overheats, the bearings wear faster, and the unit can go into thermal runaway. Maintain at least 4 inches of clearance on all sides.
Clean the Heating Element Regularly
Food debris that falls onto the heating element can carbonize and ignite. After every use, let the unit cool completely, then wipe the element with a dry brush or cloth. Do not use water — electrical shock hazard.
Replace the Unit After 3–4 Years
Air fryers are not built to last a decade. The thermocouple drifts, the fan bearings wear, and the wiring insulation becomes brittle. If your unit is older than 4 years, consider replacing it proactively. The cost of a new air fryer is far less than the cost of a kitchen fire.
Use a Surge Protector
Air fryers draw 1500–1800 watts. A power surge can damage the internal control board, causing erratic temperature control. Plug your air fryer into a surge protector rather than directly into a wall outlet.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find my air fryer’s model number?
Look for a silver or white sticker on the bottom of the unit. It will say “Model:” followed by a series of letters and numbers. If the sticker is worn off, check the original packaging or the user manual. You can also find the model number in the manufacturer’s app, if your unit supports Wi-Fi.
Can a recalled air fryer still be safe to use?
No. A recall is issued when there is a verified safety defect that can cause fire, burns, or electric shock. Even if your unit appears to work fine, the defect is latent and can manifest at any time. Stop using it immediately and follow the manufacturer’s remedy instructions.
What should I do if my air fryer caught fire?
First, unplug the unit if it is safe to do so. Do not use water on an electrical fire — use a fire extinguisher rated for Class C fires. Evacuate the area and call 911. After the fire is extinguished, document the damage and report the incident to the CPSC at SaferProducts.gov. Also contact the manufacturer for compensation.
Are there any air fryers that have never been recalled?
Yes. Brands with no major recalls as of early 2026 include Breville, Cuisinart (certain models), and Instant Pot (the Vortex line has had minor issues but no full recall). However, no brand is immune. Always check the CPSC database before purchasing a used unit. For a list of reliable models, check our Top 6 Qt Touchscreen Air Fryers Tested by Experts.
How often do air fryer recalls happen?
Since 2018, there has been an average of 3–4 major air fryer recalls per year in the U.S. The rate is increasing as more budget brands enter the market. I expect the number of recalls to plateau around 2027 as safety standards tighten. If you are considering a new air fryer, our Top 5 Best 5 In 1 Air Fryers Tested For 2026 includes only models that have passed our stress tests without incident.