The Air Fryer Revolution

Air fryers have long been considered the go-to kitchen appliance for those looking to cook healthier and save money. Since becoming a sensation, these nifty devices promise to fry food with little to no oil, making them a healthier alternative to traditional frying.

In 2023, the air fryer market was valued at an impressive $1 billion, with reports showing that nearly two-thirds of US homes had one of these appliances. The energy-efficient nature of the air fryer compared to conventional ovens has made it even more appealing to cost-conscious consumers. According to CNET, air fryers are about 50% more energy-efficient than traditional electric ovens and 35% more efficient than gas ovens. But is the air fryer truly the most economical appliance to run in the kitchen? A recent study is shaking up this belief.

The Cost of Convenience

Cleaning experts at Vacuum Wars decided to dig deeper into the costs of running various kitchen appliances. Their findings, released in October, revealed some surprising results. For instance, while air fryers have a reputation for being cost-effective, they are not the cheapest kitchen appliance overall.

Credits: Quartz

According to the study, the beloved kettle turned out to be one of the more expensive appliances to run, costing around £0.67 (84¢) per hour. The grill and oven came in slightly cheaper at £0.54 (67¢) per hour. Interestingly, air fryers, which many people use daily, cost approximately £0.34 (42¢) per hour to operate. While still cheaper than running a conventional oven, it was not the most cost-effective option.

Microwaves: The Unsung Energy-Saver

The surprise winner in terms of cost efficiency was the microwave. A typical microwave, operating at an average wattage of 1,050, only costs £0.26 (32¢) per hour to run. So, while air fryers are a more energy-efficient cooking method compared to ovens, the microwave still stands as the champion when it comes to saving both time and money.

Christopher White, CEO of Vacuum Wars, explained the results to UNILAD, saying, “The air fryer has earned a reputation as one of the cheapest cooking options because it uses relatively low energy compared to traditional ovens or grills. At 1,400 watts, it costs about £0.34 per hour to run, and since it cooks faster than more ‘traditional’ methods, it’s a popular choice for saving both time and money in the kitchen.”

Why Microwaves Are the True Cost-Savers

White continues, “That being said, the microwave is still the real energy-saving champion. It costs only £0.26 per hour, making it a cheaper overall and more efficient option for heating up leftovers or cooking small meals. Unlike the air fryer or oven, the microwave doesn’t need time to preheat, so you’re using less electricity from the moment you turn it on. Plus, since it heats food directly, it often cooks faster, further cutting down your energy use.”

Credits:Health

Microwaves are clearly the most energy-efficient appliance for smaller meals or reheating food, making them the go-to option when looking to minimize energy costs.

Maximizing Your Air Fryer’s Efficiency

While the microwave may take the crown for affordability, the air fryer is still a popular kitchen tool, and there are ways to make it more cost-effective. One key factor is keeping your air fryer clean. According to renewable energy experts at GreenMatch, a clogged air filter can hinder the circulation of hot air, making the appliance work harder and less efficiently. Regular cleaning can ensure that the air fryer continues to operate at optimal energy levels, keeping costs low.

Conclusion: The Best Appliance Depends on Your Needs

In the end, while the air fryer is a more energy-efficient option than traditional ovens, it may not be the cheapest appliance overall. The microwave stands out as the most affordable and efficient option, especially for smaller meals or reheating. However, air fryers are still a great choice for cooking in a faster, healthier way compared to other methods. Whether you’re aiming to save money or cook a quick meal, understanding the energy costs of your kitchen appliances can help you make the best decision for your household.