How much electricity does an air fryer use? Real consumption and money-saving tips

What is an air fryer, and how does it work?

An air fryer is a small kitchen appliance that cooks food by circulating hot air at high speed. Thanks to this technology, it delivers a crispy texture similar to traditional frying but with a minimal amount of oil.

Its operation is simple: an electric heating element warms the air, while a fan distributes it evenly inside. This makes it possible to cook everything from fries to meats, vegetables, and even desserts —with impressive results and in less time than a conventional oven.

Air fryer power and electricity use

The power rating of an air fryer usually ranges from 800 to 2,000 watts (W), depending on the model and size. The higher the wattage, the faster it reaches the desired temperature and the more efficient it is in cooking times.

To calculate electricity consumption, just use this formula:

Consumption (kWh) = Power (W) × Usage time (h) ÷ 1,000

For example, if you use a 1,500 W air fryer for 30 minutes (0.5 h), the consumption would be:

1.500 × 0,5 ÷ 1.000 = 0,75 kWh

How much does it cost to use an air fryer? Calculation in euros

The cost depends on the kWh price in your energy plan. Let’s assume an average price of €0.20/kWh. Using the same example:

0.75 kWh × €0.20/kWh = €0.15 per use

That means cooking with an air fryer for half an hour costs around 15 cents. If you use it daily, your monthly expense would be about €4.50 —a pretty reasonable figure compared to other cooking methods like an electric oven.

Factors that influence an air fryer’s energy use

While air fryers consume relatively little energy, several factors can make a difference. Let’s see the most important ones:

Factor 1: size and capacity

Larger air fryers require more energy to heat up. If you usually cook for one or two people, choosing a compact model can help lower consumption. Also, filling the basket efficiently avoids unnecessary extra work. Don’t overload it; instead of piling it up on one side, spread food evenly.

Factor 2: type of food

Frozen foods or those with high water content take longer to cook, which increases running time. On the other hand, precooked items or foods cut into smaller pieces cook faster and use less energy.

Factor 3: temperature and cooking time

Using very high temperatures doesn’t always mean faster cooking.  Sometimes, cooking at a medium temperature for a little longer is more efficient. But remember: only preheat your air fryer when necessary to avoid wasting energy.

Factor 4: frequency of use

As with any appliance, total consumption depends on how often you use it. If you use it several times a day, the impact on your bill will be higher than if you only use it occasionally.

Tips to reduce your air fryer’s electricity consumption

Want to get the most out of your air fryer without raising your energy bill? Keep these tips in mind!

• Plan your recipes: Cook multiple portions at once to avoid using it several times a day.
• Adjust the temperature: Maximum power isn’t always necessary —try lower temperatures with slightly longer cooking times.
• Keep it clean: Food residue can affect performance. Regular cleaning helps maintain efficiency.
• Unplug when not in use: While standby consumption is minimal, unplugging prevents any phantom energy use.
• Choose an efficient model: If you’re buying one, look for models with an A energy efficiency label and built-in energy-saving features.

In short, air fryers are an efficient and healthy way to cook at home. With moderate energy use and a few smart habits, you can enjoy your favourite dishes without worrying about your electric bill.

And if you already own one, don’t miss these easy and delicious recipes we’ve put together on the Endesa blog: Healthy snack ideas for your air fryer.