An expert has issued a warning about swapping your oven for an air fryer, and it’s left some people seriously confused.
Air fryers have become the go-to kitchen gadget for many, offering a quicker and often healthier way to cook by circulating hot air to crisp food without needing much oil. But while they’re praised for convenience and energy efficiency, Money Saving Expert Martin Lewis says they aren’t always the best choice.
Martin Lewis raises the alarm
Speaking on This Morning, Lewis said air fryers are great for “small things that cook quickly,” but if you’re using them for multiple dishes or large meals, they might not be as cost-effective as people think.
“If you’re going to have to use your air fryer 15 different times for different items,” he explained, “on energy usage, you’d be better off using an oven.”
The internet has thoughts
Naturally, the advice sparked debate online. One person joked, “So now I need to do physics and algebra before I reheat pizza?” Another added, “I’m air frying everything. I’ll even air fry a cup of tea.”
Backed by research
Consumer group Which? supports Lewis’ claim, saying that while air fryers are great for small, quick meals, the savings drop off fast when cooking in batches. “Air fryers don’t have as much space as a typical oven,” explained Which?’s Steven Kipling. “So if you’ve got lots to cook, the oven or hob may still be the most economical choice.”
So, what’s the real cost?
According to Go Compare, an 800W air fryer costs around 9.8p per 30 minutes, or roughly £35.77 per year. A 1400W model costs about 17.2p per 30 minutes, while larger dual air fryers (up to 2,000W) can cost significantly more, especially if you’re using them multiple times a day.
The takeaway?
Air fryers are still a smart choice for quick meals or single servings, but when it comes to cooking big family dinners or multiple dishes, it might be better to stick with your oven.
